Cost of Living

Briskey argued that the opposition's record on energy policy was characterised by denial and delay, leading to a chaotic grid and soaring bills. Briskey stated that the government has delivered significant energy bill relief and invested in renewable energy and home batteries to lower costs. Briskey highlighted real wage increases and protections for penalty rates as evidence of support for working people. Briskey contrasted this with the opposition's focus on internal party disputes.

Birrell criticised the government for failing to deliver the promised $275 reduction in energy bills, arguing that the modelling used during the election was misleading. Birrell warned that a rapid transition to renewable energy risks grid instability and could drive industry offshore, damaging the economy. Birrell stated that while he supports renewable energy, it must be part of a diverse grid to ensure reliability for households and businesses. Birrell argued that the government's policies are causing significant damage to families and workers.

Burnell detailed specific cost-of-living relief measures delivered in his electorate, including tax cuts, student debt reductions, and expanded bulk-billing incentives. Burnell highlighted the success of Medicare urgent care clinics and the Cheaper Home Batteries Program in reducing household expenses. Burnell stated that the government is making it easier for first-home buyers to enter the market through lower deposit requirements and new housing supply. Burnell argued that these practical measures are easing pressure on families while the opposition focuses on internal squabbles.

McCormack argued that the government has lost touch with ordinary Australians, citing significant increases in power costs and food prices. McCormack highlighted the impact of rising energy costs on farmers and regional communities, noting that they are bearing the burden of green energy projects. McCormack criticised the government for rushing policies without considering the impact on everyday Australians. McCormack called for an end to the reckless rollout of renewable projects that he claimed are hurting regional areas.

French argued that energy price volatility was inherited from a decade of policy drift and stalled reform under previous governments. French stated that the government has taken practical steps to stabilise wholesale electricity prices and accelerate transmission investment. French highlighted broader cost-of-living measures, including tax cuts, cheaper medicines, and expanded child care, as evidence of disciplined management. French contrasted this with what he described as the opposition's reliance on luck rather than leadership.

Batt argued that the government's spending and mismanagement have led to a collapse in living standards and a significant national debt. Batt cited rising costs for rent, energy, insurance, and food, noting increased demand for emergency relief services in his electorate. Batt stated that the coalition plans to cut income tax, fix the budget, and introduce affordable energy policies. Batt argued that the government's approach is unsustainable and leaving a debt burden for future generations.

Witty argued that the government is actively addressing cost-of-living pressures through tax cuts, student debt reductions, and cheaper medicines. Witty highlighted the delivery of energy bill relief and investments in renewable energy and storage to lower wholesale prices. Witty stated that the government is reforming energy market rules to protect customers and ensure fairness. Witty contrasted this delivery with the previous government's failure to prepare the grid or protect Medicare.