Question Time AU

Ministerial Statement

Regional Budget Statement

House of Representatives · Wednesday 26 March 2025

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

At a glance

The Minister for Regional Development delivered a statement highlighting the Albanese government's budget investments in regional health, infrastructure, housing, and industries, arguing these measures address cost-of-living pressures and service gaps. The Shadow Minister for Agriculture and Leader of the Nationals responded by criticising the government's record on cost of living, infrastructure delivery, and agricultural policy, particularly regarding live sheep exports and biosecurity levies. The debate contrasted the government's focus on targeted regional funding with the opposition's call for broader economic reforms and energy policy changes.

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

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Kristy McBain (Eden-Monaro) (Australian Labor Party) ALP

McBain argued that the government has delivered record investments to improve services and opportunities in regional Australia, ensuring postcode does not limit potential. McBain highlighted specific budget measures including $1.8 billion for energy bill relief, $800 million for the Help to Buy scheme, and $626.9 million for construction apprentices. McBain emphasised investments in health workforce training, Medicare urgent care clinics, and NBN upgrades to support connectivity and disaster preparedness. McBain also noted infrastructure funding for roads and housing, alongside support for manufacturing and agricultural sectors through programs like the Future Made in Australia agenda.

Opposition response

David Littleproud (Shadow Minister for Agriculture; Leader of the Nationals) Nationals Maranoa

Littleproud argued that the government has failed regional Australia through high cost-of-living increases and poor infrastructure delivery. Littleproud criticised the removal of the instant asset write-off and the lack of new funding for regional community programs in the budget. Littleproud highlighted opposition plans to increase penalties for supermarket misconduct, boost housing supply through infrastructure investment, and reform energy policy by unlocking gas reserves. Littleproud also condemned the government's ban on live sheep exports and proposed biosecurity levies, advocating instead for an import container levy and reinstatement of agricultural visas.