Senate

Answer from Katy Gallagher

The minister stated that the issue arose from the Treasurer's economic roundtable discussions regarding capital investment and flows. She confirmed the Treasurer would review the test but emphasized that any changes would not compromise the fundamental objective of securing the best financial outcomes for members. The minister noted that the government had not yet concluded its thinking on the matter and that further work was underway.

Answer from Penny Wong

The minister highlighted the government's $43 billion investment to increase housing supply, noting that approximately half a million new homes had been built under Labor. She announced the fast-tracking of a policy allowing first-home buyers to purchase with a five per cent deposit from 1 October 2025, with the government guaranteeing part of the loan to avoid mortgage insurance. Additionally, she mentioned the rollout of the Help to Buy shared equity scheme for low and moderate-income earners later in the year.

Answer from Penny Wong

The minister stated that the government was focused on delivering policies to increase housing supply, including the construction code announcement. She contrasted this with the Opposition's election pledge to abolish the Housing Australia Future Fund and block supply measures. The minister argued that Australians had rejected the Opposition's stance on housing supply.

Answer from Jenny McAllister

The minister emphasized the government's commitment to supporting all people with disability, noting that the NDIS is for those with significant and permanent disability. She explained that the government was working on foundational supports outside the NDIS for those who may not be suitable candidates, following the Bonyhady and Paul review. She stated that the government sought to establish easier pathways for families to obtain support, particularly for children and young people.

Answer from Katy Gallagher

The minister listed various measures implemented from 1 July, including a minimum wage increase, superannuation guarantee rise to 12 per cent, extended paid parental leave, energy bill relief of $150, and bonuses for housing apprentices. She also mentioned the home battery scheme, paid practical placements for students, Medicare funding boosts, and instant asset write-offs. Regarding housing, she reiterated the five per cent deposit scheme and efforts to increase supply.

Answer from Katy Gallagher

The minister distinguished between Robodebt and income apportionment, stating the latter was designed to reduce reporting burdens. She confirmed that discussions were ongoing regarding debt recovery periods and low-level debts, with a response expected shortly after consultations with the Minister for Social Services. She declined to provide immediate details on policy changes.

Answer from Katy Gallagher

The minister defended the government's fiscal record, citing two budget surpluses and a $207 billion improvement in the budget position. She stated that the government's fiscal strategy included improving the budget position and reducing gross debt, which had decreased by $177 billion. She noted that average real spending growth was kept to 1.7 per cent per year, well below the 30-year average.

Answer from Katy Gallagher

The minister stated she did not attend sessions where such specific proposals were raised and that the government had no intention to alter the tax treatment of owner-occupied homes. She clarified that tax reforms would focus on standard deductions and income tax reductions as promised at the election. She emphasized that the roundtable discussions were high-level and did not result in outcomes matching the senator's concerns.

Answer from Katy Gallagher

The minister rejected the characterization, arguing that non-market jobs in aged care, early education, and disability services are valuable and necessary. She highlighted wage increases for workers in these sectors and the need to invest in them for future care. She also noted that the government had found $100 billion in savings since taking office, allowing for targeted investments in national priorities.

Answer from Katy Gallagher

The minister affirmed that the government was implementing the tax policies taken to the last election, specifically standard deductions and income tax reductions. She reminded the Opposition that they had campaigned on raising taxes. She stated that the government considered revenue and spending through the annual budget process and would continue to deliver on costed commitments made before the election.