Australian Officials Criticize Private Evidence from Tobacco Company in Parliamentary Inquiry

for Customs Julian

Hill stated he was astounded that tobacco company Philip Morris International was permitted to give evidence in private during a federal parliamentary inquiry into illicit tobacco. The inquiry, led by Liberal members, closed to the public for about 45 minutes yesterday without prior explanation.

Upon reopening, committee members were informed that Philip Morris representatives had provided evidence, which will be published later with their names redacted. Hill said the decision contradicts guidelines from the World Health Organization's Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, which Australia joined under former Prime Minister John Howard.

The convention requires interactions with tobacco companies to be transparent and limited to necessary instances, Hill added. He emphasized that such dealings should occur publicly and at arm's length where possible.

The Albanese government is set to introduce reforms targeting housing affordability in next week's federal budget, including curbs on negative gearing, an overhaul of the capital gains tax discount, and new rules for trusts. Government sources confirmed these measures will form a central part of the budget, aimed at addressing intergenerational fairness and supporting young voters.

Labor had previously ruled out changes to capital gains tax discounts and negative gearing before the last election, but details will be finalized closer to the release. Health Minister Mark Butler, speaking on Channel Nine, advised against relying on budget speculation and urged waiting for the official announcement next Tuesday.

Butler stated the budget will address community needs and the generational challenge of housing. He did not confirm specific measures when asked about potential impacts on Australians.

The government will scale back the fringe benefits tax exemption for electric vehicles starting next year, projecting savings of $1.7 billion over four years. From April 2027, the exemption will apply only to vehicles costing less than $75,000, with those above the threshold taxed at 75 percent of the standard rate.

The exemption had exceeded initial cost estimates, reaching more than 10 times the forecasted $90 million for this year. Senior political correspondent Jake Evans reported that this change could add thousands to novated leases for electric vehicles.

Reactions to Budget Speculation Shadow Treasurer Tim

Wilson, responding on Channel Nine, criticized potential government measures as increasing rents by up to 20 percent and failing to help young Australians buy homes. Wilson said the government is laying groundwork for further changes that could affect family homes.

Wilson did not specify if the Coalition would support an earned income offset, described as a potential $200 to $300 tax benefit for wage earners. He characterized it as a small incentive amid broader losses in purchasing power. Butler, in the same appearance, reiterated that the budget will include measures on tax, spending, and savings to meet community needs.