Pauline Hanson seeks to wedge Coalition with counterterrorism bill

Pauline Hanson, leader of the One Nation party, is aiming to create a political wedge by seeking support from the crossbench for a new counterterrorism bill. The proposed legislation seeks to cancel the passports of Australians who have been charged or convicted of terrorism offenses. Hanson has reportedly written to Opposition Leader Angus Taylor, offering to vote with the Coalition on tougher counterterrorism laws, potentially putting pressure on the government.

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That support was always intended to be temporary assistance whilst petrol was high.

The political maneuvering occurs as the government defends its decision to end the fuel excise discount, which is set to expire at midnight on Sunday. Finance Minister Katy Gallagher stated that the 16 cents per liter discount was always intended as temporary relief during a period of high fuel prices following the Middle East war.

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We recognise that people are finding it pretty tough right now and part of our job is to make sure we are managing that, managing the budget.

Gallagher acknowledged the current financial difficulties faced by many Australians but emphasized the government's responsibility to manage the budget. The Treasurer, Jim Chalmers, confirmed the discontinuation of the discount, a move that has drawn criticism from the opposition.

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It doesn't mean that there isn't pressure, particularly because government spending continues to be the driver and the government keeps spending beyond its means.

Shadow Treasurer Tim Wilson commented on the national inflation figures, noting that while headline inflation has fallen, underlying inflation remains persistent. He attributed this to federal government spending. Wilson suggested that the government should maintain a "watching brief" on fuel prices and consider reintroducing the excise cut if prices spike significantly, provided there are inflationary offsets.

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If we see events like that, of course, the government should consider that, but it should be done on the basis of having inflationary offsets, which isn't what they did last time.