Victoria Premier Ben Carroll pledges land tax cuts and police recruitment

Victorian Premier Ben Carroll has pledged to cut land tax in his first budget to provide cost-of-living relief. The proposal aims to reverse 2023 land tax changes and would benefit more than 250,000 Victorians, with potential savings of up to $975 per year. Carroll noted that the cuts would specifically assist families who have purchased second homes for their children.

Speaking at the inaugural Premier’s Diwali reception in Melbourne, Carroll emphasized that the tax relief would not impact funding for schools or hospitals. He also announced plans to recruit an additional 1,500 police officers to prioritize public safety. During the event, the Premier highlighted the contributions of multicultural communities to the state's history.

Opposition Leader Jess Wilson also addressed the gathering, presenting the Liberal and National plan which focuses on reducing crime, easing taxes for small businesses, and constructing three new select-entry schools across Melbourne.