Modern governments aren't very good at dishing out 'tough love' for the greater good of the country because politics is a popularity contest, and you don't get too popular taking the candy away.
They are being even worse about being upfront and honest about it, The fact is you go into politics and you become a politician,
And much of the blame sits firmly on the electorate for demanding populist policies when we all know that some unpopular policies are required.
I question why the top income tax rate was bought back from 47 to 45% in the first place?
obliviously it was unaffordable given most of the years since that occurred we have needed to supplement tax rates with further levies.
and what chance would Abbot of had of getting elected if he campaigned a truthful theme such as, "we will put up your income tax by 1-2%" instead he campaigned on the pledge that it was "government waste" that would be managed and save the day.
Off course this isnt a broken promise claims Tony because it will only happen for 4 years, where as Julia’s back-flip on the carbon tax was a lie even though it as well was only going to happen for a couple of years untill the emissions trading scheme replaced it. pretty flawed logic i would say.