Despite Malcolm Turnbull’s protestations to the contrary, the populace is clearly being softened up for an increase in the GST.

It is likely to form part of a larger reform package that seems likely to include changes in superannuation concessions to pay for personal tax cuts.

Multinational profit-shifting has reached an impasse in the Senate as the crossbench demands greater tax transparency for companies with an annual turnover of more than $100 million.

As for broadening the base, Treasurer Scott Morrison has already expressed strong reservations regarding health and education. He has not, however, ruled out fresh food or financial services. He has also been critical of the Queensland and Victorian option to increase the Medicare Levy, branding it as an increase in income tax.

It seems that everything is not on the table after all.

Frank Carroll

Annerley Branch members joined today with thousands of Australians across the country in the annual ‘Welcome Walk’ event, which promotes an inclusive, generous and compassionate society.  The theme of this years walk was to spread the message to ‘say welcome’ to people from diverse backgrounds in cities and towns right across the country.

Walking from South Brisbane across the Kurilpa Bridge to the Supreme Court Plaza, hundreds of Brisbane residents joined in to express their support for an Australia that recognises the equality and dignity of all. Along the way, participants of all ages held signs to reinforce that the values of fairness and friendship must be extended to everyone.

Listening intently at the Supreme Court Plaza, an enthusiastic crowd heard from a range of speakers who shared their vision of a nation that celebrates diversity and is welcoming of people from different cultures and backgrounds. However, it wasn’t all about speeches with attendees able to enjoy various entertainers who used their talents to highlight why we are a better society for embracing different cultures.

Among those in the crowd were Terri Butler MP, Federal Member for Griffith, Graham Perrett MP, Federal Member for Moreton, Hon Dr Anthony Lynham MP, Murray Watt, Labor Senate candidate and Nicole Lessio, Labor candidate for The Gabba Ward. Many rank and file branch members attending the event were keen to demonstrate their strong support for its message of inclusion, tolerance and compassion.

For more information about the event, email info@annerleylabor.org.