General Debate

Small Business

House of Representatives · Monday 25 August 2025

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

At a glance

Members debated the health of the small business sector, with opposition members arguing that rising costs and insolvencies indicated government failure, while government members highlighted specific support programs and economic contributions. Pat Conaghan and Andrew Willcox criticised the government for ignoring small business struggles and increasing regulatory burdens. Alison Byrnes and Luke Gosling defended the government's record, citing the National Small Business Strategy, energy rebates, and local community initiatives. The debate concluded without a formal vote or resolution, as it was a general debate on a motion.

Outcome

The motion was debated as part of a general debate; no formal vote or outcome was recorded in the transcript.

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

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Pat Conaghan (Cowper) (National Party) Nationals

Conaghan argued that the government had broken records for business insolvencies and was harming small and medium enterprises through poor policy. Conaghan cited the example of a regional hotel owner facing significant electricity bill increases, which forced staff reductions. Conaghan claimed that government interventions were often disconnected from the realities of running a business, such as cash flow management and compliance costs. Conaghan urged the government to listen to business owners rather than implementing policies that forced closures.

Opposition response

Andrew Willcox (Dawson) (Liberal National Party) LNP

Willcox stated that small businesses in his electorate were struggling with rising costs, complex regulations, and a lack of government support. Willcox argued that the government had failed to acknowledge small business needs during recent economic forums and that leaders lacked understanding of business operations. Willcox called for lower power prices, reduced taxes, and less government interference to stimulate growth. Willcox contended that the current environment discouraged entrepreneurship and threatened regional economic prosperity.