Freedom of Information

Webster criticised the government for acting like a long-serving administration lacking in transparency, citing difficulties in accessing ministers and the use of non-disclosure agreements. Webster argued that these practices were damaging social licence in regional communities, particularly regarding energy projects, and claimed the government was misleading the public about energy prices. Webster contended that the government's secretive approach was dragging Australia into the 'Dark Ages' and contradicted the Prime Minister's promises of openness.

Garland emphasised the government's commitment to restoring democratic conventions and public trust, highlighting the establishment of the National Anti-Corruption Commission. Garland noted that Australia's reputation had been damaged under the previous government, resulting in the worst corruption perception score in its history among OECD countries. Garland argued that the current government's actions were essential to dismantling the culture of corruption and ensuring integrity remained at the core of public institutions.

Wallace accused the government of being frightened of democracy and transparency, contrasting current actions with the Prime Minister's previous promises of accountability. Wallace highlighted the reduction in opposition and crossbench staff as a move to limit the ability to hold the government to account. Wallace also criticised the proposed changes to FOI laws and matters of public importance procedures, arguing they stripped away parliamentary scrutiny mechanisms.

Gregg pointed to the previous government's secret ministries and handling of robodebt as evidence of a prior culture of secrecy. Gregg listed government achievements including the National Anti-Corruption Commission, reforms to the Administrative Review Tribunal, and whistleblower protection laws. Gregg argued that the government was focused on delivering policy outcomes such as cheaper medicines and free TAFE, rather than engaging in performative outrage. Gregg stated that FOI reforms would be subject to normal committee processes to ensure transparency.

Wilson described the proposed FOI changes as a 'truth tax' that would limit public access to government information and shield ministers from scrutiny. Wilson cited data from the Centre for Public Integrity showing a drop in unredacted document releases from 59 per cent in 2011-12 to 25 per cent. Wilson argued that the reforms would disproportionately affect average Australians while allowing corporations to afford fees, thereby undermining democratic accountability.

Ng highlighted the establishment of the National Anti-Corruption Commission and the repayment of $1.7 billion to robodebt victims as evidence of restored transparency. Ng argued that FOI costs had increased by 23 per cent in 2023-24, making reforms necessary to prioritise genuine requests and prevent anonymous vexatious applications. Ng contrasted the current government's actions with the previous administration's secrecy regarding robodebt and the allocation of community sports grants.

Soon dismissed the opposition's criticism as hypocritical, citing the previous government's secret ministries, robodebt scheme, and failure to deliver an anti-corruption commission. Soon listed government reforms including the Administrative Review Tribunal, Respect at Work legislation, and strengthened whistleblower protections. Soon argued that FOI laws needed updating to be fit for purpose in the 21st century, asserting that the government had delivered integrity and accountability.