Pauline Hanson has denounced the Albanese government's federal budget as a 's*** sandwich' that Australians are forced to 'eat', while unveiling her party's economic vision centered on income splitting for couples raising children.
Income Splitting Proposal
The One Nation leader outlined plans to allow couples to combine their earnings and split them for tax purposes, a measure she argues would benefit single-income or uneven-income families. 'Income splitting means those people who stay home with their children aren't penalised,' Hanson told reporters in Canberra on Thursday. 'Why should we force parents into a system where both have to work just to make ends meet?'
One Nation estimates a household with a single $120,000 income could save about $9,500 annually if taxed as two $60,000 earners. Couples with incomes like $120,000 and $30,000 would see a smaller benefit of around $2,000 per year.
Criticism of Childcare Focus
Hanson's comments come after Finance Minister Katy Gallagher reaffirmed government support for childcare participation to boost workforce engagement. Hanson openly criticised this stance, saying: 'Stop this mentality of telling people to put their kids into childcare. Don't do that to your children.'
Budget Reaction
Regarding the Albanese government's budget, which includes abolishing negative gearing except on new builds and changes to capital gains tax, Hanson said: 'They've delivered a s*** sandwich, and we've now got to eat it.'
Broader Economic Agenda
One Nation's economic agenda also includes cost-of-living relief measures such as cutting electricity prices, easing fuel costs, slashing healthcare expenses, and scrapping the beer excise. On housing, Hanson proposed removing GST from the construction of new homes worth up to $1 million for five years, claiming it would cut building costs and boost supply. 'New builds up to a million dollars, cut your GST out. That's going to help people actually afford to build a home again,' she said.
Additionally, Hanson pledged to ease work restrictions for pensioners, allowing them to earn income without losing benefits. 'Give pensioners the right to work. Why throw them on the scrap heap? Let them work unlimited hours without affecting their pension or healthcare,' she said.
Party Rebranding
Hanson's renewed focus on economic policy comes as One Nation seeks to recast its image as a more disciplined, policy-driven force after years of criticism over stunts and culture-war politics. The party has seen electoral gains, including strong results in South Australia and a byelection win in Farrer.
Hanson also signalled support for a tax on gas exports, following a campaign by independent Senator David Pocock, and accused Opposition Leader Angus Taylor of lacking vision. 'I am the only one who has been speaking about vision for the future, I have been consistent for the past 30 years,' she said.
