Question Time AU

Take Note Debate

Fossil Fuel Industry

Senate · Wednesday 4 March 2026

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

At a glance

Senators from the Australian Greens debated the government's handling of corporate profits derived from international conflict, specifically regarding fossil fuel companies and defence contractors. They argued that the government had failed to prevent price gouging and had supported illegal military actions that endangered civilians and Australian interests. The senators criticised the government's reliance on monitoring rather than legislative action to curb excessive corporate gains. The debate concluded with the question being agreed to.

Outcome

Question agreed to.

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

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Larissa Waters (QLD) (Australian Greens) Greens

Waters argued that fossil fuel corporations were generating excessive profits from global instability while avoiding tax obligations on free gas resources. Waters cited specific profit increases for Woodside and Santos following recent geopolitical events and noted share price rises linked to military strikes. Waters contended that the government was prioritising defence contracts and investments in military technology companies over peace and civilian welfare. Waters criticised the government's decision to reject legislation aimed at stopping corporate price gouging and characterised their response as inadequate.