Question Time AU

Bill Debate · Second Reading

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

House of Representatives · Tuesday 10 March 2026

Continued from Wednesday 4 March 2026.

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

At a glance

The debate centred on the government's fiscal management, with opposition members arguing that excessive spending was driving inflation and national debt, while government members defended their record on cost-of-living relief, infrastructure, and health. Independent member Kate Chaney supported specific programs but urged long-term fiscal sustainability and revenue reform. The opposition indicated they would not oppose the bills to ensure government operations continued, despite disagreeing with the underlying fiscal policy. The debate concluded with the bills proceeding, as the opposition chose not to delay legislative authority for government expenditure.

Outcome

The opposition stated they would not oppose or delay the appropriation bills to allow government operations to continue, despite disagreeing with the fiscal policies contained within them.

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

How the debate unfolded

Continued the debate

Wilson argued that government spending growth was outpacing economic growth, leading to high inflation and rising national debt. Wilson cited data indicating spending was $160 billion higher than in 2022, adding approximately $16,000 per household. Wilson claimed the fringe benefits tax exemption for electric vehicles had ballooned in cost, disproportionately benefiting high-income earners and subsidising Chinese manufacturers. Wilson asserted that high government spending directly caused higher interest rates, increasing mortgage repayments for homeowners.

Opposition response

Violi argued that government spending was contributing to inflationary pressures and interest rate rises, contradicting government claims. Violi highlighted rising costs for housing, insurance, and food, stating that living standards had declined significantly. Violi noted that the government had failed to meet its housing targets and criticised cuts to disability advocacy networks. Violi advocated for increased defence spending to three per cent of GDP and condemned comments by the US president regarding Australian service members.