Billions flow in big-spending budget but businesses fear prolonged border closures

Tens of billions of dollars will flow in a big-spending federal budget but there are fears the government's efforts to stimulate jobs growth could be held back if the international border is not opened this year. Key points: The budget forecasts the international border will not open until the middle of 2022 It forecasts a decade of deficits and debt that is set to peak around $1 trillion in 2025 Business groups want the international border to open to help businesses recover from the pandemic The bulk of new government spending goes to the nation's most vulnerable — children, the elderly and people with a disability — all sectors the government has faced criticism for failing to do enough to support. Criticism government hasn't done enough for women The budget materials included a book dubbed the "Women's Budget Statement" and came after sustained criticism about the government's treatment and policies for women. A cash boost for women's health and safety, money to improve aged care, but renewables get left behind — who's got what in this year's budget. Budget tax calculator Aged care funding central to government budget spending The centrepiece of the budget is $17.7 billion for the aged care sector, announced along with the government's response to the Aged Care Royal Commission, which unearthed years of neglect and abuse.