General Debate

Small Business

House of Representatives · Monday 9 February 2026

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

At a glance

The Liberal Party moved a motion demanding a formal apology from the Minister for Small Business for suggesting that businesses closing under the government were 'dodgy'. Opposition members argued that the government’s high spending and inflationary policies were causing a crisis for small businesses, citing rising insolvencies and cost pressures. The government moved to adjourn the debate, and the motion was subsequently passed by the House.

Outcome

The motion was passed with 89 votes in favour and 42 against.

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

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Tim Wilson (Goldstein) (Liberal Party) Liberal

Wilson moved the motion, citing the Minister’s previous comment that closed businesses were 'maybe dodgy' as slanderous and contemptuous. Wilson argued that the government’s fiscal policies, including high public expenditure, were driving inflation and interest rates, which disproportionately harmed small businesses relying on credit. Wilson claimed that rising costs, tax increases linked to inflation, and industrial relations changes were crushing small enterprises. Wilson asserted that the government lacked empathy for business owners and sought to maintain control over independent Australians.

Votes during this debate

Division 1: Small Business Passed 89–42