House of Representatives

Answer from Anthony Albanese

The Prime Minister welcomed the visit, noting it reflected deep historical bonds. He announced that negotiations for a new comprehensive treaty based on mutual trust would commence. He highlighted Solomon Islands' participation in the Pacific Policing Initiative and the Prime Minister's upcoming visit to the Pinkenba facility. The Prime Minister emphasized that security must be driven by Pacific nations themselves and mentioned plans to reciprocate the visit in a month.

Answer from Anthony Albanese

The Prime Minister stated the economy expanded by 0.3 per cent during the March quarter and 2.5 per cent annually. He attributed economic pressures to global events, specifically referencing the situation on 28 February, and highlighted improved fuel security compared to regional nations. He noted that the migration rate had fallen by 45 per cent and criticized the opposition for ignoring global economic impacts.

Answer from Pat Conroy

The Minister highlighted the new comprehensive treaty and strong existing ties, noting Australia is the largest export destination and source of tourists. He cited the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility scheme, which has brought over 12,000 Solomon Islanders to Australia, with 5,000 currently working and sending remittances. He mentioned a $60 million National Transport Fund and new support for cyclone recovery and vocational scholarships.

Answer from Jim Chalmers

The Treasurer disputed the opposition's productivity figures, noting they included data from before the government took office. He argued that the previous government's policies locked young people out of housing and that the current budget focused on productivity challenges. He stated that leaving the tax system unchanged was not a solution to long-standing productivity issues.

Answer from Richard Marles

The Minister stated that AUKUS was in full flight, with over 1,000 high-skilled jobs currently active across various sites including Osborne and HMAS Stirling. He noted that 220 submariners were working on Virginia-class submarines in the US and 220 ASC workers were gaining experience at Pearl Harbor. He confirmed the Royal Australian Navy would operate eight nuclear-powered submarines, with one shifting from a new to an in-service Virginia class.

Answer from Richard Marles

The Minister explained that Defence properties were being audited to determine their role in national capability, with non-essential assets to be transferred to the Department of Finance. He stated that the disposal process would take time, allowing for community engagement on future use. He committed to working with the member and the Assistant Minister for Defence to ensure the best outcome for the community.

Answer from Jim Chalmers

The Treasurer highlighted 0.3 per cent quarterly growth and 2.5 per cent annual growth, driven by strong private sector investment. He noted business investment grew 5.7 per cent quarterly and was 12.9 per cent of the economy, up from 11.3 per cent. He contrasted this with the previous government's record and criticized the opposition for talking down the economy.

Answer from Anthony Albanese

The Prime Minister rejected the premise, stating Australia was growing faster than most OECD countries. He highlighted a 4.7 per cent minimum wage increase, lifting it above $1,000 a week, and pointed to strong private sector investment. He criticized the opposition for voting against tax cuts and talking down the economy.

Answer from Clare O'Neil

The Minister stated that over 250,000 Australians had bought homes through the scheme, avoiding $2.3 billion in lenders mortgage insurance. She noted that 60 per cent of participants had larger deposits, 70 per cent were ahead on repayments, and one in four had exited the scheme. She criticized opposition parties for dismissing the program while the government supported first home buyers.

Answer from Jim Chalmers

The Treasurer clarified that charitable trusts are exempt from the minimum tax, as are fixed trusts and other specific categories. He stated that final implementation details would be subject to consultation.

Answer from Andrew Giles

The Minister reported that 25,000 new housing construction apprentices had signed up in the first 10 months, including thousands of carpenters, plumbers, and electricians. He highlighted the $10,000 apprentice incentive and employer support, contrasting the program with previous government schemes.

Answer from Daniel Mulino

The Assistant Treasurer reiterated that charitable and fixed trusts are exempt from the policy. He stated the aim was to align taxation for income from work versus capital and trusts.

Answer from Amanda Rishworth

The Minister highlighted a 4.75 per cent pay rise for modern award employees and a 6 per cent hike for minimum wage earners, pushing the minimum wage over $1,000 weekly. She cited reforms enshrining penalty rates and same job, same pay, contrasting this with the previous government's record.

Answer from Anthony Albanese

The Prime Minister stated that most Australians aspire to home ownership, decent superannuation, and healthcare rather than billionaire status. He highlighted living standards growth and targeted tax cuts for low- and middle-income earners, emphasizing support for the Fair Work Commission's wage decisions.

Answer from Tanya Plibersek

The Minister announced that from 1 July, paid parental leave would extend to six months, with payments reaching almost $30,000. She noted increased flexibility and eligibility, benefiting 180,000 families annually. She criticized the opposition for opposing leave for permanent residents and highlighted cheaper childcare and higher wages as part of the broader support package.

Answer from Sam Rae

The Minister expressed distress at the deaths and noted the Royal Commission's recommendations had led to the new Support at Home program. He cited a report showing decreasing waiting times and affirmed the government's commitment to reducing wait times further.

Answer from Anika Wells

The Minister stated that five million under-16 accounts had been removed or restricted under the social media minimum age law. She highlighted eSafety investigations into major platforms and the introduction of a digital duty of care to compel tech companies to manage harms proactively. She noted quadrupled funding for the eSafety Commissioner.

Answer from Madeleine King

The Minister stated that state and territory governments regulate mining rehabilitation and require financial assurances from companies. She clarified that Commonwealth taxpayers do not foot the bill for legacy mines, which are managed by states. She highlighted Commonwealth support through research bodies like CRC TiME and examples of successful rehabilitation projects.

Answer from Kristy McBain

The Minister highlighted $600 million in Growing Regions Fund funding, citing specific projects in Mission Beach and Wynyard. She announced $750 million for future rounds and $400 million for the Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program. She contrasted the government's merit-based grants with the previous government's allocation of funds to coalition-held seats.