Cost of Living

Repacholi argued that the Nationals had neglected regional Australia during their nine years in government, leaving behind high inflation and deficits. Repacholi highlighted Labor's delivery of tax cuts, cheaper PBS medicines capped at $25, and frozen costs for pensioners at $7.70. Repacholi noted that the government had achieved two budget surpluses and saved over $233 billion compared to the inherited position. Repacholi emphasised investments in regional infrastructure, fee-free TAFE, and urgent care clinics as evidence of responsible governance.

Webster claimed that government policies were hurting families, with mortgage costs rising by $23,000 and food prices increasing by 16 per cent. Webster stated that electricity costs had risen by 40 per cent and criticised the government for avoiding responsibility for inflation. Webster argued that subsidies, including a new $50 million EV subsidy, were driving up costs and that the gun buyback policy would burden taxpayers. Webster asserted that the government's spending was reckless and contributing to an out-of-control economy.

Smith highlighted regional contributions to food, minerals, and power, and criticised the opposition for lacking substance. Smith pointed to a $7.2 billion investment in the Bruce Highway to improve safety and freight efficiency. Smith argued that Labor was delivering tax cuts, fee-free TAFE, and urgent care clinics to address skill shortages and healthcare access. Smith dismissed opposition comparisons to Portugal and Spain, citing California's high renewable energy usage as a better model.

Birrell linked the interest rate rise to inflationary pressures caused by the government's energy policy and spending. Birrell argued that energy rebates did not address the underlying issue of rising retail energy costs, which were impacting mortgage affordability and business operations. Birrell cited increased costs for fertiliser and wages as burdens on the private sector. Birrell also contested the narrative of what Labor inherited, noting that the previous coalition government had supported businesses during the pandemic with JobKeeper.

Phillips detailed local infrastructure projects in Gilmore, including the Jervis Bay flyover, RFS sheds, and Medicare urgent care clinics. Phillips argued that these investments, along with tax cuts and cheaper medicines, were not reckless spending but essential support for communities. Phillips highlighted that bulk-billing medical centres in her electorate had nearly tripled in three months. Phillips questioned whether the opposition would support cutting funding for roads, hospitals, and community facilities.

Penfold stated that Australians were paying more for everything due to Labor's spending, which was growing 13 times faster than coalition budgets. Penfold cited specific cost increases for groceries, insurance, and rates in her electorate, noting that mortgage holders were paying significantly more in interest. Penfold attributed housing affordability issues to high migration levels and criticised the renewables-only energy policy for causing factory closures and stalling investment. Penfold argued that the government was insulated from the economic hardship it was creating.

Belyea refuted claims that the government was doing nothing, listing measures such as energy rebates, paid prac placements, and HECS debt reductions. Belyea highlighted tax cuts, pay rises for minimum wage workers, and expanded parental leave. Belyea noted significant investments in bulk-billing, women's and men's health, and mental health services. Belyea pointed to over $112 million in local infrastructure commitments in Dunkley, including the Peninsula University Hospital.