One Nation faces pressure to submit policies for independent costing in NSW

The New South Wales Labor government is seeking to mandate that One Nation submit its election policies to the Parliamentary Budget Office (PBO) for independent costing. NSW Treasurer Daniel Mookhey argued that voters deserve independent advice to avoid “budget fantasy lands,” particularly as One Nation’s support has risen in recent polls. One Nation leader Mike Newman has rejected the move, stating the party will not use the PBO and will instead focus on demanding the total cost of the government’s net zero agenda.

In the Hunter region, Newman has challenged Premier Chris Minns to a debate regarding the future of coal. While the government has not ruled out a debate, it has emphasized the need for One Nation to have its promises independently costed first.

On a federal level, Treasurer Jim Chalmers has warned progressives against mocking One Nation voters, noting the party’s growing influence amid economic uncertainty and global turmoil. Chalmers highlighted that the party has become a beneficiary of political division and “algorithmic rage bait.” Meanwhile, NSW Labor is attempting to distinguish itself from the federal Albanese government by emphasizing responsible debt management and promising to cap net debt at 15 per cent of gross state product.