As federal politicians return to Parliament House for the upcoming sitting fortnight, concerns over the rising cost of living and a slowing economy take the spotlight.
The government aims to address these issues with measures targeting new parents and university students to alleviate financial worries amidst weak economic growth figures.
Meanwhile, the coalition plans to ramp up pressure on the government regarding visa and migration matters, as well as monetary challenges following the Reserve Bank’s forecast that an interest rate cut is not imminent.
Debates in the lower house will focus on initiatives such as superannuation payments for new parents on top of government-paid parental leave, and additional support for university students through reduced interest rates on student debt and payments for practical training.
The mental health of defense personnel will also be a key topic, as the government awaits the final report from a royal commission on veteran suicide.
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The final report on veteran suicide will be released after extensive evidence gathering over three years.
A Senate debate on housing is anticipated, particularly regarding the government’s build-to-rent scheme, which offers tax breaks for new home construction exclusively for renters.
The coalition and the Greens have differing opinions on the scheme, with concerns about rental dependence and housing shortages, respectively.
With housing expected to be a major issue in the 2025 federal election, the government will need support from either the coalition or the Greens to pass its build-to-rent policy in the Senate.
Additionally, the Senate crossbench will gain a new member on Sep. 9 as Gerard Rennick moves to the independent bench after leaving the coalition.
Rennick, known for his stance against vaccine mandates, plans to establish a new political party for the upcoming federal election, scheduled for May 2025.
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