Cost of Living Discussions in the Senate (27/10/2025)

• Cost of Living & Housing Affordability: The session highlighted ongoing concerns regarding the rising cost of living and housing affordability, particularly affecting young Australians. Senator Marielle Smith discussed the significant challenges faced by this demographic when attempting to purchase homes, emphasizing the urgency of the situation (p. 58). She noted the government’s ambitious housing agenda aimed at constructing new homes and facilitating deposit schemes for first-home buyers, portraying these as steps towards addressing the crisis.
• Criticism of Government Initiatives: Senator Richard Colbeck criticized the government’s housing policies, claiming that the production of homes under current initiatives would be fewer compared to previous coalition government efforts. He pointed to adverse impacts stemming from conflicts with the CFMEU, implying that these internal issues were detrimental to housing outcomes (p. 59).
• Government Accountability & Legislative Proposals: There was a broader call for heightened accountability in how the government addresses housing and labor concerns. Many senators expressed the need for reform within the construction industry, particularly relating to the CFMEU’s structure and influence over labor practices, which was seen as a potential hindrance to improving housing production (p. 66). Various legislative proposals related to housing financing were discussed, which aimed to bolster government responses to the affordable housing crisis (pp. 65-66).
• Housing Legislation Motion: On page 68, Senator Katy Gallagher moved a motion regarding general business orders focused on housing legislation, stressing ongoing crises and the government strategies required to alleviate these issues. This motion aimed to prioritize discussions and solutions regarding housing policies.
• Economic Policy & Living Standards: Throughout the proceedings, senators emphasized the link between inflation and its impact on living standards for Australians, critiquing the government’s economic management. There were widespread calls for a return to responsible fiscal management to better support citizens amidst rising living costs (pp. 100-108).
• Community Engagement: There was a discussion acknowledging the importance of engaging communities in finding solutions to local housing issues, underscoring that collaborative approaches are essential for addressing the affordability crisis effectively (p. 35).

This encapsulation of the proceedings reflects a strong focus on housing affordability and cost of living, highlighting discussions, critiques, and legislative efforts directed at these critical issues.