 He introduced four budgets, gradually reducing the deficit from $644 million in 1967–68 to $30 million in 1969–70.They were characterised by significant increased spending on defence, drought assistance, pension benefits and grants to the States, and by new Commonwealth programs for the health, education and housing of Aborigines, and for school libraries.Funding came from increased company and sales tax rates, radio and television licence fees, air navigation charges and overseas borrowings.