Opened the debate
Venning argued that the planned reduction of the phosphine workplace exposure limit from 0.3 to 0.05 parts per million was an 83 per cent cut that lacked practical evidence and could disrupt grain exports. Venning urged the South Australian government to defer implementation, noting that Victoria had already done so, and questioned the safety evidence behind the new standard. Venning also raised the case of Kate Edwards, a midwife who received a partial state tax refund but was still owed federal taxes, calling on the Treasurer to refund the remaining amount. Venning advocated for veterans by demanding the removal of the $5,000 allied health cap and criticising the Department of Veterans' Affairs for failing to respond to constituent complaints. Additionally, Venning highlighted the financial strain on rural councils due to high rates and exempt renewable energy projects, and called for a national screening levy to reduce regional air travel costs. Finally, he outlined Coalition intentions to cut tobacco excise by 80 per cent to undermine illicit trade.