Canberra Liberals leader Mark Parton MLA has condemned the ACT Labor Government’s 2026-27 Budget, saying the document confirms Canberrans are paying the price for years of financial mismanagement, broken promises and misplaced priorities.

Mr Parton said the Budget fails to address the cost-of-living pressures facing families and businesses while it burdens future generations with record levels of debt.

“This Budget does not meet the moment,” Mr Parton said.

“Canberrans are working harder than ever, yet they are facing higher rates, higher rents, higher mortgages, and higher everyday costs. Instead of providing relief and restoring confidence, this Government continues to spend beyond its means and pass the bill on to taxpayers.”

The Budget forecasts ACT Government borrowings will reach $23.7 billion by 2029-30, with interest costs now exceeding $2.3 million every day. Treasurer Chris Steel MLA has said the government expects the fiscal position to improve over the forward estimates to a surplus of $244.2 million by 2028-29.

Mr Parton said the Canberra Liberals present a clear alternative focused on budget repair, accountability, community safety, and better services.

The Liberals would introduce a Charter of Budget Responsibility tostrengthen transparency and fiscal discipline by requiring governments to fully disclose debt, interest costs, unfunded commitments, infrastructure liabilities, and long-term fiscal risks.

“Canberrans deserve honesty when it comes to the Territory’s finances,” Mr Parton said. “Our Charter will ensure governments cannot hide the true cost of their decisions.”

The Canberra Liberals have also committed to:

• A ‘Safer Summer’ pilot giving ACT Policing additional wanding powers in Civic, Braddon and other entertainment precincts.
• Recriminalising methamphetamine possession and use, alongside stronger pathways into treatment and rehabilitation.
• Expanding endometriosis and pelvic pain services at Canberra Hospital.
• A Suicide Prevention Bill to establish a whole-of-government approach to reducing suicide and improving early intervention.
• 50-cent bus and light rail fares across the ACT public transport network.
• Graffiti blitz teams to restore pride, cleanliness and safety in Civic and other town centres.

Mr Parton said the Canberra Liberals will release policies that reduce cost-of-living pressures, back small business, restore financial discipline, and deliver the change he says Canberra needs.

“After 25 years in office, Labor can no longer blame anyone else for the challenges facing our city,” Mr Parton said. “The choice is clear: more of the same, or sensible Liberal change and a stronger future for Canberra.”