Tracey Roberts
Pearce · Australian Labor Party · Australia
“For many years, Commonwealth incentive programs have played an important role in encouraging quality care, preventive health and better health outcomes across Australia. They support providers to deliver services that improve the health of patients while strengthening the broader health system.”
“It improves governance without disrupting patient care. It strengthens administration without changing the fundamental principles that underpin Medicare. That is sensible public policy. Good governments understand that effective reform often occurs incrementally.”
“And it strengthens the legislative foundations supporting one of Australia's most important public institutions. Deputy Speaker, Australians rightly value Medicare. They value a health system built on fairness, accessibility and quality care.”
“For healthcare providers, certainty matters. Doctors, nurses, allied health practitioners and practice managers already navigate an increasingly complex healthcare environment.”
“It requires legislation that keeps pace with changing models of care. It requires governance arrangements that provide certainty. And it requires accountability that gives both providers and patients confidence that public resources are being used appropriately. This Bill contributes to those objectives.”
“It benefits healthcare providers because expectations are more transparent and administrative arrangements are more consistent. Most importantly, it benefits patients because confidence in the integrity of the health system is strengthened. Public confidence matters. Australians expect that public funds are administered responsibly.”
The complete record
Every one of 231 lines we hold for Tracey Roberts, in date order, each linked to its source. Free to read, in full, without an account. Page 4 of 5.
“It means the acceleration of progress doesn't come at the cost of inclusion. It is also worth acknowledging the broader benefits to health and education. Telehealth, for example, is now a permanent part of our healthcare system. For people in semi-rural areas, reliable mobile coverage means being able to participate in remote consultations without interruption or lag. For students studying online, it means equal access to resources and lessons, not falling behind because the signal drops out. This reform is not simply about technology. It's about fairness. It's about recognising that connectivity is now fundamental to how Australians live, work and care for one another. I've often said that the mark of good policy is that it improves daily life—not in abstract ways but in real, tangible experiences. This legislation achieves that.”
“Their advocacy has helped shape this legislation. I want to recognise the many residents who have taken the time to send coverage maps, signal tests and photos showing where their reception cuts out. Those efforts have mattered. When we legislate something as significant as universal mobile access, it's not just a technical policy achievement; it's a testament to community determination. As we look to Australia's digital future, this bill is also a foundational piece of that journey. The move to 5G and beyond promises enormous benefits—faster data, smarter devices and new economic opportunities. But we can't leave anyone behind as we step into that future. A universal outdoor mobile obligation sets the base upon which all these new technologies can expand equitably.”
“Telecommunications companies will now be held to new performance standards, and they'll need to report transparently on how they meet these obligations. The Australian Communications and Media Authority will provide oversight, ensuring compliance isn't optional. This approach is balanced. It's not about burdening industry; it's about partnership. It's about ensuring that investment and innovation align with the national interest. I also want to acknowledge the many councils and regional alliances that have campaigned for this outcome. Local governments have long been the voice of their communities on this issue, mapping out coverage gaps, submitting funding proposals and advocating with persistence and purpose. In my time as mayor and now as a member of this parliament, I have seen firsthand the power of that collaboration.”
“Whether it's during bushfires, floods or road accidents, being able to make that emergency call can mean the difference between life and death. In regional and rural Australia and even along the edges of our cities, gaps in coverage can have devastating consequences. I've heard from volunteer firefighters, local SES teams and emergency coordinators who rely on residents to raise the alarm. Without coverage, that crucial window for response can close too soon. This legislation provides greater assurance that those critical calls will go through, wherever Australians are. It's about giving people peace of mind—to know that, if they break down on the highway or if a loved one gets into trouble, they can reach someone. You can't put a price on that kind of security. Of course, success depends on accountability and collaboration.”
“When a call drops, a sale can be lost. When coverage falters, operations stumble. Connectivity is not just about communication anymore; it's about productivity. I recently met a local builder who told me he couldn't update digital site logs from some parts of his development area, because the mobile signal kept vanishing. He said, 'Tracey, I can see the tower from here; I just can't get to it.' That frustration is so common it's almost become a punchline. But, for those running a business, it's serious. It affects livelihoods and planning, and ultimately it affects confidence in our local economy. Beyond business and daily life, this bill is also about safety. That's perhaps the most compelling reason why we must act. In every emergency, moments matter.”
“It's simply setting a baseline that ensures Australians can rely on a connection when it matters most. The Albanese Labor government's vision is absolutely clear: make Australia the most connected continent in the world. For residents in outer-metro and fast-growing fringe suburbs, this is game changing. It means that new estates will no longer be an afterthought when networks expand. For regions, it means that those long road stretches or sparsely populated areas get the recognition they deserve in national infrastructure planning. And, for small businesses, it means reliability. Across my electorate, small business is the lifeblood of our economy. From home based enterprises that rely on mobile internet to tradies using mobile payment systems and local cafes managing online orders, success depends on staying connected.”
“They're asking for the same basic level of service that many take for granted. They're asking for a fair go. And that's what this bill delivers. It's also important to remember that Australia's geography adds unique challenges. We are a vast nation, with enormous distances and dispersed populations. That's why the principle of universal access has always been part of our telecommunications story, from the early telephone networks through to broadband and now mobile coverage. This bill strengthens that legacy for the mobile era. Let's be very clear about what outdoor mobile coverage means in practical terms. It means being able to make a call or send a message when standing outside or inside your home, walking the dog at your local oval or pulling over safely on a remote highway. That's not asking for too much.”
“Every month, new suburbs and estates come online. The streets appear almost overnight and the houses fill quickly, yet, time and time again, the infrastructure lags behind. Mobile coverage is one of the most common issues raised when I meet with residents and local community groups. I remember speaking with a young family in one of our newer estates. They told me their home didn't have fixed-line internet connected yet, so they relied entirely on mobile data, but the signal was so weak that even downloading a banking app could take many minutes. They had considered moving because they needed to work from home and couldn't. That's not an isolated story; it's happening daily across countless new communities. The reality is that these families aren't asking for anything extravagant.”
“It creates a universal outdoor mobile obligation, a clear standard that says: every Australian should have reliable outdoor mobile coverage no matter where they live, work or travel. It enshrines the idea that reliable communications are not negotiable; they are part of the social and economic fabric of this country. What this legislation does is straightforward yet transformative. It ensures that telecommunications providers meet minimum standards for coverage in outdoor areas and that those standards apply consistently across all regions. It provides the framework for monitoring, for reporting and for accountability. It's not enough to rely on goodwill; Australians deserve guarantees. I represent one of the largest and fastest growing electorates in the country. Every week, new families move in to our northern suburbs.”
“We've all experienced that moment of frustration—standing outside our homes, phone in hand, waving it about trying to find that one bar of reception. For some of us, it's a nuisance. But for too many communities, that dropped call is more than an inconvenience; it's a barrier to living, working, learning and, sometimes, even surviving. When a tradie can't process an online payment on a job site, when a parent can't reach their child's school because the signal keeps dropping, when a driver on a regional road can't call for help after an accident, that's when the reality hits home. This is not a luxury; mobile coverage is essential infrastructure. It's how we connect, how we do business and how we stay safe. This bill finally gives that truth the weight it deserves in law.”
“The incorporated speech read as follows— I rise today to strongly support the Telecommunications Legislation Amendment (Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation) Bill 2025, a bill that will make a tangible, everyday difference for Australians in every electorate, especially for those living in our fast-growing suburbs and our outer-metro communities, like in my electorate of Pearce and the regions that keep this nation moving. I want to start, as I always do, with the people behind this policy—the families, the small-business owners and the community volunteers who have told me again and again that mobile coverage is not just about convenience anymore. It's about connection, about safety and about opportunity.”
“Employers must trust that compliance is simple, and employees must trust that their savings are safe, performing, and working for them. This Bill builds that trust. It delivers choice without confusion, transparency without complexity, and progress without compromise. Deputy Speaker, the Treasury Laws Amendment (Supporting Choice in Superannuation and Other Measures) Bill 2025 is good, balanced policy—practical reform that delivers fairness, efficiency, and accountability. It ensures our superannuation system remains robust, our tax laws remain modern, and our workplaces, businesses, and communities remain supported for generations to come. I commend the Bill to the House.”
“From compulsory super to today's digital and governance reforms, we have continued to evolve a world-class system that safeguards the dignity of all Australians. With this Bill, we reaffirm that commitment. Superannuation remains a powerful social and economic asset. Our $3.5 trillion national super pool doesn't just secure retirement; it underpins investment in infrastructure, innovation, and job creation—driving productivity and long-term national prosperity. By making the system fairer, simpler, and more transparent, this Bill strengthens both individual outcomes and economic resilience. When we get superannuation right, we don't just support retirees—we strengthen the entire economy. Trust is central to that success.”
“Even international sporting events and partnerships benefit from clearer, fairer tax arrangements that encourage investment and engagement. These changes are introduced responsibly, with a transition period to allow employers, funds, and regulators time to adapt systems. The Treasury and the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority will continue working closely with industry, unions, and stakeholders to ensure smooth implementation. This consultative approach—deliberate, collaborative, and grounded in fairness—is how good policy is made. Labor built Australia's superannuation system because we believe every worker deserves financial security in retirement—not just the wealthy or those with stable careers.”
“Together, these complementary measures strengthen Australia's economic and policy framework—supporting worker choice, simplifying compliance, boosting transparency, promoting international cooperation, and backing local industry. They reflect an Albanese Labor Government committed to practical, balanced reform that benefits people, businesses, and the broader economy alike. Deputy Speaker, this Bill is about more than technical amendments—it's about real outcomes for Australians. A young tradie no longer has to juggle multiple super accounts and can consolidate his savings across different employers. A nurse moving between hospitals can keep her trusted super fund. A local winemaker sees fairer support for their hard work.”
“Further, it updates the list of deductible gift recipients under the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 to reflect charitable organisations and initiatives that continue to deliver public benefit across our communities—ensuring that worthy causes remain supported through the generosity of Australians. Finally, it amends the A New Tax System (Wine Equalisation Tax) Act 1999 to increase the maximum producer rebate claimable by eligible wine producers from $350,000 to $400,000 per financial year. This provides tangible relief to small and medium winemakers, particularly in regional Australia, helping them reinvest, innovate, and remain competitive in both domestic and international markets.”
“It amends the Income Tax Assessment Act 1936 and the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 to provide income tax and withholding tax exemptions for World Rugby and its wholly owned subsidiaries in recognition of their temporary operations in Australia—a standard practice for international sporting events that supports our reputation as a global host nation. It also amends the International Tax Agreements Act 1953 to give legislative authority to the new Convention between Australia and the Portuguese Republic for the elimination of double taxation and the prevention of tax evasion and avoidance. This strengthens our international tax cooperation, promotes cross-border investment, and protects Australian and Portuguese businesses from being unfairly taxed twice on the same income.”
“It's a balanced approach one that delivers employee empowerment without adding to employer burden. The Bill also reinforces transparency and accountability within the superannuation sector. Funds will be required to give members more timely and accessible information about how their retirement savings are invested, what fees they're paying, and how their fund's returns compare to market benchmarks. A system built on openness and comparability helps Australians make informed decisions, holds funds to account, and lifts overall performance. Deputy Speaker, the Bill extends beyond superannuation reform to include several other important, practical measures.”
“These changes strengthen the right of employees to take their super fund with them—their fund for life—eliminating the problem of multiple accounts, duplicated fees, and unnecessary insurance costs. It also removes outdated clauses in industrial awards and enterprise agreements that restrict choice, ensuring that workers are never locked into underperforming or unsuitable default funds because of legacy arrangements. Importantly, this reform recognises the role of employers. By streamlining processes through the Australian Taxation Office's existing digital infrastructure, employers will have a simpler, clearer system to manage superannuation contributions. For small and medium businesses, this means less paperwork, fewer administrative headaches, and greater compliance certainty.”
“We must give workers greater flexibility, reduce duplication, and cut red tape while strengthening the safeguards that protect members' savings. This Bill delivers on that commitment. It amends the Superannuation Guarantee (Administration) Act 1992 to streamline the choice of superannuation fund process during employee onboarding, ensuring that workers can easily nominate their preferred fund when they start a new job. It further amends the Corporations Act 2001 to prohibit the advertising or promotion of specific superannuation products to new employees as part of that onboarding process—protecting workers from pressure or confusion at a time when they should simply be exercising informed choice.”
“I rise today in strong support of the Treasury Laws Amendment (Supporting Choice in Superannuation and Other Measures) Bill 2025—legislation that strengthens fairness, flexibility, and transparency across our superannuation and taxation frameworks. This Bill ensures that every Australian worker, no matter their industry, income, or employer, has genuine choice in how their retirement savings are managed and invested. Superannuation is, at its heart, a promise—a promise that after decades of hard work, contributing and saving, every Australian can retire with dignity, independence, and financial security. It stands as one of the great achievements of modern Australia and one of Labor's proudest legacies. Yet as our economy and workforce evolve, so too must our super system.”
“During my time as mayor, our 'connect Wanneroo' advocacy helped bring forward essential projects—the Yanchep Rail Extension, the Mitchell Freeway Extension, the dualling of Marmion Avenue, and now, as your federal member, the Alkimos Aquatic and Recreation Centre. I fully understand that the same level of urgency and determination is to be applied to health facilities across Pearce. So today, as we celebrate the new radiology service in Alkimos, the endometriosis clinic in Joondalup, the new health buildings at ECU, and the upcoming urgent care clinic in Yanchep—let's be proud, as these are fantastic additions on our journey towards a future hospital in Yanchep.”
“We live in a beautiful and thriving part of Western Australia, but when local children are turned away from sports clubs because there are simply too many players, it's a sign that our infrastructure—including health facilities—must keep up. Since my own diagnosis with multiple system atrophy, a rare neurological condition, I have become even more determined to fight for improved health access for every person in our electorate. I know what it means to rely on care that's close, comprehensive, and compassionate. That's why I will continue to fight tooth and nail to deliver the health services Pearce deserves.”
“Since becoming the federal member for Pearce, I have secured the government's support for urgent care clinics in Clarkson and Yanchep, and have worked closely and diligently with Edith Cowan University and Professor Cobie Rudd to help bring new medical facilities to Yanchep east and west. These projects are not just announcements—they are real, tangible commitments to meeting the growing needs of our community. As a longstanding member of the Joondalup Health Campus Community Board of Advice, I have seen firsthand the increasing demand on services. Even back in 2019, Premier Roger Cook—then Minister for Health—acknowledged that additional facilities were needed in the northern suburbs, particularly around Yanchep. The demand we see today confirms that urgency more than ever.”
“() (): The incorporated speech read as follows— Thank you Deputy Speaker Today I would like to celebrate some truly exciting steps forward for health services in the northern suburbs in my electorate of Pearce. Our community continues to grow at an incredible pace, and with that growth comes a clear and urgent need for more accessible, local health care. For years—including during my time as Mayor of the City of Wanneroo—I have been advocating for more local health services for our fast-growing suburbs. The communities of Two Rocks, Yanchep, Eglinton, Alkimos, Jindalee, and Butler make up one of the largest and fastest-growing regions in Australia. This enormous growth continues to place pressure on the Joondalup Health Campus, and with the large, expanding, east Wanneroo development now taking shape, that pressure will only increase.”
“And in the face of tragedy, they gave us hope. Let this parliament, and our nation, honour all those affected by this senseless act by rejecting hatred in every form. We must speak out against prejudice, build bridges between our communities, and protect the spirit of inclusion that defines our country. The powerful theme the Chabad community in Bondi have chosen for us all is: 'Light will win, a gathering of unity and remembrance.' May we remember those we lost not only in sorrow but in light and strength, and may their memory inspire us to create a safer, more compassionate and more united Australia.”
“We also stand with the Jewish community, who were the direct target of this appalling act of hate. You are not alone. We condemn antisemitism in all its forms, and we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to ensuring that every member of our community can live safely, freely, and without fear. I wish to pay special tribute to our first responders—the police officers, paramedics, emergency personnel, surf lifesaving volunteers and community members—who attended the scene with courage and compassion, racing towards unimaginable danger to protect others. Several police officers were injured in the line of duty, and we acknowledge their immense bravery and selfless service. Their actions embody the very best of who we are as Australians. In the face of hate, they responded with humanity. In the face of fear, they showed courage.”
“() (): The incorporated speech read as follows— It is with a heavy heart that I honour the memory of those whose lives were tragically taken in the horrific antisemitic terrorist attack at Bondi last month. This was an act of unimaginable hatred—one that struck at the heart of our values as Australians and as human beings. We mourn deeply for the 15 innocent lives lost, for the families and friends whose worlds have been shattered, and for all those whose lives will never be the same. To those families, we say: your pain is shared by an entire nation. We grieve with you, we stand beside you, and we will continue to hold your loved ones in our hearts. To the survivors who carry both visible and invisible scars: we commend your courage and resilience. Your determination to move forward, despite all you have endured, inspires us all.”
“But pride alone is not enough. We must act decisively to address the vulnerabilities faced by our migrant workers. This bill is a vital part of that action. In closing, the Migration Amendment (Combatting Migrant Exploitation) Bill 2025 is a practical and important reform that improves protections for migrant workers and enhances the integrity of our temporary skilled visa program and I commend this bill to the house. Thank you.”
“The information disclosed in the register strikes a careful balance between transparency and privacy. It provides key data needed by workers and the public without exposing sensitive or commercially confidential information. The Albanese Labor Government has consulted extensively with stakeholders including migrant advocacy groups, employers, and unions to ensure this legislation meets the needs of all parties involved. To my fellow parliamentarians, I say this: supporting this bill means affirming Australia's commitment to a migration system that is fair, transparent, and accountable. It means standing up against exploitation and ensuring our visa programs work as intended—to strengthen our economy and support workers' rights. Australia can be proud of its multicultural legacy and the migration system that supports it.”
“Those who exploit workers will be increasingly exposed and held accountable. It's also important to remember the broader human aspect of this issue. Every migrant worker who is exploited represents a failure of our system and a breach of our values. They deserve dignity, fairness, and safety. This bill supports their right to feel safe in their workplace and in our society. By reducing exploitation, we also foster better workforce stability and encourage skilled migrants to stay and contribute long-term, supporting Australia's future economic growth and social cohesion. In an age of digital transparency, governments must harness information to protect vulnerable people and strengthen systems. Opening this register is a proactive step that not only helps detect problems but prevents them from occurring in the first place.”
“Wanneroo provides 17.5% of Western Australia's total vegetable production, the vast majority being sweet corn and more than 90% of the tomatoes and avocadoes. It is also a key region for exporting vegetables such as carrots, cauliflower, and Chinese cabbage to Asia. From healthcare professionals in our hospitals to tradespeople building infrastructure, to market gardeners in our agricultural regions, migrants fill critical gaps. Their skills help businesses thrive and communities grow. But this relationship must be built on mutual respect and trust. Workers come here to contribute, not to be exploited or used as a means to bypass fair employment standards. This register also sends a strong message to employers: we value your compliance with laws that protect workers and our communities, and the government will be watching closely.”
“Moreover, this bill aligns perfectly with the Albanese Labor government's broader migration strategy, which aims to create a smarter, fairer visa system that better meets Australia's economic needs. As the Member for Pearce, I know firsthand the importance of skilled workers to our regions. Wanneroo is known as the "food bowl of the north" due to its long history of agriculture and its role as a significant food producer for the Perth region. Today, Wanneroo's agricultural industry is booming, feeding not only its local population, but also the greater region of Perth. In fact, Wanneroo contributes 38 per cent of the total gross value of agricultural commodities produced in Perth and accounts for a significant percentage of vegetables and fruits grown in the region.”
“It is a safeguard that enables workers to make informed decisions about their employment and shields them from exploitation. Abuse thrives in darkness; transparency shines a light and deters misconduct. This register also supports government oversight and enforcement. It offers regulators an up-to-date, publicly verifiable source of information, enhancing their ability to detect and prevent misuse of the visa system. It complements existing compliance tools, strengthening the integrity of our visa programs. By ensuring that only reputable employers can sponsor workers, we protect the reputation of Australia's migration system and help maintain community confidence. Australians rightly expect that migrant workers are being treated fairly and that the jobs filled by temporary skilled visa holders are genuine, necessary, and lawful.”
“This bill acknowledges those challenges and responds with a practical, accountable solution: a publicly accessible register of approved work sponsors. This register empowers migrant workers by providing an accessible tool to verify that their sponsoring employer is legitimate and compliant with regulatory standards. Too often, workers face uncertainty about who is sponsoring them and whether their jobs are genuine or safe. By publishing the name of each approved sponsor alongside their Australian Business Number, business postcode, number of sponsored workers, and the occupations being sponsored, the Department of Home Affairs offers transparency that was previously lacking. This is more than just a list—this is a shield for migrant workers.”
“From the earliest days of settlement to the diverse, vibrant communities we cherish today, migrants have played an indispensable role in shaping our identity and fuelling our economic success. The hardworking people who come to our shores bring with them skills, aspirations, and the hope for a better future—not just for themselves and their families but also for the communities that warmly welcome them. Yet, despite their contributions, too many migrant workers have been subject to exploitation and unfair treatment. The temporary skilled work visa program, while essential to meeting the needs of our economy, has at times been exploited by unscrupulous employers, leaving workers vulnerable and undermining the integrity of our migration system.”
“() (): The incorporated speech read as follows: Thank you, Deputy Speaker The Migration Amendment {Combatting Migrant Exploitation) Bill 2025 marks a significant and necessary advancement in strengthening our temporary skilled work visa program whilst protecting migrant workers who contribute so much to our nation. I am firmly in support of this bill and the progressive reforms it brings under the Albanese Labor government's migration strategy. This legislation represents a crucial step forward in strengthening protections for migrant workers and ensuring our temporary skilled work visa program operates with the highest standards of fairness, transparency, and accountability. Australia has long been a nation built on migration.”
“On behalf of my constituents and all Australians seeking skills and qualifications through VET to build fulfilling lives and careers, I commend this Bill to the House. Thank you.”
“Bills like this one are necessary to modernise the legal framework, ensuring ongoing, uninterrupted, and lawful delivery of programs. This Bill is part of the Albanese Labor Government's broader commitment to continual improvement and integrity in our public programs. It shows an attention to detail in governance—ensuring our systems are secure, compliant, and fit-for-purpose as they evolve. To conclude, the VET Student Loans {Miscellaneous Measures) Bill 2025 addresses an important technical gap with a practical, forward-looking solution. It safeguards sensitive student information, protects providers and government officers retrospectively, strengthens legal certainty, and supports students' access to vital vocational education and training.”
“It supports students on pathways leading to high-demand, skilled professions. These trades and careers—electricians, plumbers, carpenters, engineers, aged care workers, and many others—are the backbone of everyday life and critical to national productivity and innovation. Vocational education drives social mobility. It opens doors for individuals who might otherwise be excluded due to financial or geographic barriers. By enabling students to access education without upfront financial strain, VET Student Loans promote workforce participation, skill development, and economic inclusion. In addition, this Bill provides support to providers and governments by clarifying the law to align with current practices and technology. When legislation falls behind technological advancements or administrative practices, it creates risk and uncertainty.”
“At the same time, the privacy and security of personal information must be guarded carefully. In today's digital world, with growing concerns about data breaches and misuse of personal information, robust security measures are non-negotiable. This Bill balances those considerations—upholding administrative effectiveness, legal clarity, and data protection. It is also important to assure students and the public that this Bill does not change how students apply for loans. The current electronic Commonwealth Assistance Form, or eCAF, remains the user-friendly portal for applications, preserving ease of access as intended by the program's design. Beyond data handling, this legislation supports the foundational role vocational education plays in Australia's economy and society.”
“I want to make clear that there have been no complaints from students about TFN handling since the program started—it is an issue that has been well-managed with appropriate safeguards. Providers operate under stringent security controls, including strict use and disclosure provisions under the VET Student Loans Act, rigorous approval processes, and mandatory notification of any student-related data breaches. These safeguards protect student privacy and will continue under this Bill. Let me take a moment to highlight why this matter, while technical, is so vital. The TFN is not just a number; it is a key that unlocks equitable administration of the loans program and proper repayment tracking through the tax system. It ensures loan repayments are fair, timely, and tied to real income levels.”
“In response, DEWR acted decisively. Since early 2025, they implemented IT system upgrades to better safeguard this sensitive information. Now, TFNs are masked from providers in the student interfaces, and the transfer of TFNs is automated securely within government systems. This technical solution enhances security and privacy by limiting provider access to sensitive data. The Bill now formalises these improvements by retrospectively authorising providers' handling of TFNs from 1 January 2017 through to 30 September 2025. Retrospective authorisation is critical because it removes any doubt about the legality of past administration of TFNs, providing certainty to providers, government officers, and the department.”
“TFNs are fundamental because repayments of these loans happen through the tax system. The TFN links the student's loan obligations correctly to their tax records at the Australian Taxation Office. So, proper handling of these numbers is essential for accurate tracking and repayment. However, the Department's review revealed a gap. The 2016 legislation did not expressly authorise VET Student Loans providers to handle or manage students' TFNs. This was a significant issue because the previous VET FEE-HELP scheme—now replaced—was governed by the Higher Education Support Act 2003, which clearly permitted providers to manage TFNs within defined controls. This legislative ambiguity presented risks: providers managing TFNs without clear legal backing, exposing themselves, the department, and government officials to potential legal challenges.”
“This means students can focus on their studies without the immediate worry of tuition fees, and repay based on their income once they enter the workforce. It is an equitable, sustainable funding model that broadens access and supports lifelong learning. The Bill under discussion today tackles an issue that emerged during a review by the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR)—specifically, how students' tax file numbers, or TFNs, are handled by VET Student Loans providers during loan administration. Although it may seem technical or administrative, how this sensitive data is governed impacts student privacy, program integrity, and legal clarity for providers and government alike. Under the existing VET Student Loans Act 2016, students must submit their TFNs as part of the loan application.”
“Whether it is plumbing houses, engineering infrastructure, carpentry, automotive repairs, aged care, or information technology, VET supports a diverse range of professions essential for our nation. The accessibility of vocational education is critical. Many Australians choose Vocational Education and Training because it delivers hands-on education aligned with workforce needs. It provides opportunities for young people starting out, for mature-age learners looking to upskill or retrain, and for communities in regional and remote areas where options can be limited. The VET Student Loans program is an important part of this ecosystem. By offering income-contingent loans for eligible diploma-level courses and above, the program removes upfront financial barriers.”
“The incorporated speech read as follows— Thank you Deputy Speaker I am pleased to give my strong support for the VET Student Loans (Miscellaneous Measures) Bill 2025. While this Bill addresses a technical and legislative issue, its implications are far-reaching. This legislation not only resolves an important legal gap but also strengthens the foundation of Australia's vocational education and training system, which is crucial to our workforce and economy. Vocational Education and Training, or VET, is often described as a pathway—but it is so much more than that. It is the backbone of skilled employment and economic growth throughout Australia. From the suburbs to regional towns and cities, Vocational Education and Training delivers the practical skills that industries rely on every day.”
“Their work allows families to enjoy the coast with peace of mind. Beyond lifesaving, they promote fitness, discipline and leadership, teaching water safety and building confidence in youths. What unites athletes, firefighters, SES members and surf lifesavers is volunteering, which is our community backbone. Volunteers give selflessly and strengthen social bonds. Their efforts support mental health, inclusion and resilience in members, and they shape a caring and connected community. To every volunteer: your contribution is the foundation of our community's strength, spirit and generosity. Through sport, service and volunteering, the Pearce electorate stays a vibrant and caring community we proudly call home.”
“Equally valued are those who gave their best without trophies; the true spirit of sport is effort and participation. Every player, coach and volunteer strengthens community social fabric. Your involvement promotes wellbeing, builds friendships and creates lasting memories. As winter ends and summer approaches, attention shifts to community safety and enjoyment. Summer brings outdoor activities, beaches and festivals, but increased risk. We honour our volunteers who keep us safe, especially our bushfire brigades and SES members. Your bravery protects lives, homes and nature. With rising environmental challenges, your commitment is vital. I also acknowledge the three surf lifesaving clubs at my community beaches, and those around Australia. These volunteers patrol, rescue and educate the public, ensuring safety during summer.”
“I speak today with pride today to congratulate all Pearce winter sport groups on their seasons. The dedication, perseverance and sportsmanship shown by players, coaches volunteers and supporters is truly commendable. Each athlete and team help to build a vibrant sporting culture uniting our communities. Sport fosters team work, encourages healthy living and teaches resilience, respect and fair play. Beyond competition, family and friend support creates strong belonging and pride. To the championship winning teams and individuals, I offer warm congratulations. Your success reflects hours of training, sacrifice and commitment. You have brought pride to your clubs and inspired younger athletes. Your achievements set high standards for excellence and community spirit.”