What was debated in Parliament
Summarised using AI from the official Hansard transcript of the debate only. It is not a record of the debate and may leave things out. Read the Hansard below to check it.
This bill extends cuts to fuel excise for another month, from 1 July to early August 2026, after the conflict in the Middle East pushed up fuel prices. The cut falls from about 32c to 16c per litre, tapering support before normal settings return. Debate covered cost of living, whether the relief should be paid for with savings, and fuel tax credits for large mining companies.
Arguments made in support
The government said people are still under cost-of-living pressure, and the extension saves about $11 a tank while easing back to normal settings.
Labor speakers said tapering the cut avoids a sudden price jump for families, truckies and small businesses as fuel markets recover.
Coalition speakers supported the bill, saying the excise cut was first their idea and that people in regional areas need affordable fuel.
Crossbench members, including Monique Ryan and Dai Le, supported the taper because diesel prices remained high and many people have no option but to drive.
Arguments made against, or for changes
Coalition speakers said the government had not offered savings to offset the roughly $400 million cost, which they argued adds to inflation.
Coalition and Nationals members said the bill was a short-term fix and Australia needs a long-term fuel security plan, including local refining.
Independent Nicolette Boele moved an amendment calling for a $50 million yearly cap per company on fuel tax credits; the Greens moved a similar Senate amendment.
Crossbench members asked for data showing how much of the excise cut was passed on to drivers at the bowser.
In the Senate, One Nation moved an amendment calling on the government to cancel the excise increase and suspend indexation.
36 speeches by 18 members in the House and Senate over 3 sitting days.
Hansard: House of Representatives, 22 June 2026 ›
The official Hansard (PDF), Parliament of Australia
Hansard: House of Representatives, 23 June 2026 ›
The official Hansard (PDF), Parliament of Australia
Hansard: Senate, 29 June 2026 ›
The official Hansard (PDF), Parliament of Australia
Includes votes on amendments and procedure.