Greens seek $46.5B for free uni, TAFE funding

The Australian Greens have unveiled a proposal to provide free university and TAFE education for all domestic students, which would cost the federal government $46.5 billion over four years. This plan, announced by Greens Leader Adam Bandt and Deputy Leader Mehreen Faruqi, aims to alleviate the burdens of rising student debt, which has significantly increased over the years. The party plans to finance this initiative by imposing higher taxes on large corporations, projecting a potential revenue of $514 billion over the next decade. Bandt emphasized the importance of equitable access to education, noting that many current politicians benefited from free education, unlike today's students who face substantial debt. Independent polling indicates strong public support for free higher education, with 58% of Australians in favor. The Greens' proposal will be a priority in any negotiations with the Labor party in the event of a minority government.