Appropriation (Parliament) (2020-2021) Bill 2020

As Premier, defended his first budget as delivering record $11.2 billion in relief and concessions to Queenslanders, including electricity rebates, 50-cent fares, and registration discounts.

“My first budget as Premier is doing what matters for all Queenslanders. It includes a record $11.2 billion in relief and concessions to Queenslanders.”— 2024-08-21View Hansard

As Shadow Treasurer, criticised the budget for unfunded promises including Pioneer-Burdekin ($24 billion unfunded), wasteful spending on jets and consultants, and failing to address Queensland's challenges in crime, health, housing and cost of living.

“The question is: do Queenslanders feel better or worse off on the four big challenges facing Queensland—youth crime, health, cost of living and housing?”— 2024-08-21View Hansard

Supported the budget and criticised the opposition for wasting estimates time on political pointscoring rather than examining budget expenditure.

“The estimates process should be a unique opportunity to examine the future expenditure for the next four years laid out in the budget.”— 2024-08-21View Hansard

Criticised the government for increasing ministerial staffers by 50% while failing on frontline service delivery in health, housing, crime and cost of living, and attacked the handling of the Callide Power Station failure.

“What are the priorities of this government? There has been a 50 per cent increase in ministerial staffers over the last number of years since this government came to office.”— 2024-08-21View Hansard

Criticised the Premier's spending on charter jets ($167,000) and questioned why energy rebates are needed when electricity prices have risen 19% under the government.

“That is $167,000 of taxpayers' money. When the member for Macalister talks about the energy rebate, why does she not ask why we need an energy rebate?”— 2024-08-21View Hansard

Defended the government's cost of living relief measures and outlined infrastructure investments in her electorate.

“This budget contains record cost-of-living relief for Queenslanders.”— 2024-08-21View Hansard

Criticised the Premier for not answering questions about charter jet costs during estimates and called out ministerial expenditure on travel and accommodation as giving politicians a bad name.

“Politicians spending taxpayer money in a willy-nilly fashion is very hurtful to people who are suffering from the cost of living.”— 2024-08-21View Hansard

Defended the government's record on housing milestones, the Waraba PDA development (30,000 homes for 70,000 people), and criticised the LNP for offering nothing constructive during estimates.

“At the end of the day they offered nothing to the people of Queensland. In fact, they left us knowing less and holding less than at the beginning of the day.”— 2024-08-21View Hansard

Attacked the government's housing record, citing 145,000 nights of hotel accommodation for homeless people and 45,473 people on the social housing waiting list (53% increase over seven years).

“Through estimates, we found out that last financial year 145,000 nights of hotel accommodation was used to house homeless people. That is a nearly 30 per cent increase on the year before.”— 2024-08-21View Hansard

Criticised the budget for not addressing crises in cost of living, health, crime and housing, and attacked the government's handling of fire ant control which is costing local councils millions.

“I am really disappointed with this budget. It does not address the crises that we see in this state.”— 2024-08-21View Hansard

Criticised the child safety system as being in crisis, with residential care numbers increasing 85% over five years, and attacked the minister for only visiting one residential care facility since appointment.

“We have babies and children aged five and six in residential care facilities being put to bed at night by one carer and being woken up the next morning by another carer.”— 2024-08-21View Hansard

Defended the government's education and youth justice record, highlighting the $20.9 billion education budget, 29 new schools opened since election, and contrasted with LNP school closures.

“That is a total of 29 new schools since we were elected and is in stark contrast to the closures and sell-off of schools under the previous Newman government.”— 2024-08-21View Hansard

Criticised the government's youth justice policies for creating a generation of untouchable young offenders, citing car thefts in his electorate nearly doubling from 392 to 712 over a decade.

“This 10-year-old, tired Palaszczuk-Miles Labor government has failed Queenslanders and it has failed my community of Clayfield.”— 2024-08-21View Hansard

Raised concerns about teacher safety, school funding, and strongly criticised youth justice in Townsville as an 'absolute joke' where victims are forgotten, while calling for a different approach to youth crime.

“Youth justice in this state and in Townsville is an absolute joke. The youth offenders are getting all the justice in Townsville. The offenders are getting away with blue murder.”— 2024-08-21View Hansard

Criticised the budget for failing to address crises in health, housing, youth crime and cost of living despite record revenue. Argued the government has broken promises, wasted money on consultants, and failed to deliver on infrastructure commitments.

“This budget proves Queenslanders cannot trust the Palaszczuk Labor government to fix the chaos and crisis impacting their lives every day. Revenue has never been higher, but services have never been worse due to the mismanagement of this Labor government.”— 2023-06-16View Hansard

As Attorney-General, highlighted $155 million investment in women's safety and domestic violence prevention in the budget.

“Women's safety was a key priority for the Palaszczuk government in this budget, with an investment of more than $155 million to tackle violence against women in the next year.”— 2021-06-18View Hansard

As Treasurer, moved the Budget bills focusing on economic recovery from COVID-19, record health spending, and infrastructure investment.

“I move that the bills be now read a second time.”— 2021-06-17View Hansard

Spoke in support of the budget, highlighting investments in the Mundingburra electorate including education, health, research funding at James Cook University, sport infrastructure and road upgrades.

“I thank Treasurer Cameron Dick and his team for a budget that will create jobs right across this state while keeping Queensland safe.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

As Leader of the Opposition, delivered the budget reply speech criticising the budget as locking Queensland into a generation of borrowing for today rather than building for tomorrow, with broken promises on debt levels.

“This budget locks us into a generation of borrowing for today, not building for tomorrow.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Strongly supported the budget for delivering cost-of-living relief through electricity rebates and free kindy, and for funding major hospital expansions including Ipswich Hospital. Credited progressive coal royalties for enabling the Big Build infrastructure program.

“I rise to give my support to the 2023-24 Queensland budget. I would like to first congratulate the Treasurer, the Assistant Minister for Treasury and the entire leadership team for the work they have done in delivering this budget.”— 2023-06-16View Hansard

Criticised budget for failing to deliver for his electorate and regional Queensland.

“I rise to speak on the Appropriation Bills.”— 2021-06-18View Hansard

As Opposition Leader, delivered budget reply criticising government for losing control of health, crime and housing while failing to provide solutions. Highlighted personal stories of Queenslanders let down by government services.

“The government is losing control of crime in this state. It is losing control of housing and it is losing control of the health system.”— 2021-06-17View Hansard

Criticised the budget for inadequate capital spending on the Gold Coast, arguing the city receives only 2.8% of capital expenditure despite representing 15% of the state's population, with insufficient investment in education, health, social housing, and transport.

“Out of a total budget of $13.5 billion the Gold Coast, with a population that represents 15 per cent of the Queensland state, gets 2.8 per cent.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Criticised the budget as demonstrating 'Labornomics' and broken promises, comparing the debt blowout to the 2009 Bligh government asset sales breach of faith.

“The deliberate debt broken promise in this budget is the biggest breach of faith since 2009, when the Bligh Labor government promised not to sell assets before the previous election.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Criticised the budget for growing debt, profligate spending, and recycled promises. Argued the government has 'gone bust in a boom' with record coal royalties but failing to address health, youth crime, homelessness and cost-of-living crises.

“With record coal royalties underwriting their failed financial planning, this government has gone bust in a boom. This budget again is filled with promised projects on the never-never, deceitful figure fudging on the parlous state of Queensland debt.”— 2023-06-16View Hansard

Supported the budget and highlighted local investments.

“I rise to speak in support of the Appropriation Bills.”— 2021-06-18View Hansard

As Minister for Education, highlighted record education spending including air-conditioning program, new schools and classrooms across the state.

“It is an honour to be involved in this budget. Under the Premier's leadership, we kept this state safe. We can now implement our economic plan and create the jobs that Queenslanders deserve.”— 2021-06-17View Hansard

Spoke in support of the budget as a new member, highlighting investments in the Nicklin electorate including schools, police, TAFE, agriculture, health, sport and community services.

“I am proud to report to the House that the good people of Nicklin are overjoyed with the member for Woodridge's budget.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Criticised the budget's health spending as insufficient despite praising frontline health workers, arguing the budget fails to adequately fund the health system.

“The work of our health heroes in keeping the health system at a highly responsive and highly functioning level in 2020 has been nothing short of heroic.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Praised the budget as a 'community safety bonanza' for Caloundra with new fire, ambulance and police stations. Highlighted investments in rail planning for the Sunshine Coast and health funding for local hospitals.

“What a cracking budget it is for Caloundra. It is a community safety bonanza for Caloundra, with a whopping $7 million for our new fire station in Aura; another $6 million for our new ambulance station; and another $4 billion for our new police station.”— 2023-06-16View Hansard

Supported the budget.

“I rise to speak in support of the Appropriation Bills.”— 2021-06-18View Hansard

Criticised the budget as failing to address key issues, continuing LNP opposition to Labor's economic management.

“I rise to speak on the Appropriation Bills.”— 2021-06-17View Hansard

Welcomed regional funding for the Mirani electorate including highway upgrades, but expressed serious concerns about the $130 billion debt burden, deficit spending on day-to-day operations rather than growth, wasteful stadium projects, and lack of investment in small business, mining and agriculture.

“I was very concerned to see in the budget that the majority of the government's loan borrowings are being spent on day-to-day operations. That is, simply paying the bills and keeping the lights on.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Spoke in support of the budget, highlighting investments in the Keppel electorate and Central Queensland region.

“Whilst there were lots of things that I disagreed with in the member for Mudgeeraba's budget reply speech this afternoon, the thing I most disagreed with was when she said that Mudgeeraba is the best part of the world.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Argued the budget fails to address youth crime, health and cost-of-living crises. Criticised the growing debt as intergenerational burden and highlighted concerns about police numbers and delays in Toowoomba Hospital funding.

“When a government incurs debt, whose debt is it and who pays for it in the future? Of course, this intergenerational debt will be paid for by the sons and daughters of Queenslanders.”— 2023-06-16View Hansard

Supported the budget.

“I rise to speak in support of the Appropriation Bills.”— 2021-06-18View Hansard

Supported the budget highlighting benefits for the Logan electorate.

“I rise to speak in support of the Appropriation Bills.”— 2021-06-17View Hansard

As Transport Minister, spoke in support of the budget highlighting the record $56 billion infrastructure program, $26.9 billion transport and roads commitment, Cross River Rail, Gold Coast Light Rail, Sunshine Coast rail duplication, and Bruce Highway investment.

“This week the Treasurer delivered a solid Labor budget that sets out Queensland's path to economic recovery and implements the Palaszczuk Labor government's election commitments.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Criticised the budget for broken promises and delayed infrastructure, noting industry representatives described it as a missed opportunity to attract job-generating investment.

“Broken promises and delayed infrastructure are hallmarks of the appropriation bills before the parliament.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Praised the budget for delivering cost-of-living relief through electricity rebates and free kindy. Highlighted infrastructure investments including the Big Build, satellite hospitals, and public transport upgrades in his electorate.

“I am proud today to speak to this year's Appropriation Bill, introduced by our Treasurer, the Hon. Cameron Dick. What a fine Treasurer and what a fine budget, I must say.”— 2023-06-16View Hansard

Supported the budget.

“I rise to speak in support of the Appropriation Bills.”— 2021-06-18View Hansard

As Shadow Health Minister, criticised the government's health record despite record spending.

“I rise to speak on the Appropriation Bills.”— 2021-06-17View Hansard

Congratulated the Treasurer on a strong Labor budget that delivers on election commitments for Ipswich West and all of Queensland.

“This budget delivers on the Labor Party's 2020 election commitments and we have kept faith with the people of Queensland.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Supported the budget for its cost-of-living measures including electricity rebates, free kindy and SwimStart vouchers. Criticised the LNP for constant negativity and warned against returning to Newman-era cuts.

“In this budget, we are delivering the biggest cost-of-living program and our state's biggest building program, all with a surplus of $12.3 billion. This is all due to our strong economic management.”— 2023-06-16View Hansard

Criticised budget for failing regional Queensland.

“I rise to speak on the Appropriation Bills.”— 2021-06-18View Hansard

Criticised budget priorities and Labor's economic management.

“I rise to speak on the Appropriation Bills.”— 2021-06-17View Hansard

Argued the budget is built on a broken promise by Labor regarding debt levels, criticising fiscal management.

“The Palaszczuk state Labor government's budget for 2020-21 is one that is built entirely on a broken promise by Labor.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Argued the budget fails to deliver for Redlands, criticising chronic issues at Redland Hospital including ICU shortages and ambulance ramping. Accused the government of governing by announcements without delivery.

“The Queensland budget confirms that even the rivers of gold extracted by Labor's heavy taxation measures will not restore the trust in government that has been eroded by eight years of broken promises.”— 2023-06-16View Hansard

Supported the budget.

“I rise to speak in support of the Appropriation Bills.”— 2021-06-18View Hansard

Supported the budget highlighting local investments.

“I rise to speak in support of the Appropriation Bills.”— 2021-06-17View Hansard

Spoke in support of the budget as essential for Cairns' recovery from COVID-19 impacts on tourism, acknowledging the severe economic impacts on the region.

“The city of Cairns and our region were first impacted by COVID-19 when our traditional Chinese tourist numbers failed to materialise in February of this year.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Enthusiastically supported the budget, highlighting the $7.1 billion Queensland Train Manufacturing Program that will create jobs in his electorate. Praised cost-of-living measures and funding for local schools, roads and emergency services.

“Let's jump on the train and go for a ride around the Maryborough electorate to look at what is in this budget for the Maryborough electorate and for Queensland.”— 2023-06-16View Hansard

Criticised the budget as being more about the Treasurer's political positioning than addressing Queensland's economic needs.

“About 10 minutes into the Treasurer's budget speech I thought to myself that this was not about the Queensland economy; it was all about the former member for Greenslopes, now member for Woodridge, positioning himself for a tilt at the Premier's job.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Criticised the budget for failing to deliver long-term solutions to health, housing, youth crime and cost-of-living crises. Noted 95% of health funding is beyond the next election and condemned light rail cost blowouts.

“Like everything with Labor, you have to look at the detail and not the announcement. What this government did not tell us is that 95 per cent of the funding for its promised health and hospitals announcement will be spent after the next election.”— 2023-06-16View Hansard

Spoke in support of the budget, defending the government's economic plan and ridiculing the opposition's criticism.

“On 31 October Queenslanders did not want your tough love. They rejected it.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Supported the budget for addressing cost-of-living pressures with electricity rebates and free kindy. Praised progressive coal royalties for enabling infrastructure investment and criticised the LNP for lacking detail on their alternative plans.

“I rise in support of the Appropriation Bill 2023. These are important measures that address the cost-of-living pressures that are affecting all Queensland households.”— 2023-06-16View Hansard

Criticised the budget and the Labor government for helping 'Labor mates' rather than Queenslanders.

“The Labor Party put the people of Queensland before their mates! Seriously?”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Criticised the government for repeated announcements without delivery, citing the repeatedly promised but unbuilt Blackwater Hospital. Raised concerns about neglect of Callide Power Station and impacts on coal communities despite massive royalty contributions.

“Everything has become about announcements with this Labor government. Sometimes they are made on multiple occasions, yet still nothing is delivered.”— 2023-06-16View Hansard

Spoke in support of the 2020 budget.

“I rise to speak in support of the 2020 budget we have before us.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Supported the budget for its cost-of-living relief and Big Build infrastructure including satellite hospitals. Attacked the LNP leader for being 'timid' on coal royalties and warned of cuts under a future LNP government.

“Our Palaszczuk government's budget is focused on doing what matters most for Queenslanders. National cost-of-living pressures mean that Pumicestone locals are hurting, and our budget offers Australia's biggest ever support package.”— 2023-06-16View Hansard

Criticised the Labor government's record on infrastructure development, particularly for regional Queensland.

“It is well known that the Labor government are famous for their ability to do nothing, particularly in terms of infrastructure development.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Criticised the budget for neglecting Callide electorate despite its massive coal royalty contributions of over $2 billion. Blamed the government for electricity price increases due to mismanagement of Callide Power Station.

“I wish I could tell the people of Callide that this is a good budget, but we have been miserably failed by this Labor government. This budget lacks vision.”— 2023-06-16View Hansard

Spoke in support of the appropriation bills, expressing confidence the budget would provide certainty for Queenslanders.

“It is inspiring to see a budget that will, in my opinion, provide confidence to Queenslanders during a time of great uncertainty.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Praised the budget as based on Labor values of social justice and responsible economic management. Highlighted investments in local schools, Prince Charles Hospital expansion, and the Gympie Road tunnel investigation.

“I rise to support this fantastic budget. What a pleasure to be able to follow the Premier. I thank her, the Treasurer and the team for this fantastic budget that they are delivering today.”— 2023-06-16View Hansard

Criticised the government for delaying the budget and for fiscal mismanagement, accusing them of ducking and weaving on economic accountability.

“The government has twisted, ducked and weaved. It used every excuse not to deliver a budget before October.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Argued Queenslanders do not trust the government to fix youth crime, housing or health crises. Criticised the decrease in police numbers while marketing staff increased, and highlighted failures in delivering social housing.

“When a government does not listen, the people stop trusting them. They do not trust them to fix the youth crime crisis. They do not trust them to fix the Queensland housing crisis. They do not trust them to fix the Queensland health crisis.”— 2023-06-16View Hansard

Described the Treasurer as delusional for claiming Labor was re-elected on its economic record, criticising the budget's approach.

“This budget has proven one thing: this Treasurer is absolutely delusional.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Supported the budget while noting his role as Acting Speaker limits combative contributions. Highlighted cost-of-living relief through energy rebates and free kindy, and local investments in schools, hospitals and community organisations.

“When I knock on doors, speak to people at bus stops or meet people at community events, the conversation often turns to cost-of-living pressures. There are a number of measures in this budget that will assist people in my community through these difficult times.”— 2023-06-16View Hansard

Defended the government's economic plan and dismissed opposition criticism as lacking substance.

“Queenslanders voted for Labor because they know we have a good economic plan that we will deliver.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Supported the budget for its cost-of-living measures including electricity rebates for households and small businesses. Praised investments in QEII Hospital expansion and the Eight Mile Plains satellite hospital.

“It is my pleasure to rise to speak in support of the Appropriation (Parliament) Bill 2023 and the Appropriation Bill 2023. I am grateful for the opportunity to be here as the member for Toohey.”— 2023-06-16View Hansard

Spoke in support of the budget highlighting Queensland's job recovery, health investment at Ipswich Hospital, and benefits for the Bundamba electorate.

“By keeping COVID-19 out of our state we have been able to open our economy, and now we are perfectly positioned to return to strong growth.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Criticised the budget for failing to address homelessness, youth crime and the housing crisis on the Gold Coast. Noted 95% of Coomera Hospital funding is in the distant future despite urgent need for beds now.

“We have a housing crisis in this state. We desperately need to open up more tracts of land. When it comes to social housing, the department should not be buying already developed houses. We need to build houses.”— 2023-06-16View Hansard

Expressed concern about the debt burden being left for future generations, focusing on impacts for his two young daughters by 2040.

“This budget, this moment, makes me think of my two young girls.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Strongly supported the budget, highlighting $150 million for Redland Hospital stage 2 expansion and the upcoming satellite hospital. Praised cost-of-living measures including electricity rebates and free kindy.

“The best way I know how to honour the member for Oodgeroo is to make sure that we deliver health services in that electorate: $150 million. That is how I honour him.”— 2023-06-16View Hansard

Spoke in support of the government's budget, linking it to the Premier's management of the health response to the pandemic.

“I promised the people of Stafford that my first priority would be to work with the Premier in her continued efforts to manage our health response to the global pandemic.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Accused the government of breaking its promise on borrowings, noting the figure blew out from $4 billion to $28 billion after the election.

“During the election campaign the figure of $4 billion of additional borrowings was repeatedly used and, as the budget exposes, that figure has now blown out.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Spoke in favour of the appropriation bills, congratulating the Treasurer and highlighting the budget's delivery for the Pumicestone electorate.

“I rise to speak in favour of the appropriation bills.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Acknowledged some positive education and regional funding but raised concerns about the need for more regional infrastructure and support.

“I acknowledge the education minister and the government for providing $6 million.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Criticised the budget, noting the Treasurer's qualities of strength, tenacity and goodwill went missing from the speech after the opening remarks.

“On Tuesday the Treasurer referred to strength, tenacity and goodwill in his opening remarks. Unfortunately, those qualities went missing from his speech from that point onwards.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Spoke in support of the appropriation bill, commending the Treasurer on his first budget.

“I rise to speak in support of the appropriation bill and I commend the Treasurer on this, his first, budget.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

As former Treasurer, critiqued the budget in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, arguing much of Labor's fiscal approach was unchanged despite changed circumstances.

“In the almost year and a half since the last Labor budget was delivered in this place much has changed, but much is still the same.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Spoke in support of the budget, highlighting infrastructure commitments for the western suburbs including the Centenary Motorway upgrade.

“There is so much good stuff happening in the western suburbs. It is a bit like Christmas has come early.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Criticised the government for hiding behind the delayed budget for 539 days and for the debt blowout from $4 billion to $28 billion of additional borrowings.

“Queenslanders have been waiting for this budget for so long—in fact, for 539 days. That is way too long.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Spoke in support of the budget, highlighting the important choices made in response to the challenges of 2020.

“I rise to speak on the appropriation bills and to highlight the important choices and decisions that have informed the 2020-21 state budget.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Criticised the government for using COVID-19 as an excuse to delay the budget and for failing to deliver for regional councils and businesses.

“COVID-19 has presented challenges for many across our state. For the Labor government, delivering a budget before the election was their challenge.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Spoke in support of the appropriation bill delivered by the Treasurer.

“I am proud to rise today to speak in support of the appropriation bill delivered by the honourable Treasurer.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Acknowledged some positive budget allocations for Traeger while raising concerns about regional and Western Queensland priorities that remain unaddressed.

“I think it behoves me always at the start to be gracious and thank the government on behalf of the electorate for some of those things that did come in.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Spoke in support of the appropriation bills, acknowledging the foundation they lay for Queensland's economic recovery.

“I rise to speak to the appropriation bills before the House and acknowledge the foundation that they lay for Queensland's economic recovery.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Described the budget as the biggest 'nothing' budget of a Labor government ever delivered, criticising the lack of major infrastructure projects.

“It will go down in history as the biggest 'nothing' budget of a Labor government ever delivered in this state, worse than Goss, Beattie and Bligh all added together.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Spoke proudly in support of Queensland's economic performance and the budget.

“This evening I rise very proud of the fact that our state has so comprehensively outperformed the other large eastern seaboard states.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Acknowledged some positive features in the budget for his electorate, including a road safety project he had campaigned for, while also raising concerns.

“There are some good features of this budget which I am happy to acknowledge.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Criticised the budget for failing to deliver major infrastructure to the Callide electorate, noting the region missed out once again.

“Once again, the Callide electorate has missed out on any major infrastructure builds throughout the entire area.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Congratulated the Treasurer on an outstanding budget that delivers for Bundaberg and Wide Bay.

“I wish to congratulate the Treasurer for delivering an outstanding budget in outstanding times.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Criticised the budget for lacking job-creating projects in Surfers Paradise, noting that none of the 30 Gold Coast projects were in his electorate.

“In the 'Creating jobs on the Gold Coast' budget document, there are no job-creating projects in Surfers Paradise.”— 2020-12-03View Hansard

Raised concerns about the deteriorating Parliamentary Annexe building and criticised the estimates process, but did not oppose the appropriation bills.

“The opposition is very much willing to work with the government. We recognise the government is the government for four years. The Committee of the Legislative Assembly needs to sit down and have proper, grown-up discussions about the investment that has to be made.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

As committee chair, endorsed the Economics and Governance Committee report and commended parliament staff for their work during COVID-19.

“I formally endorse the report of the Economics and Governance Committee, of which I was the chair, in relation to the Appropriation (Parliament) (2020-2021) Bill 2020.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Supported investment in refurbishing the Parliamentary Annexe and endorsed the work of Parliamentary Service, while noting concerns in the opposition's statement of reservation.

“I endorse the work that has been done by the Parliamentary Service over the period and request the CLA to take the politics out of it, as the Speaker has alluded to, and put in some formula that enables the repatriation of the building to a proper state over a number of years.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

As Treasurer, defended the budget's focus on economic recovery and jobs, noting Queensland's debt is lower than NSW and Victoria due to prudent financial management.

“The priority of the government will be using public money, with record deficits and a record debt—admittedly two-thirds of the debt that will be racked up in the gold standard state of New South Wales. Our debt is lower than New South Wales and lower than Victoria because of the prudent financial management of the Palaszczuk Labor government.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Endorsed the Economics and Governance Committee report and praised the government's COVID response and economic recovery plan, highlighting infrastructure investment in her electorate.

“As a result of the vision outlined by the Premier, Treasurer and various ministers, Queenslanders can be very confident in what we will experience over the next couple of years.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Criticised the government's health funding announcements for the Gold Coast as misleading, arguing that promised hospital funding was largely already announced money rather than new investment.

“The headline in the newspaper was something like '$160 million: First look at new northern Gold Coast hospital'. Of that $160 million, how much was for the northern Gold Coast hospital? It was $3 million for planning.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Supported the budget and its investment in his electorate.

“The Palaszczuk government's budget is delivering for Hervey Bay.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Criticised the estimates process and raised concerns about government spending priorities.

“The estimates process does not work as it should.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Supported the budget and highlighted investments in his electorate.

“This budget delivers for the people of Bancroft.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Raised concerns about water infrastructure and regional priorities in the budget.

“Water is a vital issue for the economy of Queensland.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Criticised the lack of clarity in the infrastructure pipeline and the government's decision to wind back Building Queensland from a statutory authority, raising concerns about job losses in engineering firms.

“There was a lack of clarity in the estimates process about the real infrastructure pipeline. In terms of the feedback I am currently getting from the construction industry, particularly civil construction, it is really looking for a clear, transparent pipeline for infrastructure projects.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

As former Opposition Leader, strongly criticised the government's broken promises on water infrastructure including the Toowoomba to Warwick pipeline and lack of relief for water charges.

“In Toowoomba in around January last year the Premier stood up and said that she was going to build a pipeline from Toowoomba to Warwick. When questioned through the estimates process, where is the money for that pipeline? There is absolutely zero in the budget because there is no pipeline.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Explicitly stated the LNP agrees with passing the budget while expressing serious concerns about debt levels, unemployment, and lack of transparency in the estimates process.

“Whilst the LNP opposition agrees with passing the budget, we do hold concerns about the Palaszczuk Labor government's 2020 budget. Debt is increasing by more than what the Labor government promised prior to the election.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Supported the budget and highlighted investments in his electorate.

“This budget delivers for the people of Ipswich West.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

As Deputy Premier and Treasurer, moved the third reading of the bills which were passed.

“I move—That the bills be now read a third time.”— 2024-08-21View Hansard

Raised concerns about rural and regional issues in the budget.

“Regional Queensland deserves better from this government.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Supported the budget and highlighted investments in his electorate.

“This budget delivers jobs and infrastructure for Bundaberg.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Criticised the estimates process for limiting opportunities for non-government members to ask questions and provide proper scrutiny of the budget.

“If we are looking at providing the best interrogation of government for the public, we could certainly improve on what we have now.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

As committee chair, endorsed the Education, Employment and Training Committee report and highlighted the government's investment in jobs, education and training.

“The 2020-21 budget continues our government's investment and fast-tracking in job-generating infrastructure and essential services for our growing state.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Strongly criticised the estimates process as failing to hold the government to account, particularly given the late budget and unexpected $28 billion debt increase.

“We have a sovereign role in this parliament of holding this government to account. We must hold this government to account for its stewardship of the government and for its expenditure of public moneys.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Raised concerns about the government's approach to Independent Public Schools.

“The communities that have IPS love it. They want to keep it.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Supported the budget and defended the government's education investments.

“This government is investing in education for Queensland's future.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Supported the budget and highlighted investments in her regional electorate.

“This budget delivers for Central Queensland.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Criticised the truncated estimates process for limiting scrutiny of racing issues, and warned the government would abolish Independent Public Schools on ideological grounds.

“The principals and communities that have IPS love it. They want to keep it. They want to make sure that they can continue to have the authority and the delegations that they have at the moment to make the education system better for our students. This mob will get rid of it on philosophical grounds, not on outcomes.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Endorsed the Health and Environment Committee report and highlighted record investment in health services and the Queensland Ambulance Service.

“There is record investment in Health; record investment in the 16 independent hospital and health services across our state; and record investment in the Queensland Ambulance Service.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Raised concerns about mental health services in regional areas.

“Mental health services need investment right across Queensland.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

As shadow health spokesperson, criticised the $28 billion debt and cuts to Children's Health Queensland, while highlighting failures in rural maternity services and health management.

“Labor promised to leave Queenslanders with $4 billion in debt—a frightening enough figure but understandable in these difficult pandemic times during which our economy has suffered so much. However, when the Treasurer rose last December to introduce this bill, the whole truth was revealed: $28 billion.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Supported the budget and highlighted health investments.

“This budget delivers for Queensland Health.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

As a Health and Environment Committee member, welcomed hospital funding for Sarina while raising concerns about hospital operating losses, health system deficiencies, and the impact of regulations on farmers.

“In this budget it was good to see funds allocated to upgrade Sarina Hospital. I hope that small regional towns such as Mount Morgan and Sarina are supported into the future by the government so they can look after their local communities and remain in service.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Endorsed the Health and Environment Committee report and emphasised the importance of a strong public health system for economic opportunity.

“For us on this side of the House, health is a cornerstone issue. There is nothing more important in our communities.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Supported the budget and highlighted investments in her regional electorate.

“This budget delivers for Mackay and the resources sector.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Supported the budget as Deputy Speaker.

“This budget delivers for Queensland.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Endorsed the Transport and Resources Committee report and highlighted budget investments.

“This budget delivers infrastructure and jobs for Queensland.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Criticised the government for spending less than 1,000 hours in session during the 56th parliament, raising concerns about transparency and accountability.

“Queenslanders should be aware of the unusual circumstances in which we do so and I am not referring to coronavirus. In last weekend's Sunday Mail Queenslanders read that the 56th parliament is the only one this century to have spent less than 1,000 hours in session.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

As shadow transport spokesperson, questioned Cross River Rail cost projections and criticised the minister's integrity, while noting the LNP supports the need for Cross River Rail.

“In relation to the vexed question of Cross River Rail, we have made it perfectly clear that the LNP supports the need for Cross River Rail.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Criticised the estimates process as 'farcical' and the government's late budget timing, while expressing concerns about state debt and renewable energy policy impacts on base load power.

“The government will now blow out the state's debt to somewhere in the vicinity of $130 billion. This is a concern for every Queenslander because at the some point in time somebody will have to pay it back.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Raised concerns about water infrastructure and regional issues.

“Regional communities need water security.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Supported the budget and highlighted investments in her electorate.

“This budget delivers for the western suburbs.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Raised concerns about regional infrastructure investment.

“Toowoomba needs more infrastructure investment.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Supported the budget as Deputy Speaker.

“This budget delivers for North Queensland.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Supported the budget and highlighted investments in his electorate.

“This budget delivers for Ipswich.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

As Legal Affairs and Safety Committee chair, endorsed the committee report.

“I commend the Legal Affairs and Safety Committee report to the House.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

As deputy committee chair, criticised the estimates process as highly controlled and designed to avoid scrutiny, while advocating for local police beat services.

“From where I sit as the deputy chair of the Legal Affairs and Safety Committee the estimates process is a very constrained process, highly controlled by the Labor chairs, where every effort is made by the government to avoid in-depth probing and ultimately to avoid scrutiny.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Criticised the Attorney-General's portfolio as 'sclerotic' with glacial progress on law reform, raised concerns about coronial system backlogs and youth justice policy failures.

“When we look at the report, at the budget highlights for justice services and at the questions we asked which were answered by both the Attorney-General and officers of the department, one word comes to mind: sclerotic. That is, it moves at glacial speed.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Supported the budget and highlighted investments on the Sunshine Coast.

“This budget delivers for the Sunshine Coast.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Criticised the government's slow progress on domestic violence reform, particularly coercive control legislation and non-lethal strangulation definitions, while acknowledging frontline services.

“This government keeps talking and setting up task forces. It keeps a dialogue going instead of taking action and implementing legislative and structural reform to support the survivors of domestic violence and reduce the number of victims.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard

Supported the Legal Affairs and Safety Committee report, praising Queensland Police Service's COVID response and the government's domestic and family violence reforms.

“Caring for Queenslanders' safety and wellbeing is a key pillar for our economic recovery.”— 2021-02-23View Hansard