Matter of Public Importance

Labor Government

House of Representatives · Thursday 26 March 2026

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

At a glance

The debate centred on the government's response to rising fuel prices and supply shortages, with the Opposition arguing that the Prime Minister failed to provide leadership and acknowledge the severity of the crisis. Government members countered that decisive action had been taken, including releasing fuel reserves and empowering the ACCC, while accusing the Opposition of offering only complaints without solutions. Speakers highlighted the impact on farmers, truck drivers, and families, with the Opposition citing specific price increases and the government listing various cost-of-living relief measures. The discussion also touched on broader economic management, including inflation, interest rates, and past policy decisions by both sides.

Outcome

The matter of public importance was debated without a vote being taken.

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

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Angus Taylor (Hume) (Liberal Party) Liberal

Taylor argued that the government had failed to acknowledge or address a national fuel crisis, citing empty service stations and surging prices that were up by over 50 per cent. Taylor claimed that farmers and truck drivers were severely impacted, with some sleeping near machinery to protect fuel supplies. Taylor asserted that the government's inaction stemmed from an obsession with net zero targets and policies like the safeguard mechanism, which he characterised as a carbon tax undermining energy security. Taylor contrasted the current situation with previous government actions that secured refinery futures and increased diesel storage, arguing that the Prime Minister lacked the leadership to coordinate a national response.

Government response

Andrew Charlton (Parramatta) (Assistant Minister for Science, Technology and the Digital Economy) ALP

Charlton defended the government's record, stating that swift actions included releasing 20 per cent of fuel reserves, changing fuel standards, and appointing a fuel coordinator. Charlton accused the Leader of the Opposition of hypocrisy, noting that four refineries closed under his previous tenure and that fuel reserves were located overseas. Charlton argued that the Opposition offered no constructive solutions, only slogans, which he suggested was driving voters toward One Nation. Charlton also challenged the Opposition leader's integrity, citing past decisions to delay the release of energy price rise information before an election.

Opposition response

Tim Wilson (Goldstein) (Liberal Party) Liberal

Wilson criticised the government's economic model, arguing that it stoked inflation and then taxed it, leading to declining living standards. Wilson highlighted the Energy Minister's initial denial of a supply crisis followed by a rapid reversal, describing it as a failure of leadership. Wilson argued that the government relied on appointing statutory officers rather than taking direct responsibility, and he raised concerns about public money flowing to the CFMEU. Wilson concluded that the Prime Minister and Treasurer avoided difficult questions and failed to provide the steady stewardship required during turbulent times.

Madonna Jarrett (Brisbane) (Australian Labor Party) ALP support

Jarrett defined good leadership as inspiring and acting with integrity, listing government achievements such as tax cuts, cheaper medicines, and energy bill relief. Jarrett argued that the government was addressing cost-of-living pressures while maintaining national security and international relationships. Jarrett contrasted this with what she described as a history of failed leadership from the Opposition, citing past controversies and lack of vision.
Melissa McIntosh (Lindsay) (Liberal Party) Liberal oppose

McIntosh argued that true leadership involves confronting crises before they become catastrophes, noting that families were struggling with fuel prices exceeding $2.50 a litre in some areas. McIntosh described the impact on transport poverty and food insecurity, stating that the government's denial of the emergency was harmful. McIntosh called for urgent action to support families who were cutting back on essentials to afford fuel and rent.
Ash Ambihaipahar (Barton) (Australian Labor Party) ALP support

Ambihaipahar emphasised government unity and action, highlighting measures like the Treasury Laws Amendment Bill to crack down on price gouging. Ambihaipahar criticised fuel retailers for exploiting anxiety and urged the public to avoid panic buying. Ambihaipahar listed various cost-of-living supports, including PBS medicine costs, paid parental leave, and rent assistance, arguing that the Opposition was making the situation worse by claiming a non-existent supply shortage.
Michael McCormack (Riverina) (National Party) Nationals oppose

McCormack detailed high fuel prices in his electorate, with diesel reaching over 330 cents a litre in some towns, threatening sowing seasons and food security. McCormack criticised the government for outsourcing crisis management and failing to cut the fuel excise or increase tax credits. McCormack described the situation as dystopian, with panic buying and fuel theft occurring in regional areas, and demanded immediate action from ministers.
David Smith (Bean) (Australian Labor Party) ALP support

Smith highlighted the passage of legislation to impose bigger penalties for misconduct in the fuel sector, warning companies against profiting from volatility. Smith contrasted the government's actions with the Opposition's past policies, including criticism of paid parental leave and advocacy for flat taxes. Smith argued that the government was delivering tangible relief while the Opposition remained divided and focused on grandstanding rather than community support.
Aaron Violi (Casey) (Liberal Party) Liberal oppose

Violi argued that the government failed to prepare for the Middle East conflict by not building up fuel stocks or addressing underlying inflation causes. Violi cited the Prime Minister's broken promises regarding power bill reductions and superannuation changes as evidence of a lack of trust. Violi warned that the upcoming budget would test the Prime Minister's commitment to previous tax promises, suggesting that any changes would demonstrate unfitness to lead.
Matt Burnell (Spence) (Australian Labor Party) ALP support

Burnell listed government achievements such as cutting student debt, opening urgent care clinics, and supporting first home buyers. Burnell criticised the Opposition for internal instability and lack of clear policy direction, describing them as a ship with a broken rudder. Burnell argued that the government was focused on delivering outcomes for everyday Australians through consistent and disciplined governance.

Opened by

Angus Taylor (Hume) (Liberal Party)

Liberal

Speeches

10 speeches, 7 other contributors

Topics

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About House of Representatives debates

The House of Representatives debates bills, motions and matters of public importance in its main chamber. Members from all parties can take part, and the responsible minister usually replies for the government. Summaries are in reported speech, not transcripts; always check the official record before quoting.