STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

Mr PIKE (Bowman—Opposition Whip) (13:48): The messages that I receive daily from my constituents reflect the deep frustration and hardship that so many Australians are currently facing under this Labor government. Steven from Mount Cotton has asked me why, under Labor, his electricity bills have increased 41.7 per cent since 2022. Labor promised cheaper power, yet bills continue to soar, with no relief in sight.

Michael from Birkdale has written to me condemning the severe delays in receiving his approved level 2 home-care package, calling the government 'incompetent and heartless'. Joslyn and Steve, small-business owners from Capalaba, are facing the heartbreaking reality of closing their therapy practice after 18 years. They ask how ordinary Australians are supposed to get by when housing, insurance, health and power costs keep rising.

They ask, 'Why does the government continue to spend millions overseas while Australians struggle to make ends meet?' Errol from Thornlands reports that his home insurance has jumped 25 per cent this year. June from Redland Bay writes: … with the increased cost of living, including basics like food and petrol, I am really struggling… a few weeks back I visited the Community Centre at Capalaba— an organisation that does wonderful work— where they helped me out with some emergency food once a fortnight.

I feel embarrassed that I have had to reach out. The embarrassment shouldn't be with June. The embarrassment should be with this Labor government—an incompetent, self-satisfied government that is failing everyday Australians.