Senate

Answer from Penny Wong

The minister stated that the government is implementing the tax policy presented at the last election, which focuses on making the tax system more efficient and fairer. She argued that the opposition had campaigned on higher personal income taxes, resource taxes, and taxes on motorists and the housing sector. The minister characterised the opposition's concerns as scare campaigns rather than substantive policy, asserting that the Coalition remains the party of higher taxes.

Answer from Penny Wong

The minister reported that ASIO intelligence concluded the Iranian government directed at least two attacks: one on Lewis' Continental Kitchen in Sydney on 20 October and another on the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne on 6 December. She announced that Iran's ambassador to Australia and three other officials had been declared persona non grata, marking the first postwar expulsion of an ambassador. Additionally, Australia's ambassador to Iran was withdrawn, embassy operations in Tehran were suspended, and legislation would be introduced to list the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organisation. The minister also noted the establishment of Special Operation Avalite and funding for security upgrades and Torah scroll restoration.

Answer from Penny Wong

The minister dismissed the notion that billionaires would utilise the scheme, stating it is designed for first-home buyers. She argued that the opposition stands in the way of housing supply, which is key to affordability. Regarding liability, she noted that the scheme saves first-home buyers approximately $1.5 billion in mortgage insurance over 12 months. She cited a default rate below 0.003 per cent and highlighted that only five guarantees had been paid out over seven years, despite nearly 160,000 guarantees issued.

Answer from Penny Wong

The minister condemned the attack, stating that targeting hospitals breaches international law and that civilians and health workers must be protected. She reiterated calls for Prime Minister Netanyahu to agree to a ceasefire. Regarding sanctions, she noted that sanctions had already been applied to two Israeli ministers and that the government continues to work with the international community to apply pressure. She declined to stop sending F-35 parts, referring to previous answers and emphasising the government's goal of achieving peace.

Answer from Tim Ayres

The minister announced that from 1 October, all first-home buyers would be able to purchase a home with a five per cent deposit, delivering on an election promise early. He described this as a measure of fairness and hope for young Australians. Regarding supply, he highlighted the build-to-rent legislation, which aims to deliver 80,000 new rental properties. He criticised the opposition for opposing supply-side measures and for previously supporting demand-side policies that contributed to rising prices.

Answer from Jenny McAllister

The minister expressed sympathy for investors who lost savings and advised them to contact ASIC if they suspected misleading behaviour. She clarified that SDA investments are not government-backed and occupancy is not guaranteed, as participants have choice over their living arrangements. She stated that the NDIA does not build or own SDA dwellings and that investment carries risk. Regarding regulation, she noted that ASIC is responsible for managing investments and has taken action in some cases. The minister mentioned that updated information on SDA investment considerations was provided in July, developed in consultation with ASIC and the ACCC.

Answer from Katy Gallagher

The minister explained that the payment is made in accordance with the law and requires appropriate documentation, including evidence of stillbirth from attending health professionals. She stated that termination laws are regulated by states and territories and that she supports women's right to make choices about their reproductive health. She reiterated that payments are verified through hospital forms containing doctor and midwife declarations. She denied seeing evidence of the concerns raised by the senator outside of the chamber.

Answer from Murray Watt

The minister announced that the introduction of environmental reform legislation would be brought forward by six months, with the process beginning before Christmas. He stated that the reforms, built on Graeme Samuel's recommendations, aim to provide stronger environmental protections and faster approvals. He noted support from business groups like the Business Council of Australia and environmental groups like Greenpeace. He criticised the opposition for debating the reality of climate change and for lacking policy certainty, citing 22 different policies during their previous term.

Answer from Katy Gallagher

The minister defended the economic roundtable as a necessary discussion on productivity challenges, contrasting it with the previous government's inaction. She listed government measures to help families, including superannuation increases, energy bill relief, and housing investments. She stated that the government is implementing the tax policies taken to the election and would not adopt the opposition's policies of higher personal income taxes and other cost increases. She refused to rule out tax increases beyond those already committed to, asserting that the election plan is the one being implemented.