Angus Taylor outlines path to lift Australia in CIS speech

In an address to the Centre for Independent Studies today, Federal Opposition Leader Angus Taylor argues that Australia is experiencing a broad economic and social decline under the Albanese government. He says this is marked by rising inflation and interest rates, surging public debt projected to exceed $1 trillion, falling living standards, housing unaffordability, regulatory overreach, high immigration, weakened national security, and cultural fragmentation.

Access the transcript of the speech

He contends that Labor’s energy policy — driven by net zero commitments — has increased costs across the economy, while its broader economic approach of higher taxes, expanded regulation and elevated spending has fuelled inflation, discouraged investment and shifted Australia towards a state-directed economy.

In contrast, Taylor outlines a Liberal agenda centred on restoring living standards and protecting Australia’s way of life through cheaper and more reliable energy, lower immigration with a stronger emphasis on shared values, reduced taxes and regulation, revitalised home ownership, strengthened defence, and a renewed commitment to free-market principles.

He proposes a bipartisan taskforce on spending restraint to curb inflationary expenditure and begin budget repair, framing fiscal discipline, economic freedom and productivity growth as essential to reversing the cost-of-living crisis and safeguarding long-term prosperity.