The Nationals will strongly oppose any move by the Albanese Government to increase the size of the Australian Parliament, warning it would come at significant cost to taxpayers at a time Australians are already under severe financial pressure.
Analysis from the Parliamentary Budget Office shows expanding the Parliament could cost taxpayers more than $620 million, including salaries, staff, travel and office costs.
Nationals Leader Matt Canavan said the proposal showed how out of touch the government had become.
“People in regional Australia are doing it tough. They are paying more for fuel, groceries, and power,” Senator Canavan said.
“They do not want more politicians in Canberra. They want practical help with the cost of living.
“Now is the time to tighten the belt, not expand the bureaucracy.
“This government is focused on itself. The Coalition is focused on Australians.”
