Budget in focus: Australian Government Budget 2014

Introduction

Massive infrastructure projects and a renewed push towards privatisation will be key areas of focus for business following the announcement of the first federal budget for the Abbott Government on 13 May 2014.

Sales of government assets will coincide with a $11.6 billion Infrastructure Growth Package, as the Australian Government pushes to stimulate the economy and create new jobs to balance the decline in construction work tied to the resources industry.

Federal Treasurer Joe Hockey said in his maiden budget speech that the government was delivering a "contribute and build budget", with big new investments in medical research and infrastructure, particularly through major road projects.