This week's financial podcast with Paige Estritori covers key areas of Australia's financial landscape focusing primarily on impacts of the federal budget, housing concerns, and more. Top economists raised concerns regarding the budget's potential effect on borrowers, with the surprise expansion potentially leading to an interest rate hike amidst inflation control efforts. It was noted that the budget lacks direct financial aid for first-time home buyers despite the "Homes for Australia Plan". Challenges faced by Australias housing industry due to growing population outpacing construction efforts were also discussed. On a positive note, the Financial Services Council highlighted federal budget initiatives aimed at improving the financial service sector's contribution to economic growth and addressing gender disparities in retirement funds. Additional reforms were requested to establish Australia as a global finance hub.n