Darwin's CPI reduced as nation's rises

LETTER TO THE EDITOR
 
Sir – The NT Government welcomes an independent report which shows the cost of living has reduced in the Northern Territory.
 
The report by Northern Territory Council of Social Service (NTCOSS) shows the Darwin CPI for the year ending March 2016 declined 0.3% while the national CPI increased 1.3%.
 
The decline in the Consumer Price Index has been driven by falls in the retail price of petrol, lower rents and a reduction in utility costs following the five per cent reduction in electricity tariffs on January 1, 2016.
 
Downward pressure on the cost of living should continue as lower rental prices for houses and units continue to flow through to consumers as leases are renewed.
 
The Government is keen to see similar outcomes across other key household purchases such as fresh produce and groceries.
 
Increasing competition will continue to place downward pressure on the cost of living.
 
The report also said the first-home buyer stamp duty rebate and home improvement scheme would help struggling families.
 
Labor has said they will axe the home improvement scheme, which would add to cost-of-living pressure and mean less work for tradies.
 
Labor would also increase the cost of electricity through its uncosted policy to achieve 50 per cent renewables by 2030.
 
Adam Giles(pictured)

Chief Minister