The Latest Breaking News from Jaclyn Symes

Tax reprieve for farmers as drought declared statewide

Drought has taken root across an entire state, paving the way for all farmers to receive a brief discount from a controversially hiked tax.

AAP · May 30, 2025

'Archaic' law casts cloud over Kiwi's top cop job

Concerns over the eligibility of a New Zealander to serve as an Australian state's top cop have forced law changes to be rushed through parliament.

AAP · May 29, 2025

Premier denies ticketless fares revamp is off the rails

A completion delay and cost blowout on ticketless public transport fares for commuters doesn't mean the overhaul has hit the skids, a premier insists.

AAP · May 20, 2025

Debt piles up as public service faces $3b budget cut

Taxpayers are set to foot the bill as interest on debt eats a $29-million-a-day hole in a state budget, despite public service job cuts and higher tax revenue.

AAP · May 19, 2025

Health to get $11.1bn boost in Victorian budget, with pharmacist prescribing powers made permanent

Cash injection includes $9.3bn for public hospitals and nearly $50m to expand trial prescribing program

The Guardian - AU · May 19, 2025

Labor loses $1bn from Victoria’s upcoming budget surplus in favour of ‘practical’ cost-of-living relief

Treasurer Jaclyn Symes says budget will prioritise frontline services and cost-of-living measures over bigger savings

The Guardian - AU · May 19, 2025

'Wafer-thin' budget surplus won't fix debt problem

One unforeseen event would likely erode a state's long-awaited return to surplus, as its treasurer attempts to tame mounting debt in her first budget.

AAP · May 18, 2025

‘Don’t be fooled’: Victorian Labor is spruiking feel-good budget policies, but there are hints of cuts to come

The premier has been upbeat but there are signs of cuts to come, and one analyst warns the state’s financial strategy needs a ‘course correction’

The Guardian - AU · May 18, 2025

Credit watchers keep eagle eye on state budget debut

One state's taxpayers could soon be forking out $25 million a day in interest with credit rating agencies looking for fiscal discipline in the upcoming budget.

AAP · May 17, 2025

Emergency services levy set to pass after 'dirty deal'

A $2.1 billion emergency services levy has been altered after a state government buckled to widespread community backlash and crossbench demands.

AAP · May 15, 2025