Question Time AU

Take Note Debate

Budget: Fuel

Senate · Wednesday 1 April 2026

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

At a glance

Senator Larissa Waters moved a take note debate regarding the government's handling of rising fuel prices. She argued that the government failed to prevent price gouging by fuel companies and relied on voluntary pass-through of savings rather than mandatory measures. Waters criticised the lack of direct relief for households, contrasting it with support provided to businesses. She also linked the economic situation to foreign policy decisions, specifically opposing AUKUS and US involvement in Middle East conflicts. The motion was agreed to by the Senate.

Outcome

The question was 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 fuel companies engaged in price gouging following the outbreak of war, raising prices without supply shortages. Waters contended that the government’s approach relied on corporations voluntarily passing on savings, which she viewed as insufficient protection for consumers. Waters stated that direct cost-of-living relief for individuals was lacking, while businesses received immediate assistance. Waters called for short-term relief measures and long-term energy independence through electrification. Additionally, she argued that Australia should withdraw from AUKUS and reduce its military involvement in conflicts driven by US policy.