2GB Afternoons host Michael McLaren has called on the Australian government to “get smarter” with its spending, warning the nation can’t rely on its natural wealth and good fortune forever.

He says “things have to change” and Australia must make better decisions to protect future generations.

“Australia has to realise our extraordinary natural endowment can only achieve so much, and our luck will eventually run out,” McLaren said.

Listen to more highlights from Afternoons below:

Image: Hilary Wardhaugh/Getty Images