Senate

Answer from Penny Wong

The minister expressed shock at the incident and noted universal condemnation of the antisemitism. She explained that adverse findings by NSW Health automatically flow through to the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency, the national regulator. Regarding the supplementary questions, she stated that the AFP would assist NSW Police in their investigation and referenced Special Operation Avalite. She declined to commit to a National Cabinet meeting, instead inviting the opposition to stand united against antisemitism.

Answer from Penny Wong

The minister stated that energy relief had cut $300 off power bills and $650 for small businesses, contrasting this with the opposition's nuclear policy which she claimed would raise prices by $1,200. Regarding mortgages, she pointed to falling inflation, rising wages, and falling unemployment. She highlighted the Help to Buy shared equity scheme as assistance for homeowners. She refused to admit to mistakes, instead accusing the opposition of past failures regarding hospital funding and Medicare.

Answer from Jenny McAllister

The minister noted that firefighting is a state responsibility but highlighted federal support, including the deployment of the national large air tanker and a heavy-lift helicopter. She emphasized that this was the first high-risk season with these assets available due to government investment in the national aerial fleet and the National Emergency Management Agency. She disputed the claim that recommendations from a 2016 Greens inquiry were ignored, citing the $1 billion Disaster Ready Fund and investments in early detection technologies.

Answer from Katy Gallagher

The minister detailed the $573 million package, which included the first PBS listing for new oral contraceptives in 30 years, new menopausal hormone therapies, and more endometriosis clinics. She noted that these measures would save women thousands of dollars. Regarding economic security, she cited data showing women retire earlier due to health issues, costing the economy $72 billion annually in lost GDP. She argued the package improves affordability and access, thereby supporting workforce participation.

Answer from Murray Watt

The minister explained that the indexation rate was adjusted in the budget to address high inflation inherited from the previous government. He noted that inflation has since fallen, which benefits graduates. He highlighted other supports, including a commitment to discount graduate debts by 20 per cent if re-elected, a 45 per cent increase in rent assistance, and energy bill rebates. He defended the government's record on cost-of-living assistance.

Answer from Penny Wong

The minister stated she was not previously aware of the specific artworks mentioned. She agreed that glorifying Hezbollah leaders was inappropriate and condemned Hezbollah unequivocally. She indicated she would seek further advice on the matter but did not commit to reversing the decision immediately.

Answer from Jenny McAllister

The minister explained that setting targets provides consistency and predictability for the economy and aligns with global decarbonization efforts. She stated that the 2035 target must be informed by independent advice from the Climate Change Authority, which was still consulting. She emphasized that the government's approach was evidence-based and endorsed by industry, rather than committing to a specific pre-election announcement.

Answer from Penny Wong

The minister highlighted the strong economic relationship between Australia and the US, noting the Prime Minister had recently spoken with President Trump to make a case for an exemption. She stated the government was working closely with the US administration and would continue to press for Australia's interests. She defended AUKUS as being in Australia's national interest despite the senator's criticism.

Answer from Penny Wong

The minister did not provide specific figures for mortgage or food cost increases. Instead, she argued that inflation is the key factor influencing mortgage rates, noting that inflation had fallen under her government. She listed government measures such as tax cuts, cheaper medicines, and energy relief, which she claimed the opposition had voted against. She concluded by criticizing the opposition's economic policies and leadership.