Albanese Government – Speech in the House of Representatives 07/11/2024

November 7, 2024

Hansard 07/11/2024  House of Representatives

Mr LLEW O’BRIEN (Wide Bay) (13:38): Ask yourself if you feel better off compared to 2½ years ago. I bet the answer is no.

The answer is no because the Albanese Labor government’s bad decisions are crippling our country.

It’s no because of Labor’s homegrown inflation disaster.

It’s no because of Labor’s 18 per cent increase in the cost of living. It’s no because of Labor’s six quarters of negative growth, putting us in the longest per capita recession in 50 years.

It’s no because productivity has nosedived 6.3 per cent and we’re paying 23.5 per cent more in personal income tax.

It’s no because Labor promised a $275 reduction in our power bills, but instead electricity is up 22 per cent.

It’s no because gas is up 34 per cent, insurance is up 18 per cent and savings are down 10.2 per cent.

It’s no because Labor has given us the worst six months of business insolvencies on record. It’s no because mortgages have tripled.

It’s no because Labor wanted to divide our nation.

It’s no because Labor’s economic, energy, immigration and industrial relations policies are driving up inflation and stretching household budgets to breaking point. Under Labor, our living standards have plummeted.

It’s no because Labor has failed the Australian people.

WELCOME TO WIDE BAY

In the spirit of Australia, I acknowledge all citizens who contribute to making our nation the greatest on earth.

I acknowledge our defence force personnel, past, present, and emerging, for their service to our nation, and particularly those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the defence of Australia.

I also acknowledge the Australian taxpayers who, through their hard work, pay for the infrastructure, health, education, and emergency services that keep our proud nation healthy, safe, and prosperous.