Knox Class Action (Facilitation) Bill 2026

Stage by Stage

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

1. Thursday 10 September 2026 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading

   The debate concerned the second reading of legislation to facilitate compensation for victims of the former government's robodebt scheme. The Minister for Social Services argued that the bill was necessary to ensure settlement payments were not reduced by tax, income testing, or statutory recovery schemes. She highlighted that the robodebt scheme caused significant harm and that the government had already implemented most royal commission recommendations. The bill aims to exempt these specific compensation payments from standard social security and disability insurance assessments to prevent further distress to victims. The debate was adjourned after the Minister's speech.

   Outcome: The debate was adjourned.

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2. Tuesday 15 September 2026 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading

   The House of Representatives debated the Knox Class Action (Facilitation) Bill 2026, which exempted robodebt compensation payments from income testing and recovery under social security, veterans' entitlements, and NDIS laws. Labor members strongly supported the legislation to prevent further penalisation of victims, while the Liberal Party endorsed the bill but raised concerns regarding automated assessment tools in aged care and the NDIS. Independent member Monique Ryan also endorsed the bill while urging the implementation of safeguards for automated decision-making. The debate concluded with widespread support for the bill's principles from both sides of the House.

   Outcome: The bill was read a second time and agreed to.

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3. Tuesday 15 September 2026 · House of Representatives

   Third Reading
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4. Wednesday 16 September 2026 · Senate

   First Reading
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5. Wednesday 16 September 2026 · Senate

   Second Reading

   The Senate debated the Knox Class Action (Facilitation) Bill 2026, which facilitates compensation for victims of the former Robodebt scheme. Minister Jess Walsh moved the bill, arguing it ensures victims receive full compensation without tax or income testing penalties. The bill exempts settlement payments from social security, veterans' entitlements, and NDIS recovery schemes. The debate was adjourned after the minister's speech, with no other speakers recorded in the provided transcript.

   Outcome: Debate adjourned.

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6. Thursday 17 September 2026 · Senate

   Limitation of Debate
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