Appropriation Bill 2015

As chair of the Finance and Administration Committee, supported both appropriation bills, praising the budget for restoring front-line services, delivering surpluses, and restoring the estimates process.

“I congratulate the Premier and the Treasurer on a budget which not only works to restore much of the damage that was done to Queensland over the three years of the LNP government but also is a plan to take Queensland forward.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Acknowledged the Speaker's contribution to the parliamentary appropriation but criticised the government for reducing time available for scrutiny of the Premier and Treasurer during estimates.

“It is really disappointing that this year in the estimates process we have a government that is looking to hide. We have a government that does not want to make itself available to answer questions.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Opposed the budget, arguing the surplus was an illusion based on shifting debt and raiding long service leave entitlements, and criticised the estimates process as a protection racket.

“I would respectfully ask the member for Bulimba to consult Moody's and Standard & Poor's, who have said that the fiscal deficit situation in Queensland has significantly worsened as a consequence of this budget because they look at fiscal deficit.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Defended the budget as delivering on Labor's election commitments including jobs, front-line services, arts funding, and integrity reforms without selling assets.

“This is a budget that delivers jobs now and jobs for the future through our $1.6 billion Working Queensland plan and our $180 million Advance Queensland initiative.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Criticised the estimates process for inadequate time to scrutinise the Premier and Treasurer, arguing government members defeated motions for longer hearing times.

“I put the House on notice now that if I am a part of the estimates process next year I will be fighting to ensure that we have the Premier and the Treasurer for every minute that we are able to have them for.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Supported the budget as delivering on election commitments including Advance Queensland, TAFE funding, and the record education and health spend.

“It is a kind budget that puts people before numbers while leaving the state in excellent financial health.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Defended the estimates process and praised the Premier and Treasurer for their command of their portfolios during the hearings.

“What I heard and what I saw was a Premier and a Treasurer who clearly understood their portfolios, who had a very good grasp of their responsibilities and who were able to articulate that themselves.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Criticised the estimates process for lack of openness and transparency, arguing the Treasurer gave long replies without answering questions and the Premier had less scrutiny time than the previous year.

“The Treasurer was also a little short on time compared to the process undertaken last year by the previous government—one hour and 49 minutes less, as I understand it.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

As Treasurer, defended the budget for delivering election commitments, forecasting surpluses, reducing debt, and delivering strong economic growth without asset sales or redundancies.

“Importantly, the committee heard me advise that for 2015-16 we are forecasting a surplus of $1.2 billion, with combined surpluses over the next four years of $6.9 billion.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Criticised the budget for weakening Queensland's economic circumstances, with lower business confidence, rising unemployment, and questioned the Treasurer's credibility on deficit claims.

“Since the election of the Labor government we have seen a real weakening in Queensland's economic circumstances.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Supported the budget and praised the restored estimates process, criticising the opposition for asking politically motivated questions rather than examining the budget.

“I encourage the whole of this House to support this committee's recommendation to this parliament to endorse the appropriations for the Premier's portfolio and the Treasurer's portfolio.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Criticised the government's lack of planning for arts funding and the return of union encouragement policy in industrial relations, arguing the government had no proper arts plan.

“There is no thought or commitment to that sector. It is an extremely important sector of our community, one which the Newman government took seriously and which I, as minister for the arts, took seriously.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Supported the budget as a jobs budget, highlighting $1.6 billion for the Working Queensland program, Skilling Queenslanders for Work funding, and Advance Queensland.

“This is a jobs budget. That is the only way one can describe it.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

As chair of the Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources Committee, praised the Deputy Premier's competence and the budget's infrastructure commitments.

“The Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, Minister for Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning and Minister for Trade, Minister Jackie Trad, was at the top of her game.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Criticised the government for failing to monitor the legislative cost impacts on local government and for passing costs onto communities through industrial relations legislation.

“It is time that the government took responsibility for the costs that it is passing on to people.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Called for infrastructure investment in the Galilee Basin railway, rural roads, and water infrastructure, welcoming some preparatory funding but wanting more concrete commitments for regional development.

“If we want to kickstart the economy in this state then we should build the railway track in the Galilee Basin. It is very simple.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Supported the budget's infrastructure spending including Bruce Highway upgrades, Bridges Renewal Program, and Building Queensland establishment.

“I was pleased to hear of the federal and state government commitment of over $8.5 billion to fix the Bruce Highway over 10 years.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Argued the Minister for State Development was constrained by the Left faction and unable to progress reform, criticising contradictory positions on water releases and vegetation management.

“This minister is tortured by the fact that he cannot progress the reform agenda that Queensland needs because he cannot get the support that he needs from his cabinet, dominated by the Deputy Premier and the Left faction of the Labor Party.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Supported the budget's $59 million for planning reform, $7.7 million for export education, and $200 million Building our Regions program.

“I am confident that both the Deputy Premier and Minister Lynham have been working incredibly hard towards growing our economy and creating jobs, whilst balancing growth and ecological sustainability.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Attacked the budget as a fraud that increases debt, delivers no new infrastructure, and fails to reduce taxes or restore the AAA credit rating.

“There is nothing new in this budget. It is a failure; it would be marked as a failure. It delivers nothing new, it pays nothing off, it increases debt and it does nothing to reduce taxes.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Supported the budget's commitments to rail services and public transport fare reform in South-East Queensland, highlighting the New Generation Rollingstock project.

“The Deputy Premier outlined what the Palaszczuk government is doing to reform public transport fares in South-East Queensland and how this differs from the approach of the previous LNP government.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Criticised the Deputy Premier for being corrected by her director-general on fare increases during estimates and attacked Labor's record of 15 per cent annual fare increases.

“I have never seen a situation where a minister has corrected her director-general and has to go back.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

As Minister for State Development and Natural Resources, defended the budget and his portfolio management, addressing opposition criticisms on water releases and vegetation management.

“I would like to thank the committee for its detailed and diligent examination of the proposed expenditure for my portfolios. I commend the Appropriation Bill 2015 to the House.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

As Deputy Premier, defended the budget's infrastructure spending of $10.1 billion, clarified fare increase commitments, and promoted Building Queensland and innovative funding models.

“The budget includes a building program in 2015-16 of $10.1 billion. This represents an increase of $400 million on the former government's actual spend.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Criticised lack of detail on regional rail funding and vegetation management policy, calling on the government to leave vegetation management laws as they are.

“I call on the Labor government to leave the vegetation management laws the way they are. They work with landholders, they work with the community and they provide jobs and increase production.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

As chair of the Legal Affairs and Community Safety Committee, praised the budget's investments in domestic violence services, youth justice, alcohol fuelled violence measures, and police resources.

“The Attorney also explained how the Labor Palaszczuk government shall provide $1.1 million additional funding in 2015-16 to expand the domestic violence duty lawyer service across the state.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Criticised the police minister's performance at estimates and the government's plan to review VLAD laws, expressing concern about winding back anti-gang legislation.

“I am very concerned that the current Labor government in Queensland has stated its intention to overturn these laws in Queensland, even when other Labor states are embracing them.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Criticised the budget as bad for jobs and growth, attacked the government's planned repeal of VLAD laws and lack of plan for the vocational training sector.

“This is a bad budget and a bad government that is bad for jobs and bad for growth.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Supported the budget's approach to youth justice, praising the termination of the failed boot camp program and the commitment to restorative justice principles.

“I commend the Palaszczuk Labor government for abandoning this retrograde and regressive program and for committing to developing a youth justice system based on the principles of restorative justice.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Criticised the estimates process as a farce of stonewalling and filibustering, but welcomed the Attorney-General's reconsideration of making Gympie TAFE facilities available for university expansion.

“The estimates hearing process has left me despairing for the future of the Queensland economy. It has left me with no confidence that the members of this government have any idea of what they are doing.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

As Attorney-General, defended the budget's investments in domestic violence services, youth justice reform, alcohol fuelled violence measures, TAFE restoration, and organised crime enforcement.

“I am proud to be part of a government that is taking this important issue seriously. It is a crying shame that the LNP's commitment to ending violence does not include a single measure to tackle alcohol related violence.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Attacked the police minister's competence and the government's protection racket during estimates, criticising the reduced scrutiny of the Police Commissioner.

“I do not have confidence in the police minister. The Premier has not confirmed that she has confidence in the police minister.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Defended the budget and estimates process, highlighting the restoration of Murri Court and drug diversion funding, and youth justice reforms.

“It must be a very good budget because for five minutes we heard the member for Kawana talk about anything other than the budget.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Criticised the TAFE budget for setting lower performance targets than the previous year despite increased funding, and attacked the dismantling of the LNP's VET asset management reforms.

“Despite all of the money that has been put into the sector, despite the rhetoric that says they are going to restore the VET sector, in these three key performance indicators their target is to achieve less than they achieved last financial year.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

As chair of the Agriculture and Environment Committee, supported the budget's measures on fire ants, Great Barrier Reef protection, and restoring the estimates process.

“I am pleased to see this government funding measures to help eradicate this biosecurity threat, which has had a direct impact upon the people of Ipswich.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Criticised the government's net-free fishing zones policy, selective consultation, and the allocation of Great Barrier Reef funds to departmental positions rather than on-ground action.

“We did not hear anything from the minister about consultation with the commercial sector, but that is what we knew.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Supported the budget's investments in agricultural research, drought assistance, and net-free fishing zones for the Mackay region.

“The government is fulfilling its election commitment to continue existing drought arrangements until 2018 and to review existing arrangements should the wet season fail.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Criticised the net-free zones policy for ignoring scientific advice and failing to properly compensate commercial fishers, and highlighted staff cuts in the Department of Agriculture.

“His own SDS at page 15 clearly shows FTE numbers were cut by 138. This is a reduction of the DAF workforce no matter how you look at it.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Supported the budget and praised the ministers' handling of questions during estimates, criticising the opposition for asking irrelevant questions rather than scrutinising budget line items.

“Many of the other opposition members who were asking questions did so not to delve into the detail of the government's response and budget but instead to score points possibly for the next day's newspapers.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Criticised the racing minister's performance and the government's handling of Racing Queensland, arguing the minister had no plan and was talking down the industry.

“Not only has Minister Byrne shown that he has no understanding of an industry that generates $855 million but also he has eroded confidence, instilling in people a fear of losing their jobs and their livelihoods.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

As Minister for Environment, highlighted the budget's $100 million for Great Barrier Reef water quality, $15 million for climate change adaptation, and NatureAssist conservation program.

“In this budget, we have delivered $100 million in new money that we pledged during the election campaign to improve the water quality of the Great Barrier Reef.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Criticised the government's net-free zones policy for harming commercial fishermen without proper consultation or adequate compensation.

“Yesterday, a fisherman came to me and asked, 'What's the minister going to do when the first bloke commits suicide?' That is the feeling among some of the fishermen at the moment.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

As Minister for Agriculture, defended the budget and attacked the opposition for failing to lodge a statement of reservation in the committee report despite criticising his portfolio in debate.

“They are too lazy and too incompetent to put any of that into the report. There is nothing, zero, zip.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Criticised the drought assistance package as inadequate for the cattle industry, called for a shift from productivity to profitability focus in agriculture policy, and advocated for country racing funding through the communities portfolio.

“The drought assistance package in Queensland has been a failure and has not been anywhere near commensurate with the size of the problem and the threat that the cattle industry faces west of the Great Divide.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

As chair of the Education, Tourism and Small Business Committee, supported the record education budget including $152.4 million for extra teachers and STEM initiatives.

“The Palaszczuk government will invest a record $11.497 billion to ensure Queensland students are provided with world-class education and training opportunities.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Criticised the minister for lacking knowledge across her megaportfolio, dodging questions on tourism safety impacts of VLAD law changes, and the lack of proper scrutiny time.

“Given her portfolio responsibilities, it is not surprising that she functions as little more than a part-time minister for the separate but very critical areas in her portfolio.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

As chair of the Health and Ambulance Services Committee, supported the record $14.2 billion health investment including nursing workforce initiatives and mental health funding.

“The proposed health expenditure considered by the committee represents a record investment of $14.2 billion in the current fiscal year.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Raised concerns about ICT infrastructure risks, union involvement in nurse-patient ratio policy development, and outsourcing of health services contrary to Labor's election pledges.

“Queenslanders deserve to know who is involved in the development of their healthcare policies and who is running policy development: the Labor government or the union bosses.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Supported the record health budget including 6.1 per cent funding increase for Townsville, additional graduate nursing positions, nurse navigators, and 75 extra paramedics.

“A record budget for those health services of over $14 billion is allocated for 2015-16.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Criticised the government's failure to build road infrastructure for the new Sunshine Coast University Hospital and lack of a coordinated response to the ice epidemic.

“We are delivering with a hospital the size of the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, on the Sunshine Coast on a two-lane road. The Labor government has decided not to build the road network that is able to service this new hospital.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

As a registered nurse, supported the budget's investments in preventative health, nurse-to-patient ratios, graduate nursing positions, and the Health Promotion Commissioner.

“Ratios will save lives and the allocation of funding for this initiative is world leading and is something that nurses have been calling on governments to do for decades.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Questioned the evidence base for nurse navigator positions, raised concerns about the Health Promotion Commission governance, and criticised underinvestment in alcohol and drug services.

“Funding specific new nurse navigator roles is yet to be a proven strategy to reduce unplanned hospital readmissions, enhance quality-of-life metrics or reduce length of stay within our hospitals.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

As Health Minister, defended the record $14.2 billion budget, outpatient waitlist strategy, nursing workforce commitments, and criticised federal health funding cuts.

“There is a record operating budget for Queensland Health of $4.183 billion. This is great news for the people of Queensland, wherever they might live in this state.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Criticised the government for refusing to release Lady Cilento Hospital review documents, questioned the minister's vagueness on medical cannabis trial costs, and highlighted blowing out surgery wait times.

“How can the minister then turn around and say that they are cabinet-in-confidence when he has not even seen them? What a rort! What a hide! What is he hiding?”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

As chair of the Communities committee, supported the budget's increases in child safety, domestic violence prevention, and disability services funding.

“I would like to congratulate the Minister for Communities, Women and Youth, Minister for Child Safety and Minister for Multicultural Affairs on her hard work in restoring our community services sector.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Supported the budget's investments in child safety, neighbourhood centres, and the government's commitment to implementing 140 Not now, not ever task force recommendations.

“Labor has always had at the core of our values the drive to ensure that no-one gets left behind in our community. This Appropriation Bill goes to the heart of that.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Criticised the slow distribution of drought community support funding and the lack of service measures for the Minister Assisting the Premier on North Queensland in the budget papers.

“Drought waits for no-one, so not only are these drought-affected constituents and communities waiting for the heavens to open, but they are also waiting for George Street.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

As Minister for Communities, defended the budget's $66 million investment in domestic violence prevention, child safety funding, and neighbourhood centre support.

“I am so pleased that the Palaszczuk government is investing more than $66 million this financial year on a broad range of measures to reduce domestic and family violence in Queensland.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Criticised the budget for providing only $5 million in new domestic violence funding, handing back money to Treasury, and creating no new front-line departmental positions.

“It took a bit of questioning of Minister Fentiman for her to finally acknowledge that, for all of the language around rolling out the recommendations of the Not now, not ever report, only $5 million of new funding has, in fact, been allocated to tackle domestic violence this year.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

As Minister for Disability Services, defended the 5.58 per cent increase in disability services funding, NDIS readiness activities, and her advocacy role for North Queensland.

“The Palaszczuk Labor government's budget provided an operating budget for Disability Services of $1.547 billion, an increase of 5.58 per cent.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

As chair of the Utilities, Science and Innovation Committee, supported the budget's retention of public electricity assets, uniform tariff policy, and biofuels development.

“I am immensely proud that we have kept our electricity supply assets in public hands and maintained the uniform tariff policy to keep regional power prices in line with metropolitan prices.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Criticised the cancellation of Logan and Gold Coast public housing revitalisation projects worth $1.6 billion, and the minimal number of new social housing dwellings in the budget.

“It would have resulted in some 2,000 new homes in South-East Queensland.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Supported the budget's commitments to renewable energy, bulk water price decreases, public housing upgrades, and the Advance Queensland program.

“No longer does the government refer to solar energy users as the 'champagne set'. There is a real commitment towards solar and solar energy jobs in the industry.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Criticised the Main Roads minister for confusing the ports of Mackay and Hay Point during estimates and misrepresenting the Vines Creek bridges project progress.

“He has obviously got his ports mixed up and has no idea. I am sorry but coal comes out of Hay Point and sugar comes out of the port of Mackay.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Criticised the budget for lacking commitment to major infrastructure projects in North Queensland including roads, water projects, and the Galilee Basin, and opposed the review of housing policies.

“During the estimates hearings I asked the minister when the initiatives announced in the government's Advance Queensland plan would be implemented. The minister responded that the plan had not yet commenced.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Attacked the government for loading electricity companies with debt, seeking higher network charges from the AER, and running an ETU protection racket during estimates to prevent scrutiny of Ergon job cuts.

“Labor members say one thing when they are in opposition and do a complete and utter other thing when they are in government. They have completely misled the people of Queensland when it comes to keeping electricity prices down.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

As Minister for Housing and Public Works, defended the budget's $334 million in social housing projects, the Logan Renewal Initiative review, and the rollout of Advance Queensland programs.

“The government has approved more than $334 million in social housing projects over the 2015-16 Capital Works Program. That is $84 million more for social housing this year alone.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

As Minister for Main Roads and Energy, defended the budget's infrastructure spending, road safety plan, renewable energy commitments, and retention of public electricity assets.

“It is a jobs budget that is creating jobs right across this state.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

As Minister for Education, defended her handling of the megaportfolio, the IT system failure response, and the budget's record investment in education including 875 extra teachers.

“I will stand in this parliament and fight for everybody in this state to ensure that not only are we delivering the best education system and real jobs in tourism, but we are also delivering for small businesses.”— 2015-09-15View Hansard

Criticised the budget as an illusion, arguing it is bad for jobs and growth, raids public servants' entitlements, and delivers nothing new for Mount Ommaney including the unfunded Sumner Road upgrade.

“Quite simply, I believe that this budget is duping Queenslanders. I believe that this government has no plan.”— 2015-07-17View Hansard

Delivered the opposition leader's budget reply, arguing the budget is bad for jobs, growth and debt, criticising the raid on public servants' long service leave and superannuation, the debt-shifting to GOCs, and the failure to deliver on pre-election promises.

“This first Labor budget is bad for the economy, it is bad for jobs and it is bad for growth.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Supported the budget as a true Labor budget delivering on jobs, education, health services and retaining government-owned assets, highlighting local projects for Kallangur.

“I rise today to speak in support of this first budget by the Palaszczuk Labor government.”— 2015-07-17View Hansard

Supported the budget, highlighting investment in Far North Queensland health, education, tourism and disaster relief, as well as progress on the Bill Fulton Bridge at Redlynch.

“I rise to support the budget and also to congratulate the Treasurer on delivering this 2015-16 budget in a professional, measured and responsible fashion.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Criticised the budget from a health perspective, arguing the government has no plan and is raiding super funds, while acknowledging the LNP's health outcomes are the benchmark.

“This government has no plan, it is raiding the super funds, it is going to take away long service leave entitlements and it has no plan to attack unemployment or boost business.”— 2015-07-17View Hansard

As Deputy Leader of the Opposition, argued the budget broke every pre-election promise including paying down debt, delivering surpluses, and fully funding long-term liabilities, describing it as a betrayal of trust.

“Tuesday's budget does not deliver on any one of those promises—not one, zero from four.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Criticised the budget for delivering an infrastructure freeze for Redland City with no capital health funding for Redland Hospital, cancelling the Mums and Bubs initiative, and increasing deficits.

“In my electorate of Cleveland this budget effectively delivers an infrastructure freeze.”— 2015-07-17View Hansard

Supported the budget, highlighting the Strathpine train station upgrade, disability services funding, water infrastructure projects and community initiatives in Pine Rivers.

“Labor builds things and Labor is about fairness. It is just our values. It is who we are and, importantly, it is what this budget is all about.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Supported the budget for delivering for Morayfield including the Caboolture Hospital expansion, road upgrades, school improvements and Skilling Queenslanders for Work.

“This is a budget that delivers for the people of Morayfield.”— 2015-07-17View Hansard

Criticised the budget for being bad for jobs and growth, attacking the long service leave raid and lack of new infrastructure, while highlighting LNP achievements in arts, science and innovation.

“This is a budget that is bad for jobs and bad for growth because employment growth is down.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Criticised the budget for failing to deliver infrastructure for the growing northern Gold Coast corridor, and attacking the raids on public servants' entitlements.

“This budget is bad for jobs and bad for growth.”— 2015-07-17View Hansard

Supported the budget as a great Labor budget delivering a surplus without sacking public servants, highlighting record health investment, nurse-to-patient ratios, the PA Hospital digital upgrade, and the Advance Queensland strategy.

“The Treasurer has demonstrated that there is a better way for Queensland. The Treasurer has demonstrated that the budget can be managed in a manner that grows the economy and jobs.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Supported the budget for its investment in health, education and community services, highlighting local projects for Ferny Grove.

“This is a budget that delivers for all Queenslanders.”— 2015-07-17View Hansard

Commended the Treasurer for delivering a good first-year budget without cuts, highlighting investment in Moranbah school air conditioning, the Gregory Developmental Road, disability services, and Ravenshoe community support.

“I am not saying this is the greatest budget I have ever seen, but it is a good budget, particularly for the first year of a new government.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Criticised the budget for failing the Gold Coast with no new infrastructure, no light rail funding, and reliance on tricks and raids.

“This budget fails the Gold Coast.”— 2015-07-17View Hansard

Congratulated the Treasurer on a budget that delivers for Bundaberg, highlighting new cardiology and ophthalmology services, additional nurses and teachers, and the Paradise Dam spillway upgrade.

“The first budget by the Palaszczuk government has been a refreshing change for my community and it has been welcomed with open arms by all sectors.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Criticised the budget for failing regional Queensland, cutting 130 positions from the department of agriculture, and lacking vision for the agricultural sector.

“Yes, it is a typical Labor budget: full of spin and with very little substance.”— 2015-07-17View Hansard

As shadow minister for education, criticised the budget for delivering nothing for his electorate, cutting the Great Teachers = Great Results program, and growing the public service instead of creating real jobs.

“This budget is underwhelming, unimaginative and does nothing to create jobs or reduce debt.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

As Minister for Communities, supported the budget for its focus on jobs for vulnerable and disadvantaged people, enhanced employment opportunities, and community services.

“The Palaszczuk government has a clear and unwavering focus on jobs.”— 2015-07-17View Hansard

Supported the budget for its investment in Gladstone including the RG Tanna Coal Terminal upgrade, hospital emergency department upgrades, trade skills centre, and additional classrooms.

“Not only did this government stop this profitable government owned asset from being sold; we are now investing in infrastructure and upgrades which will generate jobs and prosperity in our region.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Criticised the budget for failing to fund projects in the regions, arguing the flowery weasel words of the government's spin are exposed when the rubber hits the road.

“Unfortunately this budget does not deliver for all of this state, including the regions.”— 2015-07-17View Hansard

Criticised the budget's debt action plan as fundamentally flawed, arguing the debt shifting and long service leave raid are smoke and mirrors, while promoting the LNP's alternative economic plan.

“This state budget is a feather castle built on liquid sand. It will float away and disintegrate rapidly.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Acknowledged some benefits in the budget for his electorate including feral animal management and road funding, but expressed concern about the lack of vision for northern development and water infrastructure.

“I would firstly like to go through the benefits that we are most grateful for and thank the government for them on behalf of my electorate.”— 2015-07-17View Hansard

Supported the budget for restoring fairness and hope, highlighting $75 million for the Townsville Ring Road stage 4, the Dalrymple Road Bridge, new schools for northern suburbs, and Skilling Queenslanders for Work.

“This budget brings back the fairness and hope that the people of Queensland lost under the previous LNP government.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Criticised the budget as a gerrymander budget propped up by unions and crossbenchers, failing to deliver for Hervey Bay.

“Well, well, well, what can we say about this gerrymander budget?”— 2015-07-17View Hansard

As shadow transport minister, criticised the budget for increasing public transport fares and car registration, delivering no new transport projects, and merely continuing LNP-initiated infrastructure.

“This is a failed Labor budget for Queensland.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Criticised the budget for failing Noosa and the Sunshine Coast, lacking investment in road and rail infrastructure.

“This budget fails the Sunshine Coast.”— 2015-07-17View Hansard

Supported the budget as environment minister, highlighting the Auchenflower station upgrade, $100 million for Great Barrier Reef water quality, $15 million for climate change adaptation, and national parks funding.

“My portfolio budget truly reflects our commitments as a government to ensure appropriate protection for the state's environment.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Supported the budget for delivering for Logan including Yarrabilba infrastructure, health and education investment.

“This budget delivers for the people of Logan.”— 2015-07-17View Hansard

Argued Labor cannot be trusted, criticising the broken promises on debt reduction, the raid on long service leave, the absence of new infrastructure particularly for Caboolture Hospital, and the lack of Great Results Guarantee funding beyond 2016.

“Let the people of Queensland and the people of Glass House be in no doubt: the Australian Labor Party cannot be trusted because the Australian Labor Party does not tell the truth.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Criticised the budget for failing the Gold Coast and Currumbin electorate, with no new infrastructure and continuing to claim credit for LNP projects.

“This budget fails my electorate of Currumbin.”— 2015-07-17View Hansard

Supported the budget for delivering a surplus, jobs through Skilling Queenslanders for Work and Advance Queensland, record health and education spending, and local investment in Brisbane Central.

“We said there was a better way and this budget delivers a better budget than those opposite are capable of delivering.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Criticised the budget for its lack of Sunshine Coast rail duplication funding and failure to deliver new infrastructure for the Sunshine Coast.

“This budget fails the Sunshine Coast.”— 2015-07-17View Hansard

Criticised the budget as a one-off sugar hit, noting it merely claims LNP-initiated projects for the Toowoomba region and lacks innovation investment comparable to the LNP's proposals.

“This is a budget that is clearly designed to be a one-off sugar hit without regard to the long-term future of our state.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Criticised the budget for failing the Gold Coast with no new infrastructure, raids on public servants' entitlements, and increasing debt.

“This budget is bad for jobs and bad for growth.”— 2015-07-17View Hansard

Supported the budget for delivering jobs and infrastructure in Ipswich West, highlighting the Borallon Correctional Centre recommissioning and the Wulkaraka rail maintenance facility.

“The Treasurer was faced with the aftermath of three years of arrogant economic mismanagement that tore at the social fabric of our great state.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Supported the budget for delivering for Ipswich including health, education, infrastructure and community services.

“This budget delivers for the people of Ipswich.”— 2015-07-17View Hansard

Criticised the budget for robbing Peter to pay Paul, delivering nothing for Aspley including no transport infrastructure or school hall upgrade, while noting the 3.5 per cent car registration increase.

“This is a government that has not been up-front with the people of Queensland.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Criticised the budget for merely claiming credit for LNP projects in Toowoomba, with no new investment for the region.

“This budget fails the Toowoomba region.”— 2015-07-17View Hansard

As Attorney-General, supported the budget for investing in diversionary courts, youth justice conferencing, the Sentencing Advisory Council, domestic violence measures, and TAFE restoration.

“Success in the justice system is not about counting how many people are in our prisons; it is about reducing crime and doing our best to assist those to not reoffend.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Supported the budget for its investment in remote Indigenous communities and Cape York, highlighting road and health infrastructure.

“This budget delivers for the people of Cook.”— 2015-07-17View Hansard

As former Treasurer, delivered an extensive critique arguing the budget turns LNP surpluses into $5 billion in fiscal deficits, raids long service leave and superannuation entitlements, and delivers higher debt while promising lower debt.

“This Treasurer has turned the LNP's fiscal surpluses into deficits totalling $5 billion over the forward forecasts.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Supported the budget for delivering jobs, health, education and infrastructure for the Stretton electorate.

“This budget delivers for the people of Stretton.”— 2015-07-17View Hansard

Supported the budget as responsible and measured, highlighting the Gateway Motorway upgrade, Boondall and Banyo train station improvements, the Triple P parenting program, and school infrastructure.

“One of the reasons I joined the Labor Party was that we believe deeply in the value and dignity of work—in the opportunity it provides.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Criticised the budget for failing western Queensland with no new infrastructure, cutting agricultural positions and lacking vision for regional development.

“This budget fails western Queensland.”— 2015-07-17View Hansard

Criticised the budget for abandoning the Mudgeeraba electorate, noting Labor had claimed credit for LNP projects and cut previously funded commitments for school safety and road upgrades.

“Fundamentally, this is a budget which is bad for jobs and bad for growth. It is a budget of tricks and raids on public servants' long service leave and superannuation which Labor never foreshadowed before the election.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Criticised the budget for failing the Whitsunday region with no new infrastructure and neglecting tourism and agriculture.

“This budget fails the Whitsunday region.”— 2015-07-17View Hansard

Supported the budget for delivering on community expectations without selling assets, highlighting infrastructure projects in Central Queensland and concerns about small business viability in resource communities.

“I am proud of the fact that a Labor government can do that, because we as a government have a sense of integrity and a sense of commitment.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Criticised the budget for its debt-shifting tricks and raids, with no new infrastructure for Chatsworth.

“This budget is bad for jobs and bad for growth.”— 2015-07-17View Hansard

Criticised the debt hospital pass to GOCs, the raid on public servants' superannuation, and the inadequacy of the Building Our Regions program, while welcoming Panama disease funding for the banana industry.

“Those employer contributions do not belong to the Treasurer; they belong to the people who earned them.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

As former Deputy Premier, criticised the budget for lacking vision, claiming credit for LNP infrastructure projects, and failing regional Queensland.

“This budget has no vision for the future of Queensland.”— 2015-07-17View Hansard

Supported the budget for restoring front-line services, delivering jobs, and benefiting the Lytton electorate through new teachers, guidance officers and community services.

“I am proud of this budget and I am proud to be part of the Palaszczuk government.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

As Minister for Main Roads, supported the budget for its $18.8 billion transport infrastructure investment, TIDS funding for local governments, energy and water investment, and renewable energy platform.

“This is a budget for all of Queensland.”— 2015-07-17View Hansard

Criticised the budget for delivering a 33 per cent capital spend reduction for the Bundaberg and Burnett region, attacking the raids on entitlements and destruction of the Safe Night Out Strategy.

“Albert Einstein once defined stupidity as 'doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result'.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Criticised the budget as a 'hope' budget relying on royalties to save the government, attacking the superannuation raid and lack of support for small business.

“This is a real Labor budget all right—this is a real Labor budget about debt.”— 2015-07-17View Hansard

Strongly supported the budget, highlighting record health and education spending, the new Cairns Special School, foreshore development, and the Cairns Convention Centre roof replacement.

“If this is a vanilla budget, all I can say is, 'Pass the ice-cream. I'll have two scoops please with extra vanilla.'”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Supported the budget for restoring confidence in Mackay through port expansion, the Vines Creek bridge, education investment, and domestic violence services funding.

“Thanks to the Palaszczuk government's budget, confidence in our community can be restored.”— 2015-07-17View Hansard

Criticised the budget as a return to the past, highlighting the reduction in community housing funding, the Gold Coast regional brochure claiming credit for private projects, and no commitment to Gold Coast Light Rail stage 2.

“I am just so disappointed with this budget. I think that is the best word I can find to describe the budget that has been presented here this week.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

As Treasurer, delivered the reply speech defending the budget as responsible and measured, arguing debt will be lower under Labor than the LNP forecast, challenging the opposition to present an alternative plan, and highlighting infrastructure investment across all regions.

“With this budget, we have proven that there is a better way.”— 2015-07-17View Hansard

Supported the budget for delivering the Bruce Highway-Boundary Road interchange, new school classrooms, sports facilities, and the Deception Bay bus interchange.

“It is an honour to be a part of a government that is delivering on its promises to build better communities.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Criticised the budget as fiction, attacking the lack of road infrastructure around the Sunshine Coast University Hospital, the cancellation of the Safe Night Out Strategy, and the government's soft-on-crime approach.

“This is not a budget about jobs. This is not a budget about infrastructure. It contains no new infrastructure items.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Supported the budget for investing heavily in Townsville as the hub of Northern Australia, highlighting the new stadium, port redevelopment, health services, schools, and disaster relief funding.

“The Palaszczuk government gets it. It is the Palaszczuk government that appointed the Minister Assisting the Premier for North Queensland as the only regional minister to do so.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Criticised the budget for delivering increased unemployment, no real economic growth, and no funding for Gold Coast Light Rail stage 2, arguing the government has no plan and merely raids public servants' entitlements.

“This budget proves that Labor had absolutely no plan for Queensland.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Supported the budget for addressing the five key issues raised by Keppel voters: health, education, jobs, infrastructure and the Great Barrier Reef.

“I rise in the House today to speak in favour of the first budget of the Palaszczuk Labor government handed down by the Treasurer on Tuesday.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Criticised the budget for its ludicrous claims, pointing out the LNP had delivered a seven per cent increase in the Health budget and improvements in education that this government is now cutting.

“In the previous budget there was an increase in the Health budget of seven per cent.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Supported the budget for delivering for Maryborough after 18 years in the wilderness under One Nation, an Independent and the LNP, putting his electorate first.

“I made a commitment to the people of the Maryborough electorate at the 31 January election that I would put Maryborough first.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Criticised the budget as full of spin and no substance, with no plan for the future and raids on public servants' superannuation and long service leave.

“On Tuesday we witnessed a typical Labor budget: full of spin and no substance, a budget that has no plan for the future.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Supported the budget, citing independent assessments as a report card validating the government's responsible approach.

“This is a report card on our budget.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Criticised the budget for failing to fund needed health services at Beaudesert Hospital, cutting the Mums and Bubs program, stripping CCC funding, and discontinuing the Great Results Guarantee.

“Coming into this place and presenting a budget full of smoke and mirrors, and shifting debt from one place to another, will not create the confidence that business needs to invest and create jobs.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

As Minister for State Development, supported the budget for its responsible approach, highlighting the Building Our Regions program, QMI Solutions, Queen's Wharf development, and the Townsville Stadium.

“This government will live within its financial means.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Criticised the budget as another magic trick from Labor, arguing the party will say anything to get elected and then fail to deliver.

“The old white rabbit is looking a bit scruffy, but it is all those opposite have for the voters of Queensland because those opposite will say anything at an election in order to get across the line.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Criticised the budget for doing little to progress major projects and create jobs in North Queensland, despite the region having some of Australia's biggest projects waiting in the wings.

“The budget brought down on Tuesday does little to progress those projects and, in turn, create the jobs that we so desperately need in North Queensland.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Criticised the direction the Palaszczuk government is taking Queensland under the Treasurer's stewardship.

“I want to speak briefly about the direction in which the Palaszczuk Labor government is taking Queensland.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Supported the budget as representing the restoration of vital services for the greater Redlands, noting the North Stradbroke Island economic transition package and Toondah Harbour upgrade.

“This budget is not about big shiny projects that make politicians feel good.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Criticised the budget for delivering nothing new for Condamine while claiming credit for LNP projects, and attacking the government's approach to industrial relations and union influence.

“If you move your plant and machinery debt over to your farm debt it does not mean it has magically disappeared. You still owe it.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Supported the budget for delivering a fiscal surplus, rescuing TAFE, boosting health and police, and providing for Pumicestone schools and sporting groups.

“I am happy to be part of a government that recognises that we live in a community and not in an economy.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Supported the budget for delivering Queensland's first operating surplus in 16 years, highlighting local investment in Bulimba State School classrooms and QFES swift-water rescue headquarters.

“We did what we said we were going to do—plain and simple.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Criticised the budget as an illusion, arguing it is bad for jobs and growth, raids public servants' entitlements, and delivers nothing new for Mount Ommaney while failing to fund the Sumner Road upgrade.

“Quite simply, I believe that this budget is duping Queenslanders. I believe that this government has no plan.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Supported the budget as a true Labor budget delivering on jobs, education, health services and retaining government-owned assets, highlighting local projects including the Petrie fire station and Pine Rivers Special School classrooms.

“I rise today to speak in support of this first budget by the Palaszczuk Labor government.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Criticised the budget from a health perspective, arguing the government has no plan and is raiding super funds, while acknowledging the LNP's health outcomes are now the benchmark the government seeks to emulate.

“This government has no plan, it is raiding the super funds, it is going to take away long service leave entitlements and it has no plan to attack unemployment or boost business.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard

Criticised the budget for delivering an infrastructure freeze for Redland City with no capital health funding for Redland Hospital, while increasing deficits, debt and unemployment.

“This first Labor budget is bad for the economy, it is bad for jobs and it is bad for growth.”— 2015-07-16View Hansard