Question Time AU

Bill Debate · Second Reading

Australian Centre for Disease Control Bill 2025; Second Reading

House of Representatives · Wednesday 3 September 2025

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

At a glance

The debate focused on the establishment of a statutory Australian Centre for Disease Control to strengthen national public health capability and pandemic preparedness. The sole speaker, Mark Butler, argued that the bill addresses critical gaps identified in the independent COVID-19 response inquiry, particularly regarding data sharing and fragmented planning. He outlined the agency's independence, funding commitments, and phased implementation strategy, including a review in 2028. The debate concluded with the bill being commended to the chamber and the debate adjourned.

Outcome

The debate was adjourned after the bill was commended to the chamber.

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

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Mark Butler (Hindmarsh) (Australian Labor Party) ALP

Butler moved the second reading of the bill, arguing it fulfils a government promise to create an independent statutory agency commencing on 1 January 2026. Butler cited the independent COVID-19 response inquiry, which highlighted capability gaps such as limited stockpile readiness and poor data sharing between jurisdictions. Butler stated the agency would align Australia with other nations possessing established national public health institutes and address threats like antimicrobial resistance and climate change. Butler detailed funding of $251.7 million for establishment and $73.3 million annually from 2028-29, emphasising the agency's role in providing evidence-based advice and improving transparency.