Appropriation Bill (No. 1) 2025-2026; Consideration in Detail

Gregg supported the bill, citing reduced inflation, lower interest rates, and wage growth as evidence of economic recovery. Gregg contrasted the current government's performance with the previous administration's debt and wage stagnation. Gregg highlighted specific measures including tax cuts, increased parental leave, and energy bill relief.

Wilson argued that the government's spending was driving small business insolvencies and inflation. Wilson claimed the government was hostile to small business interests and failed to simplify industrial relations. Wilson cited a report suggesting that proposed superannuation payment changes could risk the insolvency of a significant portion of businesses.

Jarrett defended the government's economic management, noting the reduction in inherited debt and the stabilisation of inflation. Jarrett highlighted investments in housing, health, and women's economic equality, including increased parental leave and student debt relief. Jarrett emphasised that the government was delivering on its promises to improve living standards.

Violi disputed the claim that the government inherited $1 trillion in debt, citing fact-checking sources. Violi argued that cost-of-living pressures remained high, with significant increases in food, healthcare, and energy prices. Violi criticised the Treasurer's absence and alleged that the government lacked solutions to economic challenges.

Spender questioned the government on tax reform and fiscal rules, advocating for a revenue-neutral approach to tax changes. Spender expressed concern over high government spending relative to GDP growth and the structural budget deficit. Spender called for the implementation of fiscal rules to ensure long-term budget sustainability.

Laxale highlighted the government's achievement of two budget surpluses and a significant improvement in the fiscal position. Laxale noted that inflation had fallen and real wages were growing, contrasting this with the previous government's record. Laxale also pointed to improvements in women's workforce participation and the narrowing of the gender pay gap.

Sitou congratulated the new shadow Treasurer while criticising the opposition's nuclear energy policy as costly and ineffective. Sitou defended the government's record on debt reduction and cost-of-living support, including tax cuts and free TAFE. Sitou argued that the previous government had failed to adequately staff public services, affecting veterans and passport processing.

Claydon focused on women's economic equality, noting increases in women's employment and wages. Claydon highlighted legislative changes to close the gender pay gap and expand paid parental leave. Claydon argued that these measures supported women's financial independence and reduced the economic penalty of caring responsibilities.

Ambihaipahar discussed the benefits of enterprise bargaining and the protection of penalty rates for award-reliant workers. Ambihaipahar highlighted real wage growth and the increase in workers covered by enterprise agreements. Ambihaipahar emphasised that these reforms supported fair wages and protected vulnerable workers, particularly in female-dominated sectors.

Garland defended the government's workplace reforms, including the protection of penalty rates and the promotion of enterprise agreements. Garland highlighted the reduction in the gender pay gap and the introduction of right-to-disconnect laws. Garland argued that these measures empowered workers and improved workplace fairness.

Burnell highlighted the government's commitment to protecting penalty rates and supporting workers through legislation like Baby Priya's Bill. Burnell discussed reforms to protect gig workers from unfair deactivation and the introduction of new employment categories. Burnell argued that these measures ensured fairness and security for all workers.

Small argued that the industrial relations system was failing due to union influence and government regulation. Small claimed that small businesses were suffering from increased compliance costs and insolvencies. Small advocated for a simplified system that rewarded effort and supported small business growth.

Clutterham emphasised the dignity of work and the government's role in creating meaningful employment opportunities. Clutterham highlighted job growth, particularly in the care economy, and the value placed on workers with disabilities. Clutterham argued that the government's policies supported stable and sustainable employment for all Australians.

minister

Collins acknowledged the contributions of farmers, fishers, and foresters, emphasising their role in producing globally renowned products. Collins highlighted the importance of biosecurity and food safety in maintaining international trust. Collins thanked producers for their work in feeding Australians and exporting goods worldwide.

shadow minister

Tehan criticised the absence of the Minister for Climate Change and Energy, alleging arrogance and a lack of transparency. Tehan argued that energy prices had risen significantly while emissions remained flat, claiming the government's climate strategy was failing. Tehan demanded the release of Treasury and CSIRO modelling underpinning the government's targets.

Phillips highlighted government investments in climate resilience, including $519 million for the Future Drought Fund and over $2 billion for the Agriculture and Land Sector Plan. Phillips noted that agricultural production value was forecast to reach $95 billion, with fisheries and forestry pushing the total over $100 billion. Phillips emphasised new trade opportunities with the United Arab Emirates and India, alongside $2 billion in biosecurity funding.

Chaffey argued that regional Australia was neglected, citing severe workforce shortages and the scrapping of the dedicated agricultural visa. Chaffey claimed the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility scheme had become unworkable due to new guidelines, leading to a decline in workers. Chaffey also highlighted a significant increase in the road infrastructure backlog in his electorate, attributing it to government mismanagement.

Swanson celebrated the progress toward the $100 billion farmgate output goal, citing ABARES forecasts. Swanson detailed trade achievements, including the comprehensive economic partnership agreement with the United Arab Emirates and improved market access for honey, grapes, and crayfish. Swanson reiterated the commitment to strengthening biosecurity defences with over $2 billion in funding.

Penfold criticised the live sheep export ban, arguing it ignored cultural differences in meat consumption in markets like the Middle East and Indonesia. Penfold claimed the ban undermined animal welfare training programs that had previously improved standards in importing countries. Penfold warned that the policy set a dangerous precedent for other lawful agricultural industries.

Smith emphasised the importance of agriculture, fisheries, and forestry to Far North Queensland's identity and economy. Smith supported government actions to boost the agricultural workforce and improve climate resilience through technology and pest management. Smith highlighted the critical role of biosecurity in protecting the sector from potential economic losses.

Wilson argued that the live sheep export ban had already caused significant harm, with Western Australian sheep numbers falling sharply. Wilson questioned the scientific basis for the ban and criticised the delay in distributing transition package funds. Wilson raised concerns about the fairness of requiring co-contributions for grants aimed at helping impacted producers.

Urquhart highlighted Tasmania's significant salmon and forestry industries, noting recent funding for plantation sites. Urquhart supported the government's efforts to open new trade opportunities and boost the agricultural workforce. Urquhart detailed investments in reducing agriculture and land emissions, including funding for greenhouse gas accounting and the Zero Net Emissions Agriculture Cooperative Research Centre.

Katter criticised historical Labor policies that he claimed damaged the timber and wool industries. Katter opposed the live animal export ban, noting that the Liberal leader still advocated for it. Katter praised the Prime Minister for reopening the cattle export market to Indonesia after a previous ban.

Bell criticised the government's response to the harmful algal bloom in South Australia, alleging a delay in awareness and action. Bell highlighted the impact on marine life and local businesses, claiming financial relief was inaccessible due to bureaucracy. Bell questioned the cost and effectiveness of the newly announced algal-bloom hotline.

Laxale outlined the government's climate action plan, including raising emissions reduction targets to 43 per cent by 2030 and up to 70 per cent by 2035. Laxale highlighted the rollout of the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard and the approval of over 100 renewable energy projects. Laxale noted the significant uptake of home batteries and the transition to low-emissions vehicles.

Wilson defended the government's energy strategy, citing the national energy strategy and reforms to the Safeguard Mechanism. Wilson argued that the government was on track to meet its emissions and renewable energy targets. Wilson addressed the algal bloom in South Australia, attributing it to climate change factors, and highlighted new funding for bushland protection.

Kennedy claimed that emissions had barely decreased under the current government compared to previous Liberal terms. Kennedy criticised rising energy prices impacting local manufacturing businesses. Kennedy demanded clarity on the cost of the Capacity Investment Scheme, alleging a lack of transparency.

Kearney emphasised the reality of climate change impacts, including floods and droughts. Kearney highlighted the government's legislative actions, including enshrining emissions targets and reforming the Safeguard Mechanism. Kearney criticised the opposition's nuclear energy policy as impractical and expensive, noting the significant investment in clean energy and decarbonisation plans.

Ryan criticised the government for subsidising fossil fuels while failing to meet climate targets. Ryan argued that transport emissions were rising and that EV adoption was insufficient. Ryan advocated for increased investment in active transport infrastructure, such as cycling corridors, to reduce emissions and improve urban health.

Sitou argued that previous emissions reductions occurred despite coalition policies, due to the carbon price and market forces. Sitou highlighted the government's fair transition policies, including home battery subsidies and community solar programs. Sitou criticised the opposition's nuclear energy policy as a failure that would increase electricity costs.

Leeser criticised the Administrative Review Tribunal for increased backlogs and slower case finalisation times compared to the previous tribunal. Leeser alleged a lack of transparency in government operations, citing spikes in FOI refusals. Leeser also raised concerns about the Australian Human Rights Commission's handling of antisemitism complaints and its perceived ideological bias.

minister

Rowland highlighted the $3.9 billion National Access to Justice Partnership as the largest Commonwealth investment in legal services, aimed at reforming the sector and supporting vulnerable communities. Rowland defended the establishment of the Administrative Review Tribunal, noting amendments to improve efficiency by allowing paper-based reviews for student visa refusals. Rowland also announced the introduction of legislation to establish an independent Commonwealth parole board to manage the release of federal offenders safely.

shadow minister

McIntosh criticised the government for delaying responses to reports on gambling harms and online safety, and for failing to address NBN issues. McIntosh raised concerns about the triple 0 network following the Optus outage, arguing that the government had voted down amendments to increase penalties and improve transparency. McIntosh questioned the appropriateness of ACMA reviewing the outage given its prior involvement and lack of coordination with other agencies.

Pike criticised the abolition of funding for the Native Title Respondents Scheme, arguing it created an imbalance between support for claimants and respondents. Pike cited the financial burden on Redland City Council regarding native title claims and called for equal funding to ensure fairness for all stakeholders under the federal act.

Templeman defended the replacement of the Administrative Appeals Tribunal with the Administrative Review Tribunal, highlighting improved accessibility and transparent appointment processes. Templeman noted positive feedback from legal aid regarding fairer decision-making for asylum seekers and asked about further reforms to ensure tribunal efficiency.

Chaney argued that the budget failed to adequately fund integrity agencies such as the Ombudsman and the DPP, citing projected funding declines. Chaney advocated for these agencies to report to parliament rather than the executive to ensure independence and called for sustained resourcing to protect democratic institutions.

Webster raised concerns about the financial sustainability of rural and remote councils, noting a lack of untied funding and cost-shifting from higher levels of government. Webster criticised the government's response to regional telecommunications issues, including the 3G shutdown and delays in addressing mobile coverage gaps.

Hawke criticised government bailouts for industries like Glencore, arguing that high energy costs and regulatory settings were driving companies to seek taxpayer support. Hawke questioned the use of National Reconstruction Fund money for climate targets and asked for a plan to reduce industrial costs to avoid future subsidies.

French highlighted government investments in the resources and science sectors, including the Critical Minerals Production Tax Incentive and the Critical Minerals Strategic Reserve. French argued that these measures supported job creation and national resilience, contrasting them with opposition critiques of market-based approaches.

Willcox attributed industrial closures and job losses to government energy and resources policies, citing examples from the nickel and coal sectors. Willcox questioned the timeline for Bruce Highway funding and criticised cuts to the space industry, calling for an investigation into the condition of the metals manufacturing sector.

Mascarenhas detailed government investments in critical minerals, green iron, and battery manufacturing, emphasising the creation of secure jobs. Mascarenhas highlighted the National Reconstruction Fund and R&D investments as key drivers of innovation and industrial growth in Western Australia.

Kennedy argued that high energy prices were crippling local businesses and that government subsidies were creating dependency rather than competitiveness. Kennedy warned that Australia was falling behind in artificial intelligence adoption due to lack of infrastructure and reliable low-cost energy, advocating for nuclear power investment.

Charlton criticised the opposition for opposing the National Reconstruction Fund and creating uncertainty in energy policy through inconsistent stances on climate change. Charlton defended the government's support for the Mount Isa smelter and highlighted historical Liberal Party failures in economic management.

Boele commended the Future Made in Australia legislation for retaining clean industries but asked how the government would use the National Reconstruction Fund to build battery manufacturing and recycling capabilities. Boele raised concerns about policy contradictions, such as subsidies for diesel in mining, hindering decarbonisation goals.

King outlined significant investments in the resources sector, including the Critical Minerals Production Tax Incentive and support for Geoscience Australia. King emphasised the importance of processing critical minerals domestically for national security and economic prosperity, noting successful NRF investments.

Wallace criticised the Home Affairs portfolio for mismanagement, citing the NZYQ High Court ruling and the release of detainees. Wallace questioned the vetting processes for refugees from Gaza and argued that the portfolio's structure lacked focus and accountability.

Ng highlighted government commitments to multiculturalism, including the appointment of a dedicated minister and funding for community language schools. Ng emphasised the importance of social cohesion and inclusion, citing local festival support as examples of tangible outcomes.

Caldwell questioned the government's handling of the return of individuals associated with ISIS from Syria, asking about their current location and security screening. Caldwell criticised the Prime Minister's initial denial of their return and raised concerns about community safety and deradicalisation programs.

minister

Hill defended the government's approach to national security and migration, stating that security agencies are monitoring Australian citizens returning from Syrian camps and that the government has not facilitated their return. Hill rejected opposition criticisms as baseless rants, asserting that the government has a clear migration strategy unlike the previous administration. Hill also addressed the independent member's questions on disaster funding by noting he would refer them to the Minister for Emergency Management.

Soon highlighted the government's commitment to multiculturalism, noting the appointment of a dedicated cabinet minister and the establishment of the Office for Multicultural Affairs. Soon cited the 2024 Multicultural Framework Review and investments of $15 million since 2023-24, with an additional $25 million, to support 600 community language schools serving over 90,000 students. Soon also announced $10 million in funding for the United Muslims of Australia Community Centre in her electorate.

Wallace criticised the government's handling of national security, arguing that restructuring the Home Affairs department had blurred accountability and slowed terrorist listing processes. Wallace pointed to high net migration figures, a backlog of over 110,000 cases at the Administrative Review Tribunal, and a lack of a coherent migration strategy. Wallace also raised concerns about cybersecurity vulnerabilities and the absence of a comprehensive national security strategy.

Abdo argued that the budget reflects a commitment to inclusion and social cohesion, contrasting this with what he described as opposition rhetoric based on fear. Abdo reiterated the investment in community language schools and the elevation of the Minister for Multicultural Affairs to cabinet. Abdo emphasised that multiculturalism is central to national security and condemned opposition remarks that he claimed marginalised diverse communities.

Steggall focused on the National Emergency Management Agency, arguing that funding for disaster preparedness was insufficient compared to the $38 billion annual cost of natural disasters. Steggall noted that less than 13 per cent of NEMA's budget was directed towards preparedness, despite research showing high returns on investment in resilience. Steggall also urged the government to address slow visa processing times and complex rules that hinder small businesses facing labour shortages.

Jordan-Baird spoke on the importance of representation and belonging for diverse communities, citing the diverse composition of the current parliament. Jordan-Baird highlighted recent anti-immigration protests and condemned remarks by opposition members that she claimed undermined social cohesion. Jordan-Baird announced $5 million in funding for a community and education centre at the Sri Durga Temple in her electorate, reinforcing the government's support for multicultural institutions.