House of Reps Summary for 06/02/2025

The session of the Australian House of Representatives on February 6, 2025, presided by Speaker Hon. Milton Dick, included significant legislative discussions and outcomes.

Key Legislative Reports

• Standing Committee Report: The Standing Committee on Appropriations and Administration presented Report No. 31 on additional estimates for 2024-25, which was made a parliamentary paper. (Page 1)

Major Legislative Developments

• Universities Accord Bill: The Universities Accord (National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-based Violence) Bill 2025 was introduced, highlighting the need for a national code aimed at addressing gender-based violence in educational institutions. Minister for Education Jason Clare cited alarming statistics, noting that one in twenty students reported sexual assault. The bill mandates universities to implement reporting protocols, prevention educational programs, and trauma-informed responses. (Page 1)

• Criminal Code Amendment Bill: The Criminal Code Amendment (Hate Crimes) Bill 2024 was introduced to refine definitions and penalties associated with hate crimes. (Page 4)

• Scams Prevention Framework Bill: This bill addressed the urgent need for protective measures against scams, as Australians lost $2.7 billion to scams in the past year. MPs shared personal anecdotes about the negative impact of scams on vulnerable populations, especially the elderly. Provisions discussed included mandatory protective codes across industries and civil penalties for non-compliance. Calls for improved consumer support and rapid compensation measures were prevalent throughout the discussions, led by Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones, who emphasized the government’s commitment to elevate protections against scams. (Pages 15-42)

Stakeholder Concerns and Inquiries

• Consultation and Legal Feedback: Stakeholders such as the Australian Banking Association raised concerns about the rushed consultation process, particularly regarding the potential for double liability stemming from private rights of action within the legislation. Lawmakers voiced the need for greater transparency and clarity around reporting requirements and civil penalties. (Page 43)

• Compensation for Scam Victims: Independent MP Andrew Wilkie questioned the absence of a presumption of reimbursement for scam victims similar to UK models, challenging the effectiveness of current methods. Secretary Jones defended the government’s stance, stating that liability should be linked to fault and dismissing criticisms regarding accountability standards among banks and platforms. (Page 43)

• Amendments for Consumer Rights: MP Zali Steggall proposed amendments requiring entities to disclose compliance statements regarding complaints processing, aiming to strengthen consumer rights in dispute resolutions. This was welcomed by Jones, who indicated that these changes would enhance the bill’s effectiveness. (Page 45)

Discussions on Broader Economic Concerns

• Support for Small Businesses: Discussions emphasized the importance of clarity and tax protection for small businesses amid economic challenges, with suggestions for regulatory measures to support growth. (Page 54)

• Energy Regulatory Framework: The debate concerning the energy market focused on obstacles to energy affordability and considerations for restructuring the Australian Energy Regulator to improve management of energy security and reliability. (Page 57)

Other Notable Discussions

• Healthcare Accessibility: Members addressed improving living conditions for hospital patients, Medicare reforms, and healthcare quality enhancement, particularly for disadvantaged groups. (Page 69)

• Tribute to Anthony Messner: The proceedings also included tributes to the late Senator Anthony Messner, underscoring his contributions to significant political events. (Page 68)

Each of these discussions reflects the government’s legislative priorities and the political environment regarding pressing social issues such as safety in education, protection against scams, support for victims, economic pressures on small businesses, and the ongoing need for healthcare reforms.