NET DEBT — 2021–22 STATE BUDGET
739. Hon Dr STEVE THOMAS to the minister representing the
Treasurer:
I refer to the 2021 budget papers,
which indicate that total public sector net debt is expected to drop to $32 billion
this financial year but rise to $35 billion by 2023–24 and $36 billion
by 2024–25 and the minister's refusal to answer my questions
yesterday, so I ask them again.
(1) What was the
total public sector net debt when the McGowan government came to power in March
2017?
(2) Is total
public sector net debt budgeted to be higher or lower in 2024–25 than
the level the McGowan government inherited in 2017 and by how much?
Hon
STEPHEN DAWSON replied:
I
thank the honourable member for some notice of the question. The following
answer is provided on behalf of the Treasurer.
(1) When the
McGowan government came to power in March 2017, total public sector net debt
was budgeted to reach $43.7 billion.
(2) Total public
sector net debt in 2024–25 —
Several members
interjected.
Hon STEPHEN DAWSON: Are
members listening? If they do not listen, I do not have to give the answer. The
answer is —
(2) Total public
sector net debt in 2024–25 will be lower than the $43.7 billion of net
debt that the McGowan government inherited when it came to power in 2017. I refer
to the 2021–22 budget paper No 3.