We can't take any more - Herald Sun

ENOUGH is enough is what Victorian families will be saying as they look at cost of living increases and wonder how they will pay for them.

As reported in the Herald Sun, basic household bills are likely to jump by a massive $1300 a year next year, with increases in CityLink tolls, electricity, gas and myki public transport fares.

The Government yesterday hit the car drivers in the family with a $70 increase on the cost of renewing a licence.

On top of this was the announcement of $750 million in spending cuts and increased taxes and fees.

There is also a possibility of more cuts and taxes following a warning by the Victorian Treasury that cost-shifting by the Gillard Government might require a state levy on the family home to cover budget shortfalls.

That alone would shatter family finances. Victorians are not only losing confidence in the economy as Christmas approaches. They are as mad as hell and governments need to get the message that they just won't take it any more.

Families are not blowing their money on flat-screen TVs and airconditioners. They are slipping behind because the cost of lighting their homes, cooking their food and even the water from their kitchen tap is getting beyond them.

Governments need to start listening. There is a massive disconnect between the Gillard Labor Government and state governments.

In Canberra, Ms Gillard and Treasurer Wayne Swan babble on about bringing the federal Budget into surplus, while committing the states to unspecified costs on Labor's multi-billion-dollar promises.

In Victoria, Mr Baillieu must cut the losses on the Grand Prix at Albert Park. The race puts Melbourne and Victoria in front of a worldwide television audience, but its losses last year cost the taxpayer $55 million.

This calls for some tough talk between Mr Baillieu and Formula 1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone before a new contract is signed.

For instance, just how much is Mr Ecclestone's licence fee?

There may be some dollars to be saved here.