QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Senator HUME (Victoria—Deputy Leader of the Opposition) (14:10): My question is for the Minister representing the Prime Minister, Senator Wong. I refer to an example in the government's own budget documents. Jack has a taxable income, before capital gains, of $25,000 and realises a capital gain of $10,000 on an asset that he purchased.

Jack does not receive an income support payment, so he's not exempt from the minimum tax. The tax on Jack's capital gain of $10,000 is $1,400, or a tax rate of 14 per cent. As this is lower than 30 per cent, Jack pays an additional $1,600 in tax to bring the tax rate on his capital gain up to 30 per cent.

This cannot be true. Why is the Albanese government forcing Australians earning $25,000 a year to pay $1,600 in additional tax through their high-taxing budget? Honourable senators interjecting— The PRESIDENT: I'm waiting for the chamber to come to order before I call the minister.

Senator Cash, Senator Watt. Order! Order!

Order! Honourable senators interjecting— Order across the chamber! Order!

Minister Wong.