Question Time AU

Bill Debate · Second Reading

Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility Amendment Bill 2026; Second Reading

Senate · Monday 29 June 2026

Continued from Thursday 12 March 2026.

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

At a glance

The Senate debated the extension of the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF) for ten years, with the government supporting the bill to provide certainty for regional development. The Coalition supported the extension but foreshadowed amendments to make the facility permanent, citing an independent review recommendation. The Greens opposed the unamended bill, proposing changes to prevent funding for fossil fuel and native logging projects. One Nation supported the bill but moved an amendment to remove net zero and First Nations outcome mandates from the NAIF's investment criteria. The debate concluded with the Liberal Party associating with the Coalition's position.

Outcome

The transcript ends during the speech of Senator Dean Smith; no final vote result is recorded.

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

How the debate unfolded

Continued the debate

Susan McDonald (QLD) (National Party) Nationals

Senator McDonald supported the bill's extension of the NAIF but argued that a ten-year period was insufficient for long-term northern development. McDonald announced the Coalition's intention to move amendments to make the facility permanent, referencing an independent review chaired by Warren Snowdon that recommended removing time limits. McDonald highlighted the NAIF's economic contributions, including $4.3 billion in commitments and support for 33 projects, arguing that the north's strategic importance warrants a permanent investment mechanism.

Government response

Ellie Whiteaker (WA) (Australian Labor Party) ALP

Senator Whiteaker supported the bill, stating it extends the NAIF's decision-making period by ten years while strengthening governance. Whiteaker cited 37 investments totalling over $4.3 billion, highlighting projects in Western Australia such as the Pilbara Minerals expansion and the Element 25 manganese project. Whiteaker emphasised the facility's role in supporting jobs, infrastructure, and Indigenous engagement strategies, arguing that the extension provides necessary certainty for long-term regional development.

Opposition response

Matthew Canavan (QLD) (Liberal National Party) LNP

Senator Canavan supported the extension but aligned with the Coalition's push to make the NAIF permanent, noting the independent review's recommendation. Canavan detailed the facility's success since its establishment in 2016, citing projects like the Karratha urea plant and the Mount Morgan gold mine rehabilitation. Canavan argued that the north contributes disproportionately to national wealth and exports, justifying continued and permanent investment to unlock further economic potential.