House of Reps Summary for 11/02/2025

The Hon. Milton Dick, Speaker of the House of Representatives, commenced the session on February 11, 2025, with an acknowledgment of country and prayers (page 0).

Committee Changes (page 1):
– Senator Brockman was discharged from the Joint Committee on Broadcasting of Parliamentary Proceedings and the Joint Standing Committee on the Parliamentary Library.
– Senator Blyth was appointed to these committees.

Legislative Proposals (page 1):
– The Defence Service Homes Amendment (Insurance) Bill 2025 was discussed and returned from the Senate without amendment.
– The Customs Amendment (Expedited Seizure and Disposal of Engineered Stone) Bill 2024 and the Electricity Infrastructure Legislation Amendment Bill 2025 were referred to the Federation Chamber for further consideration.
– Mr. Ted O’Brien (LNP, Fairfax) proposed to suspend standing orders to bring the Electricity Infrastructure Legislation Amendment Bill 2025 back to the House for debate, raising transparency concerns and issues regarding retrospectively amended energy policies.

Member Statements (pages 13-16):
– Mr. Julian Leeser MP (LP, Berowra) raised alarm about the potential closure of the Australia Post in Pennant Hills.
– Mr. Luke Gosling MP (ALP, Solomon) emphasized the support given to Australian Defence Force families in the Northern Territory by the Defence Members Families Support.
– Other representatives shared local achievements and community support efforts.

Question Time (pages 21-28):
– Members inquired about taxation, healthcare policies, and the government’s handling of inflation and cost-of-living issues, with particular scrutiny on the Prime Minister and Treasurer’s responses regarding negative gearing and GP bulk-billing rates.

Condolences (page 18):
– The Prime Minister moved a motion of condolence for the late Hon. Kevin James Andrews, reflecting on his service and contributions.

Economic Discussions (pages 30-36):
– The cost of living was a major discussion point, with MPs like Mr. Taylor (LP, Hume) expressing frustration over the government’s inflation management. Defense was offered by Ms. Elliot (ALP, Richmond), highlighting governmental efforts including tax cuts aimed at alleviating financial burdens on families.
– Partisan tensions were evident as opposition members reported on rising prices for essentials.

Committees and Future Work (pages 49-50):
– The Employment, Education and Training Committee discussed future workplace transformations due to digital advancements.

Community and Local Initiatives:
– Various members spoke on local infrastructure investments, community concerns, and the impact of government decisions on everyday life.
– Mr. Jones (ALP, Whitlam) delivered a valedictory speech, highlighting his achievements over 15 years in Parliament and expressing gratitude to his peers (page 31).

Energy Policy and Infrastructure (pages 69-78):
– Discussion on energy production noted South Australia’s high reliance on renewable sources, which have led to elevated electricity prices.
– Concerns arose over the impact of high energy prices on manufacturing and community opposition to renewable projects due to aesthetic impacts without local financial benefits.
– Ms. Allegra Spender and Andrew Charlton addressed education needs and housing supply issues, while Ted O’Brien emphasized infrastructure demands in the Sunshine Coast area.
– Llew O’Brien criticized the government’s handling of inflation and regional development, calling for accountability.

The session culminated in discussions that underscored the complex interplay between governmental decisions, local community impacts, energy policies, and the economy, reflecting the diverse concerns of parliamentary representatives and their constituents.