Competition and Consumer Amendment (Responding to Exceptional Circumstances) Bill 2026

Stage by Stage

Summaries in reported speech - not a transcript. In date order, both chambers.

1. Wednesday 13 May 2026 · Senate

   First Reading
   See who spoke

2. Wednesday 13 May 2026 · Senate

   Second Reading

   The debate centred on whether new powers for the Treasurer and ACCC to exempt businesses from competition laws during crises were necessary, given existing frameworks worked effectively during the pandemic. Opposition and crossbench senators strongly opposed the bill's rushed passage, lack of parliamentary scrutiny, retrospective application, and broad scope, moving an amendment for a Senate inquiry. The Greens supported the bill's intent but proposed amendments for stronger safeguards, while the government argued the measures were urgent responses to fuel supply disruptions caused by Middle East conflict.

   Outcome: The time for the debate expired.

   Read the full summary

3. Thursday 14 May 2026 · Senate

   In Committee

   The debate focused on the retrospective application of competition law exemptions under the bill, specifically regarding conduct dating back to 1 April 2026. Senator Canavan questioned the necessity of retroactive powers and raised concerns about shielding potential anticompetitive behaviour from scrutiny. Minister Ayres defended the legislation, citing support from the ACCC and the need for rapid regulatory response during supply chain disruptions caused by international conflict. The discussion highlighted the balance between maintaining market competition and ensuring essential commodity supplies during crises.

   Outcome: The transcript does not state the final result of the vote or amendment process.

   Read the full summary

4. Thursday 14 May 2026 · Senate

   Limitation of Debate

   The Senate debated amendments to the bill concerning the scope and duration of exceptional circumstances exemption powers. The Opposition moved amendments to restrict these powers to national emergencies and remove retrospective provisions, while the Greens moved an amendment to ensure disallowance provisions applied to relevant instruments. The Opposition amendments were defeated, but the Greens amendment was passed.

   Outcome: The Opposition amendments were not passed, while the Greens amendment was agreed to.

   Read the full summary

5. Thursday 14 May 2026 · Senate

   Second Reading

   The Senate debated legislation granting the Treasurer and ACCC powers to exempt businesses from competition laws during exceptional circumstances, such as fuel supply shocks. One Nation senators opposed the bill, citing concerns over retrospective provisions, lack of parliamentary scrutiny, and potential for corporate profiteering, while calling for a committee inquiry. The Minister supported the bill as urgent measures to secure fuel supplies and protect consumers, noting government support for a specific amendment. The bill was ultimately defeated in the Senate.

   Outcome: The bill was not passed, with a division result of 27 votes against and 34 votes for.

   Read the full summary

6. Monday 25 May 2026 · House of Representatives

   Consideration in Detail

   The debate focused on opposition amendments seeking to remove retrospective provisions and insert a sunset clause into the bill. Kevin Hogan argued that the retrospective start date lacked justification and that a sunset clause would allow for proper inquiry. Andrew Leigh opposed the amendments, citing the need for broad powers to address a historic shock to global oil supply and ensure fuel price stability. The amendments were defeated in a division, with the bill proceeding without the proposed changes.

   Outcome: The amendments were not passed, with 45 votes in favour and 97 against.

   Read the full summary

7. Monday 25 May 2026 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading

   The debate centred on whether the bill provided necessary powers to manage fuel supply disruptions caused by international conflict without undermining competition laws or parliamentary scrutiny. Government members argued the legislation enabled rapid coordination during crises and strengthened penalties for fuel code breaches, while opposition and independent members raised concerns about the breadth of ministerial powers, retrospective provisions, and insufficient oversight. An amendment to refer the bill to committee was moved but ultimately failed when the bill was defeated on the floor.

   Outcome: The bill was not passed, with a division result of 48 votes in favour and 94 against.

   Read the full summary

8. Monday 25 May 2026 · House of Representatives

   Third Reading
   See who spoke