Sovereign Capability

Aldred argued that surging energy costs were a major barrier to industrial productivity, with manufacturers paying significantly more for gas than before global supply shocks. Aldred noted that 62 per cent of manufacturers were suffering negative effects from the energy crisis, with few able to pass costs to consumers. Aldred highlighted an investigation by the Australian Anti-Dumping Commission into dumped aluminium windows, arguing that support for the aluminium industry must extend to downstream manufacturers to ensure a level playing field.

Laxale supported the motion, citing a $200 million investment in Macquarie Technology Group to keep digital infrastructure and data onshore, creating 140 new jobs. Laxale argued that the government was securing critical supply chains in metals processing and renewable energy, contrasting this with the previous government's failure to replace retiring coal-fired power stations. Laxale criticised the opposition's plan to scrap Rewiring the Nation and abolish the National Reconstruction Fund, describing nuclear power as too slow and expensive.

Chaney welcomed the Future Made in Australia agenda but argued that the pace of investment needed to increase to secure Western Australia's transition to an 'electro state'. Chaney highlighted that WA's mining and agricultural sectors were heavily dependent on imported diesel, posing a risk during global price spikes. Chaney called for government investment vehicles to accept higher risks and provide concessional finance earlier in the project lifecycle to de-risk clean industry investments before final investment decisions.

Abdo argued that the previous government's neglect of the automotive industry demonstrated a failure to back Australian workers and supply chains. Abdo compared Australia's low per capita assistance to the automotive sector with higher levels in Germany, Canada, France, and the United States. Abdo asserted that the current government was rebuilding sovereign capability through the Domestic Gas Reservation Scheme and targeted investments in critical minerals and green metals.

Venning criticised the government's management of the Whyalla steelworks, noting that the blast furnace had been turned off and redundancies announced. Venning argued that the state government's intervention in 2017 prevented a sale to a Korean consortium and led to years of underinvestment by the subsequent owner. Venning claimed that billions spent on hydrogen projects and steelworks bailouts failed to address fundamental issues like high industrial energy costs in South Australia.

Cook highlighted the Ampol refinery in Lytton as an example of securing existing industrial capability while investing in future renewable fuel production through the Cleaner Fuels Program. Cook also cited the growth of small businesses like QFill in aerosol manufacturing as part of the broader industrial strategy. Cook emphasised the importance of workforce participation, noting government investment in the She Means program to support women in male-dominated trades and industries.