The House met, at 10 am, pursuant to adjournment. The Speaker (the Honourable M. Dick) took the Chair, made an acknowledgement of country and read Prayers.

PETITIONS—standing Committee —REPORT—STATEMENT BY MEMBER

Ms Templeman (Chair) presented the following documents:

Petitions—Standing Committee—Report 35: Petitions and Ministerial responses—

Report, 25 November 2024.

Petitions.

Ministers’ responses to petitions previously presented to the House.

Ms Templeman made a statement in connection with petitions.

Doctors for the Bush Bill 2024

Mr Gee, pursuant to notice, presented a Bill for an Act to ensure access to GPs in regional areas, and for related purposes.

Document

Mr Gee presented an explanatory memorandum to the bill.

Bill read a first time.

Mr Gee moved—That the bill be now read a second time.

Debate adjourned and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Online Safety Amendment (Digital Duty of Care) Bill 2024

Ms Daniel, pursuant to notice, presented a Bill for an Act to amend the Online Safety Act 2021 , and for related purposes.

Document

Ms Daniel presented an explanatory memorandum to the bill.

Bill read a first time.

Ms Daniel moved—That the bill be now read a second time.

Debate adjourned and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Workforce shortages

Mr van Manen, pursuant to notice, moved—That this House:

(1) notes that:

(a) reform is required to retain workers in the building and construction industry; and

(b) Master Builders Australia has reported that there is a critical workforce shortage, with a 14.7 per cent decrease in the number of construction industry apprentices completing their studies since 2022, and the total number of construction apprentices also decreasing by 22.4 per cent for the same period; and

(2) acknowledges that the:

(a) Government has delivered a business insolvency crisis, with over 23,938 business insolvencies since taking office, including over 6,399 construction business insolvencies;

(b) Government’s Fee Free TAFE program has delivered a 13 per cent completion rate to date and the Government has refused to reveal the dropout rate;

(c) Government is failing Australian businesses and the construction sector; and

(d) Opposition’s Housing Infrastructure Program aims to deliver up to 500,000 additional homes and contribute to the growth in employment in the building and construction industry by direct employment to residential development infrastructure.

Debate ensued.

The time allotted for the debate having expired, the debate was interrupted, and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

United Nations’ International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

Ms Claydon, pursuant to notice, moved—That this House:

(1) notes that:

(a) 25 November 2024 marks the United Nations’ International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, beginning 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence;

(b) in Australia, it has been publicly reported that approximately 64 women have been killed by acts of violence by men as of 17 November 2024;

(c) one in three Australian women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence perpetrated by a man since the age of 15;

(d) violence against women and girls impacts everyone, of all genders, ages, ethnicities, religions and socio-economic backgrounds, it does not discriminate, and is almost always committed by men; and

(e) there is no excuse for violence against women and girls;

(2) commends the work that the Government has done so far in taking immediate and practical steps to support women and children to escape from violence through significant investments to support the National Plan to End Violence Against Women and Children 2022-32;

(3) recognises the following additional commitments made by the Government to end violence against women and children in a generation:

(a) $4.4 billion in new funding to address the scourge of gender-based violence and respond to the Government initiated Rapid Review into Prevention Approaches through:

(i) convening a national cabinet on gender-based violence at which the Government committed to investing $3.9 billion in support for frontline legal assistance services;

(ii) investing $351 million over five years for funding under a renewed five-year national partnership agreement to be matched by states and territories; and

(iii) allocating $169 million in targeted initiatives to support the National Plan; and

(b) $1 billion through the National Housing Infrastructure Facility for housing for women and children impacted by violence, plus other supports for housing single parents; and

(4) further recognises that there is still much more work to be done to prevent violence against women and children and to create lasting change, that it is a whole of community response, and that the Government is absolutely committed to leading this response.

Debate ensued.

The time allotted for the debate having expired, the debate was interrupted, and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Manufacturing

Ms Le, pursuant to notice, moved—That this House:

(1) acknowledges that:

(a) small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are fundamental to the Australian economy, contributing significantly to job creation and economic resilience, particularly in the manufacturing sector where their role is vital to the national interest;

(b) manufacturing is a leading employer in the electoral division of Fowler, employing approximately 12 per cent of the local workforce, significantly higher than the national average of 5.9 per cent;

(c) hundreds of manufacturing businesses in the electoral division of Fowler produce essential goods across a variety of sectors, from food production and building materials, to medical supplies and recycling initiatives;

(d) manufacturing SMEs are grappling with rising operating costs, a shortage of skilled labour and limited access to critical resources;

(e) the Government’s Future Made in Australia plan, introduced in May 2024, does not sufficiently address the challenges facing the manufacturing sector; and

(f) manufacturing SMEs deserve a fairer share of Government support to achieve sustainable growth, scale effectively, expand employment opportunities and remain competitive amid growing domestic and international pressures;

(2) notes that the Government’s recent relief measures, such as the one-year extension of the $20,000 instant asset write-off and a $325 electricity rebate for small businesses, were positive steps, however fall short of addressing the long-term, systemic challenges faced by small and medium-sized manufacturers; and

(3) calls on the Government to provide comprehensive and sustained support for small and medium-sized manufacturing businesses by:

(a) increasing the instant asset write-off to $50,000 and extending it indefinitely, to support capital investment in small and medium-sized manufacturers and enable them to remain competitive as plant and material prices continue to rise;

(b) promoting manufacturing as a career to young Australians and migrant workers by continuing and expanding government investment in training initiatives, apprenticeships, English language training and foundational skills development to fill critical labour gaps and provide certainty for employers to boost productivity within the sector; and

(c) supporting lowering the cost of doing business by addressing the escalating costs for insurance, freight, energy and compliance, which disproportionately impact small and medium-sized manufacturers.

Debate ensued.

The time allotted for private Members’ business having expired, the debate was interrupted, and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE— Aged Care Bill 2024

Message No. 365, 21 November 2024, from the Senate was reported returning the Aged Care Bill 2024 with amendments.

Ordered—That the amendments be considered at a later hour this day.

POSTPONEMENT OF BUSINESS

Ordered—That business intervening before order of the day No. 11, government business, be postponed until a later hour this day.

Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Bill 2024

The order of the day having been read for the resumption of the debate on the question—That the bill be now read a second time—

Debate resumed.

Debate adjourned (Mr J Wilson—Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy), and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for a later hour this day.

Future Made in Australia (Production Tax Credits and Other Measures) Bill 2024

Dr Chalmers (Treasurer) presented a Bill for an Act to amend the law relating to taxation and Indigenous Business Australia, and for related purposes.

Document

Dr Chalmers presented an explanatory memorandum to the bill.

Bill read a first time.

Dr Chalmers moved—That the bill be now read a second time.

Debate adjourned (Mrs McIntosh), and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Commonwealth Entities (Payment Surcharges) Bill 2024

Dr Leigh (Assistant Minister for Competition, Charities and Treasury), by leave, presented a Bill for an Act to authorise Commonwealth entities to charge and collect payment surcharges, and for related purposes.

Document

Dr Leigh presented an explanatory memorandum to this bill, the Commonwealth Entities (Payment Surcharges) Tax (Imposition) Bill 2024 and the Commonwealth Entities (Payment Surcharges) (Consequential Provisions and Other Matters) Bill 2024 .

Bill read a first time.

Dr Leigh moved—That the bill be now read a second time.

Debate adjourned (Mrs McIntosh), and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Commonwealth Entities (Payment Surcharges) Tax (Imposition) Bill 2024

Dr Leigh (Assistant Minister for Competition, Charities and Treasury) presented a Bill for an Act to impose a tax relating to payment surcharges, and for related purposes.

Bill read a first time.

Dr Leigh moved—That the bill be now read a second time.

Debate adjourned (Mrs McIntosh), and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Commonwealth Entities (Payment Surcharges) (Consequential Provisions and Other Matters) Bill 2024

Dr Leigh (Assistant Minister for Competition, Charities and Treasury), by leave, presented a Bill for an Act to deal with consequential matters arising from the enactment of the Commonwealth Entities (Payment Surcharges) Act 2024 and with certain payment surcharges, and for related purposes.

Bill read a first time.

Dr Leigh moved—That the bill be now read a second time.

Debate adjourned (Mrs McIntosh), and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Suspension of standing and sessional orders—Time and Order of Business for 25 and 26 November 2024

Mr J Wilson (Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy), for Mr Burke (Leader of the House), pursuant to notice, moved—That:

(1) for Monday, 25 November 2024:

(a) standing order 33 (limit on business after normal time of adjournment) be suspended; and

(b) so much of the standing and sessional orders be suspended as would prevent the following from occurring in relation to business:

(i) in the House, notwithstanding standing order 31, at 8 pm the adjournment debate being interrupted and government business having priority until:

(A) business concludes, if earlier than 10 pm; or

(B) 10 pm; or

(C) a later time specified by a Minister prior to 10 pm;

at which point, the debate being adjourned and the House immediately adjourning until Tuesday, 26 November at 12 noon; and

(ii) in the Federation Chamber, at the conclusion of private Members’ business, government business being given priority until the Federation Chamber adjourns at no later than 9.30 pm;

(2) for Tuesday, 26 November 2024:

(a) standing order 33 (limit on business after normal time of adjournment) be suspended; and

(b) so much of the standing and sessional orders be suspended as would prevent the following from occurring in relation to business:

(i) in the House, notwithstanding standing order 31, at 8 pm the adjournment debate being interrupted and government business having priority until:

(A) business concludes, if earlier than 10 pm; or

(B) 10 pm; or

(C) a later time specified by a Minister prior to 10 pm;

at which point, the debate being adjourned and the House immediately adjourning until Wednesday, 27 November at 9 am; and

(ii) in the Federation Chamber, government business being given priority until the Federation Chamber adjourns at no later than 9.30 pm; and

(3) any variation to this arrangement being made only on a motion moved by a Minister.

Question—put and passed.

Aged Care Bill 2024 —SENATE’S AMENDMENTS

The order of the day having been read for the consideration of the amendments made by the Senate—

On the motion of Ms Wells (Minister for Aged Care), the amendments were agreed to.

Migration Amendment (Prohibiting Items in Immigration Detention Facilities) Bill 2024

The order of the day having been read for the resumption of the debate on the question—That the bill be now read a second time—

Debate resumed.

Debate adjourned (Mr J Wilson—Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy), and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for a later hour this day.

Migration Amendment (Prohibiting Items in Immigration Detention Facilities) Bill 2024

The order of the day having been read for the resumption of the debate on the question—That the bill be now read a second time—

Debate resumed.

Mr Bandt addressing the House—

It being 1.30 pm, the debate was interrupted in accordance with standing order 43, Mr Bandt was granted leave to continue his speech when the debate is resumed, and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for a later hour this day.

MEMBERS’ STATEMENTS

Members’ statements being made—

Petition

Dr Gillespie presented the following petition approved by the Standing Committee on Petitions :

Removal of moratorium on nuclear power in Australia—311 petitioners.

Members’ statements continued.

QUESTIONS

Questions without notice being asked—

Member directed to leave

At 2.14 pm the Member for O’Connor ( Mr R Wilson ) was directed, under standing order 94, to leave the Chamber for one hour for interjecting and he accordingly left the Chamber.

Questions without notice continued.

Matter of Privilege Raised by the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government —STATEMENT BY SPEAKER

The Speaker made the following statement:

Last Wednesday, the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government and Member for Ballarat raised, as a matter of privilege, whether an action by the Member for Barker constitutes a breach of privilege. The specific action the Minister referred to is the filming by a staff member of the Member for Barker, without permission, of an interaction that day between the Member for Barker and the Minister in her Ministerial Office, and associated filming in a Ministerial Wing corridor. The Minister presented, as supporting information, an email from her to all Members and Senators advertising a drop-in session in her office on Wednesday, which I understand is a regular occurrence and I believe she should be commended for.

I have had the opportunity to review the matter raised by the Minister and, as I noted at that time, I accept the matter was raised at the earliest opportunity. The task for me under the standing orders is to determine whether there is a prima facie case that the action by the Member for Barker amounts to, or was intended or likely to amount to, an improper interference with the free exercise by the Member for Ballarat of her duties as a Member.

I note that the incident complained of occurred during a drop-in session held by the Member in her capacity as Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, on subjects within her ministerial responsibilities. I appreciate the Minister’s concerns about the discourtesy shown by the Member for Barker through this action, and acknowledge that she may consider it to be a significant interference in her Ministerial work and an affront to her.

However, I do not see evidence that the action by the Member for Barker amounts to, or was intended or likely to amount to, an improper interference with the free exercise by the Member for Ballarat of her duties as a Member, such as would allow me to find a prima facie case of a breach of parliamentary privilege. Therefore, I do not propose to give precedence to a motion to refer the matter to the Standing Committee of Privileges and Members’ Interests.

Even though there is not a prima facie case of a breach of privilege, other considerations are relevant in these circumstances. The evidence of the Minister raises serious concerns about breaches of the media rules applying to everyone in Parliament House. I take this opportunity to remind all Members that filming interactions in the private areas of Parliament House, without appropriate approvals and the express permission of those captured in the images, are a breach of the media rules for Parliament House. These rules apply to everyone, visitors and building occupants alike, including Members and their staff. I consider it to be the responsibility of Members to ensure that their staff follow these rules.

Further, I take this opportunity to remind Members of the Parliamentary Behaviour Standards and Code, which were approved by the House and the Senate in October. Every one of us is required to understand and comply with the standards and code. As the Behaviour Code for Parliamentarians states:

All Parliamentarians have a shared responsibility as employers, and leaders in the community, to ensure that our Workplace meets the highest standards of integrity, dignity, safety and mutual respect.

I would hope that any Member who has caused offence to another Member would exercise that respect, and apologise for their actions.

Mr Pasin and Ms C King (Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government), by indulgence, also made statements on the matter.

Commonwealth Ombudsman’s Reports

The Speaker presented the following documents:

Fair Work Act 2009 —Quarterly reports under section 712F(6)—

1 July to 30 September 2023.

1 October to 31 December 2023.

1 January to 31 March 2024.

1 April to 30 June 2024.

DOCUMENTS

The following documents were presented:

* Aged Care Act 1997— Report on the operation of the Act for 2023-24.

*Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency and National Boards—Report for 2023-24.

*National Health Practitioner Ombudsman and National Health Practitioner Privacy Commissioner—Report for 2023-24.

Treaty— Text, together with associated documents — Convention between Australia and the Portuguese Republic for the Elimination of Double Taxation with respect to Taxes on Income and the Prevention of Tax Evasion and Avoidance (Lisbon, 30 November 2023).

*The documents were made Parliamentary Papers.

RETIREMENT of Members —STATEMENTS

Mr B Mitchell, by indulgence, made a statement in relation to his retirement.

Mr Albanese (Prime Minister), by indulgence, also made a statement on the matter.

Mrs Andrews, by indulgence, made a statement in relation to her retirement.

Mr Dutton (Leader of the Opposition), by indulgence, also made a statement on the matter.

Mr Pearce, by indulgence, made a statement in relation to his retirement.

Mr Dutton, by indulgence, also made a statement on the matter.

Dr Gillespie, by indulgence, made a statement in relation to his retirement and, by leave, presented the following document:

Infrastructure projects in the division of Lyne.

Mr Littleproud (Leader of The Nationals), by indulgence, also made a statement on the matter.

Mr Entsch, by indulgence, made a statement in relation to his retirement.

Mr Dutton, by indulgence, also made a statement on the matter.

MESSAGES FROM THE SENATE

Messages from the Senate, 25 November 2024, were reported returning the following bills without amendment:

No. 366— Cyber Security 2024 .

No. 367— Intelligence Services and Other Legislation Amendment (Cyber Security) 2024 .

No. 368— Security of Critical Infrastructure and Other Legislation Amendment (Enhanced Response and Prevention) 2024 .

Privileges and Members’ Interests Committee —REPORT

Mr R Mitchell (Chair) presented the following document:

Privileges and Members’ Interests Committee—Report concerning an application from Ms Teresa Harding for the publication of a response to a reference made in the Federation Chamber—Report, November 2024.

Aged Care (Consequential and Transitional Provisions) Bill 2024

The order of the day having been read for the resumption of the debate on the question—That the bill be now read a second time—

Debate resumed.

Debate adjourned (Mr Jones—Minister for Financial Services), and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for a later hour this day.

Migration Amendment (Prohibiting Items in Immigration Detention Facilities) Bill 2024

The order of the day having been read for the resumption of the debate on the question—That the bill be now read a second time—

Debate resumed.

Mr Hill (Assistant Minister for Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs) moved—That the debate be adjourned and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for a later hour this day.

Question—put.

A division having been called for, in accordance with standing order 133 the division was deferred until the first opportunity the next sitting day.

Free TAFE Bill 2024

The order of the day having been read for the resumption of the debate on the question—That the bill be now read a second time— And on the amendment moved thereto by Mr Bandt, viz.— That all words after “That” be omitted with a view to substituting the following words:

“whilst not declining to give the bill a second reading, the House:

(1) notes that if the Government can legislate its promises on Fee-Free TAFE right now, it can also legislate to wipe student debt; and

(2) calls on the Government to legislate its promise to wipe 20 per cent of student debt and raise the repayment threshold now, not wait for an election”—

Debate resumed.

Debate adjourned (Mr Burke—Leader of the House), and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for a later hour this day.

Migration Amendment (Prohibiting Items in Immigration Detention Facilities) Bill 2024—Division Withdrawn

Dr Haines, having indicated that she did not wish to proceed with the division ( see item No. 29, page 2058 )—

Division, by leave, not proceeded with.

BILL DECLARED REFERRED TO FEDERATION CHAMBER

Mr Burke (Leader of the House) declared that, unless otherwise ordered, the Migration Amendment (Prohibiting Items in Immigration Detention Facilities) Bill 2024 stands referred to the Federation Chamber for further consideration.

ADJOURNMENT DEBATE

It being 7.30 pm—The question was proposed—That the House do now adjourn.

Debate ensued.

Free TAFE Bill 2024

It being 8 pm—In accordance with the resolution agreed to earlier this sitting—

The order of the day having been read for the resumption of the debate on the question—That the bill be now read a second time— And on the amendment moved thereto by Mr Bandt (see item No. 30, page 2058) —

Debate resumed.

Debate adjourned (Mrs Elliot—Assistant Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence), and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

ADJOURNMENT

At 8.14 pm, the Speaker adjourned the House until 12 noon tomorrow, in accordance with the resolution agreed to earlier this sitting.

DOCUMENTS

The following documents were deemed to have been presented on 25 November 2024 (An explanatory statement has been presented with each instrument unless otherwise indicated by an asterisk):

Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Act 2006— Anti-Money Laundering and Counter‑Terrorism Financing Rules Amendment (Nominee of Custodian) Instrument 2024 [F2024L01467].

Australian Postal Corporation Act 1989— Australian Postal Corporation Amendment (Dealing with Articles and their Contents) Regulations 2024 [F2024L01487].

Child Support (Registration and Collection) Act 1988— Child Support (Registration and Collection) Amendment (Payment Methods) Regulations 2024 [F2024L01483].

Civil Aviation Act 1988— Civil Aviation Safety Regulations 1998—Part 121 Manual of Standards Amendment Instrument 2024 [F2024L01484].

Corporations Act 2001—

Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards—Effective Date of Amendments to AASB 10 and AASB 128—AASB 2024-4 [F2024L01481].

ASIC Corporations (Amendment) Instrument 2024/883 [F2024L01468].

Corporations Act 2001 and Electronic Transactions Act 1999— Treasury Laws Amendment (Delivering Better Financial Outcomes) Regulations 2024 [F2024L01152]—Replacement explanatory statement.

Disability Discrimination Act 1992— Disability (Access to Premises—Buildings) Amendment (2024 Measures No. 1) Standards 2024 [F2024L01490].

Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999—

List of CITES Species Amendment (2024/094) Instrument 2024 [F2024L01478].

The Lodge Heritage Management Plan 2024-2029 [F2024L01441].

Fair Work Act 2009— Fair Work Amendment (Minor and Technical Measures No. 2) Regulations 2024 [F2024L01480].

Fisheries Management Act 1991— Western Tuna and Billfish Fishery Management Plan 2005—Western Tuna and Billfish Fishery (Total Allowable Commercial Catch) Determination (No.2) 2024 [F2024L01489].

Future Fund Act 2006— Future Fund Investment Mandate Direction 2024 [F2024L01477].

Industry Research and Development Act 1986— Industry Research and Development (Diversity in STEM Programs) Instrument 2024 [F2024L01479].

Lands Acquisition Act 1989— Statement under section 125—November 2024.

Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013— Notice under section 72—Corporate Commonwealth entity acquires shares in a company—FPR Energy Ltd—14 November 2024.

Taxation Administration Act 1953— Commissioner of Taxation—

Product Ruling—PR 2024/19.

Taxation Ruling—TD 92/2 (Addendum).

ATTENDANCE

All Members attended (at some time during the sitting) except Mr Howarth, Mr Kennedy and Mr Leeser.

Claressa Surtees

Clerk of the House of Representatives

The Federation Chamber met at 10.29 am.

MEMBERS’ CONSTITUENCY STATEMENTS

Members’ constituency statements were made.

Productivity growth

Ms Chaney, pursuant to notice, moved—That this House:

(1) notes that:

(a) in 2023, the Government revised down its annual productivity growth assumption from 1.5 per cent to 1.2 per cent, reflecting the slowdown in productivity over the past two decades;

(b) Australian productivity growth is now behind most comparable nations including the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany and France;

(c) productivity growth is a key contributor to increases in economic welfare, accounting for 80 per cent of growth in real wages; and

(d) contributing factors to the decline in Australian productivity include:

(i) complicated workplace laws, regulation and taxation;

(ii) declining educational outcomes; and

(iii) under-investment in research and development relative to peer economies; and

(2) calls on the Government to issue a formal response to the Productivity Commission’s five-yearly productivity inquiry report, Advancing Prosperity , presented in March 2023.

Debate ensued.

The time allotted for the debate having expired, the debate was interrupted, and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Medicare

Ms Doyle, pursuant to notice, moved—That this House:

(1) acknowledges:

(a) the Government is strengthening Medicare and delivering cost of living relief to Australians; and

(b) that the Government’s record investments in bulk billing have stopped the freefall in bulk billing rates, with Australians accessing an estimated 5.4 million additional bulk billed visits in the past 12 months;

(2) notes:

(a) that Australians have saved more than $1 billion on cheaper medicines, as a result of the largest price reduction in the 75-year history of the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), the introduction of 60-day prescriptions, and the lowering of the PBS safety net threshold; and

(b) the continued expansion of the Medicare Urgent Care Clinic network, with almost 80 clinics opened which have seen almost 900,000 bulk billed presentations;

(3) welcomes the influx of new doctors entering the workforce, with one new doctor joining the Australian health system every hour on average over the past year, and the number of junior doctors electing to take up general practice training increasing by more than 25 per cent;

(4) expresses its concern at the track record of the Leader of the Opposition, who during his term as Minister for Health:

(a) tried to introduce a tax on visits to GPs;

(b) froze Medicare rebates;

(c) cut $50 billion from our hospitals;

(d) said there were ‘too many free Medicare services’;

(e) was voted by Australia’s doctors as the worst Health Minister in the history of Medicare; and

(f) as a result, cannot be trusted with Medicare; and

(5) further acknowledges that only the Government can be trusted to protect and strengthen Medicare.

Debate ensued.

The time allotted for the debate having expired, the debate was interrupted, and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Royal Far West

Mr Coulton, pursuant to notice, moved—That this House:

(1) acknowledges that:

(a) Royal Far West (RFW) is a national charity dedicated to the health and wellbeing of Australia’s country children across more than 200 schools and 364 communities; and

(b) RFW is celebrating its centenary of service to Australia in 2024;

(2) notes that:

(a) in 2019, RFW received funding from the Department of Health and Aged Care to provide services online to schools and preschools under the National Paediatric Telecare Service (NPTS), and that funding finishes in June next year;

(b) workforce shortages in regional areas, and a resulting lack of access to services, has seen high demand for the NPTS;

(c) the NPTS overcomes the tyranny of distance and reduces expenses for families in the midst of a cost of living crisis; and

(d) operating across four states, the NPTS has provided support to 20,000 children, parents and educators; and

(3) urges the Government to provide ongoing funding to RFW to allow this vital allied health and mental health service to continue to support families in rural, regional and remote Australia.

Debate ensued.

The time allotted for the debate having expired, the debate was interrupted, and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Cash

Ms J Ryan, pursuant to notice, moved—That this House:

(1) acknowledges that the Government is making sure that Australians can continue to pay with cash for essential items if they want to, while also ensuring an orderly transition to phasing out cheques;

(2) notes the Government’s plan will:

(a) mandate that businesses must accept cash when selling essential items, with appropriate exemptions for small businesses; and

(b) ensure that cash can be used for essential purchases, such as groceries and fuel, so that those who rely on cash will not be left behind; and

(3) welcomes the Government’s acknowledgement that while Australians are increasingly using digital payment methods, there is an ongoing place for cash in our society.

Debate ensued.

The time allotted for the debate having expired, the debate was interrupted, and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Rural, remote and regional health

The order of the day having been read for the resumption of the debate on the motion of Dr Webster—That this House:

(1) notes that:

(a) rural and remote Australians bear a heavier burden of disease than Australians who live in major metropolitan areas;

(b) the rural, remote and regional health workforce persistently suffers more significant staffing shortages than its metropolitan counterparts;

(c) the former Government established the Office of the National Rural Health Commissioner in 2017;

(d) the inaugural commissioner, Professor Paul Worley, said in 2018 that he had heard the urgency of calls for a National Rural Generalist Pathway for the medical practitioner workforce, and recommended later that year the national recognition, as a protected title, of a Rural Generalist as a Specialised Field within the Speciality of General Practice, which is now federally funded and accredited by the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine;

(e) the National Rural Health Commissioner has established the National Rural and Remote Nursing Generalist Framework 2023-27, after consultation commenced by the former Government in early 2022; and

(f) Queensland Health began developing a rural generalist pathway for allied health professions in 2013 which Services for Australian Rural and Remote Allied Health successfully developed further in some jurisdictions but a pathway is not yet available in Victoria for instance; and

(2) calls upon the Minister for Health and Aged Care to advance rural generalist pathways in medicine, nursing and allied health, to address dire workforce shortages in rural, remote and regional Australia—

Debate resumed.

Suspension of meeting

At 1.15 pm, a division having been called in the House, the proceedings were suspended.

Resumption of meeting

At 1.24 pm, the proceedings were resumed.

Debate continued.

The time allotted for private Members’ business having expired, the debate was interrupted, and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Suspension of meeting

At 1.31 pm, the Deputy Speaker left the Chair.

Resumption of meeting

At 4 pm, the Deputy Speaker resumed the Chair.

MEMBERS’ STATEMENTS

Members’ statements were made.

Small businesses

Mr van Manen, pursuant to notice, moved—That this House:

(1) notes that small businesses are struggling under the:

(a) burden of the Government’s cost of living crisis; and

(b) weight of the Government’s additional administrative red tape;

(2) acknowledges that according to the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman:

(a) conditions for small business:

(i) have deteriorated by 3.5 per cent; and

(ii) continue to be well below the long-term average;

(b) the operating environment for business has been in decline for the past two years with rising concerns about regulations, increased costs and slowing demand; and

(c) fewer people are considering starting a small business and businesses are less likely to invest in expansion; and

(3) calls on the Government to address its failure to support small business, the backbone of Australia’s economy.

Debate ensued.

The time allotted for the debate having expired, the debate was interrupted, and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation

Mr Perrett, pursuant to notice, moved—That this House:

(1) welcomes the 106 advocates for Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) Australia who are present with their families in Parliament House this week to advocate for further funding for the Type 1 Diabetes Clinical Research Network (T1 DCRN);

(2) commends these advocates for type 1 diabetes (T1D) on their work with Members and Senators across Australia, explaining why the research undertaken by the T1 DCRN to date has given them enormous hope;

(3) notes that there are over 130,000 Australians living with T1D, who are part of a passionate and articulate community as all who participated in World Diabetes Day on 14 November 2024 would know;

(4) acknowledges the work of the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Health, Aged Care and Sport inquiry into diabetes, chaired by the Member for Macarthur, which made bipartisan recommendations relating to T1D research, early detection and prevention, and to expanding access to diabetes technologies that help in the management of T1D;

(5) congratulates the advocates who have travelled from all over Australia to tell their stories and make the case for funding for the next stage of the T1 DCRN; and

(6) provides cross party assurance to JDRF Australia advocates that their message has been heard, their tenacity is admired, and that it is understood in this House that research holds the key.

Debate ensued.

The time allotted for the debate having expired, the debate was interrupted, and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Cultural heritage

Dr Webster, pursuant to notice, moved—That this House:

(1) notes that:

(a) under the cover of the United States of America’s elections and the Melbourne Cup, the Victorian Government through Parks Victoria have declared they will close certain areas of Mount Arapiles in the Wimmera region for rock climbing due to cultural heritage concerns;

(b) local residents and rock climbing enthusiasts from around the nation are outraged by the decision, particularly as a prime Australian rock climbing destination and the potential devastating impact on the small community of Natimuk;

(c) on Monday, 18 November 2024, Parks Victoria Chief Executive Officer, Matthew Jackson told an inquiry that Parks Victoria does not consult on cultural heritage laws and had no obligation to consider its decision’s economic impact on local communities; and

(d) doctors, nurses and allied health practitioners have been attracted to the region, including nearby Horsham, due to the availability of rock climbing and are now reconsidering whether to settle or remain in the region;

(2) calls upon the:

(a) Commonwealth Government to explain its position on cultural heritage matters that are delivering gross inequities for the majority of Australians; and

(b) Victorian State Government to:

(i) genuinely consult with all stakeholders on the decision; and

(ii) ensure all established climbing routes at Mount Arapiles remain in force until such consultation has occurred; and

(3) reminds all levels of Government that on 14 October 2023 regional Victorians and Australians united and conclusively voted ‘no’ to this form of division in the Australian community.

Debate ensued.

Debate adjourned and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

WorldSkills competition 2024

The order of the day having been read for the resumption of the debate on the motion of Ms Claydon—That this House:

(1) acknowledges and celebrates the exceptional achievements of Australia’s Skillaroos who represented our nation at the 2024 WorldSkills competition in Lyon;

(2) recognises the dedication, skill, and passion of our Skillaroos exemplifies the highest standards of excellence in vocational education and training and demonstrates the incredible talent within our skilled workforce;

(3) commends the Government for its commitment to getting the best outcomes for Australians through improving access to vocational education and training, supporting quality training and putting TAFE back at the heart of the sector; and

(4) supports the Government as it continues to invest in the Australian people by prioritising training initiatives like Fee-Free TAFE—

Debate resumed.

Debate adjourned and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Fertility rates

Ms Ware, pursuant to notice, moved—That this House:

(1) acknowledges:

(a) the release of the Government’s Centre for Population research paper dated October 2024, Fertility decline in Australia: Is it here to stay? ; and

(b) that the paper provides that:

(i) fertility rates in Australia continue to decline under this Government;

(ii) the average number of children born to Australian women in 2023 is 1.5;

(iii) in Australia fertility outcomes are lower than fertility desires;

(iv) cost of living pressures have caused Australians to postpone childbearing; and

(v) the high cost of housing has made it increasingly difficult for young adults to achieve their home ownership goals prior to starting a family;

(2) recognises that the Government has:

(a) failed to manage the economy, resulting in a period of skyrocketing inflation fuelling the current cost of living crisis;

(b) failed to address the housing affordability crisis; and

(c) been incapable of supporting a stable economic and housing environment to empower Australian women, resulting in the fertility decline to 1.5 children on average in 2023;

(3) expresses concern that the Government’s economic and housing mismanagement have forced Australian women to delay having children, resulting in a decline in their fertility; and

(4) calls on the Government to better manage the economy and housing for the betterment of all Australians including Australian women and reverse the declining fertility rates.

Debate ensued.

Debate adjourned and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Suspension of meeting

At 7.09 pm, the Deputy Speaker left the Chair.

Resumption of meeting

At 7.42 pm, the Deputy Speaker resumed the Chair.

Migration Amendment (Prohibiting Items in Immigration Detention Facilities) Bill 2024

The order of the day having been read for the resumption of the debate on the question—That the bill be now read a second time—

Debate resumed.

Question—put and not being resolved—bill to be returned to the House with an unresolved question.

ADJOURNMENT

At 7.57 pm, the Deputy Speaker adjourned the Federation Chamber until 4 pm tomorrow.

Peter Banson

Clerk of the Federation Chamber