In a bold economic move, the Federal Opposition has unveiled plans to establish two new nation-building funds designed to safeguard Australia’s financial future and invest in long-term regional development.
Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor, Shadow Finance Minister Senator Jane Hume, and Nationals Leader David Littleproud jointly announced the Coalition’s proposal to create the Future Generations Fund and the Regional Australia Future Fund, seeded by 80 per cent of any future positive windfall revenue variations.
The initiative is aimed at tackling Australia’s rising debt while ensuring future economic gains are invested in both national infrastructure and regional prosperity. The funds, to be managed by the Future Fund Board of Guardians, will support debt reduction, critical infrastructure, and regional economic growth without relying on new borrowing.
“Labor has wasted the windfall and delivered higher debt, higher taxes, and higher spending,” Mr Taylor said. “The Coalition will deliver a stronger budget for a stronger Australia, with greater transparency and long-term planning.”
The Coalition accuses the Albanese Government of squandering nearly $400 billion in extra revenue, leaving the country with a staggering $1.2 trillion in debt, which they claim is fuelling inflation and worsening the cost-of-living crisis.
Senator Jane Hume highlighted the Coalition’s legacy of prudent financial management, pointing to the Howard Government’s establishment of the Future Fund in 2006 as a key moment in Australia’s economic history.
“This is about ensuring sustainability in public finances and easing the intergenerational burden of debt,” she said. “We are building on a proven record of economic responsibility.”
David Littleproud, Leader of the Nationals, emphasised that the Regional Australia Future Fund will be a game-changer for rural and regional communities.
“This is about putting regional people first and leaving a legacy,” Mr Littleproud said. “It will ensure long-term, stable investment into infrastructure and services in the regions—without the constant need to fight for every dollar.”
The Nationals aim to grow the Regional Australia Future Fund to $20 billion, providing a stable platform to address long-term challenges and unlock the full potential of regional Australia.
The Coalition’s announcement signals a return to core values of conservative fiscal policy—reducing debt, curbing unnecessary spending, and investing in productivity-enhancing initiatives. The party says these funds will prepare the country for future economic shocks and build a more resilient national economy.
As Australia continues to grapple with rising living costs, the Coalition’s proposed policy is expected to become a central pillar of its economic pitch to voters ahead of the next federal election.
