Employment

Rebello criticised the motion as mere rhetoric, arguing that Australians are struggling with real wage stagnation due to high inflation, which he cited at 4.2 per cent. Rebello claimed that four out of five new jobs created were reliant on public funding, which he deemed unsustainable. Rebello asserted that the minimum wage increase was being offset by inflation and placed undue pressure on small businesses, ultimately leading to higher prices for consumers.

Teesdale supported the motion, highlighting the barriers to employment in regional areas such as transport issues and skills gaps. Teesdale explained that the government's reforms, supported by over $312 million allocated in the budget, would introduce three service streams to provide tailored support instead of a one-size-fits-all approach. Teesdale also noted that the national minimum wage had increased by more than $12,000 a year since the government took office, providing meaningful relief to workers in award-reliant industries.

Templeman argued that the current employment services system is ill-equipped to handle the diverse needs of over one million Australians who access it annually. Templeman detailed the proposed reforms, which include a digital service for job-ready individuals, targeted provider services, and intensive support for those with complex barriers. Templeman emphasised that mutual obligations would be linked to employment goals rather than compliance, and noted that the government had achieved the lowest average unemployment in 50 years.

Sharkie referenced the Select Committee report on rebuilding employment services, which made 75 recommendations based on extensive consultation. Sharkie highlighted that 557,000 people are long-term unemployed and argued for more intensive investment in skills training, particularly for sectors like aged care and trucking. Sharkie noted that barriers such as the cost of licences, which can range from $700 to $4,000, prevent unemployed individuals from entering high-demand industries.

Urquhart stated that the government had advocated for wage increases in every review since taking office, resulting in a six per cent rise in the national minimum wage. Urquhart highlighted that the gender pay gap had fallen to a historic low of 11.5 per cent due to these policies and other measures. Urquhart argued that the employment services system needed to be rebuilt around people and capability rather than punishment, ensuring that work provides security and dignity.

Aldred expressed concern that major shifts in employment services delivery were ill-timed given the current economic flux and high unemployment figures. Aldred argued that underemployment remains a significant issue, particularly for families in regional areas who rely on two incomes. Aldred stated that the Coalition believed reforms should be judged on their ability to deliver sustained work and maintain a balance between support and expectations for jobseekers.