Sky News host Chris Smith says the federal government is afraid to address some “big-ticket items” in the upcoming federal budget.
“What about a big-ticket item like, an enquiry into new modular nuclear plants … and talk about getting rid of the law forbidding the use of uranium for energy,” Mr Smith said.
“We are such a sparse population; it would suit us to the ground, even more. But nothing on that”.
Mr Smith also spoke of big projects, such as the building of another dam where needed.
“We need dams in places where we can store water for times when it becomes dry”.
“What about fast rail, to disperse a population that seems intent on trampling on itself, in just a few capital cities,” he said.
“But no big-ticket items in this budget, despite the need for major projects, game changers that employ a stack of people, and drive productivity.
“I think it’s a crying shame, that we miss these opportunities again.
“If you don’t have an intention to undertake the big projects now, when money’s cheap and will be for some time, and you can spend without copping any political fallout, you’re actually never ever going to do it.”