Energy

Ghosh argued that the government's policy delivered reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy, contrasting it with the opposition's inconsistent record. Ghosh cited a Griffith University study indicating that reverting to coal and gas would increase energy prices by 30 to 50 per cent compared to the renewable model. The senator attributed current price volatility to a decade of underinvestment and poor planning by the previous government.

Roberts criticised the Capacity Investment Scheme, alleging it operated as a secret subsidy fund lacking parliamentary oversight. Roberts quoted energy expert Aidan Morrison to suggest that the scheme allowed for unethical financial arrangements and lacked transparency in tender processes. The senator argued that the government was hiding the true costs of the scheme and that coal remained a cheaper energy source than renewables.

Blyth argued that the energy transition was driving inflation and increasing costs for households, farmers, and small businesses. Blyth stated that the government had failed to meet its promises regarding bill reductions, renewable targets, and emissions cuts. The senator called for a focus on base-load power and reducing regulatory burdens, arguing that the current approach was deepening inequality and harming agricultural productivity.

Dowling attributed high energy prices to the previous government's policy instability, noting they had abandoned 23 energy policies. Dowling highlighted the CSIRO GenCost report, which identified renewables as the lowest-cost new-build technology and nuclear as the most expensive. The senator outlined government relief measures, including the Cheaper Home Batteries Program, and encouraged households to switch energy plans to save money.

Hume argued that the government had failed to deliver on its promise to reduce energy bills by $275, with prices instead rising significantly. Hume cited expert forecasts suggesting the government would miss its 82 per cent renewable target and noted that emissions had increased under Labor. The senator shared an anecdote about a constituent struggling with high bills to illustrate the impact of the government's policies on ordinary Australians.