Senate — 12 May 2026

The Senate on 12 May 2026 was dominated by the 2026-27 budget, with Question Time producing sharp exchanges on housing tax changes, NDIS sustainability, AI regulation, fuel security, and inflation. The Opposition, cross-bench and Government took opposing positions on whether leaked plans to alter negative gearing constitute broken election promises or necessary housing reform.

Major new policy announcements included a $10 billion fuel security package with a 20 per cent gas reservation requirement from July 2027, more than $500 million for environmental approvals including a national EPA, and NDIS reforms targeting a $13 billion blowout. Outside Question Time, a condolence motion for Kumanjayi Little Baby exposed deep disagreement on child protection in remote communities, the Select Committee on Gas Resources released its final report triggering a sustained contest over petroleum rent tax reform, and senators debated the removal of higher private health insurance rebates for over-65s.