Appropriation Bill (No. 1) 2026-2027; Consideration in Detail

Repacholi highlighted the economic contribution of the mining sector in the Hunter region, noting its role in funding public services. Repacholi stated that the government supports the resources industry while investing in critical minerals for future supply chains. Repacholi affirmed that Australia would continue to supply coal while international demand exists.

Holzberger criticised the opposition for abandoning manufacturing industries under previous governments. Holzberger argued that the current government is investing to protect jobs in regions like Whyalla and Port Pirie. Holzberger commended the budget bills for addressing the failures of economic rationalism.

Willcox argued that high energy costs and regulatory burdens were pricing out local manufacturers. Willcox questioned the government's commitment to affordable baseload power and import standards. Willcox claimed the safeguard mechanism acted as a carbon tax that deterred investment.

Roberts outlined the budget's support for research, development, and the resources sector. Roberts highlighted investments in critical minerals and the domestic gas reservation scheme. Roberts emphasised the importance of these measures for regional communities and national security.

Watson-Brown criticised the government's support for large AI data centres, citing environmental and energy concerns. Watson-Brown moved an amendment to impose a 25 per cent levy on gas exports, which was defeated. Watson-Brown argued that gas corporations were not paying their fair share and that regulation was insufficient.

Swanson praised the government's investment in the critical minerals industry, noting the skills transfer from traditional mining. Swanson highlighted the establishment of a strategic reserve and production tax credits. Swanson mentioned an inquiry into the social licence for critical minerals projects.

Aldred questioned the allocation of funds for gas security and highlighted the importance of brown coal resources in the Latrobe Valley. Aldred argued for gas-fired generation to support energy reliability and data centre demand. Aldred expressed concern about the loss of baseload capacity with the closure of Yallourn.

Wilson argued that the budget's tax changes would harm small businesses and investor confidence. Wilson questioned the impact of trust tax changes on people with disabilities and the modelling of the Working Australians Tax Offset. Wilson claimed the budget would increase inflation and reduce housing supply.

Lawrence detailed the government's multi-year cost-of-living relief, including tax cuts and Medicare investments. Lawrence highlighted reforms to superannuation payments and housing market incentives. Lawrence argued that these measures provided lasting benefits for workers and families.

Pasin criticised the government's spending levels and fiscal management, citing rising debt and inflation. Pasin questioned the value for money of various programs and the high salary of the fuel supply tsar. Pasin argued that the budget prioritised ideological objectives over fiscal restraint.

Campbell highlighted the budget's focus on housing affordability and tax relief for all taxpayers. Campbell contrasted the government's investments with the opposition's unfunded policies. Campbell argued that the budget addressed global shocks and supported economic productivity.

Byrnes outlined the government's achievements in wage increases and apprenticeship programs. Byrnes highlighted investments in vocational education and local employment services. Byrnes argued that the budget's reforms to Workforce Australia would better support long-term unemployed individuals.

McKenzie argued that complex workplace laws and new obligations were overwhelming small businesses. McKenzie criticised the government's procurement preferences for enterprise agreements and the handling of union corruption issues. McKenzie claimed the budget failed to provide adequate transition support for small employers.

Garland highlighted the government's record on job creation and wage increases. Garland emphasised the reforms to employment services and support for apprenticeships. Garland argued that the budget ensured no one was left behind in the workforce.

Rebello questioned the economic impact of penalties for late superannuation payments on small businesses. Rebello argued that most new jobs were in the public sector and that inflation was eroding wage gains. Rebello claimed small business owners felt penalised by government policies.

Burnell detailed the government's employment service reforms and apprenticeship incentives. Burnell highlighted the reduction in the gender pay gap and improvements in skills recognition for migrants. Burnell argued that the budget strengthened the labour market and workplace protections.

minister

Collins defended the budget's support for agriculture, highlighting over 272 market access achievements and investments in fuel and fertiliser security. Collins clarified that there were no cuts to pest and disease response programs, citing $440 million in funding. Collins also addressed tax concerns, noting that most agricultural businesses would be exempt from capital gains tax changes under small business provisions.

shadow minister

Tehan questioned the transparency and cost overruns of the Capacity Investment Scheme and the Cheaper Home Batteries Program. Tehan raised concerns about the lack of clarity on departmental net zero spending and the future of the Office of the Presidency.

Le criticised the reduction of the Key Apprenticeship Program incentive from $5,000 to $4,000, arguing it would hinder training in clean energy and housing sectors. Le highlighted the Housing Industry Association's warning that the cut risks discouraging employers from taking on apprentices. Le argued the budget contradicts the government's housing targets by reducing support for small businesses training workers.

Lim outlined reforms to the employment services system, introducing three service streams backed by a $312 million investment. Lim emphasised the government's focus on recognising migrant skills and qualifications to help them find work in their fields. Lim noted the creation of 1.2 million jobs since the government took office and the reduction of the gender pay gap to 11.5 per cent.

Venning argued that the budget disproportionately burdens small businesses, particularly regarding the new payday superannuation rules and compliance costs. Venning cited a local towing business owner struggling with high fuel prices and inflation. Venning contrasted the $1.3 million allocated to the Fair Work Commission with the $5.3 million given to the CFMEU, claiming the government favours unions over small enterprises.

Gorman highlighted the creation of 1.2 million jobs and a 30 per cent increase in minimum wage earnings since the election. Gorman detailed the $312 million investment in employment services reform and praised the passage of the Fair Work Amendment (Baby Priya's) Bill 2025. Gorman also noted the expansion of paid parental leave and the protection of penalty rates for 2.6 million employees.

Chester criticised the government's tax changes, particularly regarding capital gains tax and trust arrangements, arguing they create barriers to farm succession. Chester cited forecasts from ABARES indicating declining farm profits and production. Chester questioned why the government reduced funding for the established pest animals and weeds program and drought preparedness without consulting the agricultural sector.

Swanson defended the government's food security strategy, noting that farm gate production was expected to surpass $100 billion. Swanson detailed actions taken to secure fuel and fertiliser supplies, including underwriting private sector purchases and releasing fuel stockholdings. Swanson highlighted the establishment of a national food council and co-design sessions across the country.

Birrell questioned the long-term strategy for fuel security and criticised the cut to the Future Drought Fund. Birrell raised concerns about fertiliser availability and the impact of El Nino conditions on regional communities. Birrell argued that the government's tax changes treat family farms like a cash register and asked for specific budget measures to improve farmer profitability.

Cook supported the appropriation bill, highlighting 272 market access outcomes and the removal of trade barriers worth $20 billion. Cook detailed investments in drought resilience, including $1.3 billion in rural support and the transition funding for live sheep exports. Cook emphasised the government's commitment to the National Food Security Strategy and supporting regional communities.

Wilson noted that the reduction in fuel excise does not benefit farmers as off-road fuel is already excise-free. Wilson argued that the safeguard mechanism would increase fertiliser prices and questioned the adequacy of urea imports. Wilson highlighted the decline in sheep numbers in Western Australia and the closure of processing facilities, asking why the Future Drought Fund was cut.

Neumann highlighted the removal of import restrictions on local meat processors and the growth of the PALM scheme to over 32,500 workers. Neumann noted the record funding for Beef Australia and the expansion of trade opportunities with Indonesia. Neumann asked for updates on the National Food Security Strategy and support for beef producers.

Joyce questioned the government's plan for infrastructure, particularly dams, and water security for the protein hub in Tamworth. Joyce raised concerns about fire ants and the loss of the live sheep trade in Western Australia. Joyce also asked about the government's strategy for reviving the dairy industry and ensuring fair deals for farmers from supermarkets.

Urquhart highlighted the importance of agriculture in Tasmania, noting the sector's contribution to jobs and exports. Urquhart praised the government's biosecurity investments and the support for the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture. Urquhart emphasised the role of the PALM scheme in addressing labour shortages and supporting regional communities.

Small criticised the cancellation of the established pest weeds control program and the cellar door grant program. Small raised concerns about the demersal fishing ban in Western Australia and the lack of consultation with the state government. Small questioned the government's commitment to lowering power bills and the targeting of the Cheaper Home Batteries Program.

McCormack criticised the reclaiming of $103.9 million from the National Water Grid Fund and the defunding of the Sustainable Rural Water Use and Infrastructure Program. McCormack argued that water buybacks harm river communities and questioned the transparency of water recovery costs. McCormack asked for guarantees on the delivery of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan.

Witty highlighted the $1.3 billion investment in environment and water, including the establishment of the National Environmental Protection Agency. Witty praised the budget's focus on environmental offsets, Great Barrier Reef protection, and solar panel recycling. Witty emphasised the fairness of the clean energy transition for renters and small businesses.

Smith argued that climate change is an existential risk, citing impacts on the Torres Strait and the Great Barrier Reef. Smith highlighted government investments in seawalls, resilience, and local business support. Smith commended the bill for addressing climate change and protecting natural wonders that drive tourism and jobs.

Sitou criticised the opposition for refusing to acknowledge the impact of climate change on natural disasters. Sitou highlighted the government's environmental law reforms and the establishment of the National Environmental Protection Agency. Sitou noted that 50 per cent of electricity now comes from renewable energy, leading to lower prices and emissions.

Boele criticised the low funding for nature conservation, noting it accounted for only 0.3 per cent of overall expenditure. Boele argued that the budget fails to meet pledges to prevent new extinctions and protect 30 per cent of land and sea. Boele called for an increase in nature funding to one per cent of the budget to protect biodiversity.

minister

Rowland highlighted the government's commitment to ending family, domestic and sexual violence, citing a $4.1 million national police training package and the national rollout of trauma-informed legal services. Rowland noted significant funding for the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions, migration system integrity, and privacy regulation. Rowland emphasised that the budget strengthens institutions and delivers practical protections to keep vulnerable Australians safe.

shadow minister

Leeser called for a public inquiry into the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction, arguing that its application fails to adequately protect Australian children from family violence. Leeser questioned whether courts should be required to consider domestic violence evidence and whether the standard for grave risk of harm was suitable. Leeser urged the Attorney-General to clarify if legislative changes would allow the government to intervene in cases involving potential physical or sexual abuse.

Clutterham outlined the Attorney-General's role in law reform and access to justice, highlighting initiatives to end gender-based violence and prevent child sexual abuse. Clutterham noted the portfolio's work on hate crime laws following the Bondi attack and its support for the AUKUS nuclear submarine program. Clutterham asked the Attorney-General to detail investments in justice systems and integrity frameworks.

Penfold argued that the Sex Discrimination Act is ambiguous regarding competing rights based on biological sex and gender identity, citing the Giggle v Tickle court decision. Penfold promoted her Sex Discrimination Amendment (Sex-based Rights) Bill, which seeks to clarify protections for women in spaces such as sports and prisons while retaining protections for transgender Australians. Penfold challenged the government to state whether the law is clear or requires reform.

Thwaites highlighted the government's investment in specialist family violence legal services, including $11.7 million to prevent victim-survivors from being cross-examined by perpetrators. Thwaites noted the national rollout of trauma-informed legal service pilots and acknowledged the importance of frontline workers. Thwaites asked the Attorney-General to outline key budget measures strengthening responses to family and sexual violence.

Chaney raised urgent issues including the need to criminalise AI-generated child sexual abuse material and legislate safeguards for automated government decisions. Chaney criticised the delay in reforming public sector whistleblower protections and called for an independent review of the Freedom of Information Act. Chaney also questioned the transparency of National Anti-Corruption Commission appointments and the lack of public hearings.

Watts highlighted the $33.2 million investment to implement the Australia-Indonesia Treaty on Common Security, including $11.4 million for Indonesian language education. Watts noted the decline in students studying Bahasa Indonesia and the government's efforts to reverse this through New Colombo Plan reforms. Watts emphasised the strategic importance of deepening ties with Indonesia for regional stability and security.

Small criticised the EU free trade agreement for surrendering the right of Australian producers to export wine as prosecco. Small argued that cuts to Tourism Australia, amounting to $50 million over forward estimates, harm regional economies and tourism recovery. Small claimed that reduced demand-building funding undermines efforts to attract international visitors to regional areas like the Margaret River.

Littleproud reinforced criticisms of Tourism Australia cuts, arguing they harm an industry still recovering from the pandemic. Littleproud claimed that government advertising campaigns during the fuel crisis created anxiety that deterred tourists from visiting regional Queensland. Littleproud proposed a national app to display fuel availability, suggesting it would restore confidence in regional travel.

Soon emphasised the budget's focus on strengthening relationships in the Indo-Pacific, citing agreements with Papua New Guinea, Fiji, and Tonga. Soon highlighted the Australia-Indonesia Treaty on Common Security and increased funding for Indonesian language expertise. Soon argued that investing in regional stability helps prevent people smuggling, drug trafficking, and illegal fishing.

Hogan compared the EU free trade agreement unfavourably to the UK deal, citing lower quotas for beef, sugar, and lamb. Hogan argued that the government used coal, gas, and iron ore exports as leverage to secure fuel supplies but failed to celebrate these industries. Hogan criticised the government for demonising regional Australia and its resource sectors.

Ambihaipahar highlighted the reprioritisation of aid to the Indo-Pacific, with more than 75 cents of every development dollar directed to the region. Ambihaipahar cited the Pukpuk Treaty with Papua New Guinea and the Jakarta Treaty with Indonesia as examples of respectful partnership. Ambihaipahar argued that regional stability is directly connected to Australia's national security and economic wellbeing.

Steggall questioned the distribution of the international affairs budget, noting that defence accounts for 82 per cent while aid is only 0.63 per cent. Steggall asked the government to commit to returning aid to one per cent of the federal budget and justify real-term declines. Steggall also inquired about the implementation of a carbon border adjustment mechanism to protect Australian industry.

Thistlethwaite defended the budget's investment in regional resilience, noting a $112 million indexed increase in overseas development aid. Thistlethwaite highlighted funding for the Pacific and South-East Asia, including the Australia-Indonesia Treaty and partnerships with India. Thistlethwaite provided an update on fuel stocks, stating there were 48 days' supply overall, with 30 days' worth of avgas and 36 days' worth of diesel.

Wilson criticised the budget for failing to answer basic questions about its impact on trusts, small businesses, and real wages. Wilson argued that tax changes would negatively affect people with disabilities relying on discretionary trusts. Wilson claimed that the government's policies are leading to record small business insolvencies and a decline in real wages.

Sitou argued that changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax aim to level the playing field for first-home buyers. Sitou cited statistics showing that homes now cost nine times household income, making homeownership significantly harder than in previous generations. Sitou claimed the government is addressing housing affordability through supply increases and tax reforms.

Hogan accused the government of deceiving the public by implementing tax changes they previously promised not to make. Hogan questioned the economic rationale for high capital gains taxes, citing comparisons with New Zealand and Singapore. Hogan also challenged the government on Treasury modelling suggesting 35,000 fewer homes would be built due to the tax proposals.

Jarrett highlighted government achievements in healthcare accessibility, wage increases for low-paid workers, and housing supply. Jarrett argued that the budget delivers responsible economic management through lower deficits and debt, alongside tax cuts for 13 million Australians. Jarrett emphasised reforms to negative gearing and capital gains tax to make the system fairer for first home buyers and younger generations.

Violi criticised the government for misleading the public on housing issues and avoiding scrutiny by refusing committee review of the budget. Violi argued that increased taxes on stocks and small businesses would not help young people enter the housing market. Violi claimed the government rushed legislation through without understanding its details or impacts on community groups.

Gregg supported the appropriation for Treasury agencies, arguing that robust institutions are essential for good governance and economic resilience. Gregg highlighted the role of these bodies in protecting consumers from scams and ensuring tax system integrity. Gregg also noted measures to cut red tape for small businesses and simplify tax returns through instant deductions.

Spender argued that government spending was elevated and that the budget lacked sufficient restraint, particularly regarding infrastructure and electric vehicle discounts. Spender criticised the offset rule for encouraging program growth and noted a lack of transparency in off-budget spending. Spender called for a bottom-up review of portfolios and clear metrics for policy success to address low productivity growth.

Mascarenhas argued that the budget addresses the housing crisis by rebalancing the tax system to favour first home buyers over investors. Mascarenhas cited statistics on house price growth outpacing income growth and highlighted the delivery of social and affordable homes in her electorate. Mascarenhas stated that reforms to negative gearing and capital gains tax would enable 75,000 Australians to join the property market in the coming ten years.

Caldwell criticised the absence of the Treasurer and Housing Minister and argued that the proposed tax changes would reduce home construction by 35,000 units. Caldwell claimed the reforms were a high-risk move for a modest gain of 7,500 additional first home buyers annually. Caldwell also questioned the government's migration policies and highlighted inconsistencies in the definition of new dwellings for negative gearing purposes.

Littleproud criticised the government for failing to digitise border declaration cards despite previous investments, arguing this inefficiency would impact the 2032 Olympics. Littleproud also raised concerns about the illicit tobacco market, stating that prohibition policies had led to a black market boom and significant excise revenue loss. Littleproud called for quicker fixes to streamline border processing and address tobacco enforcement.

Campbell defended the government's treatment of permanent residents, contrasting it with opposition plans to cut their access to social services. Campbell argued that permanent residents are integral to the community and economy, contributing as healthcare workers and volunteers. Campbell criticised the opposition's stance as scapegoating migrant communities and highlighted Labor's reduction in net overseas migration.

Conaghan raised concerns about the illicit tobacco and vape trade, arguing that current enforcement measures were inadequate and harming legitimate businesses. Conaghan questioned why a standalone federal agency had not been established to combat these issues. Conaghan also demanded answers regarding the return of individuals associated with ISIS, questioning the lack of temporary exclusion orders and identity checks.

Smith discussed Operation Broadstaff, aimed at protecting Torres Strait Islander fishing waters from illegal foreign fishing. Smith highlighted the government's collaboration with local elders and Border Force to enforce biosecurity and cultural rights. Smith emphasised the importance of community-led responses and the respect earned by ministers through direct engagement with island communities.

Wallace questioned the government's handling of the return of individuals associated with ISIS, asking about health checks, monitoring arrangements, and taxpayer funding. Wallace criticised the lack of temporary exclusion orders for returnees and contrasted their treatment with the arrest of Ben Roberts-Smith. Wallace argued that the government was concealing the extent of its assistance to these individuals.

Mascarenhas highlighted government investments in multicultural affairs, including the establishment of a standalone minister and the Multicultural Framework Review. Mascarenhas noted funding for settlement services, community infrastructure, and language programs to support social cohesion. Mascarenhas argued that these measures empower diverse communities and reflect modern Australia's values.

Aldred raised concerns about the growing illicit tobacco market, linking it to organised crime and public safety risks despite record enforcement efforts. Aldred also questioned the government's regulatory framework for connected vehicles, citing privacy risks associated with data collection by manufacturers. Aldred argued that the government was lagging behind international standards in protecting consumer privacy and security.

Reid supported the Home Affairs appropriations, arguing they were essential for national security in a complex global environment. Reid highlighted the portfolio's role in protecting borders, critical infrastructure, and democratic institutions from cyber threats and foreign interference. Reid emphasised that strong security measures are compatible with fairness and social cohesion.

Joyce criticised the government's migration policies, citing high net overseas migration figures and arguing that they threatened Australian culture. Joyce called for clearer guardrails on acceptable philosophies and stronger enforcement of cultural norms. Joyce also questioned the government's approach to strategic competition with China, urging more direct language regarding threats to national security.