This week could be a test for Labor – but only if the Coalition asks the right questions

‘The Coalition opposition’s campaign against the budget is only intensifying, whipping up fury about Anthony Albanese’s “lies” on tax changes.’ Photograph: Susie Dodds/AAP

Senate estimates rarely uncovers many major scandals any more.

Whereas the fortnight-long committee hearing processes could often be compulsive viewing for political junkies, exploding any number of government dramas – big and small – into the public gaze, recent years have seen estimates become more dour affairs. Ministers and departmental officials have become too seasoned at stonewalling questions, often the testiest exchanges being about whether witnesses are allowed to dodge an inquiry and take a question on notice.