Nationals Propose Cheaper Petrol, Beer, and Student Discounts Ahead of Australian Election

The Nationals Party proposes cheaper petrol, lower beer prices, and student debt discounts. Leader David Littleproud says the party influences key debates.

The Nationals Party is proposing new ideas before the upcoming federal election, aiming to make life easier for Australians with cheaper petrol, lower beer prices, and discounts on student debt.

At a recent meeting, the party discussed cutting and freezing the fuel excise tax, which is tied to inflation, and lowering taxes on small breweries and distilleries. These proposals were approved by the party's federal council but are not yet official policy. MP Pat Conaghan suggested reviewing all alcohol taxes to help lower prices.

The party also proposed discounts on student loans and incentives for studying in regional areas. They suggested a 30% discount on university and vocational education fees for students over 25 and those living in remote areas. A 20% discount for other students and for upfront payments was also proposed. Additionally, they want to create a fund to revamp regional university campuses to attract more students to these areas.

Nationals Leader David Littleproud praised the party’s influence on public debates, saying, “Never before have you seen a party dictate the policy direction of public debates in this country over the last two and a half years than what you have seen from the National Party federal team.”

The meeting focused on cost-of-living measures and policies to support farmers and rural communities. They discussed offering mortgage relief, encouraging airline competition to reduce flight prices, and boosting healthcare in rural areas. The Nationals also proposed considering nuclear energy as a future energy source for Australia.

Other key proposals included overturning the ban on live sheep exports, ending water buybacks, and reinstating an agricultural visa. They also called for government compensation for farmers affected by federal policies and tax breaks for new airlines to increase competition. Additionally, they suggested reducing taxes for pensioners who pick up work.

Some proposals were not accepted, such as banning union and public superannuation fund donations to political parties and capping negative gearing at three properties. The party also debated superannuation for foreign backpackers, with some members advocating for backpackers to spend their money in regional areas rather than claim it when leaving.