Question Time AU

Bill Debate · Second Reading

Customs Tariff Amendment (Incorporation of Proposals) Bill (No. 1) 2026; Second Reading

House of Representatives · Wednesday 24 June 2026

Continued from Wednesday 27 May 2026.

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

At a glance

The debate concerned a technical bill amending the Customs Tariff Act 1995 to incorporate previously proposed tariff changes. The legislation removes 497 low-yield nuisance tariffs from 1 July 2026 and extends duty-free treatment for Ukrainian goods until 3 July 2028, while maintaining extra duties on Russian and Belarusian goods. All three speakers supported the bill's passage, though the opposition and crossbench called for greater transparency regarding industry impacts and recommended a Senate inquiry. The bill was passed without amendment.

Outcome

The bill was read a second time and reported to the House without amendment.

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

How the debate unfolded

Continued the debate

Andrew Hastie (Canning) (Liberal Party) Liberal

Hastie stated that the coalition supported the bill as a practical measure to simplify the tariff system and reduce compliance costs for businesses. Hastie noted that the removal of nuisance tariffs aligns with previous consultations and supports economic efficiency, provided it does not undermine domestic industry. Hastie emphasised the importance of extending duty-free access for Ukrainian goods as a symbol of solidarity and economic support. However, he urged the government to provide clearer details on the selection process for removed tariffs and the specific financial impacts on sectors and consumers.