Privatisation

Haines argued that privatisation has disproportionately affected regional Australians, leading to the closure of bank branches and post offices. Haines criticised the government for failing to accept recommendations from the 2024 inquiry into regional banking closures to recognise financial services as essential. Haines advocated for community banking models where residents hold shares and earnings are put back into the area, rather than purely private or public ownership.

Briskey highlighted the negative impacts of outsourcing on workers, citing examples of underpaid school cleaners in New South Wales. Briskey argued that the government has taken responsibility by legislating to keep the NBN public and building public early learning centres. Briskey emphasised that the government protects workers through wage theft laws and by bringing work back in-house, ensuring fair conditions rather than relying on market competition alone.

Steggall argued that essential services must serve the public first, with private involvement only occurring under strict public-interest tests. Steggall opposed the proposed partial divestment of HMAS Penguin, citing a lack of transparency and environmental assessments. Steggall also criticised the privatisation of the Northern Beaches Hospital and bus network, noting safety concerns and service reliability issues, and called for greater accountability and public ownership of critical assets.

Soon argued that a modern economy requires contributions from both the private sector and government, rejecting ideological privatisation. Soon cited negative outcomes from privatisation in the UK and Victoria, such as higher prices and environmental damage. Soon highlighted the government's efforts to strengthen competition laws and rebuild the public service after years of outsourcing, aiming to protect consumers and ensure fair business practices.

Sharkie criticised the widespread privatisation of national assets like Telstra, Qantas, and electricity networks since the 1990s, arguing it led to higher prices and reduced service quality. Sharkie highlighted the failure of privatised employment services to support long-term unemployed individuals, as for-profit companies prioritised easy-to-place candidates. Sharkie argued that vulnerable people miss out when services are outsourced, advocating for state-delivered services in areas like disability care and apprenticeships.

Clutterham argued that the private sector drives economic growth, innovation, and job creation, contributing nearly 90 per cent of global jobs. Clutterham highlighted successful public-private partnerships in South Australia, such as the HAMR Energy sustainable aviation fuel facility and Anduril's defence technology investments. Clutterham emphasised that government should partner with the private sector to share risk and unlock investment, rather than solely relying on public ownership.

Le highlighted the financial liabilities of the NBN and the negative impact of privatised telecommunications on constituents in Fowler, particularly regarding emergency call reliability. Le argued that while assets may be sold, the government retains responsibility for ensuring service quality and safety. Le called for genuine public interest tests before selling remaining public assets and stronger oversight to ensure providers meet modern service obligations.

Gregg argued against returning to 1990s-style public ownership, advocating instead for a blended approach where government ensures access and competition. Gregg cited Medicare as an example of successful public funding with private provider choice. Gregg emphasised the importance of the public service and community sector in delivering essential services, rejecting the notion that outsourcing saves money in the long term.

Gee focused on the closure of the Convict Bridge on the Great Western Highway, criticising the government for lack of consultation and delayed announcements regarding repairs. Gee argued that the closure was causing significant hardship for businesses and residents in the Central West. Gee called for federal funding for the bridge fix and a business support package, expressing disappointment at the government's handling of the issue.