Jo Briskey
Maribyrnong · Australian Labor Party · Australia
“This Saturday night, the mighty Melbourne Vixens are back in another grand final, their fifth in seven years, and we're going back to back. Five of these women also put on the green and gold for the Australian Diamonds, arguably the most successful national team our country has produced. But here's what gets me.”
“Yesterday, that ask was again answered in another large step forward—the biggest expansion of paid parental leave since Labor created the scheme. This week, paid parental leave in Australia is now a full six months, 26 weeks, paid at a higher rate at just over $1,000 a week, with income limits lifted so more families qualify.”
“Superannuation now lands with every payday instead of months behind, which protects workers least able to absorb being shortchanged. Every one of those changes helps on its own, but, arriving all at once, they take the real pressure off working families. That is real change delivered.”
“Before I came into this place, I spent about just over five years as the CEO of the Parenthood, Australia's peak advocacy body for parents and carers. Our work focused on how we make Australia the best place in the world to be a parent. I spent many hours in this building helping amplify the voices of parents and the needs that they had.”
“But this government is changing it. We're funding pay rises for female dominated sectors like aged care and early childhood education, and the gender pay gap is the lowest it's ever been. This week, paid parental leave grew to 26 weeks, with super paid on top, so that raising a child no longer costs a woman her career or her retirement.”
“When it began in 2011, it gave families 18 weeks, and I watched it change households. I also watched how quickly it could be put at risk. In 2015, parents who used the scheme exactly as it was designed got branded double dippers by those opposite, as if caring for a newborn were a rort.”
The complete record
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“My question is to the Minister for Health and Ageing. How is the Albanese Labor government making it easier for Australians to see a bulk-billing GP after a decade of cuts and neglect, how do Australians find information about seeing a GP for free and what information has been provided about alternative policies?”
“They're asking for a system that protects their contributions, a system that does not tilt towards those already at the very top and a system that keeps faith with the promise made many decades ago: if you work hard and contribute, you will retire with dignity. This legislation honours that promise. It reflects Labor's values, spreading opportunity, strengthening security and backing working people. It ensures that the benefits of superannuation are better targeted, better balanced, better for everyone—better and fairer from top to bottom. That's why I commend these bills to the House.”
“Each proposal chips away at the same principle—that superannuation exists to provide income in retirement. Labor rejects that erosion. We believe that superannuation is a pillar of both personal dignity and national strength. It reduces pressure on the age pension, it funds long-term infrastructure investment, it gives millions of Australians a direct stake in our economy and it gives individuals independence in retirement. These bills strengthen that pillar. They say clearly that superannuation concessions are designed to support retirement income, not unlimited tax preferred wealth accumulation. They ensure sustainability, they improve fairness and they protect the integrity of the system for future generations. When I speak to people in Maribyrnong, they're not asking for special treatment; they're asking for fairness.”
“For many people facing immediate hardship, it was a difficult but understandable decision, but the long-term cost is real. More than half a million Australians reportedly withdrew their balances to zero. For young workers especially, that means decades of compound growth lost. That means lower retirement savings and higher reliance on the age pension in the future. Superannuation is not a rainy-day account; it is long-term savings designed to compound over a lifetime. When we treat it casually, the consequences echo for decades. Even now, there are calls to weaken the system. There have been suggestions of cutting the superannuation guarantee and proposals to allow large withdrawals for housing deposits—arguments to dilute the objective of super.”
“The history of superannuation in this country is a history of Labor building it and those opposite opposing it. When compulsory super was introduced, it was opposed. When the superannuation guarantee was increased, it was opposed. In 1996, the Howard government froze the scheduled increases. In 2014, the Abbott government froze them again, arguing that money would flow into wages instead. Shock, horror, it didn't. Wages did not rise to compensate, but retirement balances were permanently lower. Independent analysis at the time estimated that freeze cost the average worker thousands of dollars in retirement savings. Then, during the pandemic, the early access scheme allowed Australians to withdraw up to $20,000 from their super. Around three million Australians accessed the scheme; approximately $38 billion was withdrawn.”
“There is another critical reform embedded in our broader superannuation agenda: payday super. Too many workers have been short-changed. Unpaid super is not a technical glitch; it is wage theft by another name. In Maribyrnong alone, more than 23,000 workers were underpaid super in a single year, losing around $35 million from their retirement savings. That is $35 million that should have been compounding for their future. By aligning super payments with wages, payday super closes the loopholes that have allowed contributions to be delayed, avoided or quietly lost. It strengthens enforcement, it restores trust and it ensures that what workers earn is what they actually receive. There has been opposition to these reforms. This is not new.”
“In Maribyrnong, more than 7,600 low-income earners are expected to benefit from these changes, and nearly 70 per cent of those payments will go to women. That matters, because the gender super gap remains one of the most persistent economic inequalities in Australia. It reflects a lifetime of structural disadvantage, lower average wages, higher rates of part-time work, career interruptions for caring responsibilities and historical inequities in pay. Women retire with significantly less super on average than men. That is not a reflection of effort; it is a reflection of inequality. The government is addressing this directly through LISTO, through paying super on paid parental leave, through closing the gender pay gap and through strengthening secure work. Each measure matters on its own, but together they begin to shift the trajectory.”
“This bill ensures that the public support is directed where it makes the greatest difference. That includes strengthening support at the other end of the income scale, because this is about making sure our system is not only sustainable but fairer from top to bottom. The low-income superannuation tax offset, LISTO, exists to ensure that low-income workers do not pay more tax on their super contributions than they do on their wages. Under this reform, the maximum LISTO payment will increase from $500 to $810. The income threshold will rise to $45,000 from July 2027. That means there's more support for people who need it most. These are not abstract policy adjustments; they are tangible improvements in the retirement savings of real people.”
“So, for 99.5 per cent of Australians, there's no change at all. In my electorate of Maribyrnong, the numbers tell a very clear story. The median super balance is about $69,000. For residents approaching retirement, those in their 50s, the median is approximately $192,600. These are hardworking people: retail workers, carers, teachers, tradespeople, office staff and small-business employees. They have contributed consistently over decades. They are not sitting on multimillion dollar balances. They are building what they can—often while juggling mortgages, rent, school fees, caring responsibilities and rising living costs. They deserve a system that protects their savings, not one that directs disproportionate concessions to accounts holding more than most Australians will ever accumulate in total wealth.”
“From 2026-27, earnings on superannuation balances between $3 million and $10 million will be taxed at up to 30 per cent. Earnings on balances above $10 million will be taxed at up to 40 per cent. Even at those rates, super remains concessionally taxed—below the top marginal income tax rate. These are still concessions. They are simply better targeted. It is critical to say clearly that nothing changes for the overwhelming majority of Australians. Balances below $3 million will continue to have earnings taxed at up to 15 per cent, which is exactly as it is now, but thresholds will be indexed over time. The people affected by this change represent less than half of one per cent of Australians with superannuation accounts at the $3 million threshold and less than one-tenth of one per cent at the higher threshold.”
“Superannuation tax concessions now cost the budget more than $60 billion every year. Treasury projections show that without reform that figure will overtake spending on the age pension within two decades, and those concessions are not evenly distributed. About 38 per cent of super earnings tax concessions flow to the top 10 per cent of income earners, and 54 per cent flow to the top 20 per cent. That means more than half the benefit goes to the highest earners. Meanwhile, millions of Australians with modest balances—the very people this system was designed to serve—receive only a small share. That's not balance, that's not fairness, and that is not sustainable. A system built to deliver dignity in retirement should not become a vehicle for a very large tax preferred wealth accumulation at the top end. This bill restores that balance.”
“This is not radical; it is the next chapter in a proud story. Since coming into office, this government has treated superannuation as the national asset it is. We lifted the superannuation guarantee to 12 per cent, which delivered on what working Australians were promised. We enshrined the objective of super in law to ensure it remains focused on providing income in retirement—not being distorted for other purposes. We legislated superannuation on paid parental leave, because women should not be penalised in retirement for having children, and we are delivering payday super so workers receive their contributions at the same time as their wages. This ends the quiet scandal of unpaid super that has cost Australians billions. This bill continues that work, but let us be honest about why it's necessary.”
“Labor believed working Australians deserved better than that, so, in partnership with the union movement, Labor built a system that changed the country. We made retirement savings a right, not a privilege. We embedded the principle that every worker, no matter their industry or income, should accumulate savings in their own name. It was one of the great nation-building reforms of modern Australia. Like all great reforms, it must be maintained, protected, and, when necessary, refined. That is what this bill does. It strengthens the integrity of the system and better targets concessions so they flow where they are actually needed. It lifts support for low-income workers and ensures the long-term sustainability of a system that is now one of the largest pools of retirement savings in the world.”
“This legislation is about a promise. It's about a promise that, after a lifetime of work and after years of showing up, contributing, caring for your family, volunteering in your community and paying your taxes, you retire with dignity—not just scraping by and not just surviving, but secure, independent and able to enjoy the years you've earned. That promise has a name. It's called superannuation, and it exists because Labor made it law. Before compulsory superannuation, retirement security in this country was not universal. It was selective. If you were in the right job with the right employer or born into the right circumstances, you might retire comfortably. If you weren't, you retired almost entirely on the age pension.”
“His determination carried him to the four extreme points of Australia, almost 10,000 kilometres over three years, and earlier this year he conquered Taking on Tassie, riding 894 kilometres in just 28 days. Across more than 210 days in the saddle, Tommy has transformed personal adversity into national advocacy. This morning, it was a privilege to ride alongside Tommy and his crew to reach the final stretch up to Parliament House. Watching him crest the hill surrounded by his supporters, including his proud parents, was a powerful reminder of what persistence, courage and community can achieve. I want to thank the Stroke Foundation for their expertise and vital work supporting families and advancing research. Tommy, you're an inspiration to us all. Well done, mate.”
“I am proud to introduce a true Maribyrnong legend to this House, Tommy Quick, who's up there in the gallery. At just 12 years old, Tommy's life changed in an instant when he suffered a stroke. Whilst most kids his age were focused on school and sport, Tommy was relearning how to walk, how to speak, how to simply exist in his own body. Childhood stroke is rare, but it is real, and for Tommy its impacts are lifelong. But what defines Tommy is not his stroke; it is his determination, and that is what we are celebrating today. In 2017, Tommy climbed onto a recumbent trike. That moment lit a fire. Over nearly a decade, he has ridden an extraordinary 156,000 kilometres across our country—not for glory but to demand answers to one simple question: why does childhood stroke happen?”
“They don't have a plan. We are the ones with a national small business strategy. We are the ones that have put the small business portfolio into cabinet. We are the ones helping small and medium businesses compete and win more government contracts through the Buy Australian Plan. We are the ones helping start-ups and small businesses through our Industry Growth Program. We don't just stand with small businesses; we invest in them, we consult with them and we respect them enough to provide actual policy instead of just complaining. This is a ridiculous motion, and I stand against it.”
“We've delivered tax cuts that benefit 1.5 million sole traders. The former shadow treasurer, now Leader of the Opposition, called these tax cuts 'a cruel hoax'. I'd invite him to come to my electorate and tell the sole trader that more money in their pocket is a hoax. But, more importantly, he should tell them that it was under his direction the coalition voted against these very tax cuts. On the topic of tax cuts, a further tax cut is coming later this year and another one next year—all thanks to this Labor government. The opposition love to claim they are standing with small business, but, in reality, they're simply standing around complaining. How do we know this? You just have to look at their extensive plan on how they will stand with Australian small businesses—but you don't have to look too hard because you'll be wasting your time.”
“That's why there is a 12-month delay for casual conversion in small business, a 12-month delay in the right to disconnect and a voluntary wage compliance code so honest employers aren't treated like criminals for administrative errors. We've invested over $20 million into the Fair Work Ombudsman's employer advisory service. We are giving small businesses the HR support that they can't afford on their own, support the previous government never bothered to provide. Just to be clear, when those opposite stand up and say they want to repeal our industrial relations reform—they use small-business owners to advance this position—what they're really doing is trying to screw over the working people, usually those on low incomes. The motion says we've abandoned small businesses. Really? We've legislated the instant asset write-off extension.”
“It must be odd for the members opposite to see a government that isn't just talking about power bills, but is actually doing something—helping small businesses buy the kit to lower them permanently—because we know and the experts know that the lowest-cost form of energy is renewable. Now, to the 'confusion and compliance' claim regarding industrial relations—the member for Goldstein loves a good scare campaign. He isn't one who always deals in facts and—surprise, surprise—he has conveniently forgotten the carve-outs we negotiated with the sector. We didn't just barge in; we didn't force change. We listened to groups like COSBOA.”
“That's rich coming from a former government that had 22 different energy policies and delivered exactly zero of them; a former government that watched energy bills skyrocket and, instead of trying to bring them down, passed legislation to hide the reporting from the very small businesses they are now claiming to care so much about. But the member for Goldstein need not worry, because Labor is cleaning up after their decade of delay and denial. Wholesale electricity prices fell by a third last quarter. We've delivered $56.7 million in energy efficiency grants and there's the Cheaper Home Batteries Program, which has seen installations by more than 2,800 small businesses in the first six months of the program.”
“What a motion! It's not surprising that this has come from the member for Goldstein. He's always on hand to complain about the issues that have come as a direct result of his party's failed decade in government. They're good at the rhetoric, and they're good at the manufactured outrage. The member talks about crushing confidence, but let's not forget where our economy was, where our energy grid was, and where our small businesses were when Labor came to government in 2022. Our economy was in freefall, our energy grid was neglected and small businesses were crying out for help. So those opposite shouldn't be talking about crushing confidence, because they left a trail of destruction on their way out the door. The motion claims our energy policies are driving up bills.”
“I want to thank them and I want to thank Minister Jess Walsh and Minister Clare and the state and territory education ministers for listening to our educators and standing shoulder to shoulder with them to ban this poor practice. This is a historic moment. It shows the power of collective action and the power that our educators have to hold providers accountable to ensure that every child gets the safe, quality education and care they deserve. Our educators fought for this and, under a Labor government, they won.”
“Last week we saw a huge win for safety and quality in our early childhood sector. For too long, a dangerous loophole known as under-the-roof-ratios has allowed some providers to game the system. At its worst, they counted staff in the office or the kitchen rather than educators actively supervising children. It was unsafe. It was bad practice. And I'm thrilled to say it's coming to an end. This is a massive victory for children, for Australian parents and, most importantly, our early childhood educators. But this win didn't happen by accident. It happened because thousands of United Workers Union educators stood up and demanded better. These incredible educators shared their stories through the media, they exposed systemic risks through EarlyEd Quality Check and they sent over 2,000 messages to ACECQA demanding change.”
“We recognise people are under pressure, and we're doing something about it. We will continue delivering responsible cost-of-living relief while strengthening the economy and building a more resilient future because Australians deserve practical support that makes a difference, not political theatre, and that is exactly what this government will continue to deliver.”
“The recent uptick is unwelcome, but the Reserve Bank has made clear that stronger private demand, not fiscal recklessness, has been the key difference in forecasts. Public demand was not the driver. That is why we remain focused on the right priorities, bringing inflation down further, uplifting productivity and navigating global uncertainty. It stands in stark contrast to the opposition. They speak about cost of living but voted against cheaper early learning. They opposed energy bill relief. They opposed measures to lift wages. They offer megaphones and slogans but no plans. You cannot fight inflation with a megaphone and a wish list. You fight it with discipline, targeted support and a clear economic strategy. Australians voted for higher living standards, higher wages, and secure, well-paid jobs.”
“Cutting student debt by 20 per cent delivered immediate cost-of-living relief to millions without driving inflation. We've strengthened the social safety net for those on low and fixed incomes. Back-to-back increases to rent assistance are helping around a million households. Higher social security payments are supporting more than 1.1 million Australians. We're extending parenting payment (single) so tens of thousands of single parents can receive support for longer. When it comes to tax reform, we are delivering three tax cuts for every Australian taxpayer: one already delivered, one on its way this year and another next, with more than 14 million Australians benefiting thus far. Inflation doesn't always moderate in a straight line. We've seen that globally.”
“We focused on where families feel it most: health, education and essential costs. We are restoring and strengthening Medicare after a decade of neglect. We have tripled the bulk-billing incentive so more Australians can see their GP for free. We capped PBS medicines at $25 a script, the lowest it's been in decades. We are training more doctors and nurses. It is affordable, accessible health care so Australians no longer have to decide between a check-up and the bill at the checkout counter. We are delivering affordable early learning and expanding paid parental leave. We are backing increases to minimum and award wages so working Australians can earn more and keep more of what they earn. We've also delivered practical relief while investing in productivity. Fee-free TAFE is helping Australians retrain in areas our economy needs.”
“We inherited large deficits and $1 trillion of Liberal debt, and there was no serious plan to deal with any of it. Today, inflation remains higher than we would like and has done for longer than we would like, but it is much lower than what we inherited. Underlying inflation has fallen significantly, real wages have been growing, unemployment remains low, participation is near record high, business investment is strengthening, debt is down and the budget is in much better shape. That progress didn't happen by accident; it happened because this government made responsible choices—choices that aimed to ease pressure without making inflation worse. That is why our approach has been disciplined and targeted, providing real relief without adding to inflationary pressure.”
“I thank the member for Fowler for bringing forward this motion because on her main point we agree; Australian households are under pressure. This is something the government has always acknowledged and has been central to our economic management since coming to office. Across my electorate, I hear from families and older residents who are feeling the weight of cost-of-living pressures. They don't need to be told times are tough; they live it every day when they open a bill or fill up their car. But what Australians also deserve is the full picture, not selective snapshots, not economic amnesia and certainly not sensationalist headlines that ignore the real reasons we got to this point. When we came to office, inflation was 6.1 per cent and rising. Underlying inflation was around five per cent. Wages were going backwards.”
“Fatima represents the many Australians who are benefiting not just from cheaper medicines reforms but from more bulk-billing services, our expanded network of Medicare urgent care clinics and the largest investment in women's health ever. Those opposite come in here and give speeches about government spending. While we return to our communities tonight to continue delivering for them, those opposite will stay behind for yet another party room meeting, where they'll attempt to knife their first female leader—and they want to lecture us about betrayal!”
“We have delivered real wage increases for the first time in a decade, benefiting our educators, our carers and our low-income workers. These are the everyday Australians those opposite say they are the champions of, yet they vote against protecting penalty rates and rail against superannuation reforms that benefit working people. On health care, we know the cost of living is tough. That's why we've made PBS medicines cheaper, freezing the price of PBS scripts at a maximum of $25—helping people like Fatima in my electorate, who is living with a neurological disorder. She's in her 30s, and the cost of her medicines has been a constant strain on her budget.”
“I think of Rhonda and Mark from Travancore in my electorate, who have embraced renewable energy in their household and are now reaping the rewards: cheaper energy prices. Those opposite may not want to talk about the past, but what about the future? Their decade of denial was a betrayal of the futures of young Australians. By refusing to acknowledge the reality of climate change, they didn't just stall our economy; they risked our children's future. Now they want to double down on that betrayal with a nuclear fantasy that experts say is the most expensive way to generate power and won't be ready for decades. It's a recipe for higher bills and more delay. Well, young Australians cannot afford such reckless policies, Labor is delivering for working people.”
“They voted against it. Every single time we stand in this House to lower the bills of everyday Australians, they say no. They voted against the Energy Price Relief Plan. They voted against the caps on gas and coal prices. They talk about betrayal. But the fact that they can look into the eyes of struggling families and then go and vote against their bill relief is the ultimate betrayal. Our government is doing the heavy lifting to rebuild a grid that those opposite ignored for 10 years. We're acting on a suite of energy market reforms to make the market operate more efficiently. We're investing in the renewable revolution. We've launched the Solar Share Offer and the Cheaper Home Batteries Program, ensuring that the benefits of the cheapest form of energy—renewables—are felt in the hip pocket of every Australian.”
“He presided over a chaotic, ideologically driven era where four gigawatts of dispatchable power left the grid, with only one measly gigawatt put in to replace it. Those opposite didn't just fail to plan; they planned to fail. We on this side of the chamber know that Australians are under pressure, and we're doing something about it—not 22 failed energy policies. Our plan is clear, and every member on this side of the chamber is united behind that plan. It's to deliver real cost-of-living relief whilst building Australia's future. Since coming into office, we haven't just talked about the problem; we've acted. We are fixing the mess they left behind. We delivered the most significant energy bill relief in our nation's history. And how did the coalition respond to this direct help for Australians they say they champion?”
“It is the height of hypocrisy for those opposite to come into this chamber and speak the word 'betrayal'. If we want to talk about betrayal, let's talk about the decade of economic wreckage left behind by those opposite. Let's talk about the decade of denial, delay and cuts that stalled our energy grid and gutted the essential services that Australian families rely on. The opposition stands here today pretending to be the champions of everyday Aussies, but there seems to be some amnesia from those opposite. Let's look at their record. Let's look at the man they are apparently going to elect to lead them, potentially, tomorrow: the member for Hume. Where was he in those decades of those lost years while he was the minister for energy? Under the member for Hume's watch, energy bills didn't just rise; they soared.”
“My question is to the Prime Minister. How is the Albanese Labor government showing leadership and delivering for Australians by strengthening Medicare, easing cost-of-living pressures and helping them to earn more and keep more of what they earn? How does this compare to other approaches to leadership in Australia?”
“There are some, including in this parliament, who have tarred this community with a broad brush of hatred and prejudice. Let me be clear: Labor rejects this rhetoric of division. You belong here. Your contributions are what make our nation strong, and we stand firm against attempts to diminish your identity as proud Australians. Instead, we celebrate the values of zakat, the selfless charity and empathy so many practise daily. Whether gathering at a local mosque for Taraweeh or preparing a crowded table for a first iftar, your faith enriches the fabric of our community. To every family in my electorate celebrating: may your fast be easy and your prayers be answered. From my family to yours, I wish you a blessed, healthy and happy month.”
“With the sighting of the crescent moon just one week away, I rise to send my warmest wishes to the Muslim communities across Maribyrnong as they prepare for the holy month of Ramadan. From the heart of Flemington and Kensington to the streets of Gladstone Park, and right across our electorate, Ramadan is a time of profound spiritual significance. It is a season of fasting, reflection and deep devotion. In Maribyrnong, our suburbs were built by immigrants. We don't just accept diversity; we celebrate it. Our Muslim community, our healthcare workers, our educators and our small-business owners are a vital, inseparable part of our story. However, we must also confront a harder reality. Too often the place of Muslim Australians in this country is unjustly questioned.”
“While Labor protects the worker, those opposite still treat retirement savings like a political piggy bank. After a decade of delaying the super guarantee, they now want to raid the nest eggs of young Australians for housing, forcing the next generation to choose between a roof today and poverty tomorrow. They remain the party of 'no', stuck in a worldview where the only way for a young person to get ahead is to rob themselves of their own future dignity. We are choosing action over obstruction. When the people of Maribyrnong go to work tomorrow, I want them to know that we are in their corner, ensuring that the system rewards their hard work. I commend the bill to the House.”
“Those opposite, when they aren't fighting with each other, spend their time claiming to be the champions of the regions, yet they left our wine producers struggling under an outdated cap and trade doors that were slammed shut. They talk a big game, but it takes a Labor government to actually deliver the practical tax relief and trade partnerships that keep family vineyards viable and our local supply chains moving. This bill doesn't reinvent the wheel; it ensures the wheel is turning for the worker. When we came to office, we inherited huge deficits and $1 trillion worth of Liberal debt. We know Australians are under pressure, which is why we're delivering two more tax cuts for every single taxpayer. The fundamental divide in this place is clear.”
“These groups are doing the heavy lifting in our civil society, and they deserve a tax system that encourages rather than hinders their growth. Finally, schedule 6 looks at our wine industry. I'll be the first to admit that you won't find many vineyards in the middle of Maribyrnong. I've checked! I've been up and down Maribyrnong River, and I can confirm we are definitely more suburban sprawl than Shiraz soil. While we aren't treading the grapes in the north-west, we are the ones that move them. Our logistics hubs and transport workers rely on a thriving wine sector. This bill increases the WET rebate cap to $400,000 to give producers breathing room. This complements our broader support, including the increase to the excise remission scheme cap and our two-year draught beer excise freeze to ease pressure on local pubs and clubs.”
“Whether it's advocating for better education, providing crisis support or championing equality, these organisations need every bit of support they can get. By granting DGR status, we are making it easier for everyday Australians to donate knowing that their contribution is tax deductible. We are supporting the helpers. From the restoration of St Patrick's Cathedral to the advocacy of Equality Australia, we are ensuring that the diversity of our communities' interests is reflected in our tax system. The removal of certain listings is also a necessary part of this process, ensuring that the system maintains its integrity and that tax concessions are only flowing to those who are actively delivering for the community.”
“When they see the world's best athletes competing here in 2029, they won't just be watching a game; they'll be seeing a future. So, yes, while it's a bit of a legislative sidestep to talk about rugby in a superannuation bill, it's a necessary one to ensure we remain a top tier destination for the major events that inspire our kids and boost our local economy. Schedule 5 deals with deductible gift recipient status, and this is where the bill truly touches the heart of my electorate. The not-for-profit sector is the backbone of our community. When the government can't be there, these organisations are there supporting the vulnerable, protecting our heritage and advocating for change. Throughout my career, I have seen the incredible power of people coming together to demand a better future for them and their communities.”
“We promise that Australia is a professional, reliable and welcoming host. Part of the entry price for hosting global tournaments involves providing targeted tax exemptions for the organisers. While it might seem like a strange inclusion in this specific debate, it is about the economic livelihood of our cities. In Melbourne sport is its own religion. We are the sporting capital of the country. We know that a major sporting event brings benefits that ripple out far beyond the stadium. It's the extra shifts for the casual workers at our local bars. It's the bookings for our small transport companies. It's the tourism dollars that help our suburban cafes thrive. Most importantly for me, it's about legacy. I think of the young girls playing at local clubs in Melbourne today.”
“This treaty strengthens our ability to fight tax evasion. It allows tax authorities to exchange information and assist in collecting debts. It's a clear message from this government that, if you do business here, you play by our rules and you pay your fair share. I want to turn to schedule 3. I must admit that at first glance it seems a little bit like the odd one out in a Treasury bill. We are debating the mechanics of superannuation and international tax treaties, and suddenly we find ourselves talking about scrums and lineouts. It's a bit weird to see the Rugby World Cup sitting alongside superannuation, but there is a very serious reason it is here. When we bid for major international events, like the 2027 men's and 2029 women's rugby world cups, we make promises to the world.”
“That is why schedule 4, the tax convention with Portugal, is more than just a diplomatic formality; it's a bridge. This is our first ever tax treaty with Portugal, and it will be our 47th overall. For the local businesses in my community looking to innovate, this treaty and others like it remove the hurdles. By reducing withholding tax rates on dividends, interest and royalties, we are making it cheaper for Australian businesses to access Portuguese capital and technology. We are also ensuring that people who earn income in both countries aren't being taxed twice on the same dollar. It's about fairness and it's about making Australia an attractive place for the kind of investment that creates jobs in the north-western suburbs of Melbourne that I represent. It also has a tough-on-tax edge.”
“You shouldn't be pressured into a financial decision by a pop-up ad or a payroll app. This bill creates a safe zone for onboarding. It ensures that the information workers see is regulated, transparent and focused on their best interests, not on someone's commission. We are keeping the focus on MySuper products—the gold standard of regulated, high-performing funds—and ensuring that if an advertisement does appear, under the strict exceptions we've carved out, it is accompanied by clear, unambiguous disclosures. This is about honesty. It is about ensuring that the choice a worker makes is an informed one, not one they're pushed into. I represent communities that are outward looking. We are home to people from every corner of the globe, and our local economy is increasingly connected to international markets.”
“If they open a new account every time they start a new contract, they are paying double, triple or quadruple administration fees and insurance premiums. For a young person in Moonee Ponds, losing just $100 a year to unnecessary fees can result in thousands of dollars lost by retirement age. From 1 July 2026, we are fixing this. We are making sure your super follows you so your savings stay in your pocket. Further to this, schedule 2 introduces a ban that is long overdue. For too long, some onboarding software providers have treated a new employee's first day as an advertising opportunity. They are being paid to push specific super products, often ones that are more profitable for the provider than they are for the worker. When you're starting a new job, you should be focused on your new responsibilities and your new team.”
“Currently, the onboarding process is a bit of a minefield—a worker starts a new job, and in the rush to get their payroll details sorted they inadvertently open a new superannuation account. They didn't mean to; they already had a fund they'd been contributing to for years, but the system wasn't designed to show them their stapled fund—the one that belongs to them—at the right time. By streamlining the choice-of-fund process, we are ensuring that a worker's existing fund is visible and accessible from day one. This isn't just about tidying up paperwork; it's about stopping the 'silent thief' of duplicate fees. In my community, we have a high population of young workers and people in the gig economy, who move between jobs frequently.”