Catherine King

Answer from Catherine King

The minister reported that the gender pay gap had narrowed from 14.1 per cent to 11.3 per cent, the lowest in history. She noted that women were earning an average of $325 more per week than under the previous government. Key measures included extending paid parental leave to six months with superannuation, lifting wages in aged care and early childhood education, and policies to help lower-income women build retirement savings. She acknowledged ongoing work needed to end violence against women and close the pay gap further.

Answer from Catherine King

The minister announced a joint $200 million commitment with the NSW government to fully fund and deliver the reconstruction of Mitchell's Causeway. The project includes building a new bridge deck above the existing structure and adding an eastbound passing lane. Work was already underway, with the highway expected to reopen by mid-2027.

Answer from Anthony Albanese; Catherine King

The Prime Minister noted that discussions with the New South Wales Government were ongoing. The Minister for Infrastructure confirmed that the NSW Government had requested Commonwealth funding and that an alliance contract with Seymour Whyte had been announced to deliver a new crossing. She stated that construction had begun and the road was expected to reopen in the second quarter of the following year. The NSW Government had also announced expanded business support, including grants of up to $25,000 for impacted businesses.

Answer from Catherine King

The minister stated that women nearing retirement had 26 per cent less superannuation than their male counterparts of the same age. She highlighted that the government had expanded paid parental leave to six months and ensured superannuation was paid on this leave. She noted that the low-income super tax offset had been reformed and that payday super had been introduced. She identified the opposition parties as a risk, citing their opposition to universal superannuation.

Answer from Catherine King

The Minister acknowledged the impact of the Great Western Highway closure on businesses and families. She noted that a contractor had been appointed with construction beginning in July to reopen the highway next year, and detailed design work was underway, including the possibility of an extra lane. The Minister stated that once costs were clearer, the NSW government would submit a specific funding request to her department, and she had signaled support for Commonwealth assistance for this significant infrastructure project.

Answer from Catherine King

The Minister highlighted investments in electric bus depots in Sydney and Perth, the Brisbane electric metro, and various rail and road projects including Metronet, Suburban Rail Loop, and Bruce Highway upgrades. She noted the upcoming opening of Western Sydney Airport. She criticized opposition members for attending a think tank in London instead of focusing on domestic infrastructure delivery.

Answer from Catherine King

The Minister stated that over 250,000 Australians had bought homes under the five per cent deposit scheme, including 1,600 in Ballarat. She highlighted a new $2 billion Local Infrastructure Fund to support housing development by funding critical infrastructure. She noted that recent tax reforms would assist more than 75,000 Australians in purchasing their first home. She cited examples of first-home buyers winning auctions in regional areas, contrasting this with the Opposition's lack of housing policy.

Answer from Catherine King

The Minister reported that the ANL Kokoda, the inaugural vessel, was greeted in Townsville. She stated that the fleet will be Australian-flagged and crewed, strengthening economic sovereignty and national security. She noted that the fleet will assist during natural disasters and supply chain disruptions. She also mentioned the establishment of the Maritime Skills and Training Initiative and efforts to secure two more ships for the pilot program.

Answer from Catherine King

The Minister reported securing over 100 million litres of jet fuel from China, adding four days to the national reserve, as part of efforts to stabilize relations with China. She noted that total additional jet fuel secured has reached 200 million litres, with 600 million litres of diesel. She also highlighted a $1.1 billion investment in sustainable aviation fuel production using Australian canola and $4.8 million in support for regional airports affected by Rex Airlines' administration.

Answer from Catherine King

The Minister stated that the budget fixes the road funding anomaly for South Australian councils permanently. She highlighted $3.6 billion in untied funding for local governments, with $2.9 billion brought forward for cost pressures. She noted $2 billion for the Local Infrastructure Fund to support housing development, $50 million annually for active transport, and $750 million for Growing Regions and Thriving Suburbs programs. She also mentioned $4.4 billion for Roads to Recovery and increased funding for black spot programs.

Answer from Catherine King

The Minister explained that the highway remained closed due to a major geotechnical failure at Mitchell's Causeway, with significant cracking and instability in the substructure. She noted that the New South Wales government had no firm reopening timetable and that extensive testing and engineering solutions were underway. The NSW government had established a coordination taskforce, increased public transport, and committed $50 million to upgrade detour routes. The Commonwealth stood ready to consider funding requests from NSW. The Minister dismissed the previous tunnel proposal as a false promise with no planning or funding.

Answer from Catherine King

The Minister did not provide a breakdown of cost items. Instead, she blamed the previous National Party government for initiating the project without proper planning or funding. She stated that the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) initially could not estimate the additional cost, but an independent review suggested an additional $31.4 billion. Subsequent assessments by ARTC and Inland Rail indicated the total project cost was now $45 billion. She criticized the project's development and stated that the money would never be recovered.

Answer from Catherine King

The Minister highlighted temporary relief from the ATO for businesses unable to meet tax obligations and easier access to credit for small businesses. She noted the three-month halving of fuel excise and the reduction of the heavy road user charge to zero. She listed previous actions including releasing strategic reserves, underwriting cargo, amending fuel standards, strengthening ACCC penalties, and changing the Fair Work Act to allow contract renegotiation. She criticized the opposition for heightening fears.

Answer from Catherine King

The Minister thanked the member and noted regular meetings with transport and fuel industries. She announced that the heavy vehicle road user charge would be reduced to zero for three months and the next scheduled increase deferred by six months. The fuel excise was halved for three months, saving 23.6 cents per litre. States and territories agreed to review registration charges and discuss GST returns. Legislation for the fuel decrease was introduced to provide relief to transport operators. The Minister cited support from various industry bodies, including the Australian Trucking Association, which noted savings of 32.4 cents per litre. She also mentioned changes to the Fair Work Act allowing truck drivers to renegotiate rates with retailers. The Minister criticized the opposition's past handling of fuel excise and road user charges, noting their costings were $1 billion short.

Answer from Catherine King

The Minister announced that the heavy vehicle road user charge was reduced to zero for three months and the next scheduled increase was deferred by six months. She noted that halving the fuel excise would reduce costs by 26.3 cents per litre. These measures were complemented by Fair Work Act changes allowing quicker renegotiation of rates for truck drivers. Legislation was also introduced to underwrite purchases of fuel and essentials to secure cargo supplies.

Answer from Catherine King

The Minister reported meeting with transport and fuel sector representatives to ensure coordinated information sharing. She noted the release of 20 per cent of minimum stockholding obligations, the appointment of Anthea Harris as Fuel Supply Taskforce Coordinator, and amendments to fuel standards. She highlighted legislation strengthening the ACCC's powers and collaboration with Singapore and Korea to shore up supplies. The Minister emphasized amendments to the Fair Work Act to allow truck drivers and logistics companies to renegotiate rates with retailers, which had been welcomed by industry groups but opposed by the opposition.

Answer from Catherine King

The minister stated that the government was working with transport representatives and had freed up 20 per cent of the required minimum reserves for petrol and diesel. She noted that fuel standards had been amended to allow more supply into the market. Legislation was introduced to amend the Fair Work Act for transport operators to renegotiate fuel costs and to strengthen the ACCC's penalties for price gouging. She mentioned monitoring airlines and working with regional partners like Singapore and Korea to shore up supplies. She also highlighted the $1.1 billion Cleaner Fuels Program for long-term sustainability. She criticized the opposition for chaos and lack of ideas.

Answer from Catherine King

The minister highlighted the announcement of Fair Work Act amendments to allow quicker renegotiation of contracts to share fuel costs. She noted that over 7,700 Australians had returned from the Middle East safely, with assistance from the aviation sector. She emphasized regular engagement with industry representatives to inform government actions.

Answer from Catherine King

The Minister reported that Australia's global gender equality ranking improved to 13th, up from 43rd in 2022, and the gender pay gap fell to 11.5 per cent. She noted that over 303,000 women accessed cheaper contraceptives on the PBS. She highlighted legislative achievements including 10 days paid domestic violence leave and expanded paid parental leave. She criticized the opposition for their past policies on work-from-home and for dismissing gender pay gap reporting.

Answer from Catherine King

The Minister stated that Australia was fuel secure due to government actions including the minimum stockholding obligation and keeping refineries open. She noted that all scheduled deliveries had arrived but acknowledged regional shortages due to doubled or tripled diesel demand. She reported meetings with fuel suppliers and transport providers to manage distribution. The ACCC was tasked with monitoring for price gouging. She urged MPs to discourage panic buying and spread responsible messages.

Answer from Catherine King

The minister stated that reopening the highway was an operational matter for the NSW government due to complex geotechnical issues. She noted that the federal government had previously funded parts of the highway but that a $14 billion tunnel was not proposed. She indicated that future projects would be considered based on NSW government requests in the budget.

Answer from Catherine King

The minister reported that the gender pay gap had fallen to 11.5 per cent, down from 14.2 per cent in 2022. She highlighted measures such as paid parental leave, childcare guarantees, and flexible working arrangements. She criticized the opposition for previously opposing these policies and for making dismissive comments about women's roles in the workforce.

Answer from Catherine King

The Minister stated that the government was entering the development phase for the Newcastle to Sydney line, involving detailed planning and design work. She noted that industry briefings were scheduled for April. She contrasted this steady approach with the previous government's handling of Inland Rail, which she claimed lacked a clear plan and resulted in significant cost blowouts. She highlighted progress on the Beveridge intermodal and prioritising the Parkes section for double-stack trains.

Answer from Catherine King

The minister highlighted the first female-majority cabinet and government. She cited the gender pay gap falling to 11.5 per cent, Australia's ranking improving from 43rd to 13th, expanded paid parental leave with superannuation, three-day universal child care, and pay increases in women-dominated industries. She also noted tax cuts benefiting 90 per cent of women.

Answer from Catherine King

The minister noted that 23 bulk-billing clinics had been added in the member's electorate, with over 70 per cent of GP clinics now fully bulk-billing. She highlighted the $792 million women's health package, which had saved women $73 million on contraceptives, menopause, and endometriosis treatments. She stated that 71,000 women had received covered menopause health assessments and that 33 endometriosis and pelvic pain clinics would open in March. The minister warned that opposition policies historically involved cutting health services and introducing GP co-payments.

Answer from Catherine King

The minister invited the member to attend her drop-in clinic to discuss the matter further. She stated she would be happy to provide an answer during that meeting.

Answer from Catherine King

The Minister stated that the government had made no decisions on funding the replacement of ageing aviation assets, estimated at $8 billion. She noted that Airservices had requested to explore investment opportunities with super funds, which she allowed to continue. She assured that firefighters would remain government employees with access to necessary equipment.

Answer from Catherine King

The Minister highlighted the reopening of Adelaide's Glenelg line with new bridges and the laying of tracks in the Canberra CBD. She noted progress on Inland Rail, including the Beveridge intermodal terminus in Victoria. She criticised the previous government for starting projects without completing plans and emphasised the government's focus on delivery.

Answer from Catherine King

The minister confirmed that she had approved the release of $10 million for the Dixons Long Point crossing to Transport for NSW for planning, design, and cost estimation. She noted that the project had a long history and that planning work should commence. The transcript does not contain an answer regarding the Blue Mountains expressway.

Answer from Catherine King

The Minister announced up to $5 million for regional airports affected by Rex's administration. She highlighted a $17 billion total investment in the Bruce Highway, including $7.2 billion for upgrades north of Gympie. She listed completed and ongoing projects, including road strengthening and safety upgrades, criticizing the opposition for dismissing these investments as political stunts.

Answer from Catherine King

The Minister highlighted the sale of Rex Airlines to Air T, ensuring continued regional flights. She listed infrastructure projects including the Coffs Harbour bypass, Bruce Highway improvements, Rocky ring road, and Western Highway upgrades. She also mentioned sealing sections of the Tanami Road and developing logistics hubs. She contrasted these deliveries with the opposition's internal disputes.

Answer from Catherine King

The minister highlighted the Coomera Connector, the Bruce Highway upgrade, and beef roads in Queensland. She noted the delivery of the Rockhampton and Mackay Ring Roads and rail improvements. She criticized the previous government for antagonizing states and cutting funding to projects like Cross River Rail.

Answer from Catherine King

The Minister listed several completed or ongoing projects, including the Parkes Bypass, the Bridgewater Bridge in Tasmania, and the Byford extension of Perth's METRONET. She mentioned the Torrens to Darlington project in South Australia and upgrades to the Victoria and Barkly highways in the Northern Territory. She highlighted an additional $7.2 billion investment in the Bruce Highway, bringing the total to $17 billion. She noted the doubling of Roads to Recovery funding and the government's contribution to the Melbourne Metro Tunnel, contrasting this with the previous government's cuts.

Answer from Catherine King; Anthony Albanese

The Minister announced that administrators had secured a way forward with Air T, subject to a creditors meeting. The government would support Air T in restructuring Rex's debts in exchange for commitments to preserve regional connectivity, including returning aircraft and increasing flight frequency. A new $5 million program was established for local government-owned airports. The Prime Minister congratulated the Minister on the achievement, noting it prevented regional communities from losing aviation services.

Answer from Catherine King

The Minister stated that the New South Wales government was undertaking a white paper on upgrades and that Commonwealth co-investment would depend on those proposals. She noted that previous commitments for a tunnel were unfunded and criticized the opposition for announcing projects without proper planning. She highlighted current investments in local infrastructure projects.

Answer from Catherine King

The Minister stated that the government was making the largest investment in Medicare in 40 years, with $8.5 billion delivering more bulk-billing and doctors. She noted that bulk-billing incentives would now be paid for every patient, resulting in 18 million extra bulk-billed GP visits each year, and that Medicare payments in regional practices would double. She reported that over 1,000 GP clinics had switched to full bulk-billing, with almost 800 in regional and remote communities, aiming for 90 per cent of GP visits to be bulk-billed by 2030. She contrasted this with the previous government's $50 billion cut to public hospitals and four-year freeze on Medicare rebates.

Answer from Catherine King

The minister stated that from 1 November, medical rebates for IUDs and birth control implants would increase by up to 150 per cent, saving around 300,000 women up to $400. She noted that NuvaRing would be added to the PBS, reducing costs from over $270 a year to $31.60 per script. She also mentioned funding for free training for healthcare practitioners in IUD insertion and removal.

Answer from Catherine King

The minister reported that a sale and implementation deed had been signed by Air T and the administrators, marking progress in bringing Rex out of administration. She highlighted the government's provision of a guarantee for regional flight bookings and a loan facility to keep the airline flying. She noted criticism from the opposition but cited support from the aviation sector and independent members for the government's intervention.

Answer from Catherine King

The minister explained that the $1.1 billion Cleaner Fuels Program aims to build a domestic low-carbon liquid fuels industry for hard-to-abate sectors like aviation and heavy haulage. She cited support from the National Farmers' Federation, Tourism & Transport Forum, and Ampol, highlighting job creation and income diversification for regional communities. She criticized the opposition for opposing the plan and failing to support new industries in regions facing population decline.

Answer from Catherine King

The minister acknowledged the benefits and risks of e-bikes and e-scooters. She stated that a broader national regulatory framework was being developed by state and territory transport ministers, led by Western Australia with support from the National Transport Commission. She also noted that work was underway through the Consumer Ministers Network on lithium-ion battery safety under Australian Consumer Law.

Answer from Catherine King

The minister highlighted a $790 million women's health package announced earlier in the year. This included cheaper contraceptives on the PBS, expanded Medicare support for menopause, and new rebates for menopause health assessments. Over 22 endometriosis and pelvic pain clinics had opened, with 11 more planned. The minister noted that over 212,000 women had accessed the new menopause assessment scheme since 1 July 2025, and a new menopausal hormone therapy had been listed on the PBS.

Answer from Catherine King

The Minister announced that from 1 October 2025, all first home buyers in regional Australia would be eligible for the five per cent deposit scheme without income limits. She noted that over 23,500 home guarantees had been issued in regions since the government took office. She highlighted $1.5 billion in the Home Support Program for infrastructure and speeding up planning processes. She stated these measures would help young Australians and others enter the housing market sooner.

Answer from Catherine King

The Minister stated that $125 billion was being invested in infrastructure over the next 10 years, including projects in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia, Western Australia, the Northern Territory, and the ACT. She highlighted specific projects like the Bruce Highway safety package and Western Sydney airport. She noted that funding for local roads had been doubled for every council, contrasting this with the previous government's neglect of regional infrastructure.

Answer from Catherine King

The minister reported that the gender pay gap was at a record low, with women earning $217.40 more per week than in May 2022. She highlighted policies including making gender equality an object of the Fair Work Act, expanding paid parental leave to six months, and introducing 10 days of paid leave for domestic and family violence. She criticized opposition members for holding outdated views on women's roles in the workforce.

Answer from Catherine King

The Minister highlighted the first majority female parliament and cabinet. She listed measures effective from 1 July, including a 3.5 per cent wage increase, 24 weeks of paid parental leave with superannuation, a 20 per cent reduction in HECS debt, paid practical placements in female-dominated sectors, and pay rises for aged-care nurses. She also mentioned over $4 billion for combating gender-based violence, 10 days of paid domestic violence leave, and $1 billion for crisis accommodation.

Answer from Catherine King

The Minister stated that the government had increased wages in female-dominated industries like aged care and early childhood education, delivered cheaper childcare, and added contraceptives and menopause treatments to the PBS. She noted over $4 billion invested in women's safety and expanded paid parental leave, resulting in women receiving $217 more per week on average compared to May 2022. She warned that the opposition's history of cuts threatened these gains, potentially affecting wages, childcare access, and superannuation benefits for women.

Answer from Catherine King

The Minister stated that the government had placed the CFMEU in administration and supported independent administrators. She noted that the Fair Work Ombudsman was reviewing enterprise agreements and the AFP was investigating criminal allegations. She confirmed that she had asked her department to advise on Commonwealth-funded projects and had written to infrastructure bodies seeking assurances of compliance with laws and ethical expenditure.

Answer from Catherine King

The Minister announced support for short-listed bidders to ensure the successful sale of Rex Airlines to maintain services beyond 30 June. She stated that if no second sale occurred, the government would consider contingency options, including Commonwealth acquisition. She criticized the opposition for opposing government intervention in regional aviation while supporting publicly owned nuclear reactors.

Answer from Catherine King

The Minister stated the government was assisting selected companies in a further disposal phase for Rex to ensure services continue beyond June 30, 2025. She clarified that the Commonwealth was not a bidder but would consider contingency options, including acquisition, if no sale occurred. She criticized the opposition for opposing government intervention while supporting public funding for nuclear reactors.

Answer from Catherine King

The Minister detailed a half-billion-dollar package including PBS listings for common contraceptive pills and menopause hormone therapies, effective from 1 March. She noted these changes would save women between $250 and $577 annually depending on their status. The package also includes a 150 per cent boost to Medicare rebates for IUDs and implants, saving up to $400 for around 300,000 women, and a new rebate for menopause health assessments. Additionally, trials will allow pharmacists to provide contraceptives and treat uncomplicated UTIs. The Minister contrasted this with the opposition's history of attempting to introduce a GP tax and cut healthcare funding.