Question Time AU

Bill Debate · Second Reading

Social Security and Other Legislation Amendment (Technical Changes No. 1) Bill 2026; Second Reading

House of Representatives · Thursday 5 February 2026

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

At a glance

The Minister for Social Services moved the second reading of a technical bill designed to clarify legal frameworks within Australia's social security system. The legislation addresses issues identified through the Legal Compliance and Remediation Program, focusing on child support assessments, urgent payments, and income attribution rules. The Minister argued that these changes restore fairness and correct technical anomalies from previous legislative amendments. As no other members spoke, the debate was adjourned without further discussion or opposition.

Outcome

The debate was adjourned.

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

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Tanya Plibersek (Sydney) (Australian Labor Party) ALP

Plibersek argued that the bill strengthens the legal framework of the social security system by providing clarity on long-established practices. Plibersek stated that the amendments correct technical anomalies in child support law, ensuring parents with less than 35 per cent care are not eligible for support. The Minister also highlighted changes to allow urgent payments outside the standard fortnightly cycle without a strict limit, provided safeguards are met. Plibersek noted that the bill clarifies how partner employment income is assessed for income testing purposes.

Government response

Tanya Plibersek (Minister for Social Services) ALP Sydney

Plibersek moved the second reading of the bill, outlining its technical nature and intent to resolve issues from the Legal Compliance and Remediation Program. Plibersek detailed amendments to the Child Support (Assessment) Act 1989 to adjust commencement dates for assessments and enforce the 35 per cent care threshold. The Minister explained that changes to the Social Security Act 1991 would remove limits on urgent payments while introducing safeguards and support referrals. Plibersek concluded that these measures uphold policy intent and improve the fairness of the safety net.