Budget

Darmanin contested the opposition's claims, stating that the budget included a $60 million youth housing supplement to assist over 4,000 young people experiencing homelessness. Darmanin argued that while tax changes might reduce some construction, the $2 billion Local Infrastructure Fund would support 65,000 additional homes, resulting in a net increase of 30,000 homes. Darmanin emphasised that the reforms aimed to rebalance the tax system to favour first-home buyers over existing investors, lifting total Commonwealth housing investment to $47 billion.

Mulholland defended the budget's tax cuts for over 13 million working Australians and criticised the previous Liberal government for introducing the 50 per cent capital gains tax discount, which she argued drove up house prices. Mulholland explained that negative gearing would be limited to new builds from 1 July 2027, while existing investors would be protected, aiming to assist 75,000 additional Australians in purchasing their first home. Mulholland also highlighted significant investments in Medicare, including urgent care clinics and bulk-billing incentives, citing specific improvements in her electorate.

Smith characterised the national debt of $1.2 trillion as a 'youth tax' that would hinder young Australians' ability to afford homes and build families. Smith announced that the Leader of the Opposition would present an alternative plan focusing on ending mass migration, building more homes, and creating conditions for stronger economic growth. Smith argued that the government's budget was built on broken promises and higher taxes, contrasting it with the coalition's plan to restore living standards and energy security.