Question Time AU

Matter of Public Importance

Whyalla Steelworks

House of Representatives · Tuesday 15 September 2026

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

At a glance

The debate centred on the impact of the Whyalla Steelworks closure and the broader implications for Australia's heavy manufacturing sector. Sam Birrell argued that the government's reliance on intermittent renewable energy was unsustainable for heavy industry and advocated for nuclear power. Tom French countered by criticising the Coalition's past energy record, highlighting rising prices and failed infrastructure promises under their previous administration. French asserted that the government's plan to replace ageing coal with renewables, storage, and gas was the most cost-effective path forward. The debate concluded with the adjournment of the matter.

Outcome

The debate was adjourned.

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

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Sam Birrell (Nicholls) (National Party) Nationals

Birrell expressed concern over the job losses associated with the Whyalla Steelworks closure, attributing the issue to government ideology regarding renewable energy. Birrell argued that intermittent power sources could not physically sustain heavy industrial economies, citing examples from Germany and Europe. Birrell contended that current policies were driving manufacturing offshore, resulting in lower safety standards and worker remuneration abroad while global emissions remained unchanged. Birrell asserted that Australia possessed abundant resources, including uranium, and predicted that the government would eventually recognise the necessity of nuclear power to maintain living standards.