Sharing the benefits of the boom

Sharing the benefits

The Government is taking steps in this Budget to address these medium‑term challenges by investing in our people and ensuring all Australians benefit from the opportunities presented by the mining boom.

Investing in our people

Addressing emerging skills shortages is essential to maintain strong and sustainable economic growth.

Through the Building Australia's Future Workforce package, the Government is making the investments necessary to ensure Australians have the skills they need to find jobs, and support growth, both now and into the future.

The package also takes steps to encourage greater participation in the workforce, particularly from those most at risk of being left behind.

Health and education

The Government is also addressing key priorities in health and education to ensure the benefits of the boom are shared, including: new funding for the Health and Hospitals Fund regional round; mental health; dental health; rewarding quality teaching; and supporting students with disability.

Investing in our regions

The Budget also ensures our regions are not left behind, by making significant investments in regional higher education,

hospitals and health care, and infrastructure.

Supporting families and older Australians

The Budget is also ensuring the benefits of a strong economy are spread to all Australians, with a range of measures to provide further assistance to families and older Australians.

Helping businesses

The Budget also includes measures to reward small businesses that invest to grow, and to link Australian manufacturers to opportunities in the resources sector.