Trade with the European Union

Neumann defended the agreement as a once-in-a-generation deal worth $10 billion annually to the Australian economy, noting that the previous Coalition government failed to secure such an outcome. Neumann highlighted specific benefits for Queensland beef and sheepmeat producers, pointing out that the deal ensures assured preferential entry for 35,000 tonnes of beef and nearly 31,000 tonnes of sheepmeat, significantly increasing current export volumes. Neumann also mentioned the signing of a new security and defence partnership with the EU, arguing that the deal strengthens cooperation on defence and cybersecurity while diversifying trade away from reliance on single markets.

Venning argued that the agreement betrays pastoralists and broadacre farmers by securing insufficient quotas for beef and sheepmeat compared to competitors like New Zealand. Venning cited criticism from Meat and Livestock Australia and the National Farmers' Federation, stating that the deal fails to deliver commercially meaningful access and locks producers into a subpar arrangement for decades. Venning claimed the government prioritised a headline over economic reality, leaving farmers with restricted trade volumes that do not meet industry expectations for competitiveness.

Swanson described the agreement as a once-in-a-generation opportunity that opens access to 450 million high-income consumers who value Australian quality and sustainability. Swanson noted that the deal eliminates tariffs on key exports including wine, dairy, rice, and horticulture, while expanding tariff rate quotas for beef, sheepmeat, and sugar. Swanson emphasised that diversifying export markets reduces reliance on single partners and builds resilience in the agricultural sector, reinforcing Australia's standing as a reliable provider of premium goods.

Aldred argued that the agreement is detrimental to dairy and beef farmers in her electorate, citing feedback from producers who feel disadvantaged by the limited beef quota and rising input costs. Aldred highlighted that the 35,000-tonne beef quota did not meet expectations and was lower than quotas secured by other nations, putting local farmers at a competitive disadvantage. Aldred also raised concerns about the government's broader economic management, noting that regulatory hurdles have driven investment projects to other countries like New Zealand.

Belyea argued that the agreement strengthens Australia's economic resilience and security by deepening ties with trusted allies in an uncertain global environment. Belyea highlighted benefits for the manufacturing sector in her electorate, noting that the deal attracts investment and helps local businesses adopt new technologies. Belyea emphasised that diversifying trade partnerships reduces risk and ensures Australia is not dependent on a single market, supporting long-term growth and job security for workers in the south-east region of Victoria.

Willcox criticised the agreement as a national surrender that leaves farmers exposed to subsidised foreign competition, particularly in the sugar and dairy sectors. Willcox cited criticism from CANEGROWERS and the National Farmers' Federation, arguing that the sugar quota is laughably small compared to deals secured by Brazil. Willcox also raised concerns about geographical indications, claiming Australia lost rights to names like feta and gruyere, and warned that binding commitments to the Paris Agreement within the trade deal allow the EU to interfere in Australian sovereign affairs.

Soon described the agreement as a landmark deal that unlocks billions of dollars for the Australian economy by eliminating tariffs on agricultural products, critical minerals, and services. Soon highlighted specific financial benefits, including new market entry worth up to $500 million for beef producers and $218 million for lamb producers, alongside tariff removals for fishers. Soon argued that the deal supports the energy transition by attracting foreign investment in critical minerals and strengthens the services sector by facilitating the movement of professionals and recognition of qualifications.