Question Time AU

General Debate

Cost of Living

Senate · Thursday 5 February 2026

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

At a glance

Senator Sarah Henderson moved a motion noting the sharp rise in the cost of essentials under the Albanese Government. She argued that reckless government spending and poorly targeted subsidies have exacerbated inflation and housing shortages. Henderson cited independent economists to claim that fiscal indiscipline forced the Reserve Bank to raise interest rates. She also criticised the sale of historic defence sites, including Fort Queenscliff, as evidence of budget desperation. The motion highlighted specific increases in insurance, energy, rent, and grocery costs.

Outcome

The motion was moved by Senator Henderson.

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

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Sarah Henderson (VIC) (Liberal Party) Liberal

Henderson argued that the cost of living crisis was worsened by the government's failure to maintain fiscal discipline. Henderson cited statistics showing significant increases in insurance, energy, rent, and grocery prices over the previous four years. Henderson claimed that untargeted spending, such as the removal of means testing for childcare and the five per cent deposit scheme, drove up demand in a constrained economy. Henderson referenced economists Shane Oliver, Alex Joiner, and Judith Sloan to support the view that government spending was fueling inflation. Henderson also condemned the sale of Fort Queenscliff and other defence sites as a disgraceful betrayal of history and community.