Major investment in Northern Territory Defence bases
The Morrison Government will invest $747 million to upgrade four key training areas and ranges in the Northern Territory, This investment will enable the ADF to conduct additional training exercises and remain battle ready. These Defence training areas and facilities will support greater engagement with our Indo-Pacific neighbours and allies, and to conduct small and large scale military exercises across a number of different scenarios. This investment will also deliver a jobs boom for the Northern Territory. Read more here.
Flights from India now paused as Australia sends emergency medical supplies
The Morrison Government has agreed a number of new measures to protect Australians from the increased risk of the COVID-19 outbreak in India, while also providing support to assist the Indian Government in their humanitarian response. Australia will implement a temporary pause on direct passenger flights between India and Australia for two weeks. As a close friend and comprehensive strategic partner, Australia stands with India and will provide emergency medical supplies to India as it battles a surge in COVID-19 cases. Read more here.
Telehealth extended through 2021
Over the last 12 months, Telehealth services have been life changing for many in need of support, which is why as part of the 2021-22 Budget, the Morrison Government is investing more than $114 million to extend Telehealth until the end of the year. The extension will ensure that Australians can continue to see their GP, renew scripts and seek mental health support from the safety of their own home. From 13 March 2020 to 21 April 2021, over 56 million telehealth services have been delivered to 13.6 million patients, with $2.9 billion in Medicare benefits paid. Read more here.
Energy bills continue to fall
Hundreds of thousands of Australian families and small businesses will pay less for their energy bills from 1 July, 2021. The Morrison Government’s Default Market Offer price cap for 2021-22 locks in cheaper electricity prices across south-east Queensland, South Australia, and New South Wales. Residential standing offer customers in South Australia will save an additional $116 a year, while those in south-east Queensland will save an additional $53 a year and customers in New South Wales will be better off by as much as $102 a year. Small business customers will save an additional $272 in South Australia, $243 in south-east Queensland, and up to $441 in New South Wales. Read more here.
Half-price flights a great success
More than 663,000 half-price airfares have now been sold as part of the Morrison Government’s $1.2 billion tourism support package, helping a record number of Australians enjoy a holiday at home this year. This program has been a life-saver for the Australian aviation and tourism industries, demonstrating the Government’s National Economic Recovery Plan is working. The Government has always said planes in the air mean jobs on the ground and with airlines reporting record-breaking sales, we see further proof of our economy’s comeback. Read more here.