Could add to inflation and living-cost pressure
Opponents argued the budget would pump more demand into the economy, pushing up inflation, taxes and everyday costs instead of easing pressure on working households.
Appropriation Bill (No. 1) 2023-2024
Current status
This bill became law on Jun 28th, 2023.
Policy area
Budget, tax & economy
What does this bill do?
Sets aside $146.174 billion from federal revenue for the Australian Government’s ordinary annual servicesThis means the normal running costs and recurring programs of government, not special or once-off spending. in 2023-24.
Why was it introduced?
The 2023-24 Budget left the government needing fresh authority to draw money from the Consolidated Revenue FundThis is the federal government fund that money is drawn from when Parliament authorises spending. for its ordinary annual servicesThis means the normal running costs and recurring programs of government, not special or once-off spending.. This bill provides that funding in the separate form the Constitution requires, covering existing programs, new budget measures, and urgent top-ups if scheduled amounts are missing or too low.
Broader context
Each year the Australian Government must follow the federal budget with separate appropriation laws so money can legally be drawn from the Consolidated Revenue FundThis is the federal government fund that money is drawn from when Parliament authorises spending. for ordinary annual servicesThis means the normal running costs and recurring programs of government, not special or once-off spending., including departments' running costs and administered payments. After the 2023-24 Budget was handed down on 9 May 2023, this bill supplied that authority for existing programs, new budget measures and urgent top-ups, then completed Parliament on 22 June 2023 before receiving Royal AssentThis is the final step that turns the bill into an Act after Parliament has passed it. on 28 June 2023.
Key criticism
The main criticism was that this budget spending package would worsen inflation and cost-of-living pressure while funding the wrong things, leaving households, small businesses and some regional communities worse off. That case was pushed mainly by Coalition speakers opposing the bill overall, while independent criticism was narrower and focused on weak long-term reform and consultation gaps rather than rejecting the bill outright.
Who supported it?
Hon Dr Jim Chalmers MP introduced this bill. It passed on the voices.
Introduced in House 09 May 2023
Passed House 15 June 2023
Passed Senate 22 June 2023
Became law 28 June 2023
Did it become law?
Yes
Became law 28 June 2023
Final passage
Passed without a counted vote
Members called out ‘aye’ or ‘no’ — no individual votes were recorded.
Passage speed
50 days
From introduction to the latest recorded parliamentary step
Meaning
What does this bill do?
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Sets aside $146.174 billion from federal revenue for the Australian Government’s ordinary annual servicesThis means the normal running costs and recurring programs of government, not special or once-off spending. in 2023-24.
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Lets non-corporate Australian Government departments use their departmental funding for their own operating costs.
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Lets non-corporate Australian Government departments spend administered funding on grants, benefits and other payments tied to each budget outcome.
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Lets the Commonwealth pay separate government bodies and Commonwealth companies the amounts listed for them to use for their own purposes.
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Gives the Finance MinisterThis minister can move certain amounts of money under the bill and can approve extra spending in urgent cases. a reserve power to add up to $400 million for urgent spending in 2023-24 if Schedule 1This is the part of the bill that lists the actual spending amounts and the items they apply to. missed it or did not provide enough.
Show source excerpts
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The total of the items specified in Schedule 1 is $146,174,564,000.
Appropriation Bill (No. 1) 2023-2024 as-passed bill text -
The amount specified in a departmental item for a non‑corporate entity may be applied for the departmental expenditure of the entity.
Appropriation Bill (No. 1) 2023-2024 as-passed bill text -
Administered items are those administered by a non-corporate entity on behalf of the Government (e.g. certain grants, benefits and transfer payments). These payments are usually made pursuant to eligibility rules and conditions established by the Government or the Parliament. Specifically, administered items are tied to outcomes (departmental items are not).
Appropriation Bill (No. 1) 2023-2024 explanatory memorandum -
(1) The amount specified in a corporate entity item for a corporate entity may be paid to the entity to be applied for the purposes of the entity.
Appropriation Bill (No. 1) 2023-2024 as-passed bill text -
Subclause 10(1) of the Bill sets out the circumstances which must exist to enable the Finance Minister to make a determination under subclause 10(2) to provide for additional expenditure when satisfied that there is an urgent need for expenditure in the current year that is not provided for, or is insufficiently provided for, in Schedule 1 either because of an erroneous omission or understatement, or because of unforeseen circumstances. The allocated amount is referred to as the Advance to the Finance Minister (AFM).
Appropriation Bill (No. 1) 2023-2024 explanatory memorandum
Context
Broader context for this bill
Each year the Australian Government must follow the federal budget with separate appropriation laws so money can legally be drawn from the Consolidated Revenue FundThis is the federal government fund that money is drawn from when Parliament authorises spending. for ordinary annual servicesThis means the normal running costs and recurring programs of government, not special or once-off spending., including departments' running costs and administered payments. After the 2023-24 Budget was handed down on 9 May 2023, this bill supplied that authority for existing programs, new budget measures and urgent top-ups, then completed Parliament on 22 June 2023 before receiving Royal AssentThis is the final step that turns the bill into an Act after Parliament has passed it. on 28 June 2023.
- 09 May 2023
Treasurer hands down the 2023-24 Budget
The Budget set the government's spending plan for 2023-24 and created the need for fresh legal authority to fund ordinary annual servicesThis means the normal running costs and recurring programs of government, not special or once-off spending..
Hansard ↗ - 09 May 2023
Government introduces the main annual services appropriation bill
The bill was introduced in the HouseOn this page, this means one chamber of Parliament, usually the House of Representatives or the Senate, depending on the stage being described. to authorise money for departments, administered payments and other ordinary annual servicesThis means the normal running costs and recurring programs of government, not special or once-off spending. set out in the Budget.
Parliamentary timeline ↗ - 22 June 2023
Parliament passes the bill
Both Houses passed the bill in the same form, clearing the way for the 2023-24 ordinary annual servicesThis means the normal running costs and recurring programs of government, not special or once-off spending. funding to be drawn lawfully.
Parliamentary timeline ↗ - 28 June 2023
Royal AssentThis is the final step that turns the bill into an Act after Parliament has passed it. makes the funding law
Royal AssentThis is the final step that turns the bill into an Act after Parliament has passed it. turned the bill into an Act, allowing the appropriated money to be issued from the Consolidated Revenue FundThis is the federal government fund that money is drawn from when Parliament authorises spending. for 2023-24.
Parliamentary timeline ↗
Legislative route
How did it move through Parliament?
House Senate
Introduced 09 May 2023
The bill was formally presented to the chamber and read a first time, which starts its parliamentary journey.
Introduced and read a first time
Second reading opened 09 May 2023
A minister or sponsoring member moved the second reading, opening the main debate on the bill's purpose and principles.
Second reading moved
Second reading debate 11 May 2023
The bill reached this recorded parliamentary step.
Sent to Federation Chamber for debate 22 May 2023
The bill reached this recorded parliamentary step.
Referred to Federation Chamber
Second reading debate 24 May 2023
The bill reached this recorded parliamentary step.
Second reading debate 25 May 2023
The bill reached this recorded parliamentary step.
Second reading debate 30 May 2023
The bill reached this recorded parliamentary step.
Second reading debate 31 May 2023
The bill reached this recorded parliamentary step.
Second reading debate 01 June 2023
The bill reached this recorded parliamentary step.
Returned from Federation Chamber 13 June 2023
The bill reached this recorded parliamentary step.
Reported from Federation Chamber
HouseOn this page, this means one chamber of Parliament, usually the House of Representatives or the Senate, depending on the stage being described. second reading agreed 13 June 2023
The chamber agreed to the bill at second reading, meaning it accepted the bill in principle and allowed it to continue.
Second reading agreed to
Sent to Federation Chamber for debate 13 June 2023
The bill reached this recorded parliamentary step.
Referred to Federation Chamber
Consideration in detail 13 June 2023
The chamber considered the bill in detail and dealt with amendments before the next stage.
Consideration in detail debate
Consideration in detail 14 June 2023
The chamber considered the bill in detail and dealt with amendments before the next stage.
Consideration in detail debate
Consideration in detail 15 June 2023
The chamber considered the bill in detail and dealt with amendments before the next stage.
Consideration in detail debate
Returned from Federation Chamber 15 June 2023
The bill reached this recorded parliamentary step.
Reported from Federation Chamber
HouseOn this page, this means one chamber of Parliament, usually the House of Representatives or the Senate, depending on the stage being described. third reading agreed 15 June 2023
The chamber agreed to the bill at third reading, which completed passage through that chamber.
Third reading agreed to
Introduced 16 June 2023
The bill was formally presented to the chamber and read a first time, which starts its parliamentary journey.
Introduced and read a first time
Second reading opened 16 June 2023
A minister or sponsoring member moved the second reading, opening the main debate on the bill's purpose and principles.
Second reading moved
Senate second reading agreed 22 June 2023
The chamber agreed to the bill at second reading, meaning it accepted the bill in principle and allowed it to continue.
Second reading agreed to
Senate third reading agreed 22 June 2023
The chamber agreed to the bill at third reading, which completed passage through that chamber.
Third reading agreed to
Passed both houses 22 June 2023
Both houses passed the bill in the same form, completing parliamentary passage.
Finally passed both Houses
Assent 28 June 2023
The Governor-General gave Royal AssentThis is the final step that turns the bill into an Act after Parliament has passed it., turning the bill into an Act.
Key criticism
The main case against this bill
The main criticism was that this budget spending package would worsen inflation and cost-of-living pressure while funding the wrong things, leaving households, small businesses and some regional communities worse off. That case was pushed mainly by Coalition speakers opposing the bill overall, while independent criticism was narrower and focused on weak long-term reform and consultation gaps rather than rejecting the bill outright.
Criticism was real but not uniform, with some crossbench concern remaining limited or conditional.
Regional communities would lose out
Several critics said the budget cut, delayed or redirected funding away from regional infrastructure, health and local services, leaving regional and rural areas worse off than metropolitan Australia.
Spending priorities were misplaced
Critics argued the bill backed the wrong priorities, cutting or overlooking successful local programs and failing to direct enough help to housing, veterans, infrastructure and other immediate pressures.
Too little long-term reform and consultation
A narrower criticism was that the budget was underpowered on structural reform and did not show a strong long-term plan, with some measures said to need better consultation before rollout.
Votes
Recorded votes
How the bill itself passed
The bill passed both chambers on the voices, so there is no list of individual Aye and No votes for final passage.
Passed House passed the bill
HouseOn this page, this means one chamber of Parliament, usually the House of Representatives or the Senate, depending on the stage being described. agreed to the bill's third reading on the voices, so there is no list of individual Aye and No votes for final passage in that chamber.
Passed
House passed the bill
Passed on the voices
In a voice vote, members call out Aye or No and the presiding officer judges which side has it. Individual names are only recorded if a formal division is called.
Passed Senate passed the bill
Senate agreed to the bill's third reading on the voices, so there is no list of individual Aye and No votes for final passage in that chamber.
Passed
Senate passed the bill
Passed on the voices
In a voice vote, members call out Aye or No and the presiding officer judges which side has it. Individual names are only recorded if a formal division is called.
Parliamentary debate
Who spoke, and what they said
Start here — lead voices
Sponsor speech Supports
Jim Chalmers
Chalmers supports the bill and presents it as the budget package that delivers targeted cost-of-living relief, Medicare and PBS investment, and stronger public finances.
Read in Hansard ↗ Lead opposing voice Opposes
Peter Dutton
Dutton opposes the bill overall, arguing that this budget adds to inflation and cost-of-living pressure and leaves working Australians worse off.
Read in Hansard ↗ Lead supporting voice Supports
Monique Ryan
Ryan supports the appropriation bill because she says the budget makes definite improvements to Medicare and primary care, especially bulk-billing incentives and longer prescription dispensing.
Read in Hansard ↗ Lead non-major voice Unclear
Kylea Tink
Tink says the budget has some welcome measures, but argues the bill is underwhelming and falls short on the structural reform, climate action and stronger support that households and younger Australians need.
Read in Hansard ↗All speeches by bloc
Labor
19 speakers · 19 support
Labor
19 speakers · 19 support
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Jim Chalmers ★ Chalmers supports the bill and presents it as the budget package that delivers targeted cost-of-living relief, Medicare and PBS investment, and stronger public finances.
“Our $14.6 billion cost-of-living plan will:”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Brian Mitchell Brian Mitchell supports the appropriation bill and says it delivers cost-of-living relief where it is needed most.
“I'm proud to stand here in support of the budget that the Treasurer delivered. It's a good budget. It's a good Labor budget. It delivers cost relief to where it's need most. We're proud of our record over the past year, our first year, but there's no party. We're not popping any champagne corks, and we're certainly not breaking out any cigars. We know there's a lot of work to be done for those who need it most. We stand with the Australian people to make sure that no-one gets left behind, and we'll work so hard for a better future for all Australians.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Shayne Neumann Shayne Neumann supports the appropriation bill and says it is a responsible budget that delivers cost-of-living relief, stronger services, and investment in his electorate and across Queensland.
“I look forward to supporting the budget and all the initiatives that will help my local electorate.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Rob Mitchell Rob Mitchell supports the bill and says it delivers responsible cost-of-living relief while investing in health, childcare, aged care, veterans and local infrastructure.
“Today I proudly rise to support the Appropriation Bill (No. 1) 2023-2024. I'm proud to be part of a government that can balance fiscal responsibility with providing cost-of-living relief to Australians most affected by the cost-of-living crisis.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Dan Repacholi Dan Repacholi supports the appropriation bill and says the budget will deliver real relief, protect workers' entitlements, and fund better pay and conditions.
“Budget week is just past, and what a great budget it was for those in my electorate in the Hunter Valley. We are delivering serious reforms and delivering real relief to those who need it. We know that people are doing it tough, but make no mistake: this budget will make a real impact for the better for real people.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Steve Georganas Georganas supports the bill because it funds the Albanese government's cost-of-living, NDIS, housing, Medicare and small-business measures, and he argues those investments are already helping people in Adelaide.
“That's why the 2023-24 budget commits more than $732 million over four years to improve the effectiveness and delivery of the NDIS for people with disability, and to improve its sustainability. It's also why $429.45 million is being delivered and invested to upskill the NDIA workforce, which is very important.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Susan Templeman Templeman supports the appropriation bill and says the budget is starting to tackle the housing crisis with new social and affordable housing funding, renters' rights measures and help for first home buyers.
“I commend the budget to the House.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Zaneta Mascarenhas Mascarenhas supports the bill and presents it as a responsible Labor budget bill that will help families, strengthen Medicare, and invest in skills, housing and climate action.
“Essentially, what we're doing is going through a process of cleaning up the decade that was wasted under the previous coalition government, and I'm really proud of the Albanese Labor government. This government has some of the most experienced and talented cabinet members we've seen in this place for such a long time. But I'd say that we've still got more work to do, and I'm looking forward to implementing some really great policies.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Peta Murphy Peta Murphy supports the bill because she says it backs Labor priorities such as fee-free TAFE, skills shortages and workforce training.
“It's exciting to see the Albanese government and the Minister for Skills and Training and be part of a government that says, 'Let's do two things. Let's make sure that young people and not so young people in this country have the opportunity to get the education and the skills and the training that they need for their lives to be secure, healthy and happy because they have employment and a steady income. Let's also make sure that the skills and the training and the education they're getting fits the skills shortages and the needs of this country, particularly in the areas where we care for people at the start of their lives and at the end of their lives so that those people can be secure and healthy and happy.' There are a number of ways that this government is doing it, but this budget makes it clear that there's a commitment to TAFE, including public TAFE. That's why I start by saying it's very much a budget that is not just a Labor priority but a priority for the community.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Sharon Claydon Claydon supports the bill and says it delivers the Albanese government's budget priorities, especially targeted cost-of-living help, stronger Medicare, aged-care pay, income support, childcare, NDIS funding, and energy bill relief.
“This 2023-24 budget is responsible and practical and aimed very squarely at providing targeted relief to those most vulnerable Australians, whilst also easing pressure on families.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Jerome Laxale Laxale supports the bill and says the budget is a responsible Labor package that helps with cost of living pressures while funding energy relief, Medicare, small business support and higher payments for people on low incomes.
“The Albanese Labor government has handed down a budget that not only is responsible but addresses the pressing concerns of everyday Australians, providing support and assistance whilst also alleviating the burdens of the cost-of-living crisis we're in at the moment.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Tracey Roberts Roberts supports the bill and says it delivers Labor's cost-of-living relief, stronger Medicare funding, wage and childcare measures, and investments in women, housing and clean energy.
“The Albanese Labor government is making investments to support women's health and wellbeing, including $26.4 million to support health and medical research focusing on women's health to develop targeted treatments and improve health outcomes; and $16.8 million to introduce a new MBS item for an EndoPredict brand gene expression profile test to determine a patient's risk of recurrent breast cancer. As a survivor of breast cancer, I absolutely welcome that investment. I commend this bill.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Kate Thwaites Thwaites supports the bill and says it delivers cost-of-living relief, stronger Medicare, cheaper medicines, energy upgrades and environmental investment.
“I commend this bill to the House and look forward to seeing the benefits of this flow through my community.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Sam Lim Lim strongly supports the appropriation bill because it delivers what he describes as a historic increase in bulk-billing and Medicare rebates, which he says will make health care more affordable for families and pensioners.
“The recent federal budget announcement is the largest ever investment into bulk-billing in the history of Medicare, an historic $3.5 billion investment that will triple the bulk billing incentive and give an immediate injection to support patients and general practice, strengthening the heart of Medicare.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Sam Rae Sam Rae strongly supports the bill, saying it delivers targeted cost-of-living relief, stronger Medicare funding and pay rises for aged-care workers while keeping the budget responsible.
“This budget delivers real and targeted cost-of-living relief. It strengthens our Medicare system and helps some of our most deserving Australians with a pay rise. Importantly, it achieves all this while strengthening Australia's finances through restraint and responsible budgetary management.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Anne Stanley Stanley supports the appropriation bill and says it is a responsible Labor budget that delivers cost-of-living relief, stronger Medicare, help for small business and investment in services and skills.
“I commend the budget and appropriation bills to the House.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Jenny McAllister McAllister supports the bill and says it is part of the Budget’s main funding measures, providing more than $146 billion for government priorities including defence, health, social services and other essential programs.
“Appropriation Bill 1 seeks approval for appropriations from the Consolidated Revenue Fund of over $146 billion. Funding provided through this Bill will support the following significant items.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Andrew Leigh Leigh समर्थन करता है?
“No budget in the past decade has done more to reduce inequality than the 2023 budget. In that budget we brought down initiatives that make medicines cheaper for Australians with long-term health conditions. We funded a pay rise for aged-care workers. We are delivering nearly 500,000 fee-free TAFE places and 20,000 new university places directed primarily at those who are the first in their family to attend university. We have established 10 days family and domestic violence leave. And we have extended eligibility for the parenting payment single to a single principal carer with a youngest child aged under 14.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Matt Keogh Keogh supports the appropriation bill as a responsible, practical budget that funds veterans, defence capability, health, cost-of-living relief and infrastructure, and he argues it helps clean up the damage left by the previous government.
“We're committed to building a stronger future for our nation. This is about delivering for our country. After just one year in office we know there is still a lot of work to do and a lot of mess that needs to be cleaned up after a wasted decade under the Liberals and Nationals, but this is a responsible budget and a practical budget. We'll keep delivering reasonable, common sense initiatives that provide our community security and certainty while building stronger foundations for a better future.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗
Coalition
13 speakers · 12 oppose · 1 unclear
Coalition
13 speakers · 12 oppose · 1 unclear
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Peter Dutton ★ Dutton opposes the bill overall, arguing that this budget adds to inflation and cost-of-living pressure and leaves working Australians worse off.
“Australians will be disappointed with the Albanese government's second budget, which adds to inflation and cost-of-living pressures. This budget hurts working Australians. Worse, it risks creating a generation of working-poor Australians.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Keith Pitt Keith Pitt opposes the bill, arguing that the budget drives inflation, cuts promised regional funding and infrastructure programs, and breaks commitments to his electorate.
“We have seen cuts to the Entrepreneurship Facilitator Program in the Labor Party's most recent budget. Since 2019 Regional Business HQ has supported 1,300 businesses across the region. They were one year into a three-year contract, and it has been cut by this federal Labor government. Can you imagine what confidence that gives to everyone out there that utilises funding? They engage on the basis that the contracts will be honoured. They make decisions around equipment, infrastructure and staffing based on those three-year contracts. The rug has been pulled out from under them two years early, with an existing contract. It is outrageous—absolutely outrageous.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Paul Fletcher Paul Fletcher opposes the bill, saying the budget fails to address inflation and does not meet needs across the key portfolios he covers.
“I rise to speak on the appropriation bills. I want to particularly address the portfolio areas for which I hold shadow responsibility—the arts, science, the digital economy and government services. This is a budget which fails to meet the needs of Australians and Australia in macroeconomic terms, in failing to address the inflation challenge we face—indeed, on the contrary, making the inflation challenge worse. It also fails to meet the needs of the nation across individual portfolios, including those for which I have responsibility.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Aaron Violi Violi opposes the appropriation bill, arguing that the budget is making inflation and interest rates worse instead of bringing them down.
“I want to focus, to start with, on the top line of this budget and how it's impacting all Australians, and all residents in Casey. We all know the situation that many people in this country are going through, with this cost-of-living crisis and the high inflationary environment. Yesterday we saw the monthly inflation rate increase to 6.8 per cent. We should always remember these numbers are not just numbers on a page; they are numbers that are impacting people every day when they go to the supermarket, when they put petrol into their car, when they pay their mortgage, when they want to pay for their children's sporting fees or when they have to, tragically, take their children out of community activities because they can't afford either the fees or the transport costs, of petrol in particular, to get their children to those events. It's so important that this budget is doing everything it can, but not to hold inflation at where it is at or make it worse; it should have been a budget that would drive inflation down. We're at seven per cent, and our target band is two to three per cent. We're in an environment where we have not seen inflation this high for generations. It should be a budget that drives it down.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Nola Marino Marino opposes the bill, arguing that Labor's budget will push inflation, taxes and living costs higher and hit regional and rural Australia hardest.
“There are a lot of issues that are being faced by rural and regional Australia out of this particular budget. We're going to see increased and permanent structural spending, but I'm really concerned about the broader impacts of Labor's decisions, which really are going to affect rural and regional Australia the most. Increased taxes, the effects on those pharmacies and small businesses, and the disproportionate impact on rural and regional Australia, are, unfortunately, what we are seeing with Labor's budget.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Anne Webster Webster opposes the bill, arguing that the budget does nothing for regional health services and shows the government is in denial about the health workforce crisis in places like Mallee.
“Given this dire situation, you would expect that Labor would have announced a raft of new measures in their May budget aimed at improving access to health care in regional Australia. But, no, there is not one single new measure specifically for regional health services in their budget, apart from a few much-needed measures aimed at improving the health of First Nations people, some of whom live in regional Australia. It seems the government are in denial about the healthcare crisis facing the region, and you can't fix a problem that you are not even willing to acknowledge exists.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Bridget Archer Archer opposes the appropriation bill because she says the budget cuts successful local programs in Tasmania and sends money to the wrong priorities, especially when communities need more help with housing, veterans, infrastructure and cost of living.
“In a region like northern Tasmania, whose economy is built on the back of small businesses and entrepreneurs, programs like this fill a gap in services available to assist those who want to have a go at creating their own future. It's a proven program that costs very, very little, and to cut the program without any warning or consultation, and with a few years left on the local contract, is unconscionable. 'We were devastated to hear of the scrapping of this program, because of the significant community value we see for this service in our region,' Taz and Em told me in the days following the budget.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Gavin Pearce Pearce opposes the bill, saying the budget ignores regional Tasmania and will hurt families and businesses through tax increases and cuts to practical local programs.
“The 2023 budget was the Albanese government's opportunity to confirm that they have the same commitment that I speak of—the same commitment as the previous government—and that they were willing to continue the journey with those who live in the north-west, the west coast and King Island and continue to invest in our wealth-creating world's best industries and key infrastructure projects.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Barnaby Joyce Joyce opposes the appropriation bill because he says the budget cuts or delays key regional infrastructure and veterans programs, and he argues Labor is neglecting the people and services that need funding most.
“There are things we welcome in the budget. Replacing and modernising the ICT systems is good. The Sir John Monash Centre in France—that's a good decision. Grandparents caring for children of veterans—that's a good decision. Volunteer training and suicide recognition intervention—that's a good decision. But it is also incredibly important that the veterans' affairs minister be in cabinet. He shouldn't need—”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Andrew Willcox Willcox opposes the bill, saying the budget ignores Dawson and regional Australia by cutting infrastructure funding, adding taxes, and failing to support local roads, water projects and veterans.
“I rise today to speak on the Appropriation Bill (No. 1) 2023-2024 and related bills. On 9 May 2023, when the Treasurer delivered his budget speech, it was clear it would do little to address the issues in my electorate of Dawson. When analysing the budget, it's important to listen to not what is said but what is missing. The Treasurer never mentioned the word 'infrastructure', nor 'roads', and could not even muster the word 'coal'. The Treasurer referred to commodities as 'things'. This is unbelievable given the fact that iron ore, coal, gas and agricultural exports are the only reason there is a surplus.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Mark Coulton Coulton criticises the budget for treating regional Australia poorly and creating uncertainty around infrastructure and services, but says he is still happy to work with the government on regional funding.
“I am happy to work with the government. Minister King has asked me to go on a bipartisan committee to help with regional funding, and I will do that. I think it's important that we try and work together as best we can. But I've got to say I can't hide my disappointment in the way that regional Australia has been treated by this budget.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Colin Boyce Boyce opposes the bill, arguing that the budget favours metropolitan Australia while leaving regional Queensland short of infrastructure, childcare, health and aged-care support.
“In conclusion, it's clear the Labor budget has done a lot to appease metropolitan Australia and very little for regional and rural Australia, particularly for my electorate of Flynn in Central Queensland.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Terry Young Terry Young opposes the appropriation bill in practice, using the speech to attack the government for broken promises, wasted spending, and failing to deliver commitments for Longman.
“I rise today to speak on Appropriation Bill (No. 1) 2023-2024. It gives me a chance to reflect on the contributions to the Longman community of the previous coalition government, and to highlight the lack of contribution that the current government is making to the people of Longman and to the people of Australia generally.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗
Minor parties and independents
2 speakers · 4 contributions · 2 support
Minor parties and independents
2 speakers · 4 contributions · 2 support
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Monique Ryan ★ Ryan supports the appropriation bill because she says the budget makes definite improvements to Medicare and primary care, especially bulk-billing incentives and longer prescription dispensing.
“We have a wonderful healthcare system. We have a national treasure chest of world-class health professionals. Our medical research is amongst the best in the world, and our hospitals and GP services are extremely important to all Australians. I commend this government for making definite improvements to our healthcare system after years of underfunding and of lack of vision, but I implore the government to extend its vision to talk to the experts about our data collection and about all aspects of our service provision. We can and we should provide better health care in Australia. I look forward to working with the government to that end.”
Read the full speech in Hansard ↗ -
Kylea Tink ★ 3 contributions Tink says the budget has some welcome measures, but argues the bill is underwhelming and falls short on the structural reform, climate action and stronger support that households and younger Australians need.
Hansard records 3 separate contributions by Kylea Tink on this bill. They are grouped here so the speaker is listed once.
Second reading speech
Tink supports the bill overall, but says the budget lacks long-term structural reform and clear vision. She welcomes some health and family measures, while criticising the weak mental health funding and warning that some changes, like 60-day dispensing, need proper consultation.
“At first glance, this budget would indicate the government recognises these challenges and has tried to respond appropriately. I am grateful that, where my community and I advocated for reform, we were successful, with single parents and families with children under 16 now able to access additional support, and others benefiting from cheaper energy bills as we push to electrification. But, on deeper reflection, unfortunately there is little in this budget to take either heart or inspiration from. As a country, we need long-term structural reform which focuses on driving activity, productivity and managing cost inputs. And we need a clear vision. Neither of these were evident in the last budget.”
Read this contribution in Hansard ↗Second reading speech
Tink says the budget has some welcome measures, but argues the bill is underwhelming and falls short on the structural reform, climate action and stronger support that households and younger Australians need.
“Ultimately, there was very little in this budget for those who have finished studying and started paying their taxes. There was no relief from rising university debts, little support for those struggling with their mental health and underwhelming action to meet the challenge of climate change. Tackling intergenerational inequity requires a whole-of-system approach, addressing activity, productivity and wages, and will require the government to do some heavy lifting. Instead we've been given a budget that has done little to offend but even less to drive a future-focused economy through reform.”
Read this contribution in Hansard ↗Second reading speech
Spender supports the appropriation bill and welcomes most of the budget measures, especially on bulk billing, aged care, electrification and climate action. She says it falls short on housing, tax and productivity because it is not ambitious enough for future generations.
“To sum up: I welcome most of the changes announced by the government in this year's budget, but I was disappointed that there wasn't enough progress on solving some of those significant challenges facing Australia, particularly on the difference that this budget will make to future generations.”
Read this contribution in Hansard ↗
Record
Full record
- Act title
- Appropriation Act (No. 1) 2023-2024
- Act number
- Act No. 31, 2023
- Became law
- 28 June 2023
- Takes effect
- The whole of this Act 01 July 2023
- Registered
- 29 June 2023
- Administered by
- Department of Finance
- Final law metadata was collected from the APH progress table; commencement rows were parsed from the bill text.
- Status
- Act -- Collected from the APH bill page.
- Originating house
- House of Representatives
- 09 May 2023
House · Introduced and read a first time
Introduced
The bill was formally presented to the chamber and read a first time, which starts its parliamentary journey.
- 09 May 2023
House · Second reading moved
Second reading opened
A minister or sponsoring member moved the second reading, opening the main debate on the bill's purpose and principles.
- 11 May 2023
House · Second reading debate
Second reading debate
The bill reached this recorded parliamentary step.
- 22 May 2023
House · Referred to Federation Chamber
Referred to Federation Chamber
The bill reached this recorded parliamentary step.
- 24 May 2023
House · Second reading debate
Second reading debate
The bill reached this recorded parliamentary step.
- 25 May 2023
House · Second reading debate
Second reading debate
The bill reached this recorded parliamentary step.
- 30 May 2023
House · Second reading debate
Second reading debate
The bill reached this recorded parliamentary step.
- 31 May 2023
House · Second reading debate
Second reading debate
The bill reached this recorded parliamentary step.
- 01 June 2023
House · Second reading debate
Second reading debate
The bill reached this recorded parliamentary step.
- 13 June 2023
House · Reported from Federation Chamber
Reported from Federation Chamber
The bill reached this recorded parliamentary step.
- 13 June 2023
House · Second reading agreed to
Second reading agreed
The chamber agreed to the bill at second reading, meaning it accepted the bill in principle and allowed it to continue.
- 13 June 2023
House · Referred to Federation Chamber
Referred to Federation Chamber
The bill reached this recorded parliamentary step.
- 13 June 2023
House · Consideration in detail debate
Consideration in detail
The chamber considered the bill in detail and dealt with amendments before the next stage.
- 14 June 2023
House · Consideration in detail debate
Consideration in detail
The chamber considered the bill in detail and dealt with amendments before the next stage.
- 15 June 2023
House · Consideration in detail debate
Consideration in detail
The chamber considered the bill in detail and dealt with amendments before the next stage.
- 15 June 2023
House · Reported from Federation Chamber
Reported from Federation Chamber
The bill reached this recorded parliamentary step.
- 15 June 2023
House · Third reading agreed to
Third reading agreed
The chamber agreed to the bill at third reading, which completed passage through that chamber.
- 16 June 2023
Senate · Introduced and read a first time
Introduced
The bill was formally presented to the chamber and read a first time, which starts its parliamentary journey.
- 16 June 2023
Senate · Second reading moved
Second reading opened
A minister or sponsoring member moved the second reading, opening the main debate on the bill's purpose and principles.
- 22 June 2023
Senate · Second reading agreed to
Second reading agreed
The chamber agreed to the bill at second reading, meaning it accepted the bill in principle and allowed it to continue.
- 22 June 2023
Senate · Third reading agreed to
Third reading agreed
The chamber agreed to the bill at third reading, which completed passage through that chamber.
- 22 June 2023
Parliament · Finally passed both Houses
Passed both houses
Both houses passed the bill in the same form, completing parliamentary passage.
- 28 June 2023
Assent · Assent
Assent
The Governor-General gave Royal AssentThis is the final step that turns the bill into an Act after Parliament has passed it., turning the bill into an Act.