Cost of Living

Pocock framed the issue as a conflict between vested interests and the Australian people, rather than a left-right divide. The senator supported a 25 per cent gas export tax, noting that such a measure could have generated over $60 billion in revenue since the invasion of Ukraine. Pocock argued that this revenue should belong to the public to fund current services and future generations.

Payman criticised the disparity between billionaire wealth and the struggles of ordinary Australians facing high fuel costs. The senator advocated for a 25 per cent gas export tax and capital gains tax reforms to ensure multinationals paid their fair share. Payman also called for economic diversification away from resource extraction towards manufacturing.

Whiteaker outlined the government's cost-of-living relief measures, including tax cuts, wage increases, expanded parental leave, and reduced medicine costs. The senator argued that the opposition and One Nation had consistently opposed these practical measures. Whiteaker maintained that the government was actively shielding households from global pressures through direct financial support and healthcare reforms.

Dowling acknowledged the anxiety caused by global energy market disruptions but defended the government's practical response, including fuel supply coordination and stockholding releases. The senator argued that taxing gas exports was a complex policy issue distinct from immediate cost-of-living pressures and warned that inappropriate taxation could deter investment and reduce supply. Dowling emphasised the need for steady policy focused on wages, healthcare, and energy security.

Pocock called for a 25 per cent gas export tax to compensate for resources taken by corporations and to fund public services. The senator cited polling showing strong public support for the tax and estimated it could raise $17 billion annually. Pocock argued that the government had the numbers to pass the legislation and urged immediate action to stop war profiteering.

Roberts supported the motion, focusing on the removal of helium from the Critical Minerals List by the government. The senator argued that this decision contributed to the closure of domestic production and increased reliance on imports from conflict-affected regions. Roberts highlighted helium's essential role in healthcare, technology, and defence, and pledged to restore domestic production capabilities.