Small business tax deal struck with Senate

The Turnbull government has sealed a deal with Senate crossbenchers to deliver a tax cut for businesses with an annual turnover under $50 million.

Senator Cormann told parliament on Friday the government had agreed to explore and pursue a "power affordability and reliability policy" developed by the Climate Change Authority and Australian Energy Market Commission.

The government would also review the management and effectiveness of domestic gas development, and ensure an increased of supply into the domestic market by direct intervention if necessary.

The delivery of a solar-thermal plant for Port Augusta would be sped up, with a loan provided by the federal government.

A cost-benefit analysis would be undertaken on a gas pipeline from the Northern Territory to South Australia.

And aged pensions would be given a special payment to help with rising electricity costs.