[Jade Benham] Benham calls out Labor’s cost of living disconnect

The Nationals' Member for Mildura, Jade Benham, has criticised the Allan Labor Government's spin on Victoria's cost of living crisis, saying it shows just how out of touch the government has become.

Ms Benham was speaking in Parliament in response to the Allan Labor Government's Matter of Public Importance, which claimed Victorian families are under growing pressure on household budgets from the cost of living and global events and that only the government is delivering "practical" solutions.

"Labor is patting themselves on the back for a job well done in an election year. Practical solutions - the reality couldn't be further from the truth!" Ms Benham said.

"Life in Victoria is getting harder. Household budgets are stretched, housing is harder to access, and communities feel less safe."

Regional communities are bearing the brunt.

"Small businesses are already under pressure and now face thousands in extra monthly costs from EFTPOS surcharges. Tourism operators are struggling as fuel costs hit bookings. Show me their 'practical solution' for these businesses," Ms Benham said.

"Even free transport promises mean little when buses are fully booked and there is no passenger train."

Farmers are under even greater strain than ever. Rising fertiliser costs, fuel shortages, and cuts to fuel tax credits are pushing primary producers to the limit. Add to that extreme weather and transport challenges, and the impact flows through every Victorian who relies on food, goods, and services from regional areas.

"Our farmers are working harder than ever, and when they struggle, every Victorian pays the price," she said.

"This government is disconnected from reality," Ms Benham said.