Michelle Landry
Capricornia · National Party · Australia
“Labor went to the Australian people before the election and promised one thing, and on budget night they did another. Now, in a dangerous and dishonest deal with the Greens, they have gone even further. Australians were told that there'd be no changes to negative gearing and no changes to capital gains tax.”
“It puts new pressure on housing, on savings, on investment, on small business and on younger Australians who are already struggling to get a foothold. This is not tax reform; this is a toxic tax agenda.”
“I recognise the specialist doctors who have helped make this level of care possible, including Dr Marie Burke, radiation oncologist and medical director for Queensland; Dr Tuan Ha, radiation oncologist for Queensland; and Rockhampton based radiation oncologists Dr Grant Buchanan and Dr Rodrigo Diaz.”
“For patients from Rockhampton, Gladstone, the Capricorn Coast, Emerald and all the communities in between, having radiation therapy available locally has meant less time on the road, less time away from work and family, and more time focused on getting well. GenesisCare Rockhampton has played a vital role in making that possible.”
“I rise today to congratulate GenesisCare Rockhampton on a very special milestone—10 years of caring for cancer patients in Central Queensland and more than 100,000 treatments delivered right here in our region.”
“A decade later it is wonderful to see how much that service has grown, how many local people have been helped and how dedicated the GenesisCare team remains to patients across our region. On a recent visit to the Rockhampton centre I was again struck by the professionalism and compassion of the staff.”
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“Through Moo & Coo she continues to provide dignity and support to those doing it tough. She and a small-but-mighty team of volunteers are a lifeline to people from all walks of life: those escaping domestic violence, families struggling to put food on the table or men trying to get back on their feet after time in prison. Roylene believes in lifting others up not just by meeting their basic needs but by treating every single person with respect and care. Moo & Coo is what Roylene describes as a real op shop where everything is genuinely affordable. It's not just about lower prices; it's about practical help. The store provides food packages, ready-to-heat meals, baby bundles, school supplies, dignity packs, furniture, clothing—whatever people need, Roylene finds a way to provide. Right now, the demand is greater than ever.”
“Across Australia there are everyday heroes quietly going about their work, changing lives without ever seeking recognition. In Rockhampton one of those heroes is Roylene Robinson. I recently had the great privilege of visiting an op shop in Rockhampton, Moo & Coo. On the surface it might look like a simple op shop, but, when you step inside, you quickly realise it's so much more than that. It's a hub of compassion, community and care, and at the heart of it all is Roylene. Roylene has been giving back to her community for decades. In fact, for the past 47 years, she has selflessly opened her home and her heart to 280 foster children, a staggering achievement from one woman whose love, patience and generosity knows no bounds. While many people would be winding down in retirement, Roylene is as busy as ever.”
“And the people of Capricornia are sick of being treated like an afterthought. Regional Australians deserve more than patronising platitudes. We deserve investment. We deserve respect— (Time expired)”
“Whether a provider drives for 20 minutes or for two hours, the rebate is the same. Already we've had providers confirm that they will no longer be able to travel to the smaller towns—not because they don't care but because Labor's policy makes it financially impossible. The consequences are devastating: fewer visits, fewer services and more vulnerable people left behind. This is not a policy adjustment. It is a wrecking ball taken to disability care in the bush. Labor governs for the cities, for the inner suburbs. The people in places like Capricornia are the ones who keep the lights on, literally. We produce, we export, we contribute. Yet under Labor we are ignored—ignored on housing, ignored on health, ignored on roads and ignored on disability service. This isn't accidental. It's deliberate.”
“We're also short by 3,500 homes to meet current demand. One local disability service in our region was able to build two purpose-built homes with $1 million from the Building Better Regions Fund. These homes are now giving people with disability dignity, independence and safety. Access to health care is worsening, too. In Capricornia just 9.4 per cent of GP clinics bulk-bill. That's forcing people into emergency departments for basic care. And for those living with disability, Labor has made things even harder. Buried deep in the NDIA's annual pricing review is a devastating change: a 50 per cent cut to travel reimbursements for allied health professionals. That might be manageable in the suburbs of Melbourne, Sydney or Brisbane, but in regional Queensland it is a disaster.”
“They scrapped the community development grants, the Stronger Communities program and other successful coalition initiatives that backed local people with local solutions. Labor replaced these programs with—nothing: not reform, not redesign but nothing. What message does this send to the regions? It tells us we don't matter. It tells us we're not a priority. It's not just roads and infrastructure; it's the very fabric of daily life in Capricornia that is unravelling. We are in a struggle-to-survive crisis. The Salvation Army's Social Justice Stocktake reveals the depth of the crisis in my electorate, with 82 per cent of people identifying housing affordability and homelessness as major issues. Nearly half say the crisis is affecting them personally. At least 547 people in Capricornia are currently sleeping rough.”
“It was only due to the fierce outcry from our local community, small businesses and industry leaders that Labor was forced to backtrack. But let's be clear. The intention was there. The knife was drawn, and Capricornia would have been the casualty. This is not an isolated case. Labor's track record is now a pattern—a pattern of neglect. Nationwide, Labor has cut, delayed or scrapped over $30 billion in infrastructure, and it's regional communities like mine of Capricornia that are paying the price. They didn't stop at infrastructure. They also axed the Building Better Regions Fund, a program that delivered funding for vital community projects across Capricornia, from disability housing to sports clubs to community halls.”
“This included $568 million for Rookwood Weir, $251 million for Walkerston Bypass and the $80 million Rockhampton-Yeppoon upgrade. These weren't vanity projects. These were smart, strategic investments which have unlocked growth, boosted productivity and created jobs and are saving lives on our roads. But what did Labor do? In their very first budget, they tried to axe the Rockhampton Ring Road, one the largest and most important infrastructure projects our region has ever seen. This project spans 17.4 kilometres and includes 18 bridges and the new 453-metre Fitzroy River crossing. It will divert over 2,500 heavy vehicles away from our city streets, away from four school zones and away from 19 sets of traffic lights. It is transformational, But Labor want to axe it.”
“Regional Australia is on life support, and this Labor government is standing by and watching it flatline. Capricornia is not a burden. We are not a cost. We are a cornerstone of this nation's prosperity. We mine the minerals, we grow the food and we export the energy that powers our economy, yet, despite all we contribute, Labor treats regional Australians like second-class citizens. Since coming to government, Labor has turned its back on the regions. It's turned its back on the people who show up, work hard and keep this country moving. Investment into Capricornia ground to a halt the moment Labor took office. As the member of Capricornia, I'm proud to have delivered over $7 billion in vital infrastructure projects for our region under the coalition government.”
“Rockhampton hotels are fully booked, restaurants are bustling and businesses are thriving. The flow-on effect from thousands of boots on the ground is undeniable. It's supporting jobs, hospitality and services across the region. Shoalwater Bay isn't just a strategic asset for our nation; it's an economic powerhouse for Central Queensland. It puts Rockhampton on the world map and drives real dollars into our local economy. Shoalwater Bay isn't just a strategic asset; it's a driving force behind Rockhampton's growing reputation as a reason that delivers. Whether it's for national defence or economic opportunity, Central Queensland is proving that it has the capability, capacity and community to support operations on a global scale.”
“The world is watching Central Queensland. Right now, Rockhampton and Shoalwater Bay are at the heart of the largest Talisman Sabre military exercise in history, with a record 19 nations and over 35,000 defence personnel taking part. What began two decades ago as a joint Australia-US operation has grown into a truly global defence collaboration, with allies like the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, France, the Netherlands and Fiji joining forces right here in our own backyard. Shoalwater Bay has proven itself time and time again as one of the finest military training areas in the world. This Talisman Sabre exercise will see high-tech missile launchers, amphibious landings and air combat drills at this world-class military training ground. While our forces train for our global security, our local economy gets a major boost.”
“The Queensland junior state cup touch football championships saw more than 4,000 players battling it out across our fields. Our local teams rose to the challenge, with Rockhampton's under-14 girls and under-14 boys both winning their divisions, an outstanding effort. With Hockey legends like Jamie Dwyer and Mark Knowles hailing from Rockhampton, it was only fitting that the Hockey Country Championships were held in our city, drawing over 2,000 players and visitors. These events didn't just bring excitement to the field; they delivered a major economic boost to our region. Our hotels were booked solid, and our cafes, pubs and restaurants were buzzing with activity. Well done to all the competitors and congratulations to the winners. You've done your teams and our region proud.”
“During the Queensland school holidays, Rockhampton was the place to be, with our population swelling by over 21,000 people as the region played host to three major sporting events. We welcomed the 45th Confraternity Carnival, the Queensland touch football junior state championships and the Hockey Country Championships. These events transformed Rockhampton into a sporting powerhouse. The Confraternity Carnival brought 1,300 of Queensland's best high-school rugby league players to town. It was thrilling to watch the future stars compete with such passion. Congratulations to Rockhampton's own Cathedral College girls team for taking out the girls shield, and a special mention goes to Mackay's St Patrick's College for winning the boys title.”
“As members of parliament, we are entrusted with a profound responsibility: the ability to make a real and lasting difference in the lives of our constituents. Whether it's standing up for residents who need help, improving the essential services families rely on or delivering the infrastructure that drives jobs and opportunity, our role matters. On every one of these fronts, I am incredibly proud of what I've been able to achieve for Capricornia. This is the region where I was raised and where I chose to raise my two daughters. It's more than just an electorate; it is my home, and it's a community I care deeply about. As we begin the 48th Parliament, I remain as determined as ever to fight for Capricornia's future. I will continue working hard every day to deliver for our region and hold the Labor government to account.”
“I am incredibly proud to have secured a record investment of more than $7 billion for Capricornia—an achievement that reflects years of hard work, persistence and unshakable belief in the potential of our region. For too long, Capricornia was overlooked by Labor, taken for granted as a safe Labor seat and left behind when it came to serious investment. But that has changed. Capricornia is no longer ignored. It is now recognised as the economic powerhouse it truly is, driving growth through agriculture, resources, defence, manufacturing and tourism. This investment isn't just a number; it's real funding for roads, hospitals, aged care, water security, job creation and essential services that strengthen our communities and build a better future for local families. Serving as the member for Capricornia has been the honour of my life.”
“Tourism is thriving, and I'm proud to have delivered the funding needed to keep pace with this momentum. One stand-out project is the brand new Keppel Bay Sailing Club, now officially open thanks to a $20 million investment from the coalition. This world-class facility has quickly become a centrepiece for sport and tourism on the Capricorn Coast, creating local jobs, injecting life into our hospitality sector and attracting national and international sailing regattas to our beautiful shoreline. From health care to infrastructure, and from housing to tourism, these investments are building a stronger, safer and more prosperous future for all of Capricornia.”
“This 12-bed facility in Rockhampton is the first regional hospice in Queensland, providing compassionate community based end-of-life care. It delivers holistic support not just for patients but for their families and carers as well, offering dignity, comfort and guidance during life's most difficult moments. I fought hard for this service because everyone, regardless of where they live, deserves access to quality palliative care close to home. The Fitzroy Community Hospice is a testament to what we can achieve when we invest in services that truly matter. The Capricornia region is one of the best places in Australia to live, work and raise a family, and has been made even better by significant investments I've secured to support its continued growth.”
“What began as a vision on paper is now a reality, with two beautifully designed homes that offer safety, dignity and independence for their residents. These houses are more than just buildings; they're a lifeline for those who too often fall through the cracks of our housing system. Housing security is also critical at the end of life, and I was honoured to deliver $19.6 million in funding for the construction of the Mercy Haven aged care facility in Rockhampton. This state-of-the-art centre is providing high-quality, compassionate care for our senior citizens, ensuring that they can stay close to their families and communities in later years. Additionally, I was also proud to secure $8 million in federal funding for the Fitzroy Community Hospice, which has now officially opened its doors.”
“After two years of hard work I was absolutely delighted to see the fight pay off. Earlier this year a new mobile phone base station was officially switched on, providing significantly improved coverage for the Collinsville region. It's a win for safety, a win for business and a win for every resident who now has the connectivity they deserve. Access to safe, secure and appropriate housing is one of the biggest challenges facing communities across Australia, and Capricornia is no exception. But for people living with disability, the challenge is even greater. Finding homes that not only provide a roof over their head that are designed to support their specific needs is incredibly difficult. That's why I was so proud to bring a vital project to life by securing $1 million in federal funding for Multicap's purpose-built disability housing.”
“This win means we're finally seeing the beginning of sealing key freight routes in the beef corridor network, roads that are crucial for our cattle industry, our rural communities and our regional economy. Connectivity is not just a luxury. It is a necessity, especially for those living in regional, rural and remote parts of our country. When the community of Collinsville began experiencing major mobile coverage issues, I knew immediate action was needed. The existing tower was under immense pressure, struggling to keep up with the growing demand. I met with locals, listened to their concerns firsthand and took those concerns straight back to Canberra. Through community meetings, advocacy and relentless lobbying I fought to ensure that Collinsville got the upgrades it needed.”
“I'm proud that the $155 million Rockhampton-Yeppoon Road upgrade is now in its final stages. Another coalition funded initiative, this project is expanding the road to four lanes, improving access to private properties and fixing the deadly intersections like Dairy Inn Road and Artillery Road. These upgrades will ease traffic for the 11,600 vehicles that use this road every day and make travel between Rockhampton and Yeppoon safer and more efficient for everyone. Importantly, we forced Labor's hand on yet another critical project, the beef roads funding. When Labor tried to cut this vital investment from the infrastructure pipeline we fought back and had $40 million reinstated.”
“This vital project has redirected heavy vehicles away from local schools in the township of Walkerston, which, for years, was impacted by trucks passing dangerously close to school zones. The bypass is delivering safer and more efficient journeys for commuters along the Peak Downs Highway and has significantly improved flood immunity with a new bridge over Bakers Creek and three new overpasses across the local cane railway network. I also successfully fought to save the Phillips Creek Bridge upgrade from Labor's 90-day infrastructure review, Phillips Creek Bridge is a notoriously dangerous crossing where lives have been lost. This project will provide safer travel for those commuting through the coalfields of Central Queensland, ensuring they return home safely to their families.”
“The Start Rockhampton Ring Road team fought with unwavering determination, and, without their advocacy, Labor would have gladly consigned this project to the scrap heap. Today, stage 1 of the northern and southern sections of the ring road are nearing completion. This project isn't just about busting congestion; it's about keeping our community safe. Every day, around 2,000 heavy vehicles pass through Rockhampton, right past four schools and through 19 sets of traffic lights. The Rockhampton Ring Road will divert this traffic away from our city centre, keeping freight moving and our children safe. Similarly, I'm pleased to see the $251 million Walkerston Bypass is now completed.”
“Their refusal to invest in this critical infrastructure proves that they don't take regional development seriously. Major infrastructure projects across the Capricornia electorate continue to drive economic growth and deliver long-term benefits for our region. But time and again we've had to fight tooth and nail to protect them. Last term, alongside local community members and businesses, I stood up to save crucial economy-building projects, none more significant at the $1.9 billion Rockhampton Ring Road and the $14 million Phillips Creek Bridge upgrade nearDysart. Saving the Rockhampton Ring Road from Labor's first budget cuts was no small feat. More than 500 locals rallied to send a clear message to Canberra: regional Queensland will not tolerate vital infrastructure being stripped away.”
“This facility is not only creating more than 100 local jobs but also offering apprenticeships and traineeships in aircraft engineering to high-school students from Rockhampton and Yeppoon. It's a game changer for our region, which is building skills, careers and economic opportunities for the next generation. During the election, I proudly committed $20 million for the next stage of the airport's expansion, including an additional aircraft bay to support the growing number of military training exercises in our region and the first stage of a dedicated freight hub to kickstart Rockhampton's transformation into a true export gateway. Disappointingly, Labor did not match this commitment. They continue to take regional communities for granted and show little interest in supporting long-term growth outside the major cities.”
“This growing export potential aligns perfectly with the continued development of Rockhampton Airport. With its strategic location, Rockhampton is well-placed to become a major freight and export hub, connecting our region's premium agriculture products with international markets. The airport itself has benefited from more than $40 million in federal investment, which I fought hard to secure. During the last term, we saw the official opening of several transformative upgrades—enhanced security systems, including state-of-the-art body scanners; a complete pavement upgrade; and vital terminal improvements—to ensure a smoother, more welcoming experience for all our visitors. The project I'm most proud to have helped deliver is the Alliance Airlines heavy maintenance facility, a $25 million investment by the coalition.”
“Water is a priority in Central Queensland, and this water is transforming our region, driving the expansion of irrigated agriculture production and opening up new business opportunities, which will boost our local economy. More than 36,000 megalitres of water will underpin agriculture growth and deliver to secure reliable and affordable water across Central Queensland, setting up local industry to succeed. Water infrastructure projects like Rookwood Weir will ensure our dry continent can continue to be not just habitable but productive. One of the exciting outcomes of the Rookwood Weir project is the expansion of higher-value crops, like macadamia, now flourishing thanks to increased water security. These macadamias are in high demand and destined for export markets around the world, opening new and exciting opportunities for our region.”
“Manufacturing is more than just an industry; it's a symbol of what Australians can achieve when we invest in skills, innovation and sovereign capability. This term of government, I am delighted to serve my party as the Chief Nationals Whip. Since becoming Capricornia's federal member of parliament, I've worked tirelessly to secure major investment in real job-creating infrastructure. Despite Labor tearing much-needed funding from regional Australians, we saw many coalition funded projects come to completion. As well, we saved many projects from Labor's funding cuts. The $670 million coalition funded Rookwood Weir was officially opened and has begun to provide much-needed water to agriculture in Central Queensland.”
“These are the hardworking Australians who ask for little but give so much. They are the backbone of our communities and the very reason this country is as resilient as it is today. Over the past three years, these Australians have borne the brunt of a deepening cost-of-living crisis. They've watched as their grocery bills climbed, their electricity costs soared and their hopes of homeownership drifted further out of reach. To every battler, every family doing it tough and every person who put their faith in me: I will not let you down. I will hold this government accountable. I will fight for you every single day. It is the greatest privilege to represent Capricornia in this parliament, and it was also an honour to serve as the shadow assistant minister for manufacturing during the 47th Parliament.”
“Your commitment to assisting the people of Capricornia throughout the last term and the extraordinary effort you put in during the campaign did not go unnoticed. I also say a huge thank you to all those who financially contributed to my campaign and helped out in any way they could. I thank my federal parliamentary colleagues for their unwavering support, including former Leader of the Opposition Peter Dutton and Leader of the Nationals and member for Maranoa David Littleproud. A special thank you to Senator Matthew Canavan and his team for their unwavering support and friendship, as always. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the quiet Australians who placed their trust in me once again: the small-business owners, the mums and dads, the coalminers, the farmers and the retirees.”
“I'd like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt thanks to all involved. Firstly, to my family—Jessica, Tim, Fitzwilliam, Kirstin and my mum, Gloria: thank you. Your love and support not just during the election but throughout the last 12 years has been a constant source of strength for me. To my incredible LNP supporters and volunteers, especially our tireless booth captains and their teams: thank you. Your dedication not just during the election campaign but year after year at markets and community stalls has been absolutely invaluable. I also want to extend my deepest thanks to my campaign manager, Ron Carige; our treasurer, Anne Carige; and secretary Tom Birkbeck. To my hardworking staff—Dannielle Martin, Lauren Clein, Ben Springhall, Megan Kerr, Nicole Kamp, Laurie Atlas and Amiee Ford: thank you.”
“It's an incredible privilege to be able to return to Canberra and rise in the 48th Parliament of Australia, having been re-elected, once again, for an historic fifth term as the federal member for Capricornia. Almost 12 years ago I stood to deliver my maiden speech as the new member for Capricornia. Today, as I rise to speak in the 48th Parliament, it is still the greatest honour of my life to represent my community, fighting every day with the same passion and determination I've carried for over a decade. When I reflect on the recent election campaign, I'm reminded of the tireless dedication of my volunteers, friends, family and staff. Their hard work, loyalty and belief in me and the National Party made all the difference. Without them, the road to re-election would be so much steeper. I'm deeply grateful for their unwavering support.”
“I'd also like to thank our wonderful secretariat for their professionalism and keeping the team on track during our inquiry.”
“It supports farmers, creates jobs, strengthens regional communities and ensures that Australian products remain at the forefront of the global market. This report provides a road map for strengthening Australia's food and beverage manufacturing sector. By implementing these recommendations, we can unlock the industry's full potential, create more high-value products, support regional development and enhance the health and wellbeing of Australians. Finally, I'd like to thank our committee's chair, the member for McEwen. As he previously said, it was a really great committee. We enjoyed it as well as doing the work. I'd like to thank our fellow committee members from both sides of politics. We had a really great team, I must say.”
“This approach would ensure that consumers have access to the information they need while allowing businesses to remain agile and competitive in an evolving marketplace. Finally, the inquiry examined workforce challenges in food and beverage manufacturing. The sector struggles with an ageing workforce, skills shortages and a lack of awareness among young people about career opportunities in the industry. To address this, the committee recommends targeted training programs, better alignment between education and industry needs, and reforms to skilled migration programs to support businesses facing labour shortages. A strong talent pipeline is essential to fostering innovation, ensuring product quality and safety, and driving sustainable growth. The food and beverage manufacturing industry is an essential part of Australia's identity.”
“Developing strategically placed manufacturing facilities, particularly in northern Australia, could strengthen regional economies, reduce food transport costs and increase food security in remote communities. Such investments would not only create jobs but also support sustainable regional development and improve resilience in our food supply chains. Labelling is another issue addressed in the report. Submitters raised concerns about inconsistent regulations and frequent changes to labelling requirements, which create unnecessary costs for businesses. The committee recommends supporting digitisation and innovation in labelling, such as the use of QR codes to provide detailed product information while reducing compliance burdens on manufacturers.”
“Unlike their counterparts in the wine industry, who benefit from a more favourable taxation structure, Australian distillers face some of the highest spirit taxes in the world. The report highlights that reforming this taxation system is crucial to ensuring the survival and success of small distilleries, which creates jobs, supports regional economies and showcases Australians' craftsmanship on the global stage. Another key focus of the report is ensuring regional communities benefit from food and beverage manufacturing. This sector is a significant employer in regional Australia, with nearly half of all jobs in meat, sugar, confectionery and beverage manufacturing located outside of capital cities.”
“In response, the committee recommends the establishment of 'Spirits Australia', a dedicated industry body similar to Wine Australia to support the growth and international success of Australian distillers. The spirits sector contributes $15.5 billion to the economy and supports over 100,000 jobs, yet it lacks the same level of government support as other beverage industries. Addressing this imbalance will help Australian spirit manufacturers thrive both domestically and internationally. However, the committee also heard that Australia's excise tax system is placing an unsustainable burden on small distillers. The high rate of excise duty on spirits makes it incredibly difficult for small and emerging businesses to compete, stifling innovation and restricting their ability to grow.”
“It is the largest manufacturing sector in the country, contributing billions of dollars annually and supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs. This industry adds immense value to our agriculture products, ensuring that Australia is not just a supplier of raw materials but a global leader in high-quality, innovative food production. Strengthening this sector means strengthening our entire economy. The report makes 23 recommendations to take advantage of these opportunities. One of the major areas of concern raised during the inquiry was the taxation system for alcohol manufacturers, with 40 per cent of submissions coming from this sector.”
“by leave—I rise today to speak on the industry, science and resources committee's report into food and beverage manufacturing, titled Food f or t hought . This report delves into the vital role that food and beverage manufacturing plays in Australia's economy, its connection to our world-class agriculture sector and the opportunities that lie ahead to strengthen and grow the industry. Australia is known for producing some of the highest quality food and beverages in the world. Our farmers supply top-tier raw materials, and our manufacturers turn them into world-class products that are enjoyed both domestically and internationally. Food and beverage manufacturing is a significant part of the Australian economy.”
“My question is to the Minister for the Environment and Water. With the Labor governments of New South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia actively extending the life of coal-fired power stations, can the minister confirm how many coalmining approvals she has approved in this term of government?”
“That's why I successfully fought to secure $20 million in federal funding to redevelop the Keppel Bay Sailing Club into a state-of-the-art facility that will benefit locals, businesses and visitors alike.”
“The Keppel Bay Sailing Club has been a pillar of the Yeppoon community for more than six decades. Since its establishment in 1957, it has been more than just a sailing club; it has been a place where locals come together, where young people discover their passion for the ocean and where the Capricorn Coast has built a reputation for producing some of Australia's finest sailors. But, as our region continues to grow both in population and as a tourist destination, it became clear that this institution needed to evolve to meet the demands of the future. The club had outgrown its facilities, and there was a real opportunity to create a world-class venue that would not only serve our local sailing community but also drive economic growth and give new opportunities to the Capricorn Coast.”
“And, given all we've seen, can Australians afford another three years of Labor's economic failures and social division? The answer is clear: it's time to restore confidence in our economy it's time for a government that gets out of people's way and allows Australians the freedom to succeed, and, most importantly, it's time for a return to strong, decisive leadership that puts Australians first. The coalition have the plan, the experience and the vision to get our country back on track and ensure a brighter, more prosperous future for all. This is our promise to the people of Capricornia. This is our promise to regional Australia, and this is our commitment to getting our country back on track.”
“At the same time, we'll make our communities safer by cracking down on violent crime committed by noncitizens, strengthening our defence and border security, and enhancing online safety measures to protect children. A strong and reliable healthcare system is essential for every Australian, and we would deliver it by increasing funding for GPs, boosting bulk-billing rates and expanding Medicare-subsidised mental health services. Under our leadership, health care will be more accessible, ensuring that no-one is left behind when they need medical care. Right now, Australians across the country are asking important questions: are you better off today than you were 2½ years ago? Do you feel safer and more secure? Is our country more united than it was before?”
“By cutting unnecessary taxes, slashing red tape and reducing the stranglehold of union bosses over small businesses, we will create an environment where families and businesses can thrive. Cheaper energy is also a key priority, and we will deliver it through a balanced mix of power sources. Housing affordability has become a crisis under Labor, but we have a plan to turn things around. We will fund the critical infrastructure needed to support new housing developments; help first home buyers enter the market; restrict foreign investors, who are driving up prices; and restore a sustainable migration intake to ensure housing demand does not outpace supply.”
“Instead of this government offering transparency or real solutions, all we get from Labor is denial, spin and empty promises. The coalition are committed to strengthening our economy and getting our country back on track. After years of economic mismanagement under Labor, Australian families, businesses and communities need real leadership and a government that delivers results, not more spin and broken promises. Our plan is focused on restoring confidence, easing cost-of-living pressures and ensuring a better future for all Australians. We will bring inflation under control by putting an end to wasteful government spending that continues to fuel price rises.”
“The reality is that Labor's bureaucratic blowout is out of control. Since coming into office, they have expanded the Public Service by an astonishing 20 per cent, with wages surging by 11 per cent, all while ordinary Australians are being told to tighten their belts. It's time for the Labor government to explain why they're on this bureaucratic binge while ordinary people bear the burden. We have been clear that the Public Service must be efficient, effective and sustainable. For every new Public Service job, hardworking Australians face higher taxes to foot the bill. The coalition will sensibly consolidate the Public Service, protecting essential services while making smart reductions where there's duplication or excess capacity. It's about ensuring value for taxpayers, not more waste.”
“Independent analysis from the Parliamentary Budget Office has now revealed a massive $11.1 billion black hole in Labor's budget, further exposing their economic mismanagement. While Labor claims it will maintain the Public Service at its current level of 209,150 employees, they have failed to budget for the cost, leaving a multibillion-dollar shortfall over the next four years. This is yet another example of their reckless spending and inability to properly manage taxpayers' dollars. So how exactly will Labor fill this gap? Will they hit hardworking Australians with more taxes, making life even more expensive for families already struggling with the cost-of-living crisis? Or will they cut vital frontline services, further neglecting the very people who rely on government support the most?”
“Labor's approach has been to throw billions at bandaid solutions rather than addressing the root cause of inflation. Handouts and subsidies may provide short-term relief, but they do nothing to fix the long-term structural issues that are driving up costs. While roads in my electorate were left to crumble from funding cuts and lives were lost on the Bruce Highway, Labor splashed $450 million on a failed referendum that did nothing but divide communities. Just months out from an election, billions of dollars were finally found for the Bruce Highway in a last-ditch attempt to appease disgruntled voters. The Labor lies and the incompetence of this government don't stop there.”