Senate

Answer from Jenny McAllister

The minister stated the government was pleased to work with the opposition on aged-care reforms. She confirmed the government is bringing forward the release of 83,000 additional home-care places, with 20,000 accessible during the eight weeks preceding the new Aged Care Act taking effect on 1 November. A further 63,000 places will be supported under the new Support at Home program by 30 June 2026. She described this as a responsible decision that maintains fiscal savings while delivering care faster.

Answer from Katy Gallagher

The minister acknowledged the work of Senator Smith and others in advancing women's health. She reported that 22 endometriosis and pelvic pain clinics had opened, and new contraceptives and menopause therapies were listed on the PBS. Over 20,000 women had accessed menopause health assessments since 1 July. She noted that costs for contraceptives dropped from approximately $380 to $126.40 annually, and menopause treatments from up to $670 to $31.60 per script. Further investments included 11 more clinics, cheaper long-acting reversible contraception, and $1 billion for public mental health services.

Answer from Penny Wong

The minister stated the government was aware of media reporting but confirmed it was not providing assistance or repatriating this cohort. In response to supplementary questions about guarantees regarding terrorist acts and monitoring, she reiterated that the government was not repatriating the group and that security agencies' advice was always taken to keep Australians safe.

Answer from Penny Wong

The minister stated the government wanted a ceasefire and a pathway to a Palestinian state. She emphasized that Israel must comply with International Court of Justice provisional orders and international humanitarian law. She noted the government would continue to advocate for international law and work with others at the United Nations to recognize the state of Palestine. She rejected accusations of shielding Israel, stating Australia has an interest in a rules-based international order.

Answer from Katy Gallagher

The minister acknowledged the unique challenges and costs of multiple births. She stated she would take the specific historical reasons for the distinction on notice. She highlighted that parents of twins receive an additional $2,735.05 through family tax benefits and newborn supplements, which is not available to single-child parents. She noted the multiple birth allowance was designed for three or more children due to disproportionately higher costs, but confirmed the government reviews assistance at every budget.

Answer from Penny Wong

The minister referred the member to her previous answer, stating the reports were incorrect and the government was not providing assistance or repatriating the cohort. When asked about activity since October 2022, she said she did not believe there had been activity but would take it on notice if further assistance was needed. She reiterated that the government was not assisting this group.

Answer from Malarndirri McCarthy

The minister commended the bravery of those who came forward. She stated that driving instructor accreditation and disciplinary processes are handled by state and territory regulators, who can suspend or cancel licenses. Criminal matters should be reported to police. In response to calls for national reform, she highlighted national actions to prevent sexual harassment in workplaces, including the Respect@Work recommendations and the Fair Work Act amendments. She did not commit to a national standards agency for driving instructors.

Answer from Jess Walsh

The minister reported a historic 15 per cent pay rise for early childhood educators, which had reduced vacancy rates and improved stability. She noted that over 50,000 free TAFE places had been delivered to train new educators. She cited examples of educators feeling valued and staying in the sector. She contrasted this with the previous government's inaction, which she claimed led to a workforce crisis.

Answer from Tim Ayres

The minister criticized the previous government's inaction, which left the system with reduced capacity. He stated the current government had approved 99 projects to deliver energy. He noted the Climate Change Authority, led by Mr Kean, was assisting with assessments. He dismissed concerns about community opposition as misinformation driven by offshore extremist politics, asserting that farmers should be consulted but not obstructed by political campaigns.

Answer from Don Farrell

The minister stated the government was taking a proactive approach to protect vulnerable Australians from deepfake and stalking apps, which had doubled in use over 18 months. He noted that one in every classroom had a victim of deepfake abuse. The government would work with industry to develop reforms alongside the digital duty of care, complementing existing laws prohibiting stalking and non-consensual explicit material distribution. He emphasized the commitment to restricting access to these apps to give parents peace of mind.

Answer from Jess Walsh

The minister said she did not know the particular student's situation but confirmed paid placements were helping in her area. She pointed out that the Commonwealth placement payment began on 1 July 2025 and would assist approximately 68,000 qualifying students each year. She claimed the government was fulfilling its pledge for nursing, midwifery, social work, and education students, helping tens of thousands more than the opposition would have.