Treasury Laws Amendment (Tax Reform No. 1) Bill 2026, Income Tax Rates Amendment (Tax Reform No. 1) Bill 2026; Reference to Committee

Continued the debate

Tehan moved that the Treasury Laws Amendment (Tax Reform No. 1) Bill 2026 and the Income Tax Rates Amendment (Tax Reform No. 1) Bill 2026 be referred to the Standing Committee on Economics. Tehan argued that the government demonstrated a lack of understanding regarding its own budget, citing instances where ministers could not define new dwellings or confirm tax figures. Tehan claimed the budget imposed $77 billion in additional taxes and would result in 35,000 fewer houses over ten years. Tehan asserted that the Treasurer had the power to reduce individual tax cuts from $250 to zero, creating uncertainty for taxpayers. Tehan concluded that a committee inquiry was necessary to interrogate officials about the revenue motives and impacts of the budget.

Government response

Giles moved that the order of the day for government business be called on immediately. Giles sought to bypass the referral motion to advance the legislative agenda without committee delay. Giles did not provide a detailed policy rebuttal in the recorded speech but acted to expedite the process. The motion to refer the bills was opposed by the government.