Question Time AU

Bill Debate · Second Reading

Defence Service Homes Amendment (Insurance) Bill 2025; Second Reading

Senate · Monday 10 February 2025

Continued from Thursday 6 February 2025.

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

At a glance

The Senate debated the Defence Service Homes Amendment (Insurance) Bill 2025, which seeks to retrospectively validate and authorise the Commonwealth to act as an agent for private insurance providers for defence families. Senator Perin Davey supported the non-controversial measure, noting its importance for insurability in flood-affected areas. Senator David Shoebridge also supported the bill to protect veterans but raised concerns about the legality of the scheme since its privatisation in 1990. Minister Jenny McAllister explained the bill formalises longstanding practice and protects over 32,000 policyholders. The bill was passed after second reading.

Outcome

The bill was read a second time and agreed to.

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

How the debate unfolded

Continued the debate

Perin Davey (NSW) (National Party) Nationals

Davey supported the bill, describing it as non-controversial and necessary to resolve insurability issues for defence housing, particularly in regions affected by recent floods. Davey argued that the legislation ensures the Defence Services Homes Insurance scheme continues to provide vital coverage for current and former defence force members, as well as their families, widows and widowers. Davey expressed frustration that the bill was not dealt with earlier in the day, but confirmed the National Party would support its passage to secure these protections.

Government response

Jenny McAllister (Minister for Emergency Management; Minister for Cities) ALP NSW

McAllister stated the bill formalises longstanding Commonwealth practice by providing legislative authority for the government to act as an authorised representative for third-party insurers. McAllister explained that the legislation retrospectively validates past activities and authorises the scheme to continue serving more than 32,000 current policyholders, including renewing their policies. McAllister acknowledged a question regarding the timeline of legal advice raised by Senator Shoebridge but noted that, as a representative minister, the information would be sought and provided at a later date.