Tim Pallas stumbles over suggestions tax increases are a broken election promise

Treasurer Tim Pallas stumbled over suggestions the state government’s tax increases in tomorrow’s state budget are a broken election promise.

$120 million a year is expected to be generated through changes to stamp duty, new vehicle taxes and land tax.

The government promised no new or increased taxes when in opposition, but now says that only related to paying for election commitments.

But when asked by 3AW’s Lauren Hilbert how the $120 million would be spent, Mr Pallas said it would go towards capital investment and improved services.

Lauren Hilbert: ‘Weren’t improved services and capital investment election promises?’

Tim Pallas: ‘Yes they were.’

Lauren Hilbert: ‘So you’re using it to pay for election promises?’

Tim Pallas: ‘No. Um. Well. Look. That’s a hard question to answer.’

Click PLAY below to hear the awkward exchange