OPINION 

Dai Le

Three years ago, the Albanese Labor Party parachuted a candidate from Scotland Island into the southwest Sydney seat of Fowler one of Australia’s most diverse and hardworking communities. It made clear how disconnected major parties had become from the people they were supposed to represent.

That decision sparked a powerful message from the community that we will no longer be taken for granted. But since then, little has changed in how governments approach our region. While promises have come and gone, the daily reality for families, workers and small business owners in southwest Sydney has only become tougher.

Last year’s budget, despite delivering a $9.3bn surplus, failed to bring real relief. There was no comprehensive plan to address the rising cost of living. No major infrastructure investment for our rapidly growing population. And no commitment to critical projects like connecting Fowler to the Western Sydney Airport a vital link for jobs and economic growth in our region.

Yes, the government offered a $300 rebate for households and $325 for small businesses. I supported that relief. But with electricity prices rising another 9 per cent and essentials like food, fuel and insurance surging, it was simply a sugar hit: welcome but nowhere near enough.

And now, we’re heading into another budget with the same old signs. Last week, the government announced a $1bn plan for a future train line. A big number, but no certainty of it being delivered in our lifetime. Meanwhile, communities in Fowler are still waiting for practical infrastructure better roads, public transport, aged care and manufacturing support that creates local jobs now.

So what will Tuesday’s budget really deliver? Will it be another round of glossy promises without follow-through? More shortterm fixes that fail to address deep-rooted challenges? Families here aren’t asking for favours. They’re asking for fairness. For investment that matches their contribution. For recognition that we, too, deserve to be seen and supported.

This budget can’t afford to be more of the same. Because for communities like Fowler, too little, too late is not good enough.

 

Source: March 24, 2025 | The Daily Telegraph