Labor is holding true to our commitment to support Australian families, having introduced legislation to pay superannuation on Government-funded Paid Parental Leave at the end of last month. This change is going to benefit around 180,000 families each year, and it’s something I feel strongly about. Parents shouldn’t be financially penalised for taking time off to care for their babies, and this $1.1 billion investment helps ensure that they won’t be.

We know that the majority of parents who take time off are women, and this reform is about making sure that when women hit retirement age, they aren’t retiring with less super because they took PPL.

Economic Update

We had promising results from the ABS last week, showing that monthly inflation has moderated to a new four-month low.

We’ve made welcome and encouraging progress in the fight against inflation, but we want it to moderate further and faster.

The data also shows that inflation would be higher without our responsible cost of living relief.

Rents increased 6.9 per cent in the year to July but without our largest increase to Rent Assistance in 30 years, they would have increased 8.8 per cent.

Electricity prices fell 5.1 per cent in the year to July which is more than they would have fallen without the energy relief we are rolling out with the states. Without our rebates, they would have fallen 2.3 per cent in the year to July.

Commonwealth energy rebates began to flow in July for states already delivering their own bill relief including Queensland and Western Australia, but the rollout will pick up over the coming months.

Our economic plan is all about tackling inflation and easing the cost of living without smashing an economy which is already weak, and this week’s data confirms our policies are making a meaningful difference.

Powering the Future: Net Zero Economy Authority

I hear all the time from Canberrans that they want to see strong action on climate change. That’s why I’m thrilled to let you know that we’re one step closer to making the Net Zero Economy Authority a reality, with the Senate passing the legislation on 22 August.

The Net Zero Economy Authority is all about making sure that the workers and communities who have powered our country for generations can take full advantage of the opportunities ahead.

The shift to a net zero economy is a game-changer for Australia, especially for our regions and workers. The Authority will be leading the way, working hand-in-hand with communities, governments, unions, industries, and more to navigate this transition together.

Katy's Policy Explainer

Parliament House should be a model workplace, but in 2021 the Set the Standard Report made it clear that this was not the experience for many staff. Labor is taking important steps to improve the culture and accountability in Parliament.

On 21 August, we introduced a Bill to establish the Independent Parliamentary Standards Commission (IPSC). Here’s what you need to know:

What’s Happening?

Our Government introduced legislation to establish the IPSC, an independent body that will enforce behaviour codes in Parliament. This means it will investigate complaints about bullying, harassment, and discrimination involving Parliamentarians, their staff, and others working in parliamentary workplaces.

What Can the IPSC do?

The IPSC will have the power to conduct investigations and impose sanctions when necessary. It will work closely with other support services to ensure that there’s a fair, confidential, and impartial process for handling serious workplace issues. This new body is all about making sure that everyone in Parliament is held to the highest standards of behaviour.

Why Is This Important?

Creating the IPSC is a key step in making Parliament a safer and more respectful workplace. As I’ve said before, the 2021 Set the Standard report laid bare the serious issues of bullying, sexual harassment, and sexual assault at Parliamentary workplaces. This new commission ensures that there’s real accountability for those doing the wrong thing.

In short, the IPSC will play a vital role in ensuring that everyone in Parliament is treated with the respect and fairness they deserve.

Iconic Paddle Boats Return to the Lake

Exciting News –  the paddle boats have returned to Lake Burley Griffin! Six of the historic boats, loved by Canberrans for nearly 50 years, have been restored and will be back in action at Regatta Point Jetty.

Plus, nine brand-new paddle boats will be available at Commonwealth Place, offering room for up to four adults with sun protection for those warm days.

If you’re looking for something to do this weekend – why not enjoy the sunny weather and check them out?