Alice Jordan-Baird (Gorton, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

getting real cost-of-living relief to Australians is not a priority for those opposite. It's we on this side of the House who are delivering tangible cost-of-living relief.

When it comes to bringing down the cost of living for Australians, every bit counts. On this side of the House, we're leaving no stone unturned to accomplish this goal. It's been our mission in this term of government, and we'll continue to act decisively to ensure that nobody is held back or left behind—not Australian people and not Australian businesses. The cost of living cannot be allowed to compromise Australians' ability to keep connected and make treasured memories. After all, pubs, clubs and breweries are special places. It's where I met the person I'm married to today. It's where we find community, stay connected and celebrate life.

The bill before us shows that our government isn't just talking; we are acting. We are proving that practical policies can make a tangible difference in everyday life. I couldn't be prouder to stand with my government, which truly cares about its people. With this two-year pause on indexation of draught beer excise and excise-equivalent customs duty, the Albanese Labor government is standing up for Australia's pubs, clubs, brewers and hospitality workers. We understand that local pubs, clubs and breweries are not just businesses but community institutions that bring people together, provide employment and help keep economies strong. We're also standing up for Australians, who deserve to grab a beer with family and friends without worrying about the cost. I commend this bill to the House, I thank the Assistant Treasurer for introducing it, and I thank all of the speakers who are supporting it.

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