Key Topics on the First Day of Parliament: Inflation, Housing, and National Security Take Center Stage
The Labor government faced pressure from the opposition on various issues, including the cost of living, during the first official day back in Parliament.
Inflation, the rising cost of living, national security, and the housing crisis were the key issues dominating the Parliament’s first day on Aug. 12.
At the start of the session, the opposition swiftly criticized the government’s handling of these matters, particularly focusing on the prime minister’s perceived failure to address the increasing cost of living.
Leader of the Opposition Peter Dutton accused Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of not fulfilling promises to reduce electricity bills and offer cheaper mortgages.
Albanese swiftly defended his record, highlighting various reforms and criticizing the opposition for not supporting the government’s efforts.
Albanese also took a swipe at the opposition’s proposed nuclear plans, calling them “half-baked.”
The federal opposition is proposing nuclear power as an alternative pathway towards net zero.
Deputy Leader of the Opposition Susan Ley questioned Albanese, asking why he denies that Labor’s spending contributes to homegrown inflation and keeps interest rates high for longer.
Albanese countered this charge, citing the Reserve Bank governor’s statement on the government’s control of inflation and the impressive surplus they have achieved.
Besides Albanese, Treasurer Jim Chalmers was also pressed by opposition MPs to address the measures his ministry is taking to counter the cost of living and inflation.
National Security
The looming “probable” risk of a terror attack in Australia was a major concern.
Albanese and Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles were questioned about their efforts on this front.
Marles announced significant progress with the US toward acquiring nuclear-powered submarines under the AUKUS agreement.
He noted that multiple tranches of legislation have been passed to bolster defense capabilities and funding for AUKUS.
Housing Crisis
Newly appointed Minister for Housing Clare O’Neil faced scrutiny from the opposition regarding the ongoing housing crisis.
Reports indicate that housing is increasingly unaffordable for many young Australians.
Minister O’Neil shared anecdotes of individuals affected by the housing crisis and emphasized her commitment to addressing this pressing issue.
