Wednesday, 9 September 2026

 Ben CARROLL (Niddrie – Premier) (14:05): Our government believes in something very simple: that every decision we make should help working people, not make their lives more difficult or harder. That is why in the past few weeks we have announced we are doubling our road maintenance budget, removing half a million potholes, and putting more police on the beat. We have also announced a plan, for the first time in the 50 years since Medicare was created, to bring in free public dental, the first in the nation here in Victoria. This is the difference between a Labor government and a coalition Liberal–One Nation government. We know – and there are other reports out today on their cuts – that the so-called $22 billion by freezing back office staff will actually be freezing front office staff, teachers, nurses and front lines, with waiting lists up, unemployment up and more people that need help and support not getting it. Under our government we will continue to invest in services – no cuts to schools, no cuts to hospitals, supporting the front line. Their figures do not add up, but their priorities are perfectly clear. The Liberal–One Nation coalition will cut jobs, they will cut services and they will hurt working families.

James Newbury: On a point of order, Speaker, the use of a ministers statement in this way is just an abuse of the house’s time.

The SPEAKER: What is your point of order?

James Newbury: Attacking the opposition.

The SPEAKER: Is the Premier referring to reports? Is this publicly available information?

Ben CARROLL: Yes, it is.

The SPEAKER: I remind ministers – and I will only say this once today – that attacks on the opposition are not appropriate.

Ben CARROLL: I agree. Attacks on the opposition are not appropriate, but reports by the Australia Institute are essential reading for every single Victorian on the cuts they will introduce should they ever form office.