Radio National Breakfast 'Challenging': Katy Gallagher on upcoming budget including tax reform
Mar 16, 2026
Katy Gallagher, Australia’s Minister for Finance overseeing the federal budget, speaks about preparing for a challenging May budget amid global volatility. She discusses fuel supply coordination and international action to keep oil flowing. She outlines a 5% efficiency drive across government and how tax and productivity reforms are tied to budget choices.
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Continuous Monitoring Of Middle East Risks
- The government is continuously monitoring the Middle East conflict and its economic fallout.
- Gallagher says the Prime Minister leads frequent meetings with agencies, states, industry and the NSC to plan responses if the conflict prolongs.
Pull Every Lever To Keep Fuel Flowing
- Use all available levers to secure fuel supplies for motorists, farmers and industry.
- Gallagher points to International Energy Agency coordination, domestic measures, and ACCC work as combined actions to ensure supply.
Military Support Based On National Interest And Requests
- Australia decides military commitments based on national interest and specific requests.
- Gallagher notes Australia responded to a UAE request for defensive support and will consider other requests via the NSC framework.