Australia’s AAA Credit Rating Affirmed
In an expression of confidence in the Australian Economy and recent Budget, ratings agency S&P have affirmed Australia’s AAA credit rating and revised up its credit outlook. The agency praised the “government’s swift and decisive fiscal and health response” and “strong economic recovery”. Australia remains one of just nine countries to hold a AAA credit rating from the three major rating agencies. In its report S&P states: “the government’s policy response and strong economic rebound have reduced downside risks to our economic and fiscal outlook for Australia. Last week’s National Accounts saw the economy increase 1.8 per cent in the March quarter with output now 0.8 per cent above its pre-pandemic level. Read more here.
National Strategy to Prevent Child Sexual Abuse
This week the Morrison Government announced a new strategy to combat Child Sexual Abuse which includes new resources and $146 million in funding to help our agencies fight child sexual abuse. The Government’s number one focus is on keeping Australians safe and the AFP is at the frontline of those efforts. As part of the National Strategy, we are boosting AFP efforts with a further $59.9 million worth of initiatives, enhancing their ability to fight child sexual abuse, particularly online.This new strategy also goes beyond law enforcement, including to prevent abuse before it occurs, to better support victims and survivors, and to reduce stigma. Read more here.
International Australian Federal Police operation keeping Australians safe
More than 220 members of mafia, outlaw motorcycle gangs and transnational serious organised criminals have been arrested for serious drug and weapon offences under an historic Australian Federal Police-led operation. Keeping Australians safe is the Morrison Government’s top priority and that’s why we have been giving law enforcement agencies the legislation, tools and resourcing needed to target transnational and serious organised crime syndicates trafficking and distributing illicit drugs across our country. Read more here.
GP bulk billing services at record highs
More Australians than ever are getting the medical care they need at no cost to themselves, with almost nine out of 10 visits to the GP in the nine months to March 2021 provided with no out-of-pocket cost to the patient. GP bulk billing rates reached an all-time high of 88.7 per cent for the period from July 2020 to March 2021. This is three percentage points higher than the same period last year. The Morrison Government’s rapid and effective response to the COVID-19 pandemic is reflected in today’s record-breaking figures. Read more here.
Dedicated national helpline for Australians with autism
The Morrison Government is investing $8.4 million to expand Autism Connect into a national support service. The first national helpline for Australians with autism will provide online, digital and phone-based support services to improve the lives of people on the autism spectrum. From diagnosis through to adulthood, we want to ensure the more than 200,000 Australian people with autism have the right support to meet their needs and participate fully in the community. Read more here.