Consumer Affairs Minister Yvonne Henderson has warned of the extra burden GST would place on couples wanting to start a family.
Mrs Henderson today shopped at a baby furniture store, showing the added cost in providing necessary equipment for babies.
"Couples would have to find at least another $200 for basic baby care items," Mrs Henderson said.
"GST would increase by 15 per cent the cost of buying major items such as a cot, carry cot, pram, stroller, baby capsule, car seat, safety harness and nappies.
"Other items such as baths, change tables, potties, playpens, and baby bedding would rise by five per cent."
Mrs Henderson, who has four children aged from four to 17, said she well understood the huge cost of preparing for a family.
Couples were up for at least $1,500 for furniture and equipment - without considering the medical costs, clothes and food.
"The Liberals want to make it even harder - 15 per cent GST is a huge impost on young people wanting to have a family but struggling with the cost - on top of a mortgage, in many cases.
"By putting GST on basic baby items like these, they are showing their real colours despite their claims to be pro-family."
