Australian Centre for Disease Control Bill 2025, Australian Centre for Disease Control (Consequential Amendments and Transitional Provisions) Bill 2025; Second Reading

Freelander supported the bills as a response to vulnerabilities exposed during the COVID-19 pandemic, including poor coordination and data sharing. Freelander stated the new centre would operate independently from ministerial direction to safeguard scientific integrity and evidence-based advice. Freelander noted the government committed $251 million to establish the centre, with ongoing funding allocated from 2028-29. Freelander argued the agency would complement existing resources and improve response times to emerging health threats.

Wilson opposed the legislation, citing historical distrust in public health authorities following pandemic restrictions in Victoria. Wilson argued that the government had failed to rebuild community trust or acknowledge past errors in policy implementation. Wilson contended that the proposed centre represented an expansion of state power to control citizens' lives without sufficient democratic accountability. Wilson stated the opposition would challenge the bill due to concerns about transparency and the potential for abuse of authority.

Claydon strongly supported the consequential amendments bill as essential infrastructure for the new centre. Claydon explained that the legislation ensures the orderly transfer of functions from the Department of Health and the Chief Medical Officer to the new entity. Claydon emphasised that Australia was the only OECD country without such a national body, creating gaps in coordination and leadership. Claydon argued the centre would provide clear guidelines and serve as a nucleus for public health leadership.