There was an announcement on TV tonight from the Prime Minister announcing a second stimulus package. Every person earning less than $100k a year would recieve $950 from March. (which means DF and I both get something this time!)
Honestly, I don't know why they didn't do that sooner. Most people my age I know are just going to spend it. Isn't that what they want?
There are also construction projects being started, and they are building 20 000 houses for defence families (and providing work for many people).
The stimulus package will place the country in $22 billion dollars of debt, so obviously now the Prime Minister is getting a bashing from the opposition.
Honestly, if he stood back and did nothing, he'd get a bashing as well. Everyone has to blame someone, and you can't always do everything right. Prime Ministers can NEVER do ANYTHING right, according to about half of the population.
Personally I think it's all ridiculous, he's doing the best job he can under these circumstances. I wouldn't want to be in his shoes, that's for certain.
I also find it laughable that a lot of people lazily fall into the trap of blaming a NEW Prime Minister for everything wrong with the country. Ummm... hello? He's like the cleaner who's walked into a house after a 21st party. Everyone's hungover, there's a lot of damage, and someone's thrown a beer-soaked sheet into the ceiling fan.
Ok well maybe not the last bit.
Anyway. I know it's pretty pointless whinging on a site where everyone is predominantly from the US, but anyone who's listening, GIVE HIM A CHANCE! He went to my high school, he can't be all that bad! 
Oh, and I'm thinking of SPENDING my stimulus cheque. On a fridge, maybe. And DF might use his on the air conditioner, maybe.
second stimulus package
February 3rd, 2009 at 10:59 am
February 3rd, 2009 at 03:54 pm 1233676458
February 3rd, 2009 at 06:38 pm 1233686298
February 3rd, 2009 at 07:02 pm 1233687754
From one Aussie to another the new stimulus package has not been pasted the senate yet! That is why it taking that much time. I dont get anything this time around as I am on a pension.
Do spend it wisely when it does comes.
Kitty
February 3rd, 2009 at 10:02 pm 1233698557
did you get anything from the first package?
February 5th, 2009 at 11:23 am 1233833011
February 5th, 2009 at 08:03 pm 1233864215
on one side, like most people, i would welcome the extra $950, but then again, i do worry about the effect it's going to have on our country once we're in debt. i do wonder if the senate will pass the bill. i would say rudd did a smart move by announcing it and getting public support first. lots of people are in financial hardship now, obviously, so its like dangling a carrot in front of them. i am sure the people deciding on this bill realise this. it will be a huge blow to LOTS of people if it doesnt get passed.
so on the other end, i really don't mind if i DONT get it either