Question Time AU

Bill Debate · Second Reading

Wellbeing of Future Generations Bill 2025; Second Reading

House of Representatives · Monday 10 February 2025

Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia

At a glance

The debate concerned the introduction of a legislative framework to embed long-term wellbeing considerations into government decision-making. Independent member Sophie Scamps moved the motion, arguing that current short-term political cycles have led to systemic failures in addressing climate, housing, and health crises. She proposed establishing an independent commissioner and a national conversation to ensure intergenerational equity. Liberal member Bridget Archer seconded the motion, supporting the bill as a necessary step to overcome the limitations of annual budget and electoral cycles. Both speakers emphasised the need for structural change to prioritise future prosperity over immediate political expediency.

Outcome

The motion for the second reading was moved by Scamps and seconded by Archer.

Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Sophie Scamps (Mackellar) (Independent) Ind

Scamps argued that current decision-making structures promote short-term thinking, leading to worsening crises in climate, housing, and public health. Scamps stated that young people are likely to be the first generation worse off than their parents due to these systemic failures. The bill aims to impose a positive duty on public bodies to consider long-term impacts and establish an independent statutory commissioner for future generations. Scamps highlighted that the legislation is based on the model used in Wales, which includes a national conversation to define a shared vision for the future. Scamps contended that this framework would prevent policy silos and ensure that current actions do not compromise the wellbeing of future Australians.