Release: Government adds $7.10 to every Aussie’s internet bill

Release: Government adds $7.10 to every Aussie’s internet bill

The Australian Taxpayers’ Alliance, the nation’s largest grassroots advocacy group representing taxpayers, today criticised Communications Minister Paul Fletcher for introducing a broadband tax on Australians who want to use an internet service that actually works. The new tax aims to pay for the failed government NBN by taking even more money from the pockets of hard-working Australians. 

“The government made a $51 billion mess when it attempted to create a national broadband network off the backs of taxpayers. Now in a misguided attempt to pay for the disaster and punish the Australians who refuse to use a broken internet system, the government is charging taxpayers an additional $7.10 on their internet each month,” said ATA Policy Director, Emilie Dye.

“Policy makers believe the new tax will incentivise at least a few schmucks to switch to their faulty internet. A few people will switch. But in reality this policy prices the poorest Australians out of working internet and onto a failed government substitute.”

“The NBN disaster is an example of government FOMO going wrong. While not perfect, private companies respond to market incentives, have the flexibility to innovate, and ultimately provide widespread access to the internet.”

“The taxpayers beg the government to keep its abnormally large nose out of private business. The Australian people have already turned their pockets inside out to compensate for government hubris, they don’t need to pay even more for their internet.”