Appropriation Bill (No. 3) 2025-2026, Appropriation Bill (No. 4) 2025-2026, Appropriation (Parliamentary Departments) Bill (No. 2) 2025-2026; Second Reading

Landry criticised the government for reducing NDIS provider travel reimbursements, arguing this harms access to care in regional areas. Landry highlighted a shortfall in aged-care housing in Clermont and the rejection of funding for a seniors' facility. Landry also cited the cancellation of funding for the Rocky Sports Club project and claimed that government spending has driven up costs for essentials like insurance, energy, and food. Landry argued that the government's fiscal management has increased national debt and interest rates, negatively impacting households.

Holzberger contrasted the government's investment in housing, energy, and health with the opposition's ideological approach to economics. Holzberger argued that post-war economic success relied on cheap public housing and energy, which the government is now restoring. Holzberger stated that the opposition's focus on individual responsibility neglects the need for collective action and public investment. Holzberger urged support for the bills as a reflection of values that prioritise community well-being and economic stability.

Webster argued that government spending is driving a collapse in living standards and increasing national debt to $1.2 trillion. Webster cited rising costs for mortgages, groceries, and electricity, and noted increased demand for emergency food relief in her electorate. Webster quoted former Treasury assistant secretary David Pearl, who criticised the budget's assumptions about productivity and emissions cuts. Webster claimed that the government's fiscal projections are unrealistic and that spending is contributing to inflation and economic decline.

Urquhart stated that the bills implement responsible fiscal management, reducing debt and strengthening the budget position. Urquhart highlighted tax cuts for low- and middle-income earners, reductions in student debt, and savings from cheaper medicines in her electorate. Urquhart pointed to the establishment of Medicare urgent care clinics and mental health centres in Burnie and Devonport as evidence of improved health access. Urquhart argued that the Reserve Bank attributes inflation to private demand, not government spending, and that the government is delivering targeted support to ease cost-of-living pressures.

Chaffey criticised the $12.7 billion in additional spending, arguing it reflects poor fiscal planning and contributes to inflation and debt. Chaffey highlighted issues in regional Australia, including childcare shortages, aged-care access problems, and denied funding for road maintenance in several shires. Chaffey also raised concerns about telecommunications coverage after the 3G shutdown and the lack of urgent care clinics in his electorate. Chaffey questioned the cost-effectiveness of renewable energy subsidies and the gun buyback program, arguing these measures burden taxpayers and small businesses.