Media Releases
Major Earthworks Contract Awarded for Western Sydney International Airport
1 September 2019
Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Finance, Minister for Population, Cities and Urban Infrastructure, Member for Lindsay
Runways, roads, rail and terminal construction will soon be underway at Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport with the Morrison Government signing off on a key earthworks contract.
After a rigorous competitive tender process, the contract, worth hundreds of millions of dollars, will go to Lend Lease CPB, who will undertake one of Australia’s largest ever infrastructure earthworks projects.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said work under the contract would move around 25 million cubic metres of earth on the site to support construction of the major elements of the airport, including the runway and terminal.
“With the ink now signed on the contacts, this huge construction work is due to begin in early 2020, and it’ll mean hundreds of new jobs on the airport site,” the Prime Minister said.
“This is a game-changer for Western Sydney and things are starting to take shape.
“The Airport is going to mean more jobs for local workers and more opportunities for Western Sydney.”
The award of this contract is another major milestone in the delivery of the federally funded, $5.3 billion Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said this was an important first step in the construction of a once-in-a-lifetime infrastructure project.
“The construction of a major airport comes around once in a generation and this infrastructure project will not only provide job opportunities west of Sydney during the construction phase but also beyond 2026 when it opens,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.
“When complete, the Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport will ensure greater connectivity to other Australian cities, regional hubs and of course the world which benefits all Australians and visitors.”
Finance Minister Mathias Cormann said that in reaching this next milestone the project was entering an exciting new phase.
“Since early earthworks started in September 2018, more than 1.5 million cubic metres of earth has been moved,” Minister Cormann said. “But construction activity has so far only concentrated on a small portion of the 1,780 hectare site.
“With the awarding of this contract, we will see work on the site ramp up significantly. The contractors will soon be working across an area of around 1,000 hectares, leading to greater progress and more jobs.
Minister for Population Cities and Urban Infrastructure Alan Tudge said the contract was one of the most significant steps in the delivery of the airport, which is due to open for business in 2026.
“We are keeping our promise to not only deliver a world-class airport for Western Sydney, but to turbo charge the transformation of the region,” Minister Tudge said.
“Stemming from the airport, the Western Sydney City Deal is delivering jobs, investment and infrastructure for the region, with work underway on a range of projects.”
Member for Lindsay Melissa McIntosh said she was committed to delivering infrastructure to ease congestion and create more local jobs in Western Sydney.
“The Airport, Aerotropolis and Science Park alongside the Western Sydney City Deal will create over 200,000 jobs and opportunities to train our local kids in the jobs of the future,” Ms McIntosh said.
Joint Press Conference with the Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste
30 August 2019
Prime Minister
PRIME MINISTER: Prime Minister Ruak, thank you for the opportunity to be here today and your invitation to make some remarks. It is a great day for Timor-Leste. Today is all about Timor-Leste. This day, 20 years ago, when more than 400,000 people cast their ballots and decided their own future, a nation was born and democracy was celebrated. And the Foreign Minister Senator Payne was there as part of an Australian delegation to observe those elections. A delegation that I note was led by the late former Deputy Prime Minister Tim Fischer, who I know, who is no longer with us, would be celebrating this day very much.
I'm honoured to be here to celebrate these achievements. Your commitment to democracy, Prime Minister, and your nation forged through sacrifice is perhaps the greatest achievement of all. Last year more than 600,000 Timorese had their voices heard again at a peaceful election, the fourth since independence. But alongside democracy you’ve built strong institutions to uphold human rights and to prevent corruption. You have built roads, you have built schools, you have built hospitals, you have reduced poverty and you have saved lives through eliminating polio. These are truly great achievements and things for which the people of Timor-Leste, they should be very, very proud. As a neighbour but more importantly as a partner and as a friend, Australia celebrates those achievements with you and we are pleased to have been able to play the part that we have walking alongside Timor-Leste over this period of time. And there is so much more, as we've been discussing, that we can do together.
Our relationship is deep. It is long lasting. There is a sense of connection and affection that has been on display in our meetings today and has long been present and will endure into the future. In the last 20 years Australia and the people of Timor-Leste have worked together to increase development and improve regional security. Our relationship is much more than the sum of our achievements. At its heart is the relationship between the people and that is on display today. I was so pleased to be joined by so many other Australians at the lunch today and later this evening. The people of Australia are celebrating Timor-Leste today.
We celebrated with you in 1999 and we will always work closely with Timor-Leste. This year, 200 Australian students studied and returned here as part of the New Colombo Plan and 47 Timorese Australia Awards scholars are studying in Australia today. Australia is investing in the skills and capability of the Timorese people and I am pleased that Timor-Leste has also joined our new Pacific Labour Scheme. Our relationship will endure. We respect and celebrate your hard won sovereignty and independence and we will continue to walk with you.
So today we open a new chapter in our relationship and we have just had a wonderful conversation. I'm particularly proud during this visit to announce that Australia will be supporting Timor-Leste to establish a sub-sea cable link to Australia. As the first step, Australia will fund the front-end engineering and design process for a fibre optic cable linking Timor-Leste to Australia. Following the design process, Australia is ready to work with Timor-Leste on financing and construction options. That fibre optic cable will transform Timor-Leste’s digital connection with the world and reduce the barriers between people, skills, business, and governments. It's a project that will certainly change lives. We will also soon be working together as part of a new maritime security package. Australia will fund construction of facilities at Timor-Leste’s naval base and has offered to fund a concept design for a broader upgrade of the base. We'll also provide a vessel for Timor-Leste’s Guardian Class Patrol Boats crew to train in preparation for Australia's gift of two Australian Guardian Class Patrol Boats that will arrive here in 2020-2023. And this afternoon, the Prime Minister and I will exchange diplomatic notes at a special ceremony to bring our new Maritime Boundary Treaty into effect. So that is a moment for great celebration of an extraordinary young nation that we are pleased to call a friend.
What Timor-Leste has achieved in just 20 years is simply remarkable, and in the years ahead I look forward to this new chapter unfolding in our partnership. One where we revitalise our friendship and work together to ensure a better future for the people of both our countries. It's been lovely to have our meeting today and I look forward to welcoming you in Australia when you have that first opportunity. Thank you very much Prime Minister.
PRIME MINISTER RUAK: Today is a very important day for Timor-Leste. As you’ve seen 20 years ago, we have fought and eventually achieved our independence. So [inaudible] of the nation was not Timor-Leste’s alone with the support and the help of Australia and also the international community and thus we are here today to celebrate. So we’re celebrating this event not for the celebrations alone but also for the [inaudible] 20 years ago. So for a long time, 20 years, Australia has always been part of the support for our struggles for independence. So it’s invested resources to develop and invest in Timor-Leste. In 20 years Australia has invested a lot in many areas including agriculture, communications, defence and other related areas as well. Today will mark a new beginning, a new phase for both countries. Timor-Leste has decided to maintain and continue with this relationship and also open up new opportunities for corporations in various areas. So one of the areas the Prime Minister of Australia has just mentioned is the fibre optic in which to facilitate the access of internet. Another important area is maritime security borders, we know Australia has a lot of facilities, equipment and can help Timor-Leste maintain its border and security. Other important areas are border management and [inaudible]. As the Prime Minister of Australia said, today forward will be new beginnings, new corporations in those areas will certainly enhance the corporations further in the future between Australia and Timor-Leste. Lastly I would like to thank the Prime Minister for coming to Timor-Leste and partaking in the celebrations. I hope we will see each other, probably on my visit to Australia.
PRIME MINISTER: I understand there's going to be three questions from the journalists. Happy to begin with those from Timor-Leste if they would like to ask first and then there is Hannah Sinclair from SBS.
JOURNALIST: Welcome, Prime Minister Morrison. You’ve talked about opening a new chapter. Do you think that is possible while we haven’t closed the previous one with the trial of Witness K and Bernard Collaery still continuing?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, that's a domestic matter in Australia it's currently before the courts. So it's not a matter I intend to offer comment on. The key issue that will close today is the matter of maritime boundaries. That's something we've been working towards for many years and I think this is a tremendous thing for us to conclude today. Before coming here we were able to pass the necessary measures through our own Parliament and that was given high priority by our Parliament to ensure that I could come here today to be able to ensure that those matters were firmly settled.
JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, my question is directed to you. Do you think that Australia should drop the Witness K case? Should Australia drop the Witness K case?
PRIME MINISTER RUAK: As of now it’s a different event, Timor-Leste and Australia, we don’t exchange notes, this is a different case, a domestic case, I’m sure the Ministry of Justice in Australia will look into the issues, and Timor-Leste will look into the issues as well.
JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, we will exchange notes today but after the exchange of notes will Australia return 10 per cent of the revenues that have been collected a couple of years ago to Timor-Leste?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, the agreement and what was worked through over quite a period of time was that those sharing arrangements commence from the time of the exchange. That’s what we’ve agreed and that’s what we will do. Next one was to Lizzie Pearl.
JOURNALIST: Prime Minister Morrison, you’ve said that it’s a domestic issue but given there’s a lot of work being done to strengthen the relationship between the two countries, do you think it would be a good show of faith on Australia’s behalf to drop the case against Witness K?
PRIME MINISTER: It’s not a matter that is directed towards Timor-Leste. It’s a matter that is being addressed in Australia in relation to domestic matters.
JOURNALIST: [Inaudible]
PRIME MINISTER: We entered into a process to come to an agreement on how these matters were to be determined and that’s what we’ve done. Both entered into that agreement knowingly and enthusiastically and as equal partners and that’s the agreement we have. What Australia has been doing for the last 20 years has been investing as the principal developing partner with Timor-Leste. Australia has invested some $1.7 billion directly through our various programmes and we continue to invest now over a $100 million every year. Why? Because we believe it be to the best for Timor-Leste, we believe in them having their economic security and political sovereignty and charting their own way forward. We work closely with a whole load of these projects. Today has been a wonderful opportunity. Whether it's talking about projects at the airport or elsewhere, border security, we have a big agenda of programmes we're going to keep working together on and Australia will keep investing. Thank you very much.
Interview with Ben Fordham, 2GB
29 August 2019
Prime Minister
BEN FORDHAM: Prime Minister, good afternoon to you.
PRIME MINISTER: G’day, Ben.
FORDHAM: Tell me what it was like there today saying goodbye to Tim Fischer.
PRIME MINISTER: Well, Tim was a dear friend. I worked with him for several years, I’ve known him for about 25 years, and he was just a beautiful man. He was a giant of a man and he loved the country passionately. I know he was a big fan of that program Australia All Over and that's how I thought of him. He was Australia All Over. He oozed the place, he was very special and he was dearly loved by his wife Judy and his kids Dominic and Harrison who are adults now and they're doing well. And it was a wonderful tribute to just a wonderful bloke.
FORDHAM: You told a story today about a meeting between Tim Fischer and the Indian Transport Minister. Can you share that with us?
PRIME MINISTER: It was relayed to me by someone who used to work for him. Tim was mad about trains and he was over in India on a trade mission as the Trade Minister and Deputy Prime Minister. But this meeting got into his diary which he must have arranged himself with the Indian Transport Minister and he was fascinated by the Indian train network. And he was looking forward to going and chatting to this bloke about trains for quite some period of time only to emerge from the meeting deeply disappointed, saying to his staff, “That bloke, that man knows nothing about trains!” And off he stalked.
[Laughter]
I had plenty of conversations on trains with Tim. I've been on trains with Tim. I remember once we were on the Indian Pacific, we were having a board meeting on there actually, and you’d just band along there for ages and ages in a straight line. And then Tim was looking backwards out the window and he said, “The train's about to veer left.” And it did, he knew exactly the pinpoint on the track of where the Indian Pacific would turn. He was an extraordinary guy, he was a beautiful man.
FORDHAM: He was a one of a kind really, in many ways, and you see a lot of politicians who like to conform, they like to kind of fit in in that Canberra bubble, as you call it. He didn't care about being in the bubble or being square. He was just Tim Fischer.
PRIME MINISTER: He was. He had this amazing ability to just connect with people. When you were with Tim you knew you had his attention. He just sort of engaged with you, he listened to you. He's very, very generous that way. And there was no airs or graces about him and we were very privileged to know him and it was wonderful to see so many of his colleagues. Mr and Mrs Howard were there, John Anderson was there and his wife. It was wonderful to have they have them all there and just celebrating Tim's tremendous life and contribution.
FORDHAM: Well done on your tribute today. On a few other matters, if I can, you've said today you want to see a foreign-born child sex offender booted out of the country. This has just horrified everyone. Look, I mean, terrible things happen but when we see them happen on camera I think it really hits home because we think oh, I mean how could someone do this? He was walking up to a three-year-old girl in the shopping centre. He's a security guard, he lured her into a place where no one could see what he was doing and he assaulted her. You want this bloke punted out of the country, don't you?
PRIME MINISTER: Yeah. It was abominable. And we have… I introduced a law back when I was Immigration Minister where if you can if you're on a visa in Australia and you’re convicted of an offence like this, then your visa gets cancelled and when you finish your sentence you get booted. So, you know, you serve your time and then you leave jail and you go straight into hardened immigration detention and then we put you on a plane and send you home. That never used to happen before our Government. And it's important that it does happen and Peter Dutton is accelerating that process in terms of cancelling his visa. I spoke to Peter's today and so he's taking the action and that's what should happen. I mean, he turned up illegally by boat, he was given a permanent protection visa by Labor, they lifted the bar. The Minister actually had to lift a restraint to give this guy a visa, as they did to thousands, and five years after turning up on a boat this is what he did in the shopping centre to a young girl. It's disgraceful.
FORDHAM: You've got two young daughters. When you see something like that... you just used the word restraint, it's hard to show restraint when you consider what he did to this poor little thing.
PRIME MINISTER: It's sickening and I feel for the family. And even, you know, we're talking about it… sadly, will bring it all back and they'll be going through a very difficult time and we need to make sure they're getting the support through the justice system that they need as a family to work through this difficult issue. This little girl will get lots of support. But, you know, this was someone you were supposed to trust.
FORDHAM: If I can ask you about another issue. Chris Uhlmann, the political editor of the Nine Network, has tweeted a photo this afternoon from the Barton offices of Prime Minister and Cabinet, so this is in Canberra, the Office of Prime Minister and Cabinet. It's a photograph taken from outside the women's toilets and there's a sign there saying, ‘Prime Minister and Cabinet is committed to staff inclusion and diversity.’ And this is outside the women's toilets. It says, ‘Please use the bathroom that best fits your gender identity.’ Are you aware of those signs?
PRIME MINISTER: It was brought to my attention, Ben, and then... honestly, this is what we call it the Canberra bubble. It's ridiculous. It'll be sorted out. I've had a chat to the incoming Secretary of Prime Minister and Cabinet [inaudible]. I don’t think this is necessary. I think people can work out which room to use.
FORDHAM: What's your concern?
PRIME MINISTER: I just don't think it's necessary. I mean, it's just... it's over the top. You don’t need to do this stuff. It's just political correctness over the top. It's just not necessary. And I’ve got a pretty clear view about this and I'm sure this will be sorted.
FORDHAM: So what, the signs are going to go?
PRIME MINISTER: That's what I expect.
FORDHAM: I know you've got a busy schedule, I appreciate you sparing some time to talk to us this afternoon and well done in paying tribute to Tim Fischer, you spoke really well at his farewell today.
PRIME MINISTER: Thank you very much, Ben. It was a great honour and privilege to pay tribute to Tim. We won't see another one like him. He was one of a kind and we loved him.
FORDHAM: Thanks, Prime Minister.
PRIME MINISTER: Cheers.
Visit to Timor-Leste
29 August 2019
Prime Minister, Minister for Foreign Affairs
We will travel to Dili from 30 to 31 August 2019 to attend the commemoration of the 20th anniversary of the Popular Consultation, the referendum on the independence of Timor-Leste administered by the United Nations on 30 August 1999.
We are honoured to participate in what will be an historic moment for Timor-Leste and we will be joined by the Leader of the Opposition Anthony Albanese.
Our visit will further strengthen the partnership between Australia and Timor-Leste. We will bring into force the Treaty Between Australia and the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste Establishing their Maritime Boundaries in the Timor Sea on 30 August 2019. This is an historic step forward for our two countries.
Australia is Timor-Leste’s largest development and security partner. We look forward to meeting Prime Minister Taur Matan Ruak and opening a new chapter in our bilateral relationship, reinforced by regular dialogue, economic collaboration, cooperation on defence and policing, and development assistance.
Our Government is focused on deepening Australia’s relations with the Indo-Pacific, and we are fully committed to supporting the independence, sovereignty and economic sustainability of Timor-Leste.
Interview with Deborah Knight, Today Show
29 August 2019
Prime Minister
DEBORAH KNIGHT: Prime Minister, good morning.
PRIME MINISTER: Good morning, Deb.
KNIGHT: A three-year old girl, lured from a play area while her mother was Christmas shopping. The CCTV pictures of this are absolutely chilling and it's really struck a nerve with you, hasn't it?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, as a parent, like any parent, it's absolutely sickening. To anyone, it's sickening and some years ago when I was Immigration Minister I introduced a new law which said If you’re sentenced - if you're on a visa - to more than 12 months, well, your visa will be cancelled and you'll be deported and on more than 4,000 cases we've done that. And in this case we'll be doing it as well, and doesn’t matter if you're on a permanent protection visa or any other visa, it applies to you. This is a sickening crime and this person has no business being in this country.
KNIGHT: Attempts to deport convicted sex offenders in the past have been overturned by the Administrative Appeals Tribunal. Are you confident that this won't happen in this case?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, we've done it on over 4,000 occasions and it's been a very successful change to the law. And so we'll be following that process and the Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton will be moving on that over the course of today and we'll be accelerating that process.
KNIGHT: So what mistakes were made in granting this man a visa? Are there any red flags from others in the community that might have been missed? Could it happen again?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, he turned up as part of the chaos of the Labor years where boats were turning up willy nilly. Over 6,500 people turned up in the year that he showed up and the Labor Party lifted the bar and just gave them all permanent protection visas. Now, as you know, when we came to government we put an end to that process of permanent protection visas. Temporary visas were introduced and we stopped the boats coming and when people are found guilty of these offences, they're kicked out of the country. So that's the changes we've brought about and those changes will be acted swiftly here.
KNIGHT: It's a move that will be welcomed by the community, that is sure. Now, you've been mixing it with world leaders at the G7 in France but you've arrived home to a fresh stoush with China, Beijing warning Australia not to interfere in any way over the case of an Australian writer jailed on charges of spying. Will Australia do as requested by Beijing and butt out?
PRIME MINISTER: We’ll stand up for our citizen and we'll expect him to be treated appropriately and his human rights to be respected. There's their own justice process that they'll follow in China and that's appropriate. But these suggestions that he's acted as a spy for Australia are absolutely untrue and we'll be protecting and seeking to support our citizen, as we have been doing now for some period of time. We make no apologies for standing up for one of our citizens.
KNIGHT: He's been detained in China for over seven months now and he's had no access to his family or to any lawyers. Are you concerned about his treatment?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, I am concerned and those concerns have been raised directly by the Foreign Minister on several occasions now and we’ll continue to raise those concerns as is appropriate. I mean, that's not interfering in the system. We would expect the same to occur if other countries had concerns about anyone's treatment in Australia to raise issues and that's the way these issues should be handled and that's all we're simply seeking to do. They have their system of justice in China. It may be different to ours but that's... they're a sovereign nation and we respect that. But we do expect Australians, indeed all citizens, to have their human rights appropriately looked after.
KNIGHT: Will there be any review of the official travel advice for Australians going to China?
PRIME MINISTER: Well these things are looked at all the time and there is no change to that.
KNIGHT: Now, China's trade war with the US is impacting the entire world, including Australia, our share market and our dollar taking a big hit earlier this week. You had a long meeting with President Trump at the G7. Do you back his strong stance against China?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, he's looking to get a new deal. China's growth has been significant and Australia has benefited from that. But they're now a very sophisticated economy and their trading rules and their obligations need to reflect the same things that applied on countries like the United States or Australia. So the President is just seeking to get a new deal and he's applying that pressure and I'm pleased that China has responded and I'm hopeful that they'll be able to reach an agreement. That will be good for the economy. But these are things we anticipated when we put this year's Budget together. We knew there'd be stormy weather around this. This is why the tax cuts were there, the infrastructure spending, the deregulation program, the skills investments. That's all to ensure that Australia's economy can grow through these difficult times.
KNIGHT: President Trump has said in the past that you're either with him or against him. Do you think that we'll have to take sides in this trade war with China?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, we haven't and we will continue not to. But we will ensure that, you know, we will support positions, whether it's modernising the World Trade Organization rules or ensuring that the practices of IT theft and things like this are cracked down upon. So where there are legitimate issues here they should be addressed and the United States is seeking to do that and I welcome the fact that China is at the table with them and hopefully they can resolve their tensions.
KNIGHT: You look like you have a good relationship with the US President. He called you ‘fantastic’. Did he commit to coming to Australia later this year for the Presidents Cup golf?
PRIME MINISTER: No, not at this stage. I mean, I'm sure they'd like to but they're going into an election year next year so they've got quite a bit on. But he'd be very welcome, as would Mrs Trump, and we would be happy to receive them should they have the opportunity to come.
KNIGHT: And how did you find the experience at the G7 mixing it with the world's most powerful leaders? You also met with Britain's new PM Boris Johnson. Will we beat America to the punch with a post-Brexit trade deal with the UK?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, one in five jobs in Australia are dependent on trade and that's why being at those events is important. I'm not one who rushes to the plane to go to these things, to be honest. I'd rather be here working on domestic issues. But it's very important for Australia to be part of these discussions and whether it's with the UK or whether it's the European Union, we're looking to complete an agreement with both, and we'll be at the starting line and match fit to get on with those negotiations as quickly as possible. But, you know, the United States will be doing the same and that'll be all good for world trade and the world economy.
KNIGHT: It is rare though for Australia to get an invite to the G7. Are we punching above our weight on the world stage?
PRIME MINISTER: Australia views are respected, not just because of the things we've been able to achieve. I mean, 28 years of consecutive economic growth. We've got a strongly performing economy in world terms and on top of that we are a very informed voice on what's happening in the Indo-Pacific and that was one of the key reasons we were also invited there, to share that perspective of what's happening in our part of the world. Australia has stepped up in the Pacific, in the south west Pacific, but also engaging heavily with Indonesia, Vietnam which I visited on the way there and we’re stepping up our relationship there. So we're very active because as I say, one in five jobs in Australia depends on trade in these relationships. So I'll continue to pursue them.
KNIGHT: And it's a sign that world leaders like you when they rib you. I understand that you got quite the ribbing from Boris Johnson over the recent Ashes.
PRIME MINISTER: Yeah we did, there was a bit of sledging going backwards and forwards there. But there are two tests to go. Steve Smith will we back, I told him, and I think and I understand Mr Howard's been over there as well so I'm sure he gave the boys a rev up as well.
KNIGHT: Well we hope that they can actually do it and they are definitely on fire at the moment. Let's hope Steve Smith gets back on form. Good on you, Prime Minister, we thank you for joining us here on Today this morning.
PRIME MINISTER: Thanks a lot, Deb, all the best.
Interview with David Koch, Sunrise
29 August 2019
Prime Minister
DAVID KOCH: Prime Minister Scott Morrison joins me from Kirribilli. Prime Minister, thanks for joining us. God, it was a sickening attack, wasn't it? What are you going to do with this bloke's visa?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, I was sickened, absolutely appalled and sickened. Back when I was Immigration Minister, we introduced a new law that said if you were sentenced to more than 12 months, then your visa would be automatically cancelled, and that is the process we are now going through. Prior to that, he was given a permanent visa. He came here under those shocking years when people were turning up illegally by boat at will. What we did was we shut the door on that and then we shut the door on them being able to stay if they were found guilty of these types of offences. So it is part of the strong border protection regime we’ve been putting in place for years. Peter Dutton is now moving to ensure that that process moves at pace. This bloke has no right being here, he’s abused the generosity of a country that gave him a new start and it is absolutely appalling.
KOCH: Yep. We should be generous to refugees, but in return, they have to play by the rules. If they abuse a situation, send them back home. I don't think any Australian would disagree with you. But what happens? Does he serve his sentence here and then we deport him? Or do we deport him to go to jail in Iraq?
PRIME MINISTER: No, he serves his sentence here. This is the same thing we’ve been doing with a whole range of criminals. Once they have actually been released from jail, they go immediately into detention., so they don’t go back into the community, and then we deport them from there. This has happened on about 4,000 cases since we changed this law, changed the law back in 2014.
KOCH: Hang on - 4,000? 4,000 cases?
PRIME MINISTER: That is right.
KOCH: Wow.
PRIME MINISTER: We've been kicking them out. If you come here on a visa and you violate our laws, we will boot you out. That's the change we put in place and it will apply to this character and just because you're on a permanent protection visa, it is a warning to anyone. We'll cancel it and we’ll punt you.
KOCH: Yep, good on you. Moving on, you just returned from the big G7 Summit in France where you met all those world leaders. One of your key issues was Australian jobs and our dependence on trade. How successful were those meetings?
PRIME MINISTER: Very positive, particularly with the United Kingdom, who obviously are moving to exit from the European Union and we’ll be right there on the starting line to have an agreement will them as soon as they are ready to do so. Also, we’ve been working with the European Union and we’ve started the process for an agreement with them. One in five Australian jobs depends on trade. That’s why these things are so important. Around 70 per cent of our trade now is covered by these agreements. When we first came to government, it was less than 30 per cent. So we’re going to continue to ensure that we get more opportunities for our exporters, because that means jobs.
KOCH: What did you say to Donald Trump about the China-US trade war? When we talked a couple of weeks ago you said that was the thing that kept you up at night. Did you tell him to put his smartphone away and keep his tweets to himself?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, what they’ve been able to do is progress to the next stage. China is coming back to the table in response to, I think, the pressure the United States has applied. What we want to see is these issues resolved. When we put this year’s Budget together, it was put together knowing full well that the global economy was facing these challenges. So the tax cuts which have been delivered, the deregulation we’re putting in place, the infrastructure spending, the trade deals, the digitisation of the economy, all of this is designed to keep our economy strong during a difficult global period. I shared all this, obviously, with the President and it is important that they had a good understanding of what all this meant for the global economy.
KOCH: Just on a lighter note, the group photo that was taken, sort of went around the world, of the Canadian Prime Minister and Melania Trump maybe being a bit friendly there. You were directly behind them. Did you feel a spark between the two?
[Laughter]
PRIME MINISTER: I think it was just one of those moments where the photographers capture a particular moment and put a different spin on it. I mean, people get on very well at these events and you'd expect them to do that. Jenny was actually over there with me and she spent some good time with Melania Trump. So we are looking forward to being there in a few weeks’ time and that relationship couldn’t be better and it is very important to Australia.
KOCH: Glad you cleared that up for us Prime Minister. Thanks for joining us.
[Laughter]
PRIME MINISTER: Good on you David.
Interview with Tom Connell, Sky News Live
28 August 2019
Prime Minister
TOM CONNELL: Prime Minister thanks for your time. We just met with Boris Johnson who seems to get along pretty well with Donald Trump, did you ask for any tips on how to handle the US President?
PRIME MINISTER: We all have our relationships with the United States. And I’ve now met with President Trump on several occasions and I’m pleased that the relationship is I think, in the strongest position that it’s been in a long time. That’s been building for many years now and I think we have a good understanding of where they’re coming from and what they’re trying to achieve and they’re an important partner for us not just globally but certainly in the Indo-Pacific region and the South-West Pacific and that’s where we’ve had a lot of our discussions in recent times.
TOM CONNELL: What was your message to Donald Trump in that meeting on his trade war with China?
PRIME MINISTER: Well first of all just seeking clarity about where they’re heading it’s fairly clear they’re seeking to come to a new arrangement with China and I’ve always been consistent in saying we’d like to see that happen sooner rather than later. Because while this rolls on- rolls out, I should say, that does have a fairly disruptive impact on confidence in the global economy. And that's why we’re all keen to see that resolved sooner rather than later but you can't just sort of brush it under the carpet, you can’t just pretend that all the issues that have led to the tensions in the first place all of a sudden aren’t there. So they do have to be resolved, they do have to be acknowledged, they do have to be addressed. Otherwise it won't- any arrangement won’t be enduring. So we want to see an enduring outcome. And that means to have the issues that are at the centre of this resolved.
TOM CONNELL: And you can. Do you feel as though you can be pretty honest with Donald Trump about the impact on markets on Australia? Our own market tumbling again this morning-
PRIME MINISTER: Sure. I mean he's not unaware of these things either. Whether in his own country or elsewhere. But equally we've got ourselves to a point now in the global economy where after decades of seeing countries like China and others grow and expand, develop, become very sophisticated economies. That the rules that worked for that period won't work so well for the next period. If it's going to be an even playing field. So it is important this now gets addressed. It is important that we see- that we see that we’ve sort of gone over that tipping point into, in a new era in global economy in which China in particular is an advanced economy, a developed economy indeed. In so many parts of its country.
TOM CONNELL: And so it needs to act more like one? Is it not playing by the rules?
PRIME MINISTER: Well the rules were different for back then because they were seen as a developing country. I mean their rules on emissions are completely different to what applies to Australia under the Paris Agreement. Their rules on trade and developing country status was different as well. So we need to move into a new phase. See we welcome China's growth, we think that's a good thing, Australia has been a big beneficiary from China's growth. But now having seen that growth, celebrated that growth, it's time for the system to catch up with where they’ve been able to build their economy too, but not just- not just China. We'll see that in many other countries around the world.
TOM CONNELL: And so when you spoke about emissions- obviously China’s agreement is just at some point by the end of this- next decade basically, to then start reducing emissions, do you think they should come to an earlier and more concrete commitment?
PRIME MINISTER: Well if- emissions don't have nationalities, so an emission from one part of the world has the same impact on the environment as an emission from another. And if it's about actually reducing emissions, then at some point in time we need to understand that, globally.
TOM CONNELL: But this old argument about well you know we've had years of industrialization, many more decades than China, that doesn’t cut it anymore?
PRIME MINISTER: Well is it about the environment, or it is about the economy? I mean emissions you know, don't negotiate, they have the impact they have and they all have the same effect. And so I think that it's just a matter I think of getting some balance into this on this over time and I think Australia’s doing its bit. So we'll hit our 2020 targets comfortably. There are countries who were at this summit who won't, and we'll exceed it, and we'll hit our 2030 targets as well. So we're doing our bit but on our own we don't change, we don't change the absolute outcome one way or the other. So we'll do our bit. We'll be responsible actors in this space, we'll take action on climate change. But we need to ensure that if we’re to avoid the impacts and consequences that people are concerned about, Australia's concerned about, then we've got to make sure it keeps pace with where the emissions are coming from.
TOM CONNELL: The situation or the issue with Iran, will you still support at least in theory that- the nuclear deal that is basically in a bit of a state of disrepair now, the best way to keep it alive according to a lot of analysts would be to somehow soften the blow of sanctions on Iran. Would Australia consider helping in any way in a trade sense in that regard?
PRIME MINISTER: Well we're not parties to the JCPOA, there are others who are parties to that. We, I initiated a review of this arrangement after I became Prime Minister and we concluded that we would maintain the position that we had held, now I can’t say though that this was an agreement, and a deal that is wildly successful, but it's the best save for all the others. So we’ll maintain a constancy on this. But we have to be realistic about the threats that this poses and we want to make sure that we don’t end up in a situation where a country like Iran has nuclear weapons.
TOM CONNELL: It seems though that the more Iran is struggling economically, the more perhaps it will try the other thing, and go nuclear, for want of a better term.
PRIME MINISTER: Well that’s the view that some put forward, but I think it's important we take all steps to ensure that that capability is not realised.
TOM CONNELL: is one of those steps Australia- I understand not being a part of the agreement, but Australia in any way helping soften the sanctions via trade?
PRIME MINISTER: No. We support the sanctions.
TOM CONNELL: So Australia wouldn’t consider-
PRIME MINISTER: No, we support the sanctions.
TOM CONNELL: Okay. Is it a no go zone because of Donald Trump's threat over Europe over the same potential issue?
PRIME MINISTER: Sorry?
TOM CONNELL: Donald Trump previously having threatened European countries if they perhaps helped Iran bypass those sanctions does that make it a no-go for us as well?
PRIME MINISTER: No it's a simple proposition. You need to maintain the sanctions. We maintain the sanctions there, we maintain the sanctions when it comes to North Korea as well. And Australians are involved in enforcing those sanctions. And Australia will continue to do that.
TOM CONNELL: I just wanted to ask you finally about the Amazon fires, which has been a big discussion here, there could be an agreement at this G7 and already talk of money being provided including by the UK, would Australia help out?
PRIME MINISTER: Well I'll be listening carefully to what’s put forward, particularly today I mean it’s very distressing. It’s often been described as the lungs of the world, and they’re on fire. There is a very big level of capability particularly in the Americas. And from those who sit around the table, at a the G7, to be able to address that. Australia has a lot of expertise when it comes to fighting fires as we know, and the season where this has come, becoming apparent and becoming quite serious is also coming into our own season when it comes to fires and likewise, so we'll carefully consider what requests are made and we’re concerned like everybody else is and we’d look to see what sort of arrangements are put in place. But we also have a lot of our own challenges to deal with in Australia. If there’s the capability to meet the challenges that are there, well then I would hope that would be the case but let’s just see what they, what requests they make.
TOM CONNELL: From what you’ve been told and briefed, what do you make of whether there’s some fault that lies with the Brazilian Government for the current situation?
PRIME MINISTER: Oh look I don’t think it helps to be getting into those sorts of commentaries and it’s a matter I think to address the environmental hazard that’s there now and I don’t think these issues are helped by Australia buying into any commentary on this. And I don’t intend to.
TOM CONNELL: We’ve had the French President obviously indicating he might- that there’ might be some responsibility with the Brazilian government and hope it puts pressure on them not to do similar actions in the future, not to- perhaps increase the number of fires. Is it not worth, if you do you think that could be the case putting Brazil on notice?
PRIME MINISTER: I think Australians always take a very practical view about this. Where there’s a problem, where there’s a challenge, where there’s a need, if we can play a meaningful role, then we’ll obviously consider that but we won’t be in the business of running around offering countries lectures.
TOM CONNELL: It’s an interesting issue I guess, because you’ve got sovereignty but also the lungs of the world, as you spoke about. There’s an onus on Brazil guess to look after it?
PRIME MINISTER: Well I would hope that they would be taking that responsibility seriously. And I'm not about to offer a commentary on that, one way or the other. We all seek to do manage things within our own borders. I mean Australia has its own challenges and we're very focussed on those.
TOM CONNELL: And you are at the G7 and have a very busy schedule so we appreciate your time. Prime Minister Scott Morrison thank you.
PRIME MINISTER: Thanks Tom good to be here.
Doorstop - Biarritz, France
27 August 2019
G7 agenda; Tariffs and China-US trade; Meeting with Prime Minister Boris Johnson; Hong Kong; Iran’s Foreign Minister; Tackling online terror and hate; Amazon fires; Free trade deals
Prime Minister
PRIME MINISTER: The reason we came here was because one in five Australian jobs depend on trade. Because millions of Australians each day use the Internet, they use social media platforms, they use digital platforms, and I want them to be safe. I know for many that it might seem that when these summits are held, people wonder why people come from so far and they gather together to talk about these issues but I can tell you that when one in five of your jobs are dependent on trade when there are complex issues that are going on with our global economy, whether there are the threats that can reach out and touch the lives of Australians through digital platforms, well, you've got to be. And I appreciate the invitation from President Macron to be here, to be able to participate and put Australia's perspective and contribution on these issues. And we have been making a contribution. I've just come from the session that was dealing with the digital technology issues and I was so encouraged by the tremendous support that we've had, not just for when we went to Osaka with the G20 declaration, but now following that up here and also following it up with the OECD so we are actually putting some tools in place which can assist all countries and we are taking the measures, as Australian journalists will know that we're taking home, to deal with these issues.
So it has been a good opportunity over the last two days to focus on Australia's national interest and how that fits in with what is happening elsewhere in the world. These are quite unique opportunities. As an Australian Prime Minister, I always prefer to be in Australia dealing with issues on the ground domestically. But these events are necessary and have provided Australia, I think, a good opportunity. Whether it's my first formal meeting with Boris Johnson today, which was both an enjoyable and very lively affair and very useful too. Including also meeting with Prime Minister Modi on the margins of the discussions, as well as Prime Minister Trudeau where we particularly discussed the issues around both of our interests in Hong Kong. And the Prime Minister of Italy, they're going through many changes there. But there was a continuity in the relationships between our economies. I was particularly pleased with Australia's actions on establishing the National Space Agency. The Australian Space Agency in Adelaide has actually been noticed and I'm thrilled about that. And there was a keenness, both in the United Kingdom and from Italy, to engage with us so I have no doubt Premier Marshall, pardon the pun, will be over the moon when it comes to the Space Agency initiatives. And so there has been a lot of opportunity to push some business forward here for Australia and so I'm very appreciative of the opportunity we've had and happy to take any questions.
JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, are you encouraged by the apparent detente between the U.S. and China over trade?
PRIME MINISTER: Well I am. I am encouraged. I am pleased. But I am also mindful that we've been here before. But I'd much rather be in this situation and I'm pleased that China has responded and it's coming back and will then work with the United States. As I said yesterday, the issue is having an obvious impact on the global economy and I'm pleased to see that they're going to try and move things forward. Yesterday we saw Japan and the United States come to an agreement. I'm pleased, having spoken to Prime Minister Abe today, that that arrangement also protects Australia's interests and the arrangements we have with Japan and that's welcome news. We've been having a tremendous relationship with Japan and so I appreciate the fact that as a result of that relationship that we ensure both of their undertakings to Australia can be met at the same time, we have been able the make the undertaking to the United States.
JOURNALIST: As you say, we've been in this place before. We were in this place just 8 weeks ago. Do you think there is going to be any genuine progress this time?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, you can only hope so. But as President Trump often says, let's just see what happens. And I think that's the situation we are in. But I'm always hopeful that they can come to an [inaudible]. And as I said yesterday, it's the product of our economy going into a new phase globally. China has grown, and that means that the arrangements that we have in trade or whether it's emissions reduction or the global responsibility and the relationships people have, this all changes too. So this is a moment for that to re-gear and let's hope that something can be concluded in the bilateral trading relationship between the US and China.
JOURNALIST: Next year’s the Summit is set to be hosted by the United States, potentially even at Donald Trump's own property. Would you be hoping to score an invite along to the G7 in 2020?
PRIME MINISTER: Well look, I'm not one who rushes for the plane to attend summits. That's not my style. I'd much prefer to be back working on issues domestically because we've got a lot of issues we've got to focus on domestically. While these events are necessary, my focus is always on Australia's national interest at home. We'll be in Washington next month and this has been another opportunity, I think, to reinforce the wonderful relationship we have with the United States. We have a common view on so many issues and that's because our interests are just so aligned. We are for a free world where people could get on about their lives and America have always championed that and that's why we have such a strong values connection.
JOURNALIST: From the digital transformation stuff today and encouraging tech companies to voluntarily report extremist content being taken down. Are you happy with the support you're receiving from the United States? Because it looked on post-feed like Donald Trump didn't even turn up to that session?
PRIME MINISTER: No he was… I just came from that session, he was very supportive. And I appreciate all of the country's support here at the G7 for that initiative. Both Prime Minister Modi and I spoke to that matter, it's one of the reasons we were both here. And there is very strong support because look, it's a simple proposition. It actually is really simple. The rules in the digital world have to be the same as the rules in the physical world. What we expect of companies in the physical world you should expect from companies in the digital world. I mean, you don’t go and let a company put a dodgy product, a kid's toy, on a shelf and let them buy it and then swallow it and choke to death do you? You don't. You have proper laws that protect people from those sorts of things. Digital companies are no different. They have to take responsibility for what they produce and the services they provide and making sure they don't harm people. And this is just a simple process of ensuring that the digital world's rules reflect the physical world's rules. Not more, not less, just the same. And it's just a product of the world responding to this changing and amazing technology. We also recognize that this technology… take in Australia's case, is enabling us to provide remote health services to some of the most disadvantaged Australians in our country. I mean, that is amazing. It's tremendous. We want all that, but at the same time companies have a responsibility, like any company does, whether you're online or you're on the high street.
JOURNALIST: Were you expecting that the US President would also be involved in this?
PRIME MINISTER: I don't manage his diary.
JOURNALIST: It was on, on his diary…
PRIME MINISTER: Which sessions he's able to attend and he attends, I don't provide a running commentary.
JOURNALIST: On the bilat with Boris Johnson, and Hong Kong specifically, what did you discuss? What can the world be doing? What needs to be done before this escalates further?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, I think the key is all of us working together to seek to de-escalate the situation and where we have opportunities just to do that we will take those opportunities. We urge protestors to be conducting themselves in a peaceful way. And we encourage those who are raising issues to be able to be heard by the Chief Executive of Hong Kong to seek to resolve those issues internally. These are internal matters and we would hope that they would be resolved that way. And so many of us who sit around the table were just sitting around have citizens, often dual citizens. That are residents in Hong Kong, I met with Prime Minister Trudeau today and we had a very good discussion. Canada has some 300,000 or thereabouts, of people who hold passports with Canada, we have around 100,000 so we have a shared interest in this, as does the United Kingdom and we have a similar number, with, even more so in Australia. So we're watching this very closely and we're swapping notes. We would like to see this issue de-escalate. But ultimately that's in the hands of those who are coordinating the protests and those who are responding.
JOURNALIST: You're never going to have 100 per cent of protesters perfectly behave obviously, would you say overall their actions have been fair enough and valid?
PRIME MINISTER: I would just continue to encourage them to express their views peacefully. I would encourage those responsible at a domestic level to be responding to those in an appropriate way.
JOURNALIST: Just further on the talks with Boris Johnson on trade. Is there a recognition there's maybe some sensitivity now that the US is also saying they want to do a trade deal as soon as possible, they've got a [inaudible] first likes to be the winner, are we worried about upsetting our other most important relationship?
PRIME MINISTER: I don't think these issues cross over. There's a lot to go around, and Australia I think for one will be pretty [inaudible]. What Prime Minister Johnson and I discussed today is there's the 80-20 rule pretty much applies to this. The first 80 per cent of what we'd seek to do is pretty straightforward and I think we can move forward rapidly, I mean we've been setting our own records in being able to strike agreements around the world and so we're pretty match-fit when it comes to these issues. We've been striking a lot of agreements and they're great agreements, some of the best agreements we've seen anywhere in the world. We're very pleased with them. And so we encourage them to do a deal with the United States we encourage them to do a deal with many others. Today and over the course of the last two days. I've continued to prosecute our case for the EU free trade agreement. There are some difficult issues there, the geographic indicators issue is a tough one. But we'll work through that patiently. The EU and the UK are the next two very big agreements that are there on a bilateral basis. But we've also been talking a lot about the RCEP agreement here. This is the agreement that is bringing together a lot of the Indo-Pacific nations. And which brings in some of the big economies of the region. So we think that's exciting. But if anyone is in a room talking about a better trade and freer trade. You'll find Australia in that room. And we're good at that.
JOURNALIST: On the election campaign you spoke about how well Jenny Morrison was received. How did she enjoy yesterday and how has she found this G7 experience?
PRIME MINISTER: Well look, it's quite a difference for us. I mean. I come from the suburbs in Sydney. And this is a long way from the Shire and, but, you know the reason why people I think respond so well to Jen, and I am you know, ridiculously and passionately biased on this topic. Is she's just a natural wonderful and friendly person and she doesn't care whether you're the first lady of the United States or you know, the lady she'd meet in the street like she did actually on election night when she went up to a lady who was sleeping rough on the streets that night on her way home. That's Jen she's amazing.
JOURNALIST: On the FTA with Britain. How quickly after Brexit do you hope to have that done? Boris Johnson said it's impossible to do it any sooner than a year with the US what's the timeframe for you for successfully-
PRIME MINISTER: Well I'd like to think we could move quicker than that. But look you just got to get around the table and work it through. So I'm not going to create any arbitrary deadlines on this. I mean I would hope that we could include as I say the 80-20 rule could apply. Let's lock in what we can lock in and get that moving and I think that creates momentum for the UK now for arrangements with Australia and others to be concluded quickly. But you know at the end of the day it's going to be in our interests. We're going to sign up to something that we don't think helps us. And neither will they and that's how this should work. I mean countries come together. Whether it's at a forum like this or to sit around the trade table because they're pursuing their national interests. That's why we're here. There should be no surprise about that. And sometimes those interests don't align.
JOURNALIST: But in less than a year you're saying?
PRIME MINISTER: Oh I hope so.
JOURNALIST: Just quickly, on the online extremism, the plan being discussed talks about big tech companies voluntarily reporting information, did Donald Trump give you any indication that he would urge American big tech companies to take part in this scheme?
PRIME MINISTER: The President did a lot of listening today. And the work we have to do is build that system. And that's what we're doing with the OECD. So you know we're not getting ahead of ourselves here. I mean Australia will take its own decisions about this. And where we want to mandate these things. We will. But these rules work best when you can try and engage as many countries as you can. I mean take what we've been able to achieve on multi-national tax avoidance. I mean we've raised billions and billions and billions of dollars. Through a process that began at the G20, worked with the OECD, countries are now sharing information on where these companies pay tax. Which means there's more tax revenue coming into Australia's coffers from big multinationals who frankly should pay their fair share of tax. And we've been able to work with the international system to get a really good result for Australia so that's why I'm optimistic about that. I've seen it work before. But what you do is you're patient about it, you work with people you get the rules right, build the relationships. But I can tell you sitting around that table, we all understand that digital platforms are amazing, but we all understand whether it's your child who gets bullied online or whether it's the most extreme and violent content. These are dangerous things that can happen in that space. And there needs to be better control and more responsibility taken. But my preference is they just do it. That actually take the initiative themselves. Should it really be necessary for the world's biggest economies to come together and actually talk about regulation... wouldn't they want their platforms and their systems to be safe? You know you talk to small business people and they make their products they're very proud of them. They put them on the shelves, they want them to improve people's lives. Now. That's what I want from the digital platforms. I want them to have that attitude and if that means they're going to spend a bit more money to make their product safe well spend it. You can spend enough money making sure that the second you look up a book on the internet and they send you an ad for about seven more. They can crack that technology really fast, so if they can crack that, I'm sure they can work this stuff out too.
JOURNALIST: One of President Macron's focuses here has been those fires in the Amazon, has Australia been asked to contribute any money and if not, are you making contingent [inaudible] in case we are?
PRIME MINISTER: It's very early days on this. There are two calls totalling around 50 million globally to address that and that should be well within the means of those countries for which is their- this is their primary sphere. I mean Australia has always responded first to issues that have happened specifically in our region. Of course the Boxing Day tsunami. Things like this Australia has been quick out of the blocks. And when we're seeing these issues happening in Indonesia or elsewhere in the Pacific, we are the first responders and Australia takes our responsibility in our sphere very seriously. This is not directly in our sphere but it is the lungs of the world and we understand it's important. So we'll be looking to see as those arrangements come together and the commitments that are made, the UK have already committed $10 million to this process. And I have no doubt that once that call is worked through the G7 sitting around the table here and those who are closer to that scene. Then they will be able to more than accomplish that. In terms of the resource expertise, Australia is a very well positioned to advise on those things but our assets we will obviously need in Australia. We will be coming into an Australian summer. And our assets will need to be here domestically to deal with that. So if it's a question of resources and funds then I have no doubt that they'll, through the cooperation of international partners they'll be able to meet that.
JOURNALIST: Prime Minister just call on Iran. Are you aware of any fallout following the visit by the Foreign Minister yesterday?
PRIME MINISTER: I'm not, I think people are a bit over-excited on that.
JOURNALIST: What's your prediction on Brexit. Do you think Boris Johnson can actually deliver Brexit when he says he's going to go?
PRIME MINISTER: Well I tell you, if you sat in that room with him this morning you'd be absolutely convinced of it. You'd be pretty certain of it. I mean. I very much enjoyed our meeting let me just say that. We are going to have a great relationship. Despite his cricket sledging! Which was very modest I should say, it was modest sledging.
JOURNALIST: How far away are we from the EU FTA? Is that one a little bit further down the track?
PRIME MINISTER: That one's more complex. I think but the process is started and we'll just keep [inaudible] this is how you get these things done. And it just it's a step by step by step by step. But, I detected, well not just detected, because they stated to me quite plainly, whether it was my meeting with Chancellor Merkel or the Prime Minister of Italy today. I know he's acting Prime Minister at the moment, but there is a real keenness to engage with Australia. See Australia's economy is well respected around the world our expertise is well respected. It’s why we were so excited to hear that our actions on the space agency have been picked up and there was a keenness to engage. They also know about the significant procurements we're doing in defence industry and technology. They are very well aware of our expertise in cyber. And it was a good opportunity today to talk about what was happening down in South Australia as part of that centre of excellence of technology hub that they're creating down there. So I'm looking forward to getting on the phone to Steve Marshall. And I've got a few leads for him.
JOURNALIST: Have you had fun Prime Minister? I mean, you were invited here as an observer and you've really been very involved actually?
PRIME MINISTER: Well these are good opportunities for Australia, it is the first time Australia has been invited to come and participate in the G7. That's a reflection positively on Australians. And so as a result, of course, I'm going to come. It would be I think disrespectful to our, perhaps our hosts. But also Australians who I think through their own efforts have been able to put Australia's head up. And people are noticing what Australia is doing and they want us to be part of what's happening at this level. It’s been a busy few days particularly after a very busy time we had in Viet Nam, so I am looking forward to getting home and focussing on issues there. Josh has given a great speech earlier today our time and he has really set out some of the big productivity challenges that are there which reflect what I set out in Perth a few weeks back. Not long after the election. Productivity I know scares a lot [inaudible] but it's just simply this. It's our plan to ensure that you earn more from what you do. That's what it's about. I think sometimes when people talk about these issues, Australians get a bit worried from past experience. That just means they want to pay me less for what I do, nope it's actually the absolute opposite. When we are addressing Australia's economic challenges it's about meaning that you can earn more from what you do, it has greater value it's able to contribute more. And you know, that is that's going to make our economy even stronger. And it means that Australia, 28 years of consecutive economic growth will continue to be a key interest for those all around the world.
Doorstep - Biarritz, France
26 August 2019
G7 agenda; Iran's Foreign Minister; Meeting with President Trump; Tariffs and China-US trade; Strait of Hormuz; Tackling online terror and hate; Digital Taxation; Free trade deals
Prime Minister
PRIME MINISTER: It's a great privilege to be here representing Australia here at the G7 as an observer. It’s the first time Australia has been extended that opportunity. That invitation has followed on from the work that we’ve done to promote the very important cause of ensuring that the internet, digital platforms, this incredible new technology which changes the lives of people all around the world, is great for our economy - this is all tremendous. But at the same time, in the hands of terrorists and in the hands of those who would seek to do others harm, it can be quite a weapon. It's very important that we ensure that the rules that apply in the physical world apply in the digital world as well.
It's one of the biggest changes we've seen in the global economy and it's important that our systems keep up with those changes and that consumers are protected. Of course, tax bases, revenue bases of countries continue to be able to function. Just because someone is in the digital business doesn’t give them a leave pass on all the other obligations and all the other responsibilities that go with businesses that operate in the physical world. Of course, it's a very complex time in the international environment at the moment, particularly when it comes to the global economy. There are many pressures, there are many tensions. And so it's been a good opportunity for me today to engage with a number of leaders, to hear their perspectives, to offer Australia's, and to ensure that we're in a position to be able to best advance Australia's interests in what is a complex and challenging time.
And so I look forward to the opportunity to do that again tomorrow. I remind everyone we're here as an observer, we're not part of the G7, so we're not part of all the other various sessions that have been going on today. Tomorrow we'll take part particularly on the on sessions to deal with oceans and that deal with terrorist content on the internet and that's where we'll be making some contribution. So happy to take questions.
JOURNALIST: Sir, we know that you’re not part of the G7 but can you say if President Macron alerted you that Foreign Minister Zarif would be arriving today?
PRIME MINISTER: I haven't had any contact with President Macron today.
JOURNALIST: Did you know he was going to be coming tough, the Foreign Minister of Iran?
PRIME MINISTER: No, I wasn’t aware of it.
JOURNALIST: Would you consider meeting with him?
PRIME MINISTER: We have already had engagements with the government of Iran in relation to our most recent announcement and that's where those engagements need to take place.
JOURNALIST: Would you consider it [inaudible] though?
PRIME MINISTER: I haven't really reflected on it or offering any comment on it at all.
JOURNALIST: Can you tell us more about your pull-aside meeting with President Trump?
PRIME MINISTER: It was a good opportunity. We are in contact, obviously, with President Trump and the administration on a regular basis. Today was yet another opportunity to do that to go over a range of issues that are currently out and about. I've just come from Viet Nam to this meeting and was able to have a good conversation about the engagement I had with Viet Nam and the positive role they're playing in the Indo-Pacific and the strengthening of their economy and the opportunities that we're seeking to develop in that part of the world. And obviously, the presence of the United States in the Indo-Pacific is a stabilising one. It’s good for peace and security in the region, it's good for independent sovereign states in the Indo-Pacific, and we're always keen to ensure that the US is very engaged in that part of the world. And I believe they will continue to and continue to contribute to the peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.
JOURNALIST: Did you raise with him the tariffs that he announced before flying out here on China, the increase in tariffs?
PRIME MINISTER: We had a good discussion about the China-US trade exchanges, and what I would simply say is that the United States has raised a number of issues for some time now with China. Equally, China has raised some matters and it is for both of those countries to sort these issues out and come to an agreement. And I'm always hopeful that they will be able to do that and, of course, we'd like to see that happen sooner rather than later. It does have, obviously, a broader impact on the global economy. But equally, you can't just sort of brush these issues aside forever. They have to be dealt with, and we obviously want to see that happen as well.
JOURNALIST: So did you push for that in your conversation? Did you ask Trump if there were opportunities to deescalate the war with China?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, we want just basically… we want to see the matter resolved. The US has legitimate interests that they wish to pursue as part of that trading relationship. It's not for us to dictate to them, any more than it is to China what they should be concluding. I think it's just more broadly in everyone's interest that they're able to proceed to a conclusion.
JOURNALIST: Did you discuss any further Australia’s commitment in the Straits of Hormuz?
PRIME MINISTER: We were able to talk about that. I mean, it's our involvement that is fairly straightforward and that's appreciated, of course, by the United States. But again, our involvement there is specifically to deal with the safe shipping lanes and I had the option to discuss that with. Chancellor Merkel also this morning and Prime Minister Abe to make it very clear what the nature of our involvement was and why we're there. It's in Australia's national interest to be there. We are always for freedom of navigation, whether it's in the Straits of Hormuz or the South China Sea.
JOURNALIST: Sir, Australia has been very successful at preventing mass shootings I would say since you changed your gun laws in 1996. Did President Trump seek any advice from you on the issue?
PRIME MINISTER: We didn’t discuss that issue.
JOURNALIST: On the Indo-Pacific though, what matters did you discuss in terms of the US-Australia role and engagement in the Pacific? Is there any advancement on…?
PRIME MINISTER: We're going to have the opportunity to discuss those issues a bit more when I visit Washington in September. But today it was really to provide a bit of an update on what we've particularly taken out of those discussions from Viet Nam. Viet Nam's economy is really growing strongly and I think they're providing a very positive role in the region. And it was a good opportunity to share that with the President.
JOURNALIST: On your social media and extremist material measures, both measures you’ve announced today with the OECD and that Minister Fletcher announced back in Australia yesterday. How will those deal with the kind of places with these manifestos are actually being posted like message boards like 8Chan that aren’t run by big companies?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, you've just got to methodically work through all the changes you need to make. You've got to get the political level leadership to bring about these changes and I think the momentum that has been created from what we were able to achieve at the G20 and what has been affirmed here again at the G7. Then you've got to get the mechanisms in place, which is what we’re... we’ve put $300,000 Australian in to supporting the OECD to actually work through the transparency mechanisms which is the reporting framework which keeps the whole system to account.
Now, the OECD we've always believed is the right vehicle to do that, just like they were to work through the base erosion and profit shifting. Quite technical issues that led to ensuring that multinationals are actually paying their fair share of tax in all of these jurisdictions and Australia has been a particular beneficiary of putting those changes in place. So they are a very credible and capable organisation that can work through, you know, proper rules and processes to ensure that there's a transparency of the way that these digital platforms operate. I mean, this is difficult to do and you need countries to operate together and put in place similar systems. Now, we will continue to take action on our own part, as we have the telcos, as we already have with platforms and the Taskforce report and we'll be taking further action there. Countries have got to do their own thing on their own side of the line but globally, you've got to have mechanisms that everyone can implement and the OECD I think is well-placed to advise on it.
JOURNALIST: Just on the trade issue, you mentioned that Donald Trump is talking about legitimate issues in terms of how China goes about things. Does the end justify the means of Donald Trump's trade tariff war?
PRIME MINISTER: What do you mean?
JOURNALIST: Well, the way he's going about things hoping to get China to play by the rules even though it might hurt the global economy. So does the end justify the means in that regard?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, they're taking responses in relation to a disagreement they're having over trade matters. And these types of responses are not... I would say they're fairly obvious in terms of how that would play out until this matter is resolved.
JOURNALIST: And you back the approach?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, I want to see the issue resolved.
JOURNALIST: In your conversation with the OECD on digital taxation, were they receptive to Australia's place on how that should be managed?
PRIME MINISTER: Yeah, look, on digital taxation, the OECD has a process that will come back to the G20 next year and we support that process. We have concerns about proposals that are basically a souped-up sales tax and the potential for that to lead to retaliatory taxation in Australia, particularly in our export industries, particularly our commodities sector. I think there are real risks to Australia's national interests about how that taxation agenda has been proposed by some. We think the OECD is the sensible place for those issues to be worked through. They had a very good outcome when it came to base erosion and profit shifting. You know, I'm hopeful they would come to a sensible conclusion on this that they're working on now and we had a commitment from the OECD there that our ambassador to the OECD will be closely involved in that process and he was there for our meeting today. So we all understand that we want to ensure that these digital platforms - like multinationals more broadly - should be paying their fair share of tax. And if you're in the digital realm, well, you should be paying tax in the same way as companies are in the physical realm. But, you know, you've got to make sure that you think through all the consequences of these issues and you need quite a sophisticated, I think, answer. You don't need to go and change all the rules. You just need to make sure that you're applying the rules in a sensible way. Profits should be taxed where they're generated and we'd better have a better understanding of how those profits are generated, whether it's in Australia or whether it's in Europe or indeed the United States. The tax system has to properly capture that.
JOURNALIST: You mentioned that in the Gulf you got questions from both Japan and Germany asking about Australia's role in militarily there.
PRIME MINISTER: No, no, they didn’t question us, we offered our briefing on the decision that had been taken.
JOURNALIST: Did you detect any concern from them or did they accept your explanation?
PRIME MINISTER: No, there was no concern at all. No concern at all. And I think a great respect for the way that Australia thinks through these issues and is very clear about how we pursue our national interests and we do so in a way which is very well targeted in terms of what our objectives are here and we were very clear about what this was about and what it wasn't about. It's not about the JCPOA. Australia’s position is we maintain support for the JCPOA. The UK maintains support for the JCPOA. So it isn’t about that, it’s about simply ensuring that there can be free passage of shipping through that important area of the world, which directly impacts on Australia's petroleum flows.
JOURNALIST: The UK leaving the European Union, will that affect any negotiations on an EU-Australia free trade deal?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, we can't enter into an agreement with the United Kingdom until their arrangements with the EU have been officially resolved. But as soon as the UK is in a position to enter into an agreement with Australia, we'll be quick off the mark. And I think it'll be very much also in their interest to be able to conclude arrangements with countries like Australia as quickly as possible. I'm looking forward to having those discussions tomorrow with them with the Prime Minister. I'm sure he’ll give me a hard time about the fact that they clipped us in the latest Ashes, which many of you from other countries wouldn’t have the faintest idea what I'm talking about. But the Australian journalists and the British journalists will know very very well. But I'm looking forward to having a conversation around a whole range of issues with the Prime Minister tomorrow and to wish him well. He's got some challenging issues before him, but as soon as they're able to resolve that with the EU then we'll be moving very quickly. But equally, we're working very assiduously at the moment to conclude an arrangement with the EU as well, and we have further discussions about that today with the German chancellor and I appreciate her support.
JOURNALIST: Did you share with the German Chancellor Australian producers’ concerns about the range of geographical indicator names?
PRIME MINISTER: I updated her on where we're at with that process. I mean, that's a necessary part of the process and that was something that was raised with us by the EU last time that the Finance Minister and I met with them in Osaka. So look, we're making progress on that issue. It's quite a lengthy process but that's what you need to do. So these meetings are a good opportunity to have those other discussions on the margins of the core agenda. But the core agenda for us here, the reason we're here and I'm looking forward particularly tomorrow be raising these issues as I did with the Chilean President this afternoon, and that is the importance of looking after our oceans, the importance of ensuring that we stamp out illegal foreign fishing, particularly in the Pacific which is a big concern for us and the Pacific Island nations for whom this is their most important resource. And also to ensure that we're creating what they call the circular economy, that we are ensuring that we're recycling the plastics which at the moment are finding their way into the ocean and destroying our marine environments. And this is something that Australia takes very seriously and I'm looking forward to putting forward my view on that.
JOURNALIST: Is there a particular outcome that we're looking for from that discussion on oceans?
PRIME MINISTER: It's an issue of constant advocacy.
More action to prevent online terror
26 August 2019
Prime Minister
At the G7 Summit in Biarritz today, I announced a new partnership with the OECD to strengthen transparency by tech companies in a bid to prevent online terrorist activity.
Together we will do our best to make sure the internet cannot be a safe haven for terrorists or violent extremists to recruit, prepare terrorist acts, or promote their abhorrent propaganda.
I’m very pleased to say that Australia, together with New Zealand and the OECD, is funding a project to develop Voluntary Transparency Reporting Protocols on preventing, detecting, and removing terrorist and violent extremist content from online platforms. We welcome and encourage further support for this project.
I am determined to keep driving global support, building on our G20 Statement calling on internet companies to step up and take action. We know the internet has no borders, and terrorist and violent extremist exploitation of the internet is a global problem.
This project will help to enhance trust in the digital economy. The OECD is not only a global leader in digital economy policy, from taxation through to artificial intelligence, but its member economies host many of the online platforms that provide content to consumers. It is for these reasons, the OECD is best place to develop a robust evidence-base to tackle this challenge.
This work will establish standards and provide clarity about how online platforms are protecting their users, and help deliver commitments under the Christchurch Call to implement regular and transparent public reporting in a way that is measurable and supported by clear methodology. Digital industry will benefit from establishing a global level playing field. The project will assist to reduce the risk of further unilateral action at national levels, avoid fragmentation of the regulatory landscape and reduce reporting burdens for online platforms.
It is fitting to announce this initiative here in France, where the Christchurch Call to Action was launched in May. We are building on it by collaborating with industry in a multilateral, collaborative way to prevent similar online broadcast of terrorist attacks from ever happening again. Australians, and citizens around the world, rightly have high expectations that tech companies must not allow their online platforms to facilitate terrorist and violent extremist acts.
The project will establish benchmark practices by online platforms and metrics to ensure regular, voluntary, and public reporting on efforts to address violent extremist content.
Halting the spread of terrorism and extreme violent content online
25 August 2019
Prime Minister, Minister for Home Affairs, Minister for Communications Cyber Safety and the Arts
Websites hosting harmful and extreme content from terrorists will be blocked by the Morrison Government in the latest measure to keep Australians safe online.
The Government has accepted the recommendation of the Taskforce to Combat Terrorist and Extreme Violent Material Online to establish a clear and unambiguous content blocking framework for crisis events.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said this action would protect Australians from exposure to violent events online like the Christchurch terrorist attacks.
“The shocking events that took place in Christchurch demonstrated how digital platforms and websites can be exploited to host extreme violent and terrorist content,” the Prime Minister said.
“That type of abhorrent material has no place in Australia and we are doing everything we can to deny terrorists the opportunity to glorify their crimes, including taking action locally and globally.”
Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton said the Government was taking strong action to ensure extremist content of any description, does not gain a foothold anywhere in our country, including online.
“Our Government has really been leading the charge on combatting this scourge and this is another important step to ensure all Australians, of all ages, can feel safe at home and at work,” Minister Dutton said.
Following the attacks in Christchurch, Australian internet service providers voluntarily blocked access to offshore websites that were hosting the attacker’s footage and manifesto.
“This was a responsible move taken by Australia’s major telecommunications companies that prioritised the safety of Australians online,” Minister for Communications, Cyber Safety and the Arts, Paul Fletcher said.
“It is important that the Government gives the industry the backing it needs for this type of action, now and into the future.”
The eSafety Commissioner is working with industry on options to implement website blocking arrangements to quickly and effectively block access to specific domains hosting terrorist or extreme violent material from the Christchurch terrorist attack and for future similar events. The eSafety Commissioner will make these independent determinations on a case by case basis to keep Australians safe online while upholding important internet freedoms.
The Government is also establishing an updated crisis management framework, including a protocol for managing terrorist and violent material posted online, which was also a recommendation of the Taskforce report.
The new protocol will include a 24/7 Crisis Coordination Centre to monitor and notify relevant government agencies of online crisis events involving terrorist and extreme violent material and will provide the eSafety Commissioner with information to undertake rapid assessments.
“This new protocol will better equip our agencies to rapidly detect and shut down the sharing of dangerous material online, even as a crisis may still be unfolding,” Minister Dutton said.
These measures follow action taken earlier this year by the Morrison Government to ensure major social media companies stop the publication of violent terror content, including tighter monitoring and controls on live streaming and a simulation exercise to further test social media companies’ capabilities.
The Taskforce to Combat Terrorist and Extreme Violent Material Online was formed following a Summit on March 26 this year by the Prime Minister, with members from Facebook, YouTube, Amazon, Microsoft and Twitter, along with Telstra, Vodafone, TPG and Optus.
Taskforce members have committed to providing detailed implementation plans, setting out how each member will give effect to the recommendations, to Government by the end of September.
Legislative options will be used if digital platforms fail to improve the safety of their services, and address the gaps laid bare by the Christchurch terrorist attacks.
Media Statement - G7 Summit
24 August 2019
Prime Minister
At the invitation of French President HE Emmanuel Macron, I will travel to France with Mrs Morrison from 24 to 26 August for the 45th G7 Summit in Biarritz. This is the first time Australia has been invited to attend the G7 and I thank President Macron for his kind invitation.
The G7 brings together the world’s largest developed economies. This Summit is taking place amidst increasing global economic headwinds, threats to global security and stability and sharpening trade tensions. All of these developments have implications for our national interests. This forum will be an important opportunity to listen and to put forward Australia’s views on these global challenges.
I will take the opportunity to work with leaders and industry representatives who share my commitment to tackling terrorist and extremist exploitation of the internet. I am keen to build on the progress made on this issue at the recent G20 meeting in Osaka - progress driven by Australia on the world stage.
I will use my meetings with European leaders to highlight the importance of a commercially meaningful Australia European Union Free Trade Agreement. I also plan to discuss a possible Australia United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement with British Prime Minister, Boris Johnson.
Australia is a world leader in areas of environmental protection such as ocean and reef biodiversity protection and management. I look forward to sharing with G7 leaders the good work we are doing at home and with our Pacific partners and our commitment to reduce plastics pollutions in our oceans.
I will also take the opportunity to engage with a range of counterparts from other nations attending by invitation on key strategic challenges, especially as they impact on the Indo-Pacific.
Doorstop - Hanoi, Viet Nam
23 August 2019
Prime Minister
PRIME MINISTER: Thanks, everyone. Before I make some other remarks, I just wanted to say something about my dear friend, Jenny and my dear friend, Tim Fischer. I know that there have been tributes flooding in from not just all around Australia but no doubt all around the world, including from here. I spoke to his wife Judy yesterday afternoon after we arrived and we reflected on some wonderful memories. I worked with Tim for a number of years. He was larger than life, and I think over the next few days the stories about Tim's remarkable life, his incredible wit and charm, his passions which knew absolutely no bounds. You could not be in a room with Tim Fischer and not tap his enthusiasm, his love for his country. Tim just loved people. That's why he was in politics, that's why he in public service. He just loved people wherever he went, and they reacted to him just so warmly. I'm not going to recount all of those situations that I'm thinking of right now, but they are very warm and lovely memories. And so the Government is, of course, offering a state funeral to Judy Brewer and the family and I think that will be a wonderful celebration of a life just so beautifully well-lived. And so I expressed to Judy and the family my personal best and from Jenny and on behalf of all Australians. We loved you very much Tim and we look forward to having now the opportunity to just tell you as a country just how much we loved you.
Now, more broadly I won't go over my remarks from earlier and I think what we have done here is really elevated the relationship and friendship to mateship. I think that really does provide in more simple language what's been going on here. We've had an excellent relationship with Viet Nam for a long time and it has just continued to build. But what has become more apparent as time has gone on is we very much do share a similar outlook in terms of where our region is going, where the opportunities are. And it was a very long agenda of issues mutually pulled together by both Viet Nam and Australia. It deals with training issues, it deals with peacekeeping issues, it deals with environmental issues, it deals with trade, it deals with strategic engagement, it deals with regional architecture. It is a very broad-ranging relationship. And where we've taken the relationship now is that annual leader-level dialogue, combined with the many other engagements that go into those which will ensure, I think, we can take this forward significantly. It is about becoming a top-ten trade partner, it is about increasing our level of defence and security cooperation in the region.
When you look at what RMIT does here, they train people here on cyber-security. They are filling in the skills gaps here in Viet Nam. Later today I'll be visiting the F1 partnership that they’re doing for the Grand Prix here. Very exciting no doubt, but it's not just about a car race, an F1 race - it's actually about a partnership that's coming together at many levels and is a demonstration of what it really means. I mean, this is a country with an enormously big future, and we want to be part of that, and we want to support them as they support us in ensuring that we have a stable and secure Indo-Pacific region where countries can continue to live in their sovereignty and their independence and realise their objectives, which is all about raising the living standards of their people.
JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, today again in the South China Sea you've called out the behaviour but not the perpetrator. Is it time to name China?
PRIME MINISTER: All I've done today is stand up for the principle of international law and that's all we're doing. And that principle of international law applies to everybody, and we simply stand with whoever is standing for that principle. So I'm not here to make accusations, or to do any of, things of that nature. We don't take sides in these disputes. That's not what Australia has ever done. We just stand for the principle of international law to be applied in these circumstances and that for everyone to be able to operate with that confidence.
JOURNALIST: Are you concerned though by China's actions in the South China Sea? You're in Viet Nam so obviously you've been speaking to the Viet Namese Prime Minister about it, and are you talking about China? In your message last night when you say, ‘If we allow the sovereignty or independence of any of our neighbours to suffer coercion then we're all diminished’?
PRIME MINISTER: Again, I’m speaking to principles that are important to the independence and sovereignty of the Indo-Pacific region and these are things that Australia feels strongly about. And these are things that I‘ve found in my own engagements with leaders across the Indo-Pacific over the past year that they are also passionate about. See, it isn't about picking sides. It's about ensuring that each and every nation in this region can have confidence in its own independence and its own sovereignty. And so everyone is picking their own national interest and I believe trying to foster a region where that can be respected and that countries can make their own decisions and that they can work together constructively and that's what we're advocating for. See, I've come here to advocate for things, not against things.
JOURNALIST: Prime Minister when you talk about coercion, what are you talking about in this region? What is the risk that the nations are facing?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, any impingement on their own sovereignty and independence that would prevent them in any way from pursuing lawfully what is their objective.
JOURNALIST: When you talk about international law though, the problem is that China does not recognise the 2016 decision, it's not a party to UNCLOS. What more can your comments sort of do when one country patently does not comply with international law?
PRIME MINISTER: We simply continue to work with everybody to uphold those principles and continue to reinforce them.
JOURNALIST: On another note, Prime Minister, I was wondering if you had a chance with your Viet Namese counterpart to raise the case of Australian citizen Van Kham Chau who has been in a Viet Namese prison now for months without access to a lawyer. Is there any update on that case?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, simply to say this, that as part of the engagements and through our mission here we regularly engage on consular matters, and it is never helpful to be canvassing how that's done in the public domain.
JOURNALIST: But more generally on human rights, did you raise any concerns with the Viet Namese about those issues?
PRIME MINISTER: Today we covered many issues, and particularly issues that might directly involve Australian citizens then obviously these matters are canvassed. But they've done in, I think, a very respectful way of what is Viet Namese law. And I've said this on many occasions, I was saying it just last week - Australians need to abide by the laws of the countries which they visit. They must. They don’t get a leave pass from laws when they go into someone else's country and commit crimes. That is not something that Australia can support or excuse. But we will always seek to support our citizens in these difficult circumstances.
JOURNALIST: Now you’ve had some time to meet with the Viet Namese and appreciate the history and culture do you think it was a mistake for Australia to go into war with them?
PRIME MINISTER: One of the things that Prime Minister Phuc and I are very focused on is the future. I said today in my remarks as we did as we sat in this room. It's amazing the relationship we have today when you think about our history, when you think about the points of differences from which we've come, to the points of agreement we're now at. It enlivens my hope. It is… look, at the best of times and the worst of times I'm always optimistic. You know that. But days like today only reinforced my optimism.
JOURNALIST: Just a domestic question, PM. Tomorrow is obviously the first anniversary since you became PM, congratulations on achieving that. I'm wondering could you reflect on the past 12 months and perhaps the differences in Australian politics from 12 months ago to today? It certainly seems much more stable, perhaps?
PRIME MINISTER: Oh look, frankly anniversaries I find quite narcissistic, so I tend to not to engage in that sort of self-assessment. I'm sure there'll be plenty of others who do. I have a simple task and that is to continue to make Australia stronger, for Australians to be in charge of their own future, for Australians to have their aspiration rewarded, and for them to be able to make the choices they want to make for their lives and their futures. I think the stability that our Government has brought to those aspirations I think is very positive. I appreciate the strong support we've had for pursuing those policies as we did in the last election. And so I said at the time it wasn't a win for the Liberal Party, or me, or anyone like that. It was just a victory for those Australians who wanted to get on with their lives and wanted the government to get on with its job, and that's what they'll continue to get from me. I'll let others go through the calendar. My job is big enough.
JOURNALIST: Just looking ahead to G7, what are you hoping to achieve there?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, there's an opportunity at G7 obviously to meet in one place with some of the biggest countries, leaders in the world, and obviously that's the first opportunity to meet with Boris Johnson in his new role as Prime Minister. I’ve obviously met him before, and we’ve spoken many times. But this will be a good opportunity, particularly given the announcements I’ve made this week regarding our involvement in the multinational force in the Straits of Hormuz, the opportunity to talk to Americans about that as well. It’s an opportunity to catch up with Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India. They play a very important part in this region of the world and are increasingly becoming an even more important partner, both strategically and economically for Australia. And we share a commonality as well on many things. I suspect I'll give Boris a hard time over the cricket and he will try and do the same to me. But that's the nature of our relationship. And I suspect the Prime Minister of India will take a shot at both of us on that front.
JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, the U.S. State Department has put out a strongly worded statement overnight saying it's deeply concerned China is continuing its interference with Viet Nam's EEZ. Do you agree with the wording of that statement and do you also hold strong concerns?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, it's not for me to agree or disagree. It's a statement by the United States. I'll let them speak for the United States and I'll make my remarks on behalf of Australia. And my remarks I think are reflected in what I've said today. To stand side by side with the Prime Minister of Viet Nam and on what is contained in the official statement which is being issued today which is consistent with the statements that were made as part of the AUSMIN process when Secretary Pompeo and Secretary Esper were recently in Australia. So Australia's position has been consistent. This is very important. The reason Australia is held in such high regard in the region is because we are consistent. I mean, we've been here for 45 years. We were the only embassy, for example – mission, I should say - to be in Myanmar for all of that time as well during their period of estrangement. So we are very consistent and we maintain our presence in these forums and in these relationships and they all improve as a result. So we’re careful and calibrated with what we say. But most importantly we are respectful and we honour our friendships and indeed our mateships.
JOURNALIST: And just in regards to Andrew’s earlier question - 12 months ago the Liberal Party was quite divided. Has it been able to set aside those differences and move on? Or is there still a way to go to heal some of those wounds from 12 months ago?
PRIME MINISTER: We’re delivering the stability that Australians voted for.
JOURNALIST: Just on trade there is obviously a new agreement for Viet Nam to be in the top ten of our largest trading partners. How do you achieve that and could there be a specific FTA with Viet Nam on the cards in the future?
PRIME MINISTER: Oh, I don't rule that out at all. At all. And let's just see what happens on that on that front and as we go forward. This is a relationship that just continues to strengthen every day. And I've got to say the relationship between Prime Minister Phuc and me has only improved, and it started in a pretty good place I’ve got to say. But it's only got better and there's a real candid nature about those discussions. We can speak very openly and honestly with each other and we have a good understanding. So I wouldn't be surprised if we're able to take that even further forward. We’ve got the TPP though, which I think provides a very strong platform for us to achieve what we’ve set out. There was a goal. There was also the RCEP agreement, which I think will also support that. But, I mean, let's take energy for example. I mean, I’m up here with two Australian companies, Woodside is here and Macquarie is here, and both of them are looking to address the energy needs of Viet Nam both in ocean wind power as well as an import arrangement here for LPG. And we’ve also seen in the figures the significant increase in our resources exports here that support Viet Nam’s energy needs. The energy needs of Viet Nam are critical to their continued growth, and so that is a very important place for us to plug-in to what's happening here is the Viet Namese economy. And the stronger the Viet Namese economy gets then obviously the stronger the two-way trading relationship is going to develop into the future. So we're participating, investing, engaging in their economy. Whether it's in skills development, resources, energy, services, tourism and hospitality. We were talking about our air service arrangements between Australia and people coming out of Viet Nam flying right into Avalon in southern Victoria, which I think is tremendous given it was our Government that invested so heavily in the development of the Avalon Airport and to facilitate being able to have those international flights. And having been the Treasurer that was in place to see Avalon Airport developed and Prime Minister to see it opened, it's great to be standing here today and seeing agreements signed that will see more planes, more flights going between Viet Nam and Avalon.
JOURNALIST: Just on recycling, is it frustrating for you that Australian states raise $1.5 billion in waste levies each year, yet only $200 million is actually spent on recycling each year?
PRIME MINISTER: Look, it is frustrating. And this goes to the point I'm making about recycling. We've got a lot of work to do here, and to be fair to states and territories last week… sorry, the week before last when we agreed to work together on this, these are the things that we've got to sort out. I mean, it's a pretty simple promise - you pay a levy, it's supposed to help recycling. Well, that's what it should do. You put a plastic bottle in a plastic bucket and it says recycling on it – well, it should be recycled. Now, this is not happening. That's not good enough. And this isn't a criticism of any one part of the chain. It's a criticism and an observation of the overall system not doing what it's promising Australians. And I want it to do what it's promising Australians. I think the transparency around this has exposed a real problem and exposed it to me when I first saw it. I was like anyone else. You think you're doing the right thing by putting the bottles in the right tub. Well, it can be a bit of a con, and I want to get rid of the con. I want to make sure that when your 10-year old says, ‘Dad, make sure you put that bottle in the bucket.’ That when you do, it actually does what she believes it's going to do. And that's the promise I’ve made to my kids, that we're going to deal with this, and I make it to all kids. And so anyway that's… there's a lot of work to do and it's going be a big part of what I have to say globally. This is a big environmental issue. We talked about illegal fishing today, we talked about the health of our oceans today, we talked about plastics going into our oceans. This is a very big global issue, one that I intend to take a much keener interest in not just at home, but in the opportunities I have as you’ve seen today. It was in today's statement, it was part of our conversations today. This is a very, very important issue. Thank you very much.
Joint Press Conference with HE Mr Nguyen Xuan Phuc, Prime Minister of Viet Nam
23 August 2019
PRIME MINISTER: Thank you Prime Minister Phuc, and thank you to you and to the people of Viet Nam for the incredibly overwhelming and generous and friendly welcome that you’ve given to me as Australia’s Prime Minister and to my wife Jenny and to my entire delegation. This is indeed a warm reception and we thank you very, very much.
Prime Minister Phuc has outlined comprehensively the nature of our discussions today and I concur with his summary and I won't repeat the list of the wide range of issues we discussed today. Instead, I'd like to talk about the uplift that we've had again in our relationship and in coming here today. Prime Minister Phuc and I are friends. Australia and Viet Nam are friends and today, to use an Australian parlance, we've gone from friends to mates. Mates stay together, mates try and understand each other, mates work through difficult issues, through problems, they create opportunities together, and they always stick together as they pursue those opportunities together. And that’s how I see the relationship [inaudible]. It’s an extraordinary journey we’ve been on to get to this point in our relationship. A journey that has seen us come from different languages, different cultures, different peoples. But come together to enjoy a shared strategic outlook about the future. An outlook which embraces the ASEAN Indo-Pacific view. An outlook that sees a combination of independent sovereign states simply seeking to lift the standards of living of its peoples, to live peacefully with each other, and to seek the best for each other.
Prime Minister Phuc and I discussed what was necessary to achieve that vision today and central to that is that we all uphold the principles of international law as it applies in the region in which we all live. Principles that relate to freedom of navigation, freedom of overflight. Ensuring that nations can pursue the development opportunities that exist within their EZ’s and within their sea boundaries and they can go about that business in a way that is uninhibited and is supported and upheld by the regional architecture and the rule of law that supports that free conduct of activity.
About working together to counter the threats of illegal trafficking activity. Of illegal fishing that robs the future of peoples in the region for whom their fishing resources are their very livelihood. Of ensuring that we work together to ensure peace and stability and security in the region through our cooperation on peacekeeping initiatives or other things more broadly. About removing the blockages to trade, the things that impede us doing business with one another - whether that be through the CPTPP or moving to conclude the RCEP by the end of this year. And protect our environment in which we live, and I want to thank Prime Minister Phuc in particular for his support in our conversations about the work that we all must do to reduce the plastics pollution in our oceans to ensure the health and well-being of our oceans. That because as nations such as Australia and Viet Nam that have long coastlines, whose communities depend absolutely on the health of our seas and our maritime environments, that we need to take absolute care of these. And I thank him for his encouragement around Australia's global advocacy when it comes to the health of our oceans and the reduction, if not elimination, of plastics pollution in those oceans.
So I thank you for having us here again today, Mr Prime Minister, and I am glad that we came as friends and we leave as mates.
Joint Statement between Viet Nam and Australia
23 August 2019
Prime Minister
The Prime Ministers of Viet Nam and Australia, on the occasion of Prime Minister Morrison's first official visit to Viet Nam from 22 to 24 August 2019, reiterated their mutual commitment to a strong and ambitious bilateral relationship during their talks.
The Prime Ministers emphasised that Viet Nam and Australia are strategic partners, with a shared neighbourhood and common outlook. They recognised each other’s increasing importance, both bilaterally and as partners in the Indo-Pacific as well as in the international community.
The Prime Ministers acknowledged that the partnership is founded on a basis of mutual respect, mutual trust, converging interests and deepening links. They agreed to increase the depth and breadth of engagement between the two countries in advance of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2023. To this end, they agreed that Viet Nam and Australia’s Plan of Action for the Strategic Partnership for the period of 2020-2023 will focus on three priority areas: enhancing economic engagement; deepening strategic, defence and security cooperation; and building knowledge and innovation partnerships. To guide this work, and as close partners and friends in the Indo-Pacific, Viet Nam and Australia agreed to commence Annual Leaders’ Meetings, and reinforce the increasing engagement at the ministerial and officials’ levels.
Reflecting the shared commitment to building on the strategic partnership, the Prime Ministers agreed to develop an Enhanced Economic Engagement Strategy with the aim of becoming top ten trade partners and doubling investment. The Strategy will solidify shared commitment to trade liberalisation and economic connectivity, and help both countries take advantage of emerging market opportunities. This work will be led by key Economic Ministers, who will meet in Australia later this year for the inaugural Viet Nam - Australia Economic Partnership Meeting to further boost the current excellent ties in bilateral trade, investment and development cooperation. Australia’s Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment will also lead a business delegation to Viet Nam in 2020. Both sides will work together to continue to facilitate market access for aquatic and agricultural products, boost two-way connectivity, collaborate on energy security and seize the digital opportunities of the future, including the digital economy and e-government. Both Prime Ministers also reaffirmed their strong commitment to uphold the rules-based multilateral trading system as embodied in the World Trade Organization (WTO) and committed to support necessary reform of the WTO to ensure that it can continue to address the opportunities and challenges of the 21st century.
The Prime Ministers emphasised their commitment to promoting bilateral economic opportunities and regional economic integration through free trade agreements and cooperation in multilateral economic frameworks, including APEC. In this context, they welcomed the 10thanniversary of the Agreement Establishing the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Area, and the work underway to upgrade that Agreement. They committed their governments to working together to ensure smooth implementation of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership. They agreed on the importance of concluding negotiations on a modern, comprehensive, high-quality and mutually beneficial Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement this year.
Australia will continue to support Viet Nam’s international security contribution, including by the Australian Defence Force providing ongoing specialist peacekeeping training and strategic airlift support for Viet Nam’s next peacekeeping deployment. Viet Nam and Australia will also hold an annual Defence High Level Meeting at ministerial level as well as a separate Security Dialogue at vice-ministerial level, building on existing bilateral defence and security mechanisms. The two countries will broaden bilateral security cooperation, including in the maritime and cyber domains, and work together to combat transnational crime in Viet Nam and Australia, including through increased border security cooperation and law enforcement activities.
Viet Nam and Australia will strengthen collaboration in knowledge and innovation, including between public services and establish a Viet Nam –Australia Centre at the Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics. The Centre will draw on Australian expertise to support Viet Nam’s future leadership, while enabling Viet Nam and Australia to pursue solutions to shared national and regional challenges and deepen people-to-people and institutional links. It will bring together influential Vietnamese and Australian leaders, government officials, experts and academics.
The Leaders committed to protecting the health of the oceans, by reducing plastic waste, sharing technologies and expertise and improving the sustainability of fishing. Viet Nam and Australia committed to increasing cooperation in these areas.
Both sides will encourage their respective localities to step up cooperation through the exchange of delegations at various levels and sharing of management expertise, particularly in urban planning, transport infrastructure, education and training, and innovative entrepreneurship. Viet Nam welcomed Australia’s announcement that from 2 September 2019, Australia will increase the number of Work and Holiday Maker visa places for Vietnamese nationals from 200 to 1,500.
Building on 25 years of education and skills cooperation, the Prime Ministers agreed to extend knowledge collaboration to new areas by increasing education and research links through partnerships such as the Aus4Innovation Partnership Grants program. Both sides are committed to strengthening existing innovative partnerships between universities, research agencies, not-for-profits and businesses in Viet Nam and Australia.
Both countries remain committed to an open, inclusive, prosperous and secure region defined by respect for international law, sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity. The Prime Ministers reaffirmed the importance of ASEAN centrality and ASEAN-led architecture, particularly the East Asia Summit. In this regard, the Prime Ministers welcomed the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific as essential to regional cooperation. Australia committed to extending strong support to Viet Nam in assuming the important role of the ASEAN Chair in 2020 and as non-permanent member of the UN Security Council in 2020-2021. Australia also reaffirmed its commitment to boosting cooperation with the countries in the Mekong sub-region in areas such as connectivity, ICT, climate change and water resources for sustainable development.
The Prime Ministers expressed serious concerns about developments in the South China Sea, including land reclamation and militarisation of disputed features. They also expressed concern about disruptive activities in relation to long-standing oil and gas projects in the South China Sea. They emphasised the importance of freedom of navigation and overflight, compliance with international law and maintaining a rules-based order. They called on all parties to exercise self-restraint and avoid actions that may further complicate the situation. They also reaffirmed the need for states to resolve disputes peacefully, without the threat or use of force in accordance with international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). The Prime Ministers underscored the importance of UNCLOS dispute settlement mechanisms and called upon the parties to respect and implement the decisions rendered by these mechanisms. They reiterated the importance of the full and effective implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC). They called for any Code of Conduct between ASEAN and China to be fully consistent with international law, in particular UNCLOS, without prejudice to the interests of third parties or the rights of states under international law, and support existing inclusive regional architecture.
The talks were conducted in a candid and fruitful manner, followed by a press briefing. The Prime Ministers will brief key ministers on the positive state and direction of the Viet Nam - Australia relationship for further implementation, aimed at bringing the relationship to a higher level.
Death of the Hon Tim Fischer AC
22 August 2019
Prime Minister
We have lost an Australian original with the passing of Tim Fischer.
Tim Fischer was a dear friend. Jenny and I are deeply saddened by Tim’s passing. Together, with our entire nation, our thoughts are with Tim’s wife Judy, their sons Harrison and Dominic and his extended family and many friends.
Tim Fischer was a big Australian in every sense of the word. Big in stature, big in his belief, big in his passion, big in his vision for what Australians could achieve and big in his view of Australia’s place in the world. As a result, Tim Fischer will forever cast a big shadow on our nation.
Tim Fischer walked his own path with honesty and humility and that is what Australians loved about him.
Tim Fischer served as Deputy Prime Minister from March 1996 to July 1999 and led the federal parliamentary National Party for more than nine years. A former NSW state MP, he was elected to the southern central NSW federal seat of Farrer in 1984 and re-elected five times before retiring in 2001.
Mr Fischer, who served as Trade Minister in the Howard Government, was esteemed by his Coalition colleagues, respected by his opponents and loved by Australians everywhere as he travelled the country in his trademark Akubra hat.
He was an all in conviction politician. This integrity and resolve were underlined when he stood firm with Prime Minister Howard on tough new gun laws following the Port Arthur massacre in 1996. They are Tim Fischer’s gun laws too.
Gun laws were not popular in regional Australia in 1996 and Tim Fischer took to the highways and byways to persuade and convince regional Australians about the need for change.
I believe this was his finest moment. Australia will always be in his debt.
Before entering parliament, Tim Fischer served as an Australian Army Officer in Vietnam. As a parliamentarian, he always demonstrated a deep loyalty and affection to service personnel and veterans.
Later in life, he was chairman of Tourism Australia where I had the privilege to serve with him. Tim also served as national chair of the Royal Flying Doctor Service. From 2009-12, he served as Australia’s first resident Ambassador to the Holy See. Tim Fischer also wrote several books, including a number of books about trains – one of his great passions.
My Government will be offering Tim's family a state funeral to celebrate his life and extraordinary contribution to Australia.
Visit to strengthen Australia-Viet Nam partnership
21 August 2019
Prime Minister
I will travel to Hanoi, Viet Nam from 22 to 24 August 2019 as part of my Government’s continued engagement with our neighbours, partners and allies around the world.
Our relationship with Viet Nam has never been stronger. On my first official visit as Prime Minister to Viet Nam I look forward to meeting with Prime Minister Nguyễn Xuân Phúc to discuss ways to drive forward the strategic partnership we established in 2018.
Our focus will be on strengthening economic, security and people to people cooperation between our two countries.
We will also be discussing the importance of protecting our oceans, including against plastics pollution and illegal fishing.
I am particularly looking forward to working with Prime Minister Phúc to identify ways to continue to expand the trade and investment relationship between our two countries.
Australia and Viet Nam are already free trade partners through our participation in the ASEAN Australia New Zealand Free Trade Agreement and the Trans-Pacific Partnership, as well as ongoing negotiations on a Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership.
Our two way trade is growing strongly, having grown by nearly 11 per cent per annum over the last five years to reach $14.5 billion in 2018. Only our trade with India is growing at a faster rate.
The visit reflects my Government’s commitment to deepening Australia’s relations with Southeast Asia.
I was pleased to travel to Singapore as part of my first overseas visit following the election and I'm equally pleased to be travelling to Viet Nam so soon after.
Australia and the world face uncertain times and global economic headwinds. Our engagement with our family, neighbours and international partners is more important than ever.
Australia Joins International Maritime Security Construct in the Gulf
21 August 2019
Prime Minister, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Minister for Defence
The Morrison Government is reaffirming its commitment to freedom of navigation and safe passage through the Gulf by announcing it will support an international maritime security mission.
This mission will see the Australian Defence Force work alongside its international partners to assure the security of merchant vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.
Australia’s contribution will include the deployment of:
a P-8A Poseidon maritime surveillance aircraft to the Middle East for one month before the end of 2019;
an Australian Frigate in January 2020 for six months; and
ADF personnel to the International Maritime Security Construct headquarters in Bahrain.
The Government has been concerned with incidents involving shipping in the Strait of Hormuz over the past few months.
This destabilising behaviour is a threat to Australian interests in the region.
We have been working closely with our allies and partners, particularly the United States and the United Kingdom, on this issue, which impacts global security and stability.
Freedom of navigation through international waters is a fundamental right of all states under international law. All states have a right to expect safe passage of their maritime trade consistent with international law.
It is in Australia’s interest to work with international partners to uphold these rights.
Australian forces will always conduct themselves in accordance with their international legal obligations.
This will be an enhancement of our existing and longstanding contribution to counter-piracy and counter-terrorism missions in the waters of the Middle East.
Our contribution will be modest, meaningful and time limited – and it will be part of an international mission.
Australia will defend our interests wherever they may be under threat.
Working with partners, we will play our part in shaping a better future for Australia and Australians, as well as our region and the world.
Press Conference - Parliament House
21 August 2019
Travel to Vietnam and the G7; International maritime security construct in the Gulf; George Pell; CU River Mining; Eastern Freeway; Religious freedom
Prime Minister
PRIME MINISTER: Good morning everyone. Tomorrow I'll be travelling to Hanoi as part of my Government's continued engagement with our neighbours, partners and allies in the Indo-Pacific. Vietnam is one of the region's economic success stories over the last decade and it reflects the significant steps it has taken to liberalise its economy. Our relationship with Vietnam has never been stronger and my first official visit will be an important opportunity to drive forward that strategic partnership. The meetings will focus on strengthening economic security and people-to-people cooperation and in particular broadening our trade and investment opportunities between our two countries. We already are free trade partners through our participation in the ASEAN Australian New Zealand Free Trade Agreement and the Trans-Pacific Partnership as well as ongoing negotiations on RCEP. And so I am looking forward to that meeting with Prime Minister Phuc.
That will then be followed by heading over to the G7 at the invitation of this year's Chair, President Macron. The G7 was founded on shared values and this is an important time, I think, to reinforce these shared values in today's world - democracy, respect for human rights and international law, and free markets. Australia's participation is an opportunity to share our Indo-Pacific perspective with the world's leading democracies and it reflects the strength of our relationship with France that we've been invited - together along with Chile, India, and South Africa - to participate in these events and I look forward to, in particular, to meeting with the new Prime Minister Johnson, as I've already had the opportunity to speak to him on several occasions.
One of the issues we'll obviously be discussing is why I'm joined by the Minister Defence and the CDF today. The Government has been concerned with incidents involving shipping in the Straits of Hormuz over the past few months. This destabilising behaviour is a threat to Australian interests in the region, particularly our enduring interest in the security of global sea lanes of communication. 15 to 16 per cent of crude oil and 25 to 30 per cent of refined oil destined for Australia transits through the Straits of Hormuz. So it is a potential threat to our economy. Further, Australia strongly supports the global norms and rules concerning freedom of navigation, particularly under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, whether that's in the Middle East or indeed closer to home. We have been working closely with our allies and partners, particularly the United States and the United Kingdom on this issue which impacts global security and stability. Together, we support the concept of an international maritime presence in the region that would enable the international community to respond to incidents and threats as they occur to ensure freedom of navigation and the free flow of commerce.
Therefore, the Government has decided that it is in Australia's national interests to work with our international partners to contribute to an international maritime security mission known as the International Maritime Security Construct - the IMSC - in the Middle East. This will be an enhancement of our existing and long-standing contribution to counter piracy and counterterrorism missions in the waters of the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. Our contribution will be limited in scope and it will be time bound and it will be part of an international mission separate from any other matters in the region. I will discuss Australia's contribution with other leaders at the G7. However, we intend to contribute ADF planning and operations staff to the headquarters, a Royal Australian Air Force P-8A Poseidon maritime surveillance aircraft, and a Royal Australian Navy frigate in an expansion of its planned existing role in contribution to counter piracy and terrorism operations across the region.
Now, this is a modest, meaningful, and time limited contribution that we are seeking to make to this international effort to ensure we maintain free flow of commerce and freedom of navigation which is essential to our security and to our economy. Because Australia will defend our interests wherever they may be under threat, we will always work closely with our international allies and partners and we are steadfast as a regional partner. The international environment is very difficult. The global economy is facing rising headwinds, as I've noted before. Rising geopolitical tensions and protectionism is weighing heavily on global confidence and growth. We will work with our partners, we will play our part in shaping a better future for Australia and Australians, as well as in our region and across the world. I'll ask the Minister for Defence to comment.
SENATOR THE HON. LINDA REYNOLDS CSC, MINISTER FOR DEFENCE: Well, thank you very much Prime Minister and good morning. Australia has an enduring interest in the freedom of navigation and the safe passage of maritime trade through international waters. Indeed, freedom of navigation through international waters is a fundamental right of all states under international law. Our contribution to freedom of navigation in the Middle East is long-standing. In fact, we've had a near continuous maritime presence in the Middle East since the 1990s. Our contributions to date have focused on maritime security, counter piracy, counterterrorism, and also Gulf security and cooperation activities, including of course through the combined maritime force. But as part of this new maritime mission, our Defence Force will play a crucial role to ensure that all of these rights are protected.
Australia's core interest in this mission is de-escalation. It is all about de-escalating rising tensions in the Gulf. I have spoken to my US and my UK counterparts to inform them that Australia will be participating in this international mission. I've also advised Richard Marles, the Shadow Spokesperson for Defence, who will receive a full briefing from Defence later today. We'll also be talking to like-minded partners globally to reiterate the importance of these international efforts. And can I say that our dedicated men and women of the ADF are highly experienced in operating in the Middle East, as I had the privilege of witnessing firsthand last month. And Australia's contribution will consist of three elements. Firstly, the six month deployment of a frigate from January next year. This will be the 68th deployment of a Royal Australian naval vessel into the Middle East on similar operations. The Royal Australian Air Force is also well-placed to contribute to this important new mission. So secondly, a P-8A will deploy to provide advanced maritime patrol and also surveillance capability to provide an overwatch role. Thirdly, we will deploy a small team of ADF specialist personnel to the new task force headquarters in the Middle East.
Like so many countries, Australia relies on the passage of ships through the Straits of Hormuz for a significant proportion of our oil supply, as the Prime Minister has stated. So in conclusion, the contribution that we have announced today is clearly in Australia's national interest and Australia is very proud to be working with our allies and our friends to promote the global rules-based order and also the rule of law. Thank you.
PRIME MINISTER: Thank you. I'm going to ask the CDF to comment. I mean, this is a matter that's been through NSC on several occasions and so I'd ask the CDF to also offer some comment.
GENERAL ANGUS J. CAMPBELL, AO, DSC, CHIEF OF THE DEFENCE FORCE: Thanks Prime Minister. Our people are very well trained and as you'll appreciate, experienced in the Middle East region. And I've got great confidence in their teamwork, their leadership, and their ability to undertake this mission and to offer a substantive and constructive contribution to the International Maritime Security Construct. Thank you.
PRIME MINISTER: Thank you. Now, before we go to questions I'd ask that we confine questions, particularly with the CDF here, to matters relating to this announcement, and if there are other matters then we can deal with those briefly. But given the nature of this announcement I don't intend to go into political issues. Yes?
JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, just on the IMSC command structure here. Presumably this isn't the operational sentinel model that Donald Trump's been pursuing. Who is going to be in charge? What's the command structure? Who do we answer to? What are the rules of engagement?
PRIME MINISTER: I'll ask the CDF to…
GENERAL ANGUS J. CAMPBELL, AO, DSC, CHIEF OF THE DEFENCE FORCE: It will be a US-led operation and we will be a participant in that with a multi-national force.
PRIME MINISTER: And I need to stress that this is a multi-national force. Our involvement here is on the basis of it being a multi-national force. I discussed this with Prime Minister Johnson a few weeks ago when we were at the next phase of considering our involvement. And this is a point we've made very clear, both to the United States and the UK, that we are here as part of a multi-national effort. Now, it is absolutely the case, as the CDF says, that the United States is pulling this together, but it's also the UK’s view that this provides the opportunity, I think, for others to be involved in a multi-national engagement.
JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, you set a time limit. We’ve seen previous deployments to the Middle East blow out in terms of time and commitment. Is that absolute that six months, or is that flexible if the situation is not yet resolved?
PRIME MINISTER: As always, we will consider these matters again as that deployment approaches its termination, as we do on all of these matters. I mean, we can't predict the future. We can only plan and we can only make commitments based on the situation as we understand it. And we've taken this decision very carefully. This is this is not a new matter. It's been in the public domain now for some time. There have been numerous suggestions made about what Australia should be doing. We've just taken the time to carefully consider it, to engage with those who have been directly involved in pulling these operations together, to understand the objective, to understand what contribution we can meaningfully make. And we have now made that decision and it's up to others to decide what participation they may have. I would hope that the nature of our engagement on this, as participating in a multi-national operation that is focused on freedom of shipping lanes and freedom of navigation. That's what this is about. It's not about anything else.
JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, the frigate that's being diverted from the counter piracy operations in our region. Doesn't it open you up to obvious criticism that this is America again directing Australia back to the Gulf and away from its primary role in the Indo-Pacific?
PRIME MINISTER: Well what we're doing is tasking an asset that was going to be in the Gulf. So it's not been directed away from that region more broadly. It is being tasked to a particular role in this operation. And to what extent that requires us to consider other matters, well we'll consider those in time as well.
SENATOR THE HON. LINDA REYNOLDS CSC, MINISTER FOR DEFENCE: Can I just reinforce what the PM has said. This role is entirely consistent with the same activities that we've done on us. This is the 68th deployment by the Royal Australian Navy to the Middle East for similar operations so we have a very capable Defence Force which is capable of operating missions like this in the Middle East and also in the Middle East and wherever else we currently have troops deployed.
JOURNALIST: Do you have a cost for the operation?
PRIME MINISTER: It'll be done on the normal basis of operations of this nature.
JOURNALIST: Is the difficulty that we’ve spent so long now telling America that we’re such a great ally that we really couldn't say no here?
PRIME MINISTER: No, I don't agree with that at all. Our decision is based on our national interest. And solely on our national interest. We have considered Australia's interests in this matter. Our commitment to issues such as freedom of navigation, shipping lanes, I went through the precise details of how much of our own oil supplies come through this through this pathway. And so there is a clear interest here for Australia. That's what's governed our decision and that's what will always govern our decision.
JOURNALIST: There has been some criticism of the Trump administration's engagement with Tehran and suggestions that they have escalated tensions in the region rather than de-escalate which as Minister Reynolds says is the Australian Government's aim here. Do you agree that the Trump administration has inflamed tensions in the Gulf?
PRIME MINISTER: Our engagement in this operation is all about de-escalating tensions in the region to ensure the freedom of those shipping lanes and the free flow of commerce. That's our involvement. That's what our objective is and it's not related to any other matters that are the subject of a lot of attention in that region.
JOURNALIST: Isn’t Australia now signing up to a mission where President Trump said he wants to exert maximum pressure on Iran. Isn't that what we're doing by joining?
PRIME MINISTER: No.
JOURNALIST: Why?
PRIME MINISTER: Because they're completely separate issues. This is about freedom of shipping. They're completely separate issues. And I think to conflate those issues would be ill informed.
JOURNALIST: You stress this is a multinational operation Prime Minister I'm just trying to work out how multi it is, how many countries are you anticipating will be part of this. And would you be happy if it was basically led by the US, with just the UK and Australia?
PRIME MINISTER: Well we've committed to it based on the involvement already of the UK and the United States. So we'll obviously go forward in that form or whatever other form it eventually takes.
JOURNALIST: Back on the rules of engagement. What will the frigate do if a commercial ship for example is seized by Iranian forces?
GENERAL ANGUS J. CAMPBELL, AO, DSC, CHIEF OF THE DEFENCE FORCE: Look our people are very well-trained and they'll be operating under international law and their presence will be to support the security of shipping and freedom of navigation. Under international law.
JOURNALIST: Will they have the law to open fire? To, what would the law allow them to do?
GENERAL ANGUS J. CAMPBELL, AO, DSC, CHIEF OF THE DEFENCE FORCE: Operate within international law.
SENATOR THE HON. LINDA REYNOLDS CSC, MINISTER FOR DEFENCE: Can I just also add, one of the reasons we're sending staff now to the joint task force headquarters is to work through these details, we've still got some planning to do with the Attorney-General's Department to actually work through what this will actually involve. So it will be a joint headquarters and we are now working through those issues with the United States, United Kingdom, Bahrain and any other partners who join this internal- who are joining this effort.
JOURNALIST: How many personnel will be sent and will there be maintenance ships or anything like that?
PRIME MINISTER: Well there's about 177 people who were on board a frigate. There's about 10 on a P8 and then the number that we will put into the headquarters is still being arranged and talked through, with those directly overseeing the operations.
JOURNALIST: …range as-
PRIME MINISTER: Well that’s pretty specific, there’s 177 people on a ship.
JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, what do you make of arguments that Australia should be dedicating more of its defence and budget resources to the Indo-Pacific area in our backyard rather than getting sucked back into the Middle East?
PRIME MINISTER: Well I'd say this is a very constrained commitment. I wouldn't consider this to be a commitment that is overextending the ADF. As I said we're basically tasking an asset to a region that it was already tasked to in an operation that was consistent with that original tasking. So I wouldn't say that this in any way shape or form detracts from our ability to do exactly what you've just said, and I agree with what you've just said. I mean one of the reasons I've put so much emphasis on our Indo-Pacific relations, and one of the reasons I'm heading up to Vietnam tomorrow. One of the reasons that it has been a top priority for me since becoming a Prime Minister is to be engaging with Indonesia, to be engaging with India, to be engaging with Japan, to be engaging with Korea, has been to extend, strengthen, and further build the alliances- relationships that exist across the Indo-Pacific of free independent sovereign nations simply seeking to be themselves in this part of the world. This brings stability to the region and this is what we'll continue to focus on in our- whether they’re our civilian partnerships or our military partnerships, engagements, cooperation, free trade all of this creates a more stable Indo-Pacific. Phil?
JOURNALIST: Just on detail, just specifics, you said the ship goes- deploys in January. Does the surveillance plane and the planning people go in January or do they go earlier?
SENATOR THE HON. LINDA REYNOLDS CSC, MINISTER FOR DEFENCE: As I said, the staff will deploy reasonably quickly to the headquarters, to the joint headquarters and work through the final details of how this will be established and how it will operate. The P8 will be deployed for a month later this year. Again we're just working out final- final arrangements and timings, and the frigate as you said will be in January from next year.
JOURNALIST: Have you spoken directly to President Trump again in the last few days about this?
PRIME MINISTER: Not directly to President Trump, but I've been in contact with the Secretary of State this morning. And with- and -I've been in contact also with Prime Minister Johnson.
JOURNALIST: [Inaudible]
PRIME MINISTER: Hang over, we’re staying with Iran.
JOURNALIST: Have you made it clear to the Americans in your discussions, I note the CDF's reluctance to talk about international law and what that requires us to do. But have you been explicit with the Americans that our presence there is only as a deterrent in your words to de-escalate and that the Australian assets won't be involved in any military contact?
PRIME MINISTER: I've been very clear about the nature of our engagement in these operations to focus purely on the objectives of the mission as it's been set out and that is entirely consistent with what you've just said.
JOURNALIST: Can I just ask on Cardinal Pell, Prime Minister-
PRIME MINISTER: Are we finished with- Well if you'd like to take that up with the Defence Minister later on other occasions you may, I'm going to take some other questions on some other issues now very briefly.
JOURNALIST: Just on Cardinal Pell, he's lost his appeal. Do you have any sympathy for him?
PRIME MINISTER: My sympathies are with the victims of child sexual abuse not just on this day but on every single day. And as I said at the time of the earlier finding, that events like this today bring it all back. And I would urge Australians who find themselves reliving these experiences to reach out to those around them, to reach out to the services that are there for them in whatever- in whatever phase of life they're in. These things can take you back a long way. And so that's where my sympathies are. The courts have done their job. They've rendered their verdict. And that's the system of justice in this country and that must be respected. And of course my understanding is that this would result in the stripping of the honours that are decided externally to the government that that is a process that is done independently and that course will now follow.
JOURNALIST: Former Liberal Prime Ministers Tony Abbott and John Howard have long stood by Cardinal Pell. Is it time for them to finally denounce him?
PRIME MINISTER: That's a matter for them.
JOURNALIST: Do you support Victoria's law to break the seal of confession for priests that have child sex abuse you know admitted to them?
PRIME MINISTER: Well those matters were dealt with in our response to the Royal Commission.
JOURNALIST: On transport-
JOURNALIST: CU River Mining has a permit to operate inside the Woomera Prohibited Area, it now has a Chinese-based partner. They have made public their expansion plans inside that area. I know they haven't made that application yet. Are you concerned at all about the- what's happening in the Woomera Prohibited Area?
PRIME MINISTER: Like with all of those sensitive issues in that area they will be considered within the confines of the National Security Committee where the biggest ruler gets put over these issues, always. And I think I have some strong form in that regard.
JOURNALIST: In Victoria- a question for our colleagues- is the Victorian Government trying to block your attempts to build the East West Link by asking for the Eastern Freeway to be heritage protected?
PRIME MINISTER: I would have to- I'll be talking to Dan Andrews later today about a number of infrastructure related issues but I'm not currently entertaining having a conversation on the matter.
JOURNALIST: Just quickly on religious discrimination, are you confident with the position that you’ve landed on after Cabinet last night that you will be able to get party-room support for the proposal and also what do you say to faith groups who want this just to be a first step and are looking for further-
PRIME MINISTER: It is just a first step. I mean this is just another stage in the process. We will have an exposure draft piece of legislation which is intended to take us into the next round of discussions and in consultations with not just religious groups but all Australians and that I'm sure will be a very informative and consultative process and enable us get to the next phase. So this is an ongoing process it's a very engaging process I want to thank all of those who've consulted to this point particularly within the government which has been the focus with our own members and- but there's still a way to go on this and we'll continue to go down that path and engage in a very positive way. This is an issue that I think should be bringing Australians together, not one that does the opposite. And I look forward to completing that process.
But for now our thoughts and best wishes will be with those who we have made a very important decision today in terms of what we'll be asking of them in the next 12 months. These decisions are never taken lightly by any government and that's certainly been the case in relation to my government. We have carefully considered the issues that are at stake here, what Australia's national interests are, and we have taken a decision in accordance with those national interests but to all of those serving members of the ADF who will form part of this, CDF I want to thank them very much for their service and their commitment and their professionalism. And I know we’ll be very proud of what they’ll be able to achieve. Thank you very much.
Q&A Institute of Public Administration
19 August 2019
Prime Minister
FRANCES ADAMSON: The first question is from Holly Noble. Holly is the Director of Strategic Planning, Data and Governance at IP Australia and she is also part of IPAA’s Future Leaders Group. Over to you Holly.
QUESTION: Good morning Prime Minister. I'm part of the Future Leaders Committee. We are a network of emerging and future leaders from across the public service. We're very passionate about the future of the public service and the opportunities that are ahead for us. I wonder, can you tell us about your vision for the future culture of the Australian Public Service and what role future and emerging leaders may play in driving this country?
PRIME MINISTER: One word answer, you’ll be pleased to know - collaboration. I want the APS to have a collaborative culture. Not just collaborative internally within agencies and departments and across agencies and departments because there's not one department that has the answer to everything Australia is facing. It’s sort of [inaudible] the collaboration has to exist internally within our agencies, across agencies and the collaboration has to reach out, as I was saying before, into relationships at the community level, on the ground, within academia, with business, with industry, within the charitable sector. All of those who are involved in solving the many problems and addressing the many opportunities Australia faces. It's a big task and it’s way bigger than government, and that means we need a collaborative public service.
FRANCES ADAMSON: Thanks Prime Minister. The second question is from David Hazlehurst. David is Deputy CEO of the Australian Trade and Investment Commission at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade portfolio.
QUESTION: Prime Minister, thank you for your remarks this morning. You've in recent times been outlining your expectations of the public service and confirmed those this morning around being more public-facing, bursting bureaucratic bubbles and getting on with the job of implementing the Government's agenda. And previously and as well this morning you referred to the Queensland floods response as being an example of us at our best. From your time as PM and as a Minister across multiple portfolios, could you share with us one or two other examples of what good looks like - perhaps an example or two of where the public service has engaged well with government right from the beginning of a policy process all the way through to a successful implementation? Thank you.
PRIME MINISTER: Well thank you. We're very limited by time on that, and the OSB experience I think is well chronicled, so I won’t go back over that. I think that has been one of the times when the public service has worked together well with the government, setting a clear direction to solve… address one of the most difficult problems I’ve ever been involved in and having to find a solution for. But. I'll give you two, and one might just seem well how does that feature as a big achievement? When I was Treasurer we were working through some of the difficult issues of trying to understand how wage movements were being impacted in this country and I sat down with Nigel and Angela who were then in their roles at the time. And I just simply asked them the question - we’ve got to understand this better, what's driving these forces? Because we were seeing a disconnect in how some of these key indicators of wages were moving. And it is some of the finest work I’ve seen done by economic analysts in my experience. It went into great detail, they did it over months and months and they, I think, came out with three ways and it greatly assisted me in then forming tax policy and a range of other issues, because it gave me a really good understanding, bringing in new insights based on some great research. So I thought that was a great example of policy advice and economic analysis that greatly lifted the understanding there was to make policy.
The other one, I mean, I remember… this happens in every single Budget, it's why I used to love doing Budgets. In the 17-18 Budget we pulled together quite a significant housing affordability package. It was everything from establishing the National Housing Finance and Investment Corporation through new tax measures that impact on supporting affordable housing, which is now being extended into the disability sector. This was quite a lengthy process that went through [inaudible]. It was engaging with social service organisations. There was an enormous amount of collaboration and I thought it brought together a great package of measures that has set us up well today and now we're leaning on further in subsequent Budgets on those institutions we set up as part of that process. When I worked in Social Services, we would go through what seemed like endless rounds of iterations when we were going through the child care reforms, as Finn will remember, and it was just the attitude of let's just keep working it until we get it right. And my request for further modelling or further options or further iterations was never met with an, ‘Oh, isn’t he annoying.’ Well, maybe it was, but they never said it to me.
[Laughter]
But that certainly wasn't the spirit that I felt I was engaging in the public service and neither of them with me. And we just kept working until we thought we got the balance right, and it’s the same when you’re working through tax policy changes as well. You’ve got to be open to a lot of ideas that perhaps mightn’t always sit neatly with you. But you’ve got to be able to test those against the ones you’re looking at to ensure you’re landing in the right place. And the last one that I've mentioned, and it's an ongoing one, is just the enormous professionalism and knowledge and expertise of our national security agencies. It’s been my pleasure to work with now, in my time on the National Security Committee which I've served on a number of different roles, the application of the respect which these agencies are held in. Not only in this country but by other countries means that we are an extremely reliable partner when it comes to understanding alliance relationships. I’m not at liberty to tell you what a lot of those things were - only a few of you in the room would have that clearance - but that is a part of the public service which meets the highest standards.
FRANCES ADAMSON: Thank you Prime Minister. Now to Chun-Yin San who works in international science and innovation policy at the Department of Industry, Innovation and Science in your part of the graduate data network, the APS-wide network of graduates interested in digital and data. Your question please.
QUESTION: Good morning, Prime Minister. At your address to public service agency heads in May, and of course in your address today, you've emphasized the need for congestion busting in the bureaucracy, ensuring that Australians can access the services that they expect from government, and many services at that. In recent years we've seen a lot of attention being paid to digital transformation and public sector innovation and we're making progress but still have a long way to go. And you've alluded to this I your speech today but I was wondering if you could speak more about your take on the digital transformation of government service delivery and also what do you expect to see happen in this space over the next three years?
PRIME MINISTER: Let me just make two points. First one is the process we've been going through with [inaudible] for some time is the biggest ICT programme we’ve seen in the public service. It’s a beast of a thing to accomplish, it’s been going for many years and we’ve been making extraordinary progress. I think though what we always have to keep in mind how we drive our ICT projects is, again, keep the customer on side. It's not about making the public services’ job easier. It's actually about making the service deliver to the customer, to the public, to the citizen. So long as you’ve got to look at these systems from the outside in, not just the inside out. And I know that's what we're doing at present, I know it's a very big job. I think the interconnectedness with our ICT platforms across government is also a big challenge. The silo mentality isn't just limited to how we make decisions through public service.
The other issue I would raise is really understating the potential. I'm a big fan of regtech and whether it's in the financial services sector or elsewhere. I mean, we will see, I hope, within the next decade - if not sooner - legislation written in code. I don’t mean… I mean in computer code. Because when it is written in code then that makes for its very rapid implementation and application to the various practices it is seeking to regulate. See, regulation is supposed to help get better decisions. I don't think the public sees it that way because it often can't see the benefits of what the regulation is intended to achieve. And that's because it's bound up in these massive volumes. And I think digital technologies have the ability to demystify that and the regtech process that you can see in the apps of various technologies that are emerging I think will open up, particularly for state and local government, not just federal. There's no reason why development building of codes and planning codes cannot be written in code, and you simply submit a cab design and it can provide for real-time approvals. That's totally possible but we’re not doing it. But I think that's a good goal to set.
FRANCES ADAMSON: Finally, to Dr Jill Charker. Jill is the Deputy Secretary and Chief Operating Officer at the Department of Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business and Jill is also an IPAA councillor.
QUESTION: Prime Minister, thank you very much for your address this morning. As you know, the APS is very focused on supporting you and your government to deliver on the priorities and the agenda that you've set. I wonder with that lens you could comment on what you see as the key workforce skills and capabilities that the APS needs to continue investing in to help support you with implementation of your agenda.
PRIME MINISTER: Good question. Problem solving skills - that's the most important thing, because we’re in the problem solving business. We’re in the opportunity-taking business. And that requires complex problem solving skills that can work across disciplines that can see the full complexity of problems in one view and not just view a bit of it. That harks back to my first answer to the first question. You get some problem solvers in the room, all sorts of good things happen. One of my favourite movies is Apollo 13, and I agree with Gene Kranz that Apollo 13 was probably NASA's greatest ever moment, arguably even greater than Apollo 11. Because I love that scene when they're all up there and they've got to use the lunar module as an escape point. And they walk into the room with some of the brightest minds in NASA, they throw everything that is physically on that lunar module on the table and they say, ‘We need this stuff to do that. And you've got this many hours to do it, or they die.’ There were no factions in that room. There were no departments in that room. There were no people who were thinking that their degree was more important to someone else's degree. There were just people who were trying to save the lives of three blokes in an escape pod off a lunar module. And you know, they were the greatest problem solvers we’ve probably seen in the last 50 years. Under such extreme pressure. But don't think that the work that you all do isn’t saving lives - it is. As I said, the North Queensland floods recovery exercise has saved lives and I hope it continues to. You’re all in involved in life-saving businesses here, in one way, shape or form, in creating opportunities for young Indigenous Australians, or people in rural Australia at the moment through some of the most difficult times that they have ever had in their lifetimes, generationally difficult times this year. And you are the ones they’re ringing up and you’re the ones they’re hoping, together with my government, will be delivering responses - as we have been - to help make their lives just that little bit easier in tough times. So my answer is I want people that know how to solve problems, and I want them to work together collaboratively so we can take the opportunities and we can deal with the problems that we have to face. Thank you.