Rising taxes amid global debt and high inflation haven’t led to better lives for many people. Families are asking whether their tax money is being used effectively, especially in important areas like education and healthcare. In the past five years, the cost of raising a child has increased significantly in the UK (230 000 GBP) and the US ($233 000), with parents facing higher expenses for childcare, school, and medical care. South African families are no exception (R 1000 000 upwards) are also struggling financially, making it harder to raise their children.

Governments need to up their game

To show that taxes are worth it, governments need to improve services in these key areas. Parents should see clear benefits from their taxes, like better schools, improved healthcare, and more affordable childcare. Effective investing of tax money by governments should clearly be seen to enhance the quality of life for their citizens. Allocations to key sectors should have a direct impact the households a their costs of living.

Real delivery … not just talk

If people see real benefits from their taxes, they are more likely to support necessary tax increases. It’s vital for governments to prove that their efforts an intentions are focussed on improvements in the lives of families, Collecting taxes is very real for households. How real is the evidence of how the taxes are spent is the question.