Okay… this one still feels a bit surreal to say out loud. Right after the federal budget dropped, I sat down with Australia’s Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, and Finance Minister Katy Gallagher to ask the questions our She’s on the Money community actually wants answered. We covered a lot.

We spoke about housing affordability, negative gearing, capital gains tax changes, childcare costs, women’s health, paid parental leave, fuel prices, the gender pay gap and what the government is actually doing about the cost of living pressure Australians are feeling right now. We also had a really honest conversation about why the government changed its position on negative gearing, and whether politicians genuinely understand how financially stretched people are feeling.

But because this is still She’s on the Money… things also went slightly off the rails. We somehow ended up talking about ChatGPT, Bluey, subscription creep, the Met Gala, free McDonald’s burgers, sourdough, single people being forgotten by the system, and the Prime Minister’s thoughts on Sabrina Carpenter’s outfit choices. Which, to be fair, was not where I expected budget week to go.

If you’ve been trying to make sense of what just happened in Canberra, this is the budget breakdown you actually want to hear.

Join our Facebook Group AKA the ultimate support network for money advice and inspiration. Ask questions, share tips, and celebrate your wins with a like-minded crew of 300,000+.

And follow us on Instagram for Q&As, bite-sized tips, daily money inspo... and relatable money memes that just get you.

Acknowledgement of Country By Nartarsha Bamblett aka Queen Acknowledgements.

The advice shared on She's On The Money is general in nature and does not consider your individual circumstances. She's On The Money exists purely for educational purposes and should not be relied upon to make an investment or financial decision. If you do choose to buy a financial product, read the PDS, TMD and obtain appropriate financial advice tailored towards your needs. Victoria Devine and She's On The Money are authorised representatives of Money Sherpa PTY LTD ABN - 321649 27708, AFSL - 451289.