Leader of the Opposition Sussan Ley during Question Time in the House of Representatives at Parliament House in Canberra, Wednesday, July 30, 2025. (AAP Image/Mick Tsikas) NO ARCHIVING
The Coalition has sharply criticized the Labor government’s recent three-day productivity forum, labeling it a “Canberra talkfest.” During a heated Question Time session, Opposition Leader Sussan Ley led the opposition’s charges against the forum, which aimed to discuss economic reforms and productivity improvements.
Ley emphasized that the most significant outcome from the roundtable was Labor’s partial adoption of Coalition housing policies. She highlighted two key measures: a freeze on the National Construction Code and the introduction of a smaller-deposit scheme for first-time home buyers. Ley posed a pointed question to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, asking, “Prime Minister, why did it take a three-day talk fest for you to realize that Coalition policies work and Labor policies fail?”
In response, Albanese countered Ley’s assertions, describing her claims about the success of Coalition housing policies as “very bold.” The Prime Minister defended Labor’s approach, reiterating the government’s commitment to addressing housing affordability and productivity challenges through collaborative discussions rather than political rhetoric.
The productivity forum, held in Canberra, was intended to bring together various stakeholders to explore ways to enhance Australia’s economic performance. Critics, however, argue that the event devolved into a platform for political posturing rather than yielding actionable solutions.
Ley further remarked that the Coalition had long advocated for strategies to support first-time buyers, suggesting that the government’s recent shifts indicate a recognition of the effectiveness of their policies. She pointed to the rising costs of housing and living as pressing issues that require immediate attention and effective solutions.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, discussions surrounding housing policy and economic reform remain at the forefront. Both parties are expected to navigate these challenges as they prepare for upcoming legislative sessions, with the opposition keen to leverage its critiques for political gain.
The exchange between Ley and Albanese during Question Time underscores the ongoing tensions between the two major parties as they grapple with Australia’s economic concerns. With public sentiment increasingly focused on housing affordability, it remains to be seen how each party will address these critical issues in the months ahead.
