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Estimates 

A primary function of Parliament is to scrutinise, and hold to account, the executive branch of government. The estimates process is one of the key mechanisms by which the Parliament examines government expenditure, performance and effectiveness. The process holds ministers to account and provides a level of transparency to the public. It aids the Parliament in its scrutiny of the Government’s proposed expenditure by enabling detailed examination of the proposed expenditures contained in the Appropriation Bill and the Appropriation (Parliament) Bill.

On 24 June 2025 the Hon David Janetzki MP, Treasurer, Minister for Energy and Minister for Home Ownership introduced the Appropriation (Parliament) Bill 2025 and Appropriation Bill 2025 into the Queensland Parliament. On 27 June 2025 the Bills were referred to the seven portfolio committees. Each committee will examine the budget estimates of its responsible portfolios.

View: Explanatory Speech
View: Appropriation (Parliament) Bill 2025
View: Explanatory Notes
View: Statement of Compatibility

View: Explanatory Speech
View: Appropriation Bill 2025
View: Explanatory Notes
View: Statement of Compatibility

During the estimates process each portfolio committee will hold a public hearing (on a day between 28 July and 8 August 2025) at which the Speaker and Ministers (and certain senior public servants and officers) are questioned regarding the portfolio’s proposed expenditures for the relevant portfolio areas. Other Members of the Legislative Assembly who are not members of the committee may also ask questions, with the leave of the committee.

At the public hearing on 1 August 2025, the Health, Environment and Innovation Committee questioned the Hon Tim Nicholls, Minister for Health and Ambulance Services and Hon Andrew Powell, Minister for the Environment and Tourism and Minister for Science and Innovation regarding the proposed expenditures for their portfolio areas.

Following the committee’s hearing, the committee members meet, discuss the information gained and compile a final report for tabling in Parliament. The reports are then debated by the Parliament as part of its consideration of the Appropriation Bills.

Hearing

Hearing program – 1 August 2025

Hearing transcript proof – 1 August 2025

Hearing broadcast – The broadcast is available to view by clicking on the movie icon within the transcript (the icon is at the start of each session).

Report 

The committee is to table its report by Friday, 15 August 2025.