QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Senator WHITEAKER (Western Australia) (14:21): My question is to the Minister for Finance, Senator Gallagher. When we came to government, there was almost a trillion dollars of debt left by the coalition. Since coming to government, the Albanese Labor government has been repairing the budget, including finding $178 billion in savings and reprioritisations— Opposition senators interjecting— Senator WHITEAKER: It seems that those opposite don't like it when we talk about their record.

My question is to the Minister for Finance, Senator Gallagher. Honourable senators interjecting— Senator WHITEAKER: My question is to the Minister for Finance, Senator Gallagher. When we came to government, there was almost a trillion dollars of debt left by the coalition.

Since coming to government, the Albanese Labor government has been repairing the budget, including finding $178 billion in savings and reprioritisations while still investing in the essential services Australians rely on, like Medicare, aged care and the NDIS. Why is responsible budget management important, and how is the Albanese Labor government delivering the services Australians deserve while repairing the budget?