House of Reps Summary for 27/11/2025

The proceedings from the Australian House of Representatives on November 27, 2025, featured several crucial discussions and proposed legislation, all presided over by Speaker Hon. Milton Dick.

Key Legislative Proposals

• Telecommunications Legislation Amendment (Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation) Bill 2025
• Introduced by Anika Wells, MP for Lilley, this bill aims to enhance mobile coverage in rural and remote areas, citing public safety needs. It addresses existing deficiencies and proposes integrating new technologies, such as Low Earth Orbit satellite systems, for improved coverage (pg. 1).
• Migration Amendment (Combatting Migrant Exploitation) Bill 2025
• Focused on worker protections, the bill calls for a public register to promote employer transparency for temporary skilled migrants, emphasizing the government’s commitment to fairness for all workers (pg. 25).
• Defence and Veterans’ Service Commissioner Bill 2025
• Presented by Matt Keogh, MP for Burt, this legislation aims to address veteran suicide prevention through the establishment of a new commissioner position to oversee necessary reforms (pg. 4).
• Excise Tariff Amendment (Draught Beer) Bill 2025 & Customs Tariff Amendment (Draught Beer) Bill 2025
• Josh Burns, MP for Macnamara, detailed these bills designed to suspend beer excise increases for two years, benefitting around 10,000 small hospitality venues, which are vital for community and job stability amid rising costs (pg. 25).

Significant Discussions

• Climate Change and Energy Policies
• Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen delivered the annual climate change statement, underscoring significant emissions reductions and a new clean energy strategy focused on balancing economic and environmental needs (pg. 31).
• Economic Management and Cost of Living Concerns
• Members discussed the impact of government policies on living conditions, emphasizing tax cuts, healthcare benefits, and student debt relief as crucial measures against financial strain on families (pg. 45-46).
• Community and Local Issues
• MPs highlighted contributions from local pubs and clubs, particularly in Lalor, stressing their roles in community support and economic engagement through social events (pages 44-46).
• Disaster Recovery and Support for Affected Communities
• Concerns were raised regarding damage from severe storms in Longman, with discussions ongoing about recovery assistance and infrastructure support (pages 44-45).
• Environmental and Infrastructure Reforms
• The pursuit of an independent national environment protection agency was discussed, alongside calls for improved project approval processes, indicating a need for collaboration across sectors (pages 51-63).

Acknowledgements and Community Engagements

• A strong focus was placed on the contributions of Afghan migrants and the Australian government’s humanitarian efforts, highlighting support extended to nearly 27,000 Afghan nationals since 2021 (page 102).
• Recognition was extended to community members and organizations making significant impacts, such as the Oatley RSL sub-Branch’s contributions to veterans and local initiatives (page 44).

Critiques and Counterpoints

• Andrew Willcox, MP from Dawson, criticized the government’s energy policies, arguing that they contribute to rising costs and hinder economic growth, particularly condemning opposition to gas and coal industries (page 103).
• Conversely, Emma Comer, MP from Petrie, praised recent government measures aimed at reducing student debt significantly and enhancing accessibility to healthcare while introducing a ban on social media for individuals under 16 (page 104).

Conclusion of Proceedings

The session wrapped up with reflections on the year’s achievements and ongoing discussions about energy strategies and climate policies, with members acknowledging the efforts of staff, the challenges they faced, and the importance of ongoing community support (pages 69-100). Additionally, the report emphasized the need for unity and collaboration to foster inclusion and support among all Australians as they move forward.