Coalition split over Bragg's migration and housing speech in Australia

A speech by Liberal senator Andrew Bragg at the National Press Club on Wednesday has exposed divisions within Australia's opposition Coalition. Bragg proposed sharply cutting the national construction code and suggested reducing net overseas migration from roughly 300,000 a year to below 180,000, arguing this would help housing supply keep pace with demand.

Opposition leader Angus Taylor and other senior figures, including shadow treasurer Tim Wilson, quickly distanced themselves from the specific migration figure, describing it as Bragg's personal view rather than settled party policy. Taylor reportedly counselled Bragg privately.

More moderate Liberals, however, praised the address. South Australian senator Andrew McLachlan, who has previously criticised his party's stances on migration and climate, called the speech "a masterclass in thought leadership" and urged all Coalition members to "follow his lead" by discussing policy openly. Queensland senator Paul Scarr also praised it as "terrific" and reflective of core Liberal values.

Other Liberals were less impressed, with one MP privately saying colleagues were frustrated by a perceived lack of discipline and suggesting it could be Bragg's "last chance." Despite the criticism, Bragg maintained that raising ambitious ideas was necessary and said he expected to be rewarded for offering more policy detail rather than smaller announcements.

On Friday, Bragg corrected earlier remarks from a radio interview in which he appeared to agree that Australians should accept substandard housing under his proposed voluntary energy efficiency standards. He clarified he had misheard the question and that homes would remain safe and properly equipped.

Nationals leader Matt Canavan rejected Bragg's suggestion of cutting working holiday visas but praised his enthusiasm and willingness to put forward big ideas.