Opened the debate
Price argued that the government is responding to heightened security risks with outdated budgeting, forcing the Australian Defence Force to cut sustainment budgets for platforms like the F-35 fighter jets. Price contended that this neglects the need for higher defence expenditure, reaching a minimum of three per cent of GDP, to fund mass missile production, integrated air and missile defence, and unmanned systems. Price criticised the cancellation of the JP 9102 satellite project and slow progress at the Henderson shipyard, warning that Western Australia could lose multibillion dollar contracts. Price also highlighted the closure of the Flying Start childcare centre at RAAF Base Pearce, noting the lack of government response to her inquiries. Furthermore, she opposed the withdrawn Defence Amendment (Defence Honours and Awards Appeal Tribunal) Bill 2025, arguing it would have removed appeal rights for veterans.