Doorstop, Hobart Tas

7 November 2020

Senator the Hon. Eric Abetz: It's my privilege to be able to welcome the Prime Minister of Australia to Hobart this morning. The Prime Minister has been a great friend of Tasmania over many years and he has been able to deliver many projects for our state and has been intimately involved in delivering such things as the extension of the Hobart runway, the Hobart City Deal and, of course, he's here to address the Liberal Party State Council. It was great to see the Prime Minister walk across the water as he came, albeit on a bridge. But we have great confidence in the Prime Minister. It's good to be with Rob Pennicott as well, who many years ago used to feed me fish and chips when he had a shop at Kingston and I had a little legal office next door. It's good to be in Hobart with the Prime Minister and on behalf of the federal Liberal Party, Prime Minister, a very, very big welcome to you.

Prime Minister: Thanks Eric. Well, it's great to be here with Premier Gutwein as well. We've been working so closely together throughout his premiership and of course, Will Hodgman before him. And so, Peter, I just want to thank you for the tremendous partnership that we've had together as we've dealt with the biggest challenge our country has seen in generations, not just here in Tasmania, but all around the country. And so it's great to be here with you today, Peter, to make some important announcements. And Jonno Duniam, it's also great to be here with you as well. You’re doing a tremendous job for the tourism industry, regional tourism all around the country and the forestry sector as well, which is, of course, so important here in Tasmania.

But today, Peter and I are particularly here to make some important announcements. The Hobart City Deal, which saw investment, whether it's in the Antarctic facilities and investments that we have here in Tasmania or the road investments. A key part of that deal was an international airport for Hobart and that's what we're here to announce today. The Commonwealth, as part of that agreement, is committing just around $50 million to put in place the border protection and other services and support that are necessary to get international flights happening here in Tasmania. Now, I can tell you, it's great to be back in Tasmania. It's great, Peter, for Tasmania to be open to those of us from the northern states and particularly out of New South Wales. And I'm pleased to be one of the first Sydneysiders to be here after it's opened up and I'd been encouraging people from all around Australia, those who now can come to Tasmania. I know we've got a little bit of a way yet still to go with Victoria, but Tasmania is opening up safely, and that means it will be able to safely remain open. And this is really important as we go through COVID that we have the confidence to open up and then stay open because that gives Rob and all of the businesses here in Tasmania the confidence that they need to stay open, to put people and staff on, to invest in the equipment that they have and expand their businesses and take advantage of the opportunities that are coming. The comeback in Australia is absolutely underway, but that didn't happen by accident and it won't continue to happen by accident. That's why you've got to think of the next challenge and the next issues to address. And here working with Premier Gutwein, that's exactly what we're doing. Now, of course, it will be some time before we see international arrivals from all the rest of the way around the world. But right now, Kiwis can fly to Australia in those states that have those arrangements, and that will be true here in Tasmania and this will only build. And so we believe it is important to take those steps to actually get ahead of the curve and make sure that Tasmania and Hobart, in particular, are in a place to receive those visitors when that happens. So we welcome that partnership, Peter. And I think it's going to be fantastic. The more planes we see in the air means more jobs on the ground. And that's what the Hobart City Deal was designed to deliver and the announcement today is the follow through on that announcement with former premier Will Hodgman.

Now, the other thing which has been great is Tasmania has been a great partner around the National Cabinet table, not just dealing with the challenges that we have in Tasmania, but the national challenges that we have. And one of the big challenges we have at the moment is to ensure that we're able to get Australians home. Tasmanians home to Tasmania. Queenslanders home to Queensland, Western Australians home to Western Australia, wherever it happens to be. And we've got about 6,600 just over weekly capacity of people being able to come back into Australia now, which has been steadily lifting with this support and partnership with the other premiers and chief ministers. And I welcome the fact today that we've entered into an agreement for around 450 Australians to be able to return here through Tasmania as part of that effort and where we can go further than that, then we will and we'll work closely with Tasmania. Premier Gutwein was very quick off the mark in our last meeting to say that Tasmania will be prepared to do their bit as part of the national effort and we really appreciate that, Peter. And the arrangement that we have, very similar to the arrangement we have with the Northern Territory government, will enable us to get more Australians home. Since the start of the crisis, over 400,000 Australians have come back to Australia. That's a lot of people that have come back to Australia and we've assisted some 30,000 Australians on 66 flights back to Australia over that period of time. And this has been a consistent and constant effort. We put around $60 million in a hardship fund to support Australians who are still overseas and to enable them to come back and we're making steady progress on getting more and more Australians home, particularly vulnerable Australians. So I want to thank Tasmania for shouldering that burden as part of the national effort and it's been a great privilege to work alongside Premier Gutwein, with Peter as part of the National Cabinet. He’s made a very constructive, very constructive contribution and he sort of came in basically as the National Cabinet started and has quickly moved into that space and done a great job for Tasmania and a great job for Australia. So on that, I'll hand over to Premier Gutwein. Thanks.

The Hon. Peter Gutwein, Premier of Tasmania: Prime Minister, thank you, and if I could also acknowledge Senator Abetz and Senator Duniam. The regional minister for tourism and I've been working very closely with in terms of the Hobart International Airport. And as he said, he'd throw the kitchen sink at it and he certainly has done over time. And also, I just want to acknowledge Rob Pennicott. Rob's a quintessential Tasmania tourism operator. Started small, has built a business that is sustainable, one that is world class. And every time I meet Rob, I feel that I've learnt something more about the art of tourism because he has his finger on the pulse. His people are excellent. His business has on offer the best of Tasmania. And so if you’re in New South Wales or in Queensland or South Australia or the Northern Territory or WA and in coming months, Victoria, get down here and have a look at what's on offer because it's fantastic. And the work that has been doing over the years is something that needs to be shared across the nation.

I want to thank the Prime Minister for the Commonwealth's contribution. Obviously, in the City Deal, it was framed up that one of the key aims and projects that Deal to end up with an International Airport here in Hobart. We've been working now for a couple of months on this particular matter and I'm very pleased in terms of the Commonwealth's commitment to enable interim arrangements to be established at the Hobart International Airport. And I would hope that this will come online sometime early in the new year, towards the end of January, and certainly within the first quarter that we will have the international footprint established and that we will have flights coming from New Zealand. We're already engaged and in final stage negotiations with a carrier. And at this stage, that would bring with it around 130 flights over the course of a year, some 26,000 to 30,000 visitors would be the capacity. So it's a fantastic opportunity for Hobart. It's a fantastic opportunity for Tasmania and we’ll continue to work closely with the Commonwealth Government on this issue. As part of our contribution, we’ll be providing a $10 million investment towards a $17.5 million investment in the interim facilities. This will stand Hobart Airport in good stead to become the international gateway for Tasmania.

Also I want to just touch on the repat flights, the mercy flights, bringing Australians home. I've always said at National Cabinet and I've said publicly that Tasmania will do its bit. We offered financial support if that was necessary, on the basis that we weren't in a position to take flights. We are now in a position to take flights and we just had the very successful experience where we have brought internationals into the state as part of the Antarctic expeditions back. More than 100 have been quarantined here safely and successfully. We’ll work with the Commonwealth in terms of bringing three flights over the coming months to do our bit to ensure that we can bring Australians home. We've worked closely with public health, with the deputy state controller to ensure that we have all the systems in place and will receive ADF support to ensure that we can do that safely for Tasmania. Importantly, those who are returning to Tasmania or to Australia via Tasmania will be tested and have a health check before they get on the plane and, importantly, will be in quarantine and will receive testing through that period before entering our community.

So I just once again want to thank the Prime Minister for the support that he's provided under the City Deal. That's a real demonstration of state and federal governments working closely together to get outcomes for our communities, importantly, an outcome that will benefit the entire state. And once again, I do want to acknowledge Senator Duniam’s work in assisting us in terms of the efforts that he's put in to ensure that we can bring this to fruition. I'll hand over to Senator Duniam now to make some comments.

The Hon. Jonathon Duniam, Assistant Minister for Forestry and Fisheries and Assistant Minister for Regional Tourism: Thank you, Premier. And that is great to have the PM here today on a typically glorious Tasmanian spring day. The most beautiful parts of our country and the best kept secrets are in regional Australia, in the far flung corners of our nation. And that's why I'm proud as punch today to have the PM here in a far flung corner of our nation, Tasmania, to showcase a great tourism operation here at Pennicott Adventures. This is a great business, doing great things here, employing many locals, over 100 Tasmanians who are employed in the tourism industry. Regional tourism, the tourism industry generally, is the lifeblood of so many regional communities across this country and it has been especially hard hit through the COVID pandemic and all the flow on implications, the lockdowns and restrictions and the like. So the support that's been shown by the Morrison Government, through JobKeeper, various stimulus programmes and importantly also the Regional Tourism Recovery Fund, where Tasmania got over a quarter of the funding awarded across the country, $13.5 million out of a $50 million fund. But we will be working in partnership with the state government and with industry to identify programmes and prioritise projects that will help the recovery for regional tourism in this state, really turbocharge our rebuilding effort in this industry. That's on top of the $100 million out of the Building Better Regions Fund, which is allocated to regional tourism infrastructure. There are some great support initiatives there, but I cannot underscore how important tourism is to our regional communities. One in 10 Australian jobs in regional communities is in the tourism industry. Up the east coast of Tasmania, six out of 10 jobs is linked to this industry. So to have the PM here today to welcome the announcement of the flights from New Zealand to again show his confidence in our tourism industry is a wonderful thing and thank you, Rob, for having us here at your wonderful business today.

Robert Pennicott, Pennicott Wilderness Journeys: Look, I want to sincerely thank the state and federal government for their stimulus packages that we've received and many, many thousands of businesses around Australia have received those. Without those, we'd be in a holding pattern. We would have lost most of our staff. We'd have lost all of their knowledge. So now we're at the time that we're coming out of the COVID restrictions. We really welcome the announcement on the international airport and we're going to welcome the Kiwis in big time. The whole of Australia, we are open for business. I'm only one business in Tasmania. There's thousands. It's a great place. By the 1st of December, we'll have you guys from Victoria as well. But for every other state, we're open now and looking forward to the next six months of rebuilding. And hopefully in two years we'll look back, have a beer and think, did that really happen?

Prime Minister: Well, I look forward to that, Rob, I look forward to that very much. Some 16,000 businesses here in Tasmania were assisted by JobKeeper, over $800 million of support, which has kept businesses in. Jenny and I came down last night and we had the opportunity to enjoy a number of the tourism and hospitality businesses here in Hobart last night and met a lot of people and to talk to restaurateurs and those in the hospitality industry. This has been an absolute lifeline. So happy to take, why don't we take some questions on the announcements today. I have no doubt there'll be other matters that you'd like to raise and we'll get to those. And I'm sure the Premier similarly on the issues at a state level and we can deal with those as well. But any questions on the matters of the announcement today?

Journalist: Prime Minister, just with the mercy flights, what does it mean for Tasmania? Will the federal government be funding hotel stays or what is the federal government actually...

Prime Minister: We're meeting our costs involved in setting this up. There is ADF support as well and the normal arrangement that is are in place for other returning travellers where they meet with the costs of accommodation and things of that nature, which is handled through the State Government, in the same way that other quarantine arrangements have been working for people coming to Tasmania for some time. So you'll see very little difference to those arrangements. And it's very similar to what we're doing in Howard Springs and in the Northern Territory. This is additional capacity and what we've been seeking to do to get more Australians home is to lift the capacity in those more established ports where flights normally go to, in Sydney and Perth and Brisbane. But what this is is demonstrating that we know that we need to supplement that, and these are three flights between now and the end of the year, and we have no doubt that we have the ability to keep expanding that and do more there, perhaps sooner, to fit in with the broader plan.

Journalist: There was a concern for the Hobart Airport earlier this year that if international flights were to open up, that the Airport would be required to meet the costs of recruitment and training. Is that still the expectation?

Prime Minister: Well, we are providing our more than $50 million of support to ensure that we can stand up the services that are necessary at the interim facility, and the state government as you’ve heard have made their announcement about what they're doing in investing in the infrastructure as well. So this is a very positive announcement for the airport. Very positive for Tasmania as well. But most importantly, it's the follow through on the Hobart City Deal. And we're seeing that, as Eric and Jonno would know right across Tasmania, but particularly here in Hobart, it was an important deal that was struck to invest here in Hobart, in particular, as we've made big investments up in the north and other parts of the state. And so this is following through on those commitments we made before the last election.

Journalist: Kiwis can come here. When will we be able to go to New Zealand?

Prime Minister: That's a matter for the New Zealand government and the arrangement that we have is for New Zealanders to be able to come and spend their money here, and Australians are able to spend their money here too. And we think that that is great for the tourism and hospitality industry, in particular, and especially here in Tasmania. So, what other countries do and enabling Australians to travel to other places is a matter for them, and this isn't a reciprocal arrangement, but I think that we've got the good end of the stick here. I think Kiwis who come to Tasmania will certainly get the good end of the stick when it comes to the wonderful experience they'll have here.

Journalist: There is a perception, I guess, that New Zealand and Tasmania are quite similar. Obviously, Tasmania is the better place.

Prime Minister: I agree. I agree.

Journalist: But what kind of studies have been done, Prime Minister? How viable is this route, do you think?

Prime Minister: Well, I'll let Peter speak to that.

The Hon. Peter Gutwein, Premier of Tasmania: I'm happy to. We've engaged with a carrier now for some months and they are very positive in terms of the market appetite for Tasmania. In fact, I've been very pleasantly surprised, in fact, how positive they are. As a government, we will provide a level of underwriting and provide a degree of comfort. And I'll go into those matters more once the deal is actually inked. But the positivity has been palpable in terms of the appetite for New Zealand for this option.

Journalist: And the theory, I thought, was that the state government had committed $15 million to infrastructure upgrades in the Hobart Airport. Why has that number gone down?

The Hon. Peter Gutwein, Premier of Tasmania: The totals and the initial thinking was that it was a $15 million upgrade, which we indicated that we would provide some assistance. The estimate now is $17.5 million, and we'll be providing $10 million towards that and the airport will be providing $7.5 million. Now, I've been in touch with the Airport CEO this morning who was ecstatic in terms of the steps that we're taking and the fact that this announcement has been made today. And so we'll continue to work closely with them and that we’ll be welcoming in Kiwis as soon as we can.

Journalist: And in terms of having it up and running by January 2021, my understanding is we have to do accommodation for Border Force officers, is that right? How will that work?

The Hon. Peter Gutwein, Premier of Tasmania: Look, in terms of the arrangements with Border Force, we'll obviously have some Border Force that will travel into the state, but those arrangements are being worked through at the moment. What our focus is, is ensuring that the interim arrangements at the airport itself in terms of the infrastructure necessary to meet passengers and planes is in place. And that's being worked through its final stages at the moment.

Journalist: And will the AFP be flying in and out as well?

The Hon. Peter Gutwein, Premier of Tasmania: We’ll work through those arrangements. Obviously, what we'd like to see in Tasmania is a permanent AFP presence and Border Force. But those matters, as we step cautiously through this, will all be ironed out.

Journalist: While you’re standing there, Premier, a lot of Tasmanian businesses are relying on JobKeeper. Will you be talking to the PM today about an extension of that programme?

The Hon. Peter Gutwein, Premier of Tasmania: What was interesting in recent days, I attended the tourism industry conference, spoke with a number of West Coast businesses that have been beneficiaries of JobKeeper as this programme rolled out. And what was really pleasing to hear was that in terms of their own balance sheet, in terms of their own financial position, that they felt that they were in a better position this year right now than what they were 12 months ago. Now, that's testimony, I think, to the fact that JobKeeper has worked. But at the same time, it's testimony to the fact that Tasmanians have done their bit. They've been travelling widely, they've been spending and intrastate tourism has been quite strong. In fact, one of the strongest post-winter periods that we've had. And so many businesses are in much better shape than what they were, than what they ever imagined they would be. And we've supported the gradual step down that's been provided by the federal government. Hopefully, and importantly, what we're seeing is that turnover is increasing. And now with the borders to other states opening as well, we'll see more people in the state other than just Tasmania spending, and that will ensure that businesses are able to function and be profitable.

Journalist: So you don't think JobKeeper needs to be extended?

The Hon. Peter Gutwein, Premier of Tasmania: I think the current taper is right, but obviously I think, you know, for all of us, you know, governments are being nimble through this. But I think with the steps that we're taking and importantly the health of the country and I just make this point with the Prime Minister here. You know, Australia stands out alone in the world in terms of how it has managed this virus. And importantly, what we're seeing more than green shoots now in our economy. We're seeing confidence from Tasmanians and West Australians and Queenslanders and people in New South Wales. And with Victoria righting itself I think the country is going to be in a much stronger position as we move forward.

Prime Minister: Can I just add on JobKeeper, what the Budget does is enable us to do a gear change, and so JobKeeper is and continues to play a very important role. But in the Budget, we sort of move forward with the loss carry back provision. So businesses here in Tasmania that will have losses in this financial year will mean that they can access the tax that they paid in previous years. Talking to Rob before and having some good years coming into the pandemic, paying taxes, and to be able to claw some of that back to offset the COVID losses they've had this year is important. The job hiring critics, particularly as it applies to younger Australians, another advantage for businesses, the instant expensing. You know, you can't stay stuck in neutral when you're dealing with a pandemic and a pandemic recession. You've got to keep moving forward. You can't stay stuck on the systems that you have. You've got to keep moving forward. And when you're opening up like we are here now in Tasmanian, businesses are opening up again and employing more people, then you graduate from those emergency supports.

Journalist: Just on the US election, it's now clear Joe Biden will be the next US President. Will you work as closely with him as he did with Donald Trump?

Prime Minister: Of course. I mean, that is absolutely, once the election has concluded and all the votes are counted and it is declared and there is, you know, that has not been resolved yet. But that has always been our approach. See, the Australia-US relationship is bigger than any one individual. It's bigger than any Prime Minister, any President. I've said this consistently and it's wide and it's deep and it's incredibly important. And that's not just Australia who understands that. The United States understands that as well and that's what's always underpinned, I think, very positive relationships between prime ministers and presidents of various backgrounds and political affiliations over a very long period of time. It is our most important relationship. It secures Australia's position in this part of the world. It provides for our economic opportunities as well. So we will always have a very strong, stable, important relationship with the United States. But we're respecting their processes. Their institutions are incredibly strong, I have great faith in their institutions and their processes, as I do ours. And so we will trust those, wait for that process to conclude and then get on with the business of the relationship.

Journalist: What's your response to Anthony Albanese's call that you should contact Donald Trump personally and tell him that democratic processes should be respected?

Prime Minister: Well, I found it, frankly, a little odd that he would think that Australia should take a different position to every other world leader. I mean, I've simply said the same thing that other world leaders have said, and that is we should respect the institutions. We respect the democracy and we should be patient. In fact, Vice President Biden said the same thing, that we should just be patient and that's exactly what we're doing. So, look, I think it was a suggestion that demonstrates that he may be seeking to try and import the politics of the United States into Australia. I don't know why you'd want to do that. It has no impact here in Australia. They have their domestic politics. We'll leave that to them and to seek to do that and bring it here to Australia I thought it was a bit surprising. But, you know, that's for him.

Journalist: How does that work? What do you mean seeking to import that, do you mean that style of politics?

Prime Minister: No, I just think trying to draw some link between the politics of the United States and trying to inject that in a partisan way into Australia is very divisive and very unnecessary. There's no dispute in this country about the importance of the relationship with the United States. It's always enjoyed very strong bipartisan support. And so I don't know why he'd want to inject some sort of partisan element into this. Prime ministers work with presidents, presidents work with prime ministers. And one of the reasons that works so well is we tend not to interfere in each other's domestic politics. We have enough respect for each other's institutions and processes to know that they will look after themselves and we will get on with the important business of the relationship.

Journalist: Is Donald Trump lying when he alleges electoral fraud?

Prime Minister: I'll just give you the same comment on this matter. I'm just not a participant in the US political process. They have their institutions to deal with all of those things and I'm very confident that their institutions and their processes will address all of that. And we'll be patient for a final outcome and we'll work, as we always have, very successfully with the United States.

Journalist: That's a big play. Do you think there's some basis to it?

Prime Minister: Well, again, it's not a matter for Australia. It's a matter for the United States. And just like other leaders around the world have not sought to buy into those questions, well, I think that's the wise thing to do. I think the suggestion that Australia or I should somehow involve themselves in the US political process I think is a very unwise one. And I think it's one that shows a lack of understanding about how these things work. And it's important to maintain a level head and just wait for the outcome and then work with the president that the people of the United States have elected.

Journalist: But is it a false claim when he says that…

Prime Minister: I’ve already addressed that.

Journalist: Do you have any parting words for Donald Trump?

Prime Minister: Well, again, I'm just going to wait for the electoral process to conclude before I make any remarks on it. Others are welcome to speculate and commentate on that process. But I'm just going to patiently and respectfully await the outcome of that process. I think that's the mature thing to do. I think that's the responsible thing to do and suggestions that we should do otherwise, well, I think that reflects on the motivations of those who make those suggestions.

Journalist: The Inspector General’s report, how quickly should those - into the ADF - how quickly should those findings be released publicly and will the government ensure as much information as possible is made public?

Prime Minister: Well, as the CDF has confirmed, he's in receipt of that report. It's a very, very serious issue. The government will be taking it very seriously and we will be abiding by all the proper legal and institutional processes that are appropriate. And we will have more to say about that over the course of the next week. And at this stage, though, the CDF has received that report and it goes to highly sensitive matters and it's important that we run a process here that respects the integrity of our defence forces, that upholds the standards that all Australians would expect of our defence forces and to ensure that people are treated fairly in that process as well. And we'll be doing all of those things. But this process has a long way to go, and we will work through that thoroughly and with a high level of integrity.

Journalist: What level of information could the public expect?

PRIME MINISTER: We'll have more to say about that once we make further announcements.

Journalist: Just a final question on China. Is China engaging in economic coercion and how will you mend the relationship if they're refusing to cooperate?

Prime Minister: Well, first of all, China denies that they're doing that. So that's what China has said and I can only, as I said this week, take that at face value. So the suggestion that they have been engaged in that is something that they strongly deny. And this issue regarding a number of our commodities and other exports is, of course, of great concern to the government and great concern to those exporters. The Australian government has been standing by our exporters in ways this country hasn't seen in a long time, particularly during the pandemic and the international flight assistance. I mean, this is in addition to JobKeeper and the other many supports we provide to exporters. This has been a lifeline to those exporters. So we have shown great support for them. But the technical issues, as they've been described by the Chinese government that have been identified, we will have to work to those processes. But to those who make other comments about the relationship, I would simply say this, that Australia will always stand by our sovereignty. We will always stand by our values. We will always be consistent with those. We will never trade them away. And we will maintain the integrity of whether it's our foreign investment rules or our rules of interference in Australia's political situations here in Australia or the integrity of our communications networks, all of these things. And we will continue to raise our voice on matters that are very important to the Australian people. And we'll do that consistently. And so these are things that can't be traded away. We will work the relationship, importantly for Australia, in a way that is consistent with the comprehensive strategic partnership. It's an important partnership. We believe it's an important relationship, but it's a relationship that will always be based on Australia's national interest and mutual benefit between Australia and China. Thanks very much.

https://pmtranscripts.pmc.gov.au/release/transcript-43113

Tasmania to Help More Australians Return Home

7 November 2020

Prime Minister, Minister for Foreign Affairs

The Australian and Tasmanian Governments have agreed to provide an additional 450 spaces in quarantine facilities in Hobart hotels to help more Australians return home from abroad.

The Tasmanian Government has indicated it would increase its quarantine capacity spaces if it can confirm additional hotel contracts, which will then make it possible for the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, in partnership with Qantas, to arrange facilitated commercial flights to help Australians return home.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the additional capacity was on top of the 6,315 weekly quarantine spaces currently agreed to by states and territories.

“We’re working every option to help as many Australians return home as quickly as possible,” the Prime Minister said.

“We thank Premier Gutwein and his government for their willingness to help us tackle the challenges our friends and family are facing overseas amidst the pandemic.”

The Commonwealth is continuing to work with state and territory authorities to further increase the quarantine capacity they can offer, as well as further facilitated flights.

Tasmanian Premier Peter Gutwein said Tasmania was pleased to support the national effort to help Australians in need.

“Tasmania will never turn its back on its fellow Australians, and as I have said for some time, we stand ready to play our role to help bring Australians home,” the Premier said.

“This is being achieved in a COVID-safe way for returning Australians and Tasmanians, with all inbound passengers required to be tested prior to travel, and will need to return a negative COVID-19 test on or after day 10 of their quarantine period before entering our community.

“This deal also means supporting our hotel industry which has seen a significant downturn in bookings this year.”

Minister for Foreign Affairs Marise Payne said DFAT officials would work with Qantas to ensure the most vulnerable Australians registered are given priority access to these flights.

“Our focus is on helping Australians who want and need to return,” Minister Payne said.

“More than 411,000 Australians have returned since 13 March and around 30,600 have been assisted by the Australian Government including on 66 directly facilitated flights.”

The Government continues to assist vulnerable Australians overseas through consular assistance and through the Hardship Program. Financial assistance is available to help cover the costs of flights where other sources of finance have been exhausted.

More than 7,000 Australians of the 26,200 registered with DFAT on 18 September have returned since, including around a quarter who were considered vulnerable.

We continue to encourage Australians trying to return to Australia from overseas to register with DFAT through the nearest embassy or high commission or via Smartraveller.

The Government is underwriting the cost of the flights, and airfares will be available at commercial rates to passengers, with loans through DFAT available to those who need assistance.

More details on the flights will be available on smartraveller.gov.au and qantas.com.

https://pmtranscripts.pmc.gov.au/release/transcript-43112

Tasmanian Tourism Boost

7 November 2020

Prime Minister, Minister for Infrastructure Transport and Regional Development, Minister for Home Affairs, Assistant Minister for Regional Tourism

More than 130 direct flights from New Zealand to Hobart packed with tourists are set to sample the tastes and sights of Tasmania, under a deal struck by the Morrison and Gutwein Governments for Hobart airport to take around 30,000 international travellers each year.

The new arrangement will see the Morrison Government invest $49.2 million for around 30 Australian Border Force, Australian Federal Police investigators and biosecurity officers to make Hobart airport an international gateway for three flights a week from New Zealand and two flights a week in winter.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the new arrangement realised the vision set out in the Hobart City Deal and would be a significant jobs boost.

“Safely opening to Australia and New Zealand will be a shot in the arm for Tassie tourism and jobs,” the Prime Minister said.

“This has been an incredibly tough year for Australians and particularly our tourism and hospitality sectors, but this deal will mean tourists from low-risk areas can come to sample Tasmania’s incredible experiences, sights and produce.

“While the pandemic might have set back the timetable for making Hobart an international airport, it is just going to mean more pent up demand for the best Tasmania has to offer.”

Tasmanian Premier Peter Gutwein said his government would invest $10 million, as part of a $17.5 million investment in partnership with the Airport’s owners, to upgrade Hobart Airport’s infrastructure to facilitate its international border arrangements.

“For the first time in more than two decades Tasmania will welcome international flights from New Zealand,” the Premier said.

“This is a unique opportunity to travel between two extraordinary island destinations, and a terrific boost for local jobs across our tourism sector, including more jobs at our Airport as we undertake upgrades in the coming weeks to accommodate international arrangements.

“2020 has been a challenging year, but this is a sensational coup, and I invite New Zealanders to come to Tasmania and discover what makes this place so very special.”

Mr Gutwein said that he recognised the aviation industry was battling the impacts of the pandemic, and the Tasmanian Government would help underwrite the services between Auckland and Hobart for two years.

Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack said the airline and tourism industries had been smashed by COVID-19 and that the deal offered hope to businesses and workers.

“More planes in the sky means more jobs on the ground for Tasmania,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

“This deal is going to see more tourists at Tasmania’s museums and galleries, staying at its hotels, eating and drinking at its restaurants and cafes, and exploring its parks and sights.”

Minister for Home Affairs Peter Dutton said the deployment of officers to process and oversee international arrivals would help keep Australians safe.

“As well as the risks we’re facing with the pandemic the other threats we face at our borders haven’t gone away which is why these highly skilled officers will be so important,” Minister Dutton said.

“While keeping our borders secure, the extra 30 officers flying in and out also mean more investment for local businesses.”

Assistant Minister Jonno Duniam said New Zealand was a critical visitor market for Australia and Tasmania.

“For too long Tasmania has been compared with New Zealand, and now Tassie has the chance to prove that one island is better than two,” Assistant Minister Duniam said.

“This is the shot in the arm that Tasmania’s tourism operators desperately need as they start rebuilding an industry that is stronger than it was before.

“Importantly, this is a giant leap towards Tasmania having a truly international airport, and gives the state an opportunity to prove it can be done with success.”

The Morrison and Gutwein Governments expect the new arrangement to commence in January 2021 and will be reviewed at the end of the first year.

https://pmtranscripts.pmc.gov.au/release/transcript-43111

Doorstop - Randwick, NSW

5 November 2020

Prime Minister: Good morning, everyone. It's great to be here at Scientia, another one of Australia's great clinical trial and medical laboratories and service providers who do a tremendous job here and we thank Doctor Lemech in particular for hosting us here today and showing us around and letting those who are working on these incredibly important vaccines and the trials that are taking place. We welcome also Novavax as well as Pfizer and of course, it’s always good to have Professor Brendan Murphy here with me. We have appeared together on many occasions over the course of what has been an incredibly difficult year. But today is another day when we can look forward to a much better 2021 and there are many reasons for that. 

As we've worked through the course of what has been such a difficult year with COVID-19, one of the reasons Australia has proved to be one of the most successful countries in the world in not just handling, of course, the health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic but the economic impacts as well, is as a government and as governments all around the country we have always sought to look for that next challenge and how we will solve it. As a government, we have never sought to stay stuck in neutral when it comes to dealing with COVID-19. We always need to be looking ahead as to what the next challenge is and ensuring we're putting in place the mechanisms and solutions that will enable Australians to move forward. To move forward indeed in 2020, but to move even further ahead in 2021. As we look around the world today and particularly as we look in Europe, as we see countries locking down, in Australia we're seeing Australia open up. In Australia, we're looking forward to 2021 and our policy and program, led by Professor Murphy, on getting Australia at the front of the pack when it comes to vaccines, which will be game changers and as each day passes, we become more optimistic, cautious, of course, ensuring that we are going through all the necessary processes to ensure that we have both a safe vaccine and an effective vaccine. 

Now, today, we're announcing an extra $1.5 billion investment in the Novavax and Pfizer vaccines. This adds to our overall program of over $3.5 billion that we're investing to ensure that Australians will be in the leading pack of the world as we move into the next phase of dealing with COVID-19, which is the vaccine phase. Now, we're in advanced stage of trials, particularly here when it comes to Novavax’s vaccine. Australia is part of those trials here, right in here in Randwick, right here in Sydney, and Australian scientists, Australian researchers, Australian clinical trials all playing an important role in the global challenge of finding and testing and trialling this vaccine. The TGA will play an absolutely essential role in assuring all Australians that the vaccines that will be made available will be safe and they will be effective and so as we move into 2021, a year where we are very hopeful that these vaccines will prove effective and will be able to disseminated right across the population, we take the next steps, which is a national vaccine policy, which has already had its first pass by the Federal Cabinet recently. It will go back to Cabinet again after further consultation with the states and territories and then will also go to the National Cabinet for confirmation because the dissemination of any vaccine is done in partnership with the Commonwealth and the states and territories. Now, it is the Commonwealth who makes those calls on the vaccines and provides the funding and the transport and the storage and all of these things but it is, of course, the states and territories that play a critical role in the actual administering of that vaccine across the population.

So it is a very exciting day today. It's a day that Australians can take more hope and as we move towards Christmas and as families gather around, as borders come down and Australians can connect with each other again safely, and I stress safely, it's important we open safely so we can remain safely open. That they can come around as we draw to the close of this year and look forward with great positivity towards 2021. In so many parts of the world today, that won't be the case, but it will be the case here in Australia because of the way Australia has responded and dealt with this pandemic and the many facets of it. I'm going to ask Professor Murphy to speak and our representatives from Novavax and Pfizer and then happy to take questions.

Professor Brendan Murphy, Secretary of the Department of Health: Thank you Prime Minister. So I'm here today as Chair of the Government Scientific and Technical Advisory Group on Vaccines. This is a high powered group that gets together regularly to look at the now quite extensive array of potential vaccines around the world and advise the Australian Government on purchases. We've now got four vaccines that we've secured, plus our partnership in the COVAX facility, the international buying potential to provide another vaccine if that comes up in the future but these four vaccines give us over 134 million doses of vaccines and it's a diversified array of vaccines. We now have two what we call protein sub-unit vaccines, the University of Queensland CSL vaccine and now the Novavax vaccine and protein vaccines are the most established technology and so it's good to have two of those to make sure that we have a choice, depending on the results of the phase three clinical trials of how we use them. But also, as you know, the AstraZeneca Oxford vaccine, which is an adenovirus vector vaccine, which is looking increasingly promising as its trials progress. And now, of course, we now have the access to the Pfizer mRNA vaccine. This is a very exciting new technology mRNA vaccines have not previously been registered for human use, and we now have this in our armoury as well. So it is a diversified strategy. As the Prime Minister said, we still have to wait for phase three clinical trials. We still have to see which vaccine works better in which population and how effectively but we have not put all our eggs in one basket. We have diversified our strategy and we have the capacity now to start vaccinating the Australian population in the first quarter of next year, which is a terrific outcome and gives us a very, very strong position internationally in access to vaccines. So I'll leave it there. Thanks, Prime Minister.

Prime Minister: Thank you.

Jenny Herz, Novavax: First of all, thank you to the Prime Minister and Professor Murphy. It's a fantastic opportunity to be here today. I’m very proud to represent Novavax on this important announcement of two more vaccines. I'm happy that their technology is being selected by Australia. Novavax is a late stage biotech company based in the US. They actually have a long history of collaboration with Australia, they have done many clinical trials here over the last six or seven years. And in fact, Australia led the way with the phase one two trial that was conducted. Firstly, phase one was in Sydney and Melbourne with 131 Australians that participated and then the phase two has been conducted in up to 10 additional sites here and more in the US and Scientia Clinical Research, I’d like to thank them very much and in fact all the study participants and study teams that have been involved in this really important work. We have some early results from the phase one study that show that the vaccine safety profile is as expected and also that it induces a robust immune response. The phase three trials are now underway. They’ve started in the UK and they will soon be starting also in the US and Mexico. So we're very hopeful that by the first quarter of next year, we have some indication of the success of those phase three trials and we're obviously very proud to be part of this diversified strategy to make sure Australia is protected through a range of vaccines. Thank you very much.

Anne Harris, PFIZER: So thank you, Prime Minister Morrison and Professor Murphy. Pfizer is very much committed to our purpose, which is breakthroughs that change patient’s lives. And we are deeply honoured to be working with the Australian Government to [inaudible] our scientific and manufacturing resources to bring a potential COVID-19 vaccine as quickly as possible to Australians. Today's agreement is to produce and provide 10 million doses of an mRNA-based vaccine. We are currently in late stage clinical trials and that's for both safety and efficacy, and that data will drive our decision making and the timelines as we move forward. So the highest, our commitment to the highest level of quality and safety throughout this process will continue to be maintained whilst we see how we can accelerate bringing the vaccine to Australians as quickly as possible. So from here, we would hope that if the clinical data is positive, we would be looking to put our regulatory submissions in by the end of this year and we are currently already marshalling our manufacturing resources to deliver, globally, 1.3 billion doses by the end of 2021. We recognise the significant impacts that COVID-19 has had on lives and livelihoods and Pfizer, along with the innovative medicines and vaccines industry, are really committed to partnering and bringing forward not only vaccines but therapeutics that can address this challenge. We have a thriving, innovative medicines and vaccines industry in Australia, and we will continue to partner to ensure that we are part of the solution to address not only the health impact but the economic recovery that is so desperately needed across Australia. So, again, we would like to thank the Australian Government for this partnership and we look forward to, subject to all the approvals and subject to success, bringing forward a potential COVID vaccine to protect Australians. Thank you.

Prime Minister: Another point that is very important, we start manufacturing the AstraZeneca vaccine in Australia next week which is another exciting milestone and of course, the AstraZeneca vaccine also has to meet TGA approval, it also has to go through the final stage trials, all of those things. But we're making sure that should these approvals be given, that we'll be able to move as quickly as possible and the arrangement we already have with AstraZeneca enables advance shipments of those also to be in Australia. So manufacturing has begun, the trials are underway, the suite of vaccines that we have put in place under Professor Murphy’s leadership is really putting Australia in a strong position at a time when Australians need it most. Happy to take questions on this, let’s focus on this, I am sure there are other issues you want to raise with events overnight and I'm not just talking about State of Origin, there were a few other events over the course of the night, and I'm sure we'll get to those but first, while we have our health representatives here, let's address that. 

Journalist: Prime Minister, congratulations on this partnership. So we've now acquired four vaccines at a cost of $3.2 billion. Will that money only be spent if they're successful? Can you tell us a bit about that?

Prime Minister: Look, the commercial in confidence agreements that we have with each of the providers, there is an element that relates to should it be approved and there is an element that doesn't because what has to be invested in the production and research of the trials. So it's a combination of both.

Journalist: Was the decision to strike an agreement around the doses of the mNRA Pfizer vaccine rather than the vaccine licence partly because Australia doesn't have the capacity to produce mRNA vaccines?

Prime Minister: Well, I’ll let Professor Murphy speak to that. We have manufacturing arrangements in place with CSL, as you know, for both the UQ and they've just finished the production of the UQ trial vaccines. As I understand it, the trials are taking place now. And as I said, next week, they start production on the AstraZeneca vaccine. So that is the priority in terms of the Australian production. We've been able to secure the supplies through the manufacturing capability on the others but the specific nature of the vaccine, which you referred to, is quite unique and I will let Professor Murphy speak to that.

Journalist: Thanks, Prime Minister. mRNA vaccines are very different technology. We don't have that production capability, certainly not on the commercial scale, in Australia. So the decision as part of a diversified strategy we thought 10 million of this vaccine would be a good first option if this turns out to be the most successful vaccine but obviously there's a capacity to buy more and there is the capacity, we are exploring the potential of whether we could set up local manufacturing but that isn't a prospect at the moment. It's something being looked at. We, as the Prime Minister said, we are continually being nimble about our approach to vaccines. So we're looking at all options of purchase, all options of manufacturing but this gives us the best diversified position at the moment.

Journalist: Prime Minister, on the speed at which the AstraZeneca vaccine is manufactured, what's the speed of the manufacturing process? How many doses will be manufactured initially? Pending, obviously it being approved?

Prime Minister: Well, I’ll Professor Murphy speak to this as well. With the arrangement with AstraZeneca, there is a combination. The overwhelming majority are manufactured here in Australia. That process begins next week. But the vaccines will become available over the course of the year, starting in quarter one. The Minister indicated that this morning through the third part of the first quarter of next year, we expect those to be available but again, what I want to stress to Australians is while we are moving with the urgency that you would expect and while we are taking decisions to seek to put Australia in a very strong position for next year, the safety of these vaccines is of the utmost importance. That is our number one priority. Of course, we all want to see a vaccine as soon as possible. Of course, we want to see not just Australia, but the world be able to return to some form of normal next year. Of course, we want to see that but when it comes to people's health, you can't cut corners. You can't have undue haste, you can't rush. You've got to get it right and what I take great confidence here in Australia is there are many reasons why we have been successful as a country in dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic. Shutting off the international borders, one of the first countries to do so. Absolutely critical, the health responses, some $18 billion we have invested as a Commonwealth Government in the health response. That's a significant investment. We've talked a lot about the economic investment made to save people's livelihoods, $18 billion we have invested to save people's lives directly. And we've been able to do that because we have a world class health system. We have a world class scientific community. We have people like we've met here today at Scientia who are world class. I've met them up at the University of Queensland, the researchers recently. The reason we have been able to do so well has been because of the standard and the quality and commitment of our health professionals in this country and those who work across our health system. That has given us a massive advantage. And as a Commonwealth Government, we’ve backed that in. We followed their advice and we've ensured that they've had the resources to get on with the job. So I will ask Brendan to add to that.

Professor Brendan Murphy, Secretary of the Department of Health: So the vaccine, we’ve got notional distribution plans. The first doses of AstraZeneca vaccine are actually coming from overseas early next year and that will give us an early approach to using the highest priority populations. And then all of the four vaccines are planned to have scheduled delivery during the course of next year so that the plan is to have all of our 134 plus doses delivered about it by the end of 2021.

Any other questions on today? Well, can I thank Scientia in particular for being able to be here and to meet with your staff today and thank them and all of the medical and scientific personnel working around the country at the moment. They have such an important task and we thank all of them. To Novavax and to Pfizer, thank you for the partnership. It's a very important one. And the way the pharmaceutical companies have engaged with the issue of vaccines, I think, has been very positive. They understand that there's a global challenge here and they’ve stumped up and brought to the table what they need to and they're partnering with governments all around the world and we found the partnership here to be very, very strong. We thank you very much for that. So we might move to other questions and Senator Bragg will continue to remain with me. It's good to have you here, Andrew. Happy to take other questions. 

Journalist: Prime Minister, how worried are you about one of the greatest democracies in the world, given that the US President has effectively dismissed the counting in an election?

Prime Minister: Well, the great thing about the United States, it is a great democracy and it does have great institutions and we have a deep and wide relationship with the United States, which is incredibly important to Australia. We are both like-minded and alike in so many ways, our values, our partnerships, economic security and in so many ways. And I have great confidence in the democracy of the United States and I have great confidence in their institutions. And the thing about great institutions in democracies is they deal with whatever challenges come, just like our own does. And that's why I expressed confidence. I think a great democracy, having a great election with the greatest turnout it's ever seen in its history is actually a demonstration of democracy working.

Journalist: Do you think that Donald Trump is trying to undermine democracy, given his claims of electoral fraud and his move to stop counting?

Prime Minister: I'm not a participant in the US political process. I am a partner. Australia is a partner with the United States and we respect the decisions that the American people make in their democracy and we will be patient and we will await the outcome of their process. It's not for me to run a commentary on those things and I won’t. I work with the President of the United States as the Prime Minister of Australia and I've enjoyed a very productive working relationship with the President. And I will always put Australia's interests first in that relationship.

Journalist: Prime Minister, do you share the views of your former parliamentary colleague, Joe Hockey, who suggested that there could have been fraud in this election? Or do you share the views of your current parliamentary colleague, Dave Sharma, who said that a leader needs to respect that sanctity of the process and facilitate a peaceful transfer of power when needed? 

Prime Minister: Well, I express my own views and I've just expressed them. 

Journalist: Have you reached out to Donald Trump or Joe Biden?

Prime Minister: It's not appropriate at this time. The way you normally, I mean, obviously, we have ongoing dealings with the US Government and that's normal both in terms of the political events in the United States, it's the appropriate response to be patient and respectful and that's exactly what we're doing.

Journalist: Would it be damaging or potentially damaging to the relationship between Australia and the US or the US standing in the world if there is a protracted period of uncertainty with court battles and the like before we find out the ultimate result of this election?

Prime Minister: What is always damaging is speculating and so I don't propose to do that. Media can, you can, that's fine, but governments don't speculate. We have relationships and we act with respect to our partner countries and particularly allies. The United States is a great country. They are great people and they are making a decision about who should lead them and we have that same opportunity here in Australia. I mean, this is a democracy that has withstood the demands of centuries and I have no doubt it will continue to prevail and continue to be a great partner for Australia. 

Journalist: At a time of particularly high stress around the world though, would it not be, add more difficulty to Australia negotiating with the US if there is a period of protracted uncertainty? And following on from that, do you share concerns that China is increasingly targeting more industries in Australia like wine? We’ve seen reports in the Australian newspaper today that they’re going to suffer trade sanctions.

Prime Minister: Well, first of all, I don't share the impatience of others when it comes to a result being arrived at. By that, I mean the speculation in the media and the commentary around that. I think it's important to simply to be patient and it will be resolved. We'll soon know what that is and then we'll be able to provide the appropriate recognition of that and get on with what is an amazing and wonderful and very important relationship with Australia. On the other matter that you've raised, I simply note that is not what China has said they’re doing. China has denied that is what they are doing and I can only take that at face value out of respect for the comprehensive strategic partnership we have with China and to work through the channels that we have under that relationship to address the issues that have arisen. Now, those issues are matters that the Trade Minister and I obviously have concerns about and are working closely with industry to pursue the appropriate channels within the relationship to seek to get some clarity and some resolution of those but I simply note that what you've suggested is something that China has denied. And so that, you know, I can only refer you to what they've said they're not doing. And on that basis, I will take that at face value and we'll continue to work through the process. Thank you very much.

https://pmtranscripts.pmc.gov.au/release/transcript-43110

Australia Secures a Further 50 Million Doses of COVID-19 Vaccine

5 November 2020

Prime Minister, Minister for Health

Two more COVID-19 vaccines have been secured for the Australian population under new agreements, bringing the Australian Government’s COVID-19 vaccine investment to more than $3.2 billion.

Under the agreements, Novavax will supply 40 million vaccine doses and Pfizer/BioNTech will provide 10 million vaccine doses, should the vaccines be proven safe and effective.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the Government’s COVID-19 Vaccine and Treatment Strategy had now secured access to four COVID-19 vaccines and over 134 million doses.

“By securing multiple COVID-19 vaccines we are giving Australians the best shot at early access to a vaccine, should trials prove successful,” the Prime Minister said.

“We aren’t putting all our eggs in one basket and we will continue to pursue further vaccines should our medical experts recommend them.

“There are no guarantees that these vaccines will prove successful, however our Strategy puts Australia at the front of the queue, if our medical experts give the vaccines the green light.”

The Novavax and Pfizer/BioNTech vaccines are expected to be available in Australia from early to mid 2021 – subject to approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) for use in Australia.

The Pfizer/BioNTech is a messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) type vaccine and the Novavax vaccine is a protein vaccine containing an adjuvant (Matrix-M) which enhances the immune response.

Health Minister Greg Hunt said Australia’s COVID-19 vaccine portfolio now had two protein vaccines and one mRNA and one viral vector type vaccine, strengthening Australia’s position to access safe and effective vaccines as soon as available.

“The goal and the expectation is that Australians who sought vaccination will be vaccinated within 2021,” Minister Hunt said.

“There are no surprises, health and aged care workers and the elderly and vulnerable will be the first to gain access to a vaccine that’s deemed safe and effective.”

These new agreements build on the Australian Government’s existing commitments to purchase the University of Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine and a local candidate from the University of Queensland together with Australian manufacturer CSL Limited (Seqirus).

Subject to the vaccine being registered by the TGA as safe and effective, preliminary advice from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation is that the priority groups for the COVID-19 vaccine are those people who are at increased risk of exposure, such as health and aged care workers, the elderly and those working in services critical to societal functioning.

The Australian Government is currently consulting with the states and territories, key medical experts and industry peak bodies on the framework for the initial roll-out of the COVID-19 vaccination program in early 2021.

Key vaccination sites will initially include GPs, GP respiratory clinics, state and territory vaccination sites and workplaces such as aged care facilities.

Australia has a world class vaccination program with world leading vaccination rates. The COVID-19 vaccine will not be mandatory and individuals will maintain the option to choose not to vaccinate. The vaccine will be available for free to those who choose to be vaccinated.

This commitment forms a crucial part of the Australian Government’s response to COVID-19 and the strategy to protect the health and wellbeing of Australians and the national economy.

Internationally, Australia has also joined the COVAX facility, which will provide access to a large portfolio of COVID-19 candidates and manufactures around the world for up to 50 per cent of the Australian population.

The Australian Government has also committed to support access to safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines for the Pacific and Southeast Asia, as part of a shared recovery for our region from the pandemic, as well as $80 million to the international COVAX Facility for the benefit of high-risk populations in developing countries.

Our agreements allow Australia to donate to partners in the Pacific and Southeast Asia, should these vaccines prove safe and effective, and units are available above domestic needs.

The Government is contributing significantly to vaccine research and development both in Australia and around the world, investing $363 million in vaccines, therapeutics and COVID medicines - including $257 million in vaccines.

The roll-out of a potential COVID-19 vaccine is a significant logistical challenge, suppliers that have a proven track record in vaccine logistics and distribution or booking systems, tracking and reporting of vaccines are being invited to participate in a limited tender process.

As part of our COVID-19 vaccines strategy and broader vaccines strategy, the Australian Government is considering an amendment to the Australian Immunisation Register Act 2015 to mandate reporting of all vaccinations to the Register.

For the latest COVID-19 vaccine information visit: health.gov.au

https://pmtranscripts.pmc.gov.au/release/transcript-43109

Ministry and Cabinet Arrangements

30 October 2020

Today, I am pleased to confirm Senator the Hon Simon Birmingham has been sworn in as the Minister for Finance by the Governor-General, His Excellency General the Hon David Hurley AC DSC.

Senator Birmingham’s appointment follows Senator the Hon Mathias Cormann’s resignation today.

In his new role, Senator Birmingham will assist the Treasurer the Hon Josh Frydenberg MP, in leading Australia’s economy through the COVID recovery.

As previously announced, he will also assume the role of the Leader of the Government in the Senate. Minister for Employment Skills, Small and Family Business, Senator the Hon Michaelia Cash becomes Deputy Leader of the Government in the Senate.

Following these changes to the Ministry, I am also announcing changes to Cabinet committee membership and process.

Minister for Home Affairs the Hon Peter Dutton MP and the Minister for Education the Hon Dan Tehan MP will join the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, Treasurer, Minister for Finance, and Minister for Social Services in the Expenditure Review Committee.

A new Policy Implementation Committee of Cabinet is being established alongside the Expenditure Review Committee and National Security Committee. It will track implementation of government initiatives across all portfolios to ensure they are delivering the outcomes for Australians, as established in their policy approval by Cabinet.

The Committee will be chaired by the Prime Minister and the Deputy Chair will be the Deputy Prime Minister.

It will include the Treasurer, Minister for Finance, Minister for Health, Minister for Government Services, Minister for Industry, Science and Technology and will report directly to Cabinet.

I am also pleased to announce that Mr Chris Browne will shortly commence as Cabinet Secretary.

Mr Browne will bring broad experience to the role, having advised Ministers for Finance, Defence and Social Services.

https://pmtranscripts.pmc.gov.au/release/transcript-44019

$3 Billion NorthConnex Opens

30 October 2020

Prime Minister, Premier of New South Wales, Minister for Population Cities and Urban Infrastructure, New South Wales Minister for Tansport and Roads

NorthConnex will open to motorists this weekend with the final tests and safety checks being completed on the $3 billion Sydney mega project that will change the way drivers travel across the city.

Sydney-siders will be able to bypass 21 sets of traffic lights between the M1 and M2 motorways, completing the long-awaited ‘missing link’ in the National Highway network.

The twin nine kilometre tunnels between the M1 at Wahroonga and M2 at West Pennant Hills will provide smoother and faster journeys along Pennant Hills Road and also mean bypassing 40 sets of lights if using the Pacific Highway as a route to the CBD.

It will save people up to 15 minutes in the morning and evening commute, boosting productivity and busting congestion.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said NorthConnex had delivered thousands of jobs to support hard-working families and now motorists would benefit for generations to come.

“NorthConnex is a game-changing piece of infrastructure that will allow drivers to travel between Newcastle and Melbourne without stopping at a traffic light, and a complete bypass of suburban Sydney,” the Prime Minister said.

“This is one of the most significant and eagerly anticipated road infrastructure projects ever delivered in Australia.”

Premier of New South Wales Gladys Berejiklian said the project has been a major driver of employment, creating around 8,700 jobs for the state.

“The project is forecast to inject around $4 billion into the economy and is proof of the government’s strong commitment to deliver major infrastructure and jobs for the people of New South Wales,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“Around 300 businesses from the Western Sydney area and another 50 from the Central Coast have also contributed to the project, highlighting the opportunities this project has created for local suppliers and contractors.”

Federal Minister for Population, Cities and Urban Infrastructure Alan Tudge said Sydney motorists will soon be experiencing the extraordinary benefits of the NorthConnex tunnels.

“NorthConnex is going to strip up to 5,000 trucks a day off the notorious Pennant Hills Road, which is one of the most congested roads in NSW,” Mr Tudge said.

“The safety benefits for so many families, getting people home safely at the end of each day, is immeasurable.”

New South Wales Minister for Transport and Roads Andrew Constance said NorthConnex reaches depths of up to 90 metres, making it Australia’s deepest road tunnel.

“Australian-first, innovative lighting displays will help keep drivers alert, with stunning starscapes, trees and native bird highlighting the transition from the rural environment of the north to the urban environment of the city,” Mr Constance said.

“NorthConnex will see air quality improve around Pennant Hills Road, safer routes for pedestrians and cyclists, and a significant reduction in traffic noise – all issues local residents desperately wanted addressed.”

The Australian and NSW Governments have also thanked the more than 20,000 residents living along the corridor for their cooperation and patience throughout work on the project.

NorthConnex is a $3 billion project which includes $577.3 million from the NSW Government, $412.3 million from the Australian Government, and $2 billion from Transurban and its private sector partners.

NorthConnex tolls are in line with the M2, at $7.99 for cars and $23.97 for heavy vehicles.

Toll Relief will apply. Drivers who spend an average of $26 a week over a year are entitled to free registration. Drivers who spend an average of $16 a week over a year are entitled to half price registration.

https://pmtranscripts.pmc.gov.au/release/transcript-43108

Statement on France

30 October 2020

Australia utterly condemns the heinous terrorist attacks that have been undertaken on innocent people in France. These multiple attacks are despicable. They're disgraceful. Not only are they an attack on the individuals and their families, but they are an attack on liberty. When we think of France, we think of liberty. And we stand with the people of France.

Overnight I had the opportunity to exchange messages with President Macron. He texted back to me, 'We will win'. We stand with France in that declaration. Free peoples all around the world will stand together to defend freedom, to defend our liberties and to stand against the evil terror that seeks to assault that. While this year has had many other challenges with COVID-19, none less so than in France. It is an awful reminder of the evil that continues to lurk and seeks to strike against the innocent.

So our prayers are for the victims and their families. Our thoughts are with all the people of France, wherever they are, our true and great friend. And we stand with President Macron and the Government of France as they do all in their power to stamp out this terrible evil that has struck their country. Thank you.

https://pmtranscripts.pmc.gov.au/release/transcript-43107

Interview with Ben Fordham, 2GB

30 October 2020

Ben Fordham: Prime Minister, good morning to you.

Prime Minister: Good morning Ben.

Fordham: I know you've been texting with the French President this morning. Can you tell us what you know?

Prime Minister: Well, we don't know anything further than what's been out there publicly reported. I mean, sadly, this terrible and disgraceful and disgusting attack that has occurred in France has been widely seen and widely reported, and that is what has occurred. It is just the most callous and cowardly and vicious act of barbarism by terrorists and should be condemned in the strongest possible way. I was able to contact President Macron last night. He and I have a very good relationship and just said we stood with him. And just the heartache that would be going across the French people today as it shudders through the rest of the world is, is hard to put into words. But he greatly appreciated the contact and the support that he knows he has from the people of Australia. We share values. We stand for the same things. And he was pleased that you know we're standing with him, as we should.

Fordham: While most leaders around the world have rightly condemned this attack, you've got the former Prime Minister of Malaysia, Mahathir Mohamad, who says Muslims have a right to be angry and to kill millions of French people.

Prime Minister: Well, of course, that is just an absolutely absurd statement. I mean, of course, they don't have that right. That is just abhorrent to suggest anyone would have such a right. I mean, the only thing that should be said today is to completely condemn those attacks. And we do. That, that should be the response and it's certainly Australia's response. And I, I do not believe that is the view of Muslims. I believe that, you know, this is a very, very awful thing that has occurred. And just at the sheer human level, the only response is just to be utterly, utterly devastated by this and to stand with those and the families who are suffering just so much.

Fordham: On local issues PM the Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk will make an announcement on borders today. The Courier Mail is reporting this morning that she will keep the border closed to New South Wales, but will reopen to some regional parts. But apparently the announcement today is not set to be the one that a lot of people from Sydney at least were hoping for. What's your message to Annastacia Palaszczuk?

Prime Minister: Make decisions on the basis of health advice and be transparent about it. It's just very hard often to get a clear steer on what's behind these decisions. The comeback in Australia Ben has started. I mean Australia is opening up again. We've all committed to have Australia fully open by Christmas and and we need to move towards that. I mean, the tracing and testing systems, that's what enables Australia to go forward. And we've looked at the Queensland systems and the Queensland systems are good. So it's important for the economy to get moving again to ensure that people get their jobs back. But it has to be done safely. You've got to safely open to remain safely open right across the country. We're seeing that now in Victoria and that's welcome. I see even in Western Australia today, there's, there's a suggestion that they might be moving down that track as well. I welcome all that. But, you know, we can't stay stuck in neutral. We've got to keep, we've got to gear up again. We've got to get going again and do it safely.

Fordham: Can we just clarify the state of play with the Australia Post boss, Christine Holgate? She's under fire for spending $20,000 of taxpayers money on Cartier watches for her executives. She says she has not been stood down. Is that correct?

Prime Minister: Well, that's a matter between the Australia Post board and her. That's where the communications have been so it really is for them.

Fordham: You said in parliament...

Prime Minister: It's a government business enterprise. The Government owns Australia Post on behalf of taxpayers, which is why we've set out our very clear standards on this. But the direct engagement between the board and Ms. Holgate is for the board.

Fordham: You did intervene in that, though, in parliament. You said the chief executive has been instructed to stand aside. If she doesn't wish to do that, she can go.

Prime Minister: That was my statement and I stand by it.

Fordham: So she's been instructed to stand aside by whom?

Prime Minister: I'll leave that to the Australia Post board to to respond to.

Fordham: The Cartier watches were a bad look, I think we all know that. But they were purchased as a reward for executives who had improved the bottom line by about $75 million. Is that not value for money? And a case of if you have a go, you get a go. The bottom line was improved by $75 million. So she spent $20,000 on Cartier watches. A bad look, but isn't it value for money for taxpayers?

Prime Minister: Well, the terms of enquiry and the investigation go far broader than that Ben. It just doesn't go to the matter that you've referred to. But the key thing here Ben, is, is this is a government business enterprise. It's owned by the taxpayers of Australia. So every dollar that goes to Australia Post is managed on behalf of Australian taxpayers and it should be done in a way that respects the taxpayers.

Fordham: A lot of people are coming out from the business world saying she's a pretty impressive leader, Christine Holgate. Marcus Blackmore says Blackmore's business has been dismal since Christine left and on the events of the past week, he says you wouldn't do this to your dog. She might have been out of line, but don't crucify her. I saw what it did to her she was crying for days.

Prime Minister: Well, Ben, what has happened is she's been asked to stand aside, is my understanding, while an investigation takes place and that's what is occurring in a number of other parts of the government. That's what happens when there are issues like this to be considered and dealt with. And that's what's occurred. This is taxpayers money that has been managed on behalf of a government business enterprise. And it's important that there are standards there and not just for Australia Post, but right across all the government business enterprises and agencies that are there. Government departments. The same thing. I think that's what Australians expect. There's a proper investigation and we'll wait for the for the recommendations to come back from that, that enquiry.

Fordham: So if she's cleared by that enquiry, you'll welcome her back?

Prime Minister: Well, I'll let the investigation do it's job Ben. I'm not going to prejudge it.

Fordham: Yesterday, there was a lot of drama involving the State of Origin and the national anthem. They decided the NRL that they were not going to play Advance Australia Fair before the Origin Games and then you picked up the phone to the NRL boss, Peter V'Landys. Can you tell us a bit about that call?

Prime Minister: Yeah well, I did. I look, I saw it and I contacted Peter. It was a very polite and and friendly call. And I really appreciate Peter hearing me out and he feels very strongly about the fans and what the fans would, would want to have to occur. And I appreciated him reconsidering that decision and talking to his commissioners and and coming to a different view very very quickly. And so I appreciate the way that they handled that. I like the fact you can pick up the phone and have an adult conversation about this and for the matter to be addressed. So I'd like to commend them for the speed in which they acted.

Fordham: And is it right that you said there's never been a more important time for Aussies to be able to celebrate by singing the national anthem?

Prime Minister: Well, yes, I did and this was the key thing that Peter and I discussed and he immediately, I think, appreciated that. I mean, it's been an incredibly tough year. The anthem is there so we can all come together. I mean, yes it’s state against state, mate against mate, all that sort of thing but it's all Australians gathering together and this has been I think part of the institution of Origin ever since it began and this year more than any other, I felt it when I was at the NRL grand final last weekend, my team wasn't in the contest but there we all were. We sung the national anthem together it's always a moving time and look, I respect what, how others might if they sing it don't sing it whatever, that's a democratic country as well. They can choose how to respond to it themselves there's no issue I have there, but you know we sing we sing our national anthem and it's there to bring us together.

Fordham: Now, I've only got about 30 seconds until I've got to go but yesterday, the Labor MP, Chris Hayes collapsed while delivering a speech in parliament. Is he okay?

Prime Minister: My understanding is he is, he's been in hospital overnight. I haven't had an update this morning. Chris Hayes is a great bloke. Chris and I have been in the parliament, I think he got there a little bit earlier than I did and he's well-liked by everybody. He's just a really decent bloke. Bernadette and his family, I know Bernadette will be down, is down here with him and we wish you all the best if you're listening Chris mate and, and just don't rush back. You get well. Okay.

Fordham: That's the main thing. Well, look, I know it's a busy morning for you with briefings from France and to anyone in Australia with connections to France. We send our love to everyone this morning and PM thanks so much for joining us on it.

Prime Minister: Yes and anyone who has family there, they can obviously contact DFAT, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, if they're looking to get any additional information, we're getting reports from our consular offices. Our information presently is no Australians have been involved in or been hurt but obviously we continue to receive reports but that's that's my understanding.

Fordham: Always appreciate your time. We know how busy you are. Thanks, PM. Prime Minister Scott Morrison live on the line with us.

https://pmtranscripts.pmc.gov.au/release/transcript-43106

Ministry and Cabinet Arrangements

30 October 2020

Today, I am pleased to confirm Senator the Hon Simon Birmingham has been sworn in as the Minister for Finance by the Governor-General, His Excellency General the Hon David Hurley AC DSC.

Senator Birmingham’s appointment follows Senator the Hon Mathias Cormann’s resignation today.

In his new role, Senator Birmingham will assist the Treasurer the Hon Josh Frydenberg MP, in leading Australia’s economy through the COVID recovery.

As previously announced, he will also assume the role of the Leader of the Government in the Senate. Minister for Employment Skills, Small and Family Business, Senator the Hon Michaelia Cash becomes Deputy Leader of the Government in the Senate.

Following these changes to the Ministry, I am also announcing changes to Cabinet committee membership and process.

Minister for Home Affairs the Hon Peter Dutton MP and the Minister for Education the Hon Dan Tehan MP will join the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, Treasurer, Minister for Finance, and Minister for Social Services in the Expenditure Review Committee.

A new Policy Implementation Committee of Cabinet is being established alongside the Expenditure Review Committee and National Security Committee. It will track implementation of government initiatives across all portfolios to ensure they are delivering the outcomes for Australians, as established in their policy approval by Cabinet.

The Committee will be chaired by the Prime Minister and the Deputy Chair will be the Deputy Prime Minister.

It will include the Treasurer, Minister for Finance, Minister for Health, Minister for Government Services, Minister for Industry, Science and Technology and will report directly to Cabinet.

I am also pleased to announce that Mr Chris Browne will shortly commence as Cabinet Secretary.

Mr Browne will bring broad experience to the role, having advised Ministers for Finance, Defence and Social Services.

https://pmtranscripts.pmc.gov.au/release/transcript-44019

Appointment of Director-General of the Office of National Intelligence

30 October 2020

I am pleased to announce that I intend to recommend to the Governor-General Mr Andrew Shearer as the new Director-General of the Office of National Intelligence (ONI).

Mr Shearer has served Australia and its national interests domestically and overseas through a long and distinguished career in national security and intelligence.

Mr Shearer has served as Deputy Director-General at the Office of National Assessments and, Senior Adviser on Asia-Pacific Security at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies in Washington DC. He has an international reputation as a strategic and foreign policy analyst.

He has served as the Prime Minister’s senior national security adviser to both The Hon John Howard AC and The Hon Tony Abbott AC. He was a senior diplomat at the Australian Embassy in Washington DC and has held a range of positions in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.

Since 2019, Mr Shearer has served as Cabinet Secretary to the Commonwealth Government and worked through an unprecedented time in Australia’s history.

In this role, he has helped establish the National Cabinet, made up of the nation's first ministers – the Prime Minister, premiers and territory leaders – to co-ordinate and deliver a robust and consistent national response to COVID-19.

This whole-of-government approach has, and continues to, deliver outcomes for all Australians. I thank Mr Shearer for his service as Cabinet Secretary.

I also thank outgoing Director-General of the Office of National Intelligence, Mr Nick Warner AO PSM, for his service as Director-General since December 2017.

Mr Warner's expertise and distinguished career is without peer, and he has well-served our government and our nation, including his role at ONI and as Director-General of the Australian Secret Intelligence Service.

Subject to the Governor-General’s agreement Mr Shearer will commence as Director-General of ONI in December 2020, for a five-year term.

https://pmtranscripts.pmc.gov.au/release/transcript-44018

Prime Minister's Prizes Celebrate the Best of Australian Science

28 October 2020

Prime Minister, Minister for Industry Science and Technology

A team that was instrumental in the world-first detection of gravitational waves has won this year’s Prime Minister’s Prize for Science.

Emeritus Professor David Blair, Professor David McClelland, Professor Susan Scott and Professor Peter Veitch from the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Gravitational Wave Discovery received the $250,000 prize for their contributions to the international effort that led to the 2015 discovery.

The team was involved in a number of ways, from designing systems to ensure the stability of high-powered laser beams to developing mathematical models used to identify the source of the first signal detected.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the discovery embodied the very best of Australia’s scientific community.

“This year more than ever we have turned to our scientists in the face of one of our biggest challenges in recent memory, the COVID-19 pandemic,” the Prime Minister said.

“Discoveries such as the detection of gravitational waves were led by Australian technology and insight, and practical applications of scientific breakthroughs will continue to play a vital role in ensuring that science, innovation and education are key components of Australia’s economic future.

“Australia’s scientific community is and will continue to be at the forefront of Australia’s recovery and the recipients are a testament to the incredible work undertaken by our nation’s scientists.”

Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said the immense value and importance of the work of Australian scientists has been highlighted in 2020.

“This year has really reminded us all just how crucial science is to our lives. In the midst of devastating bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic, we have turned to our scientists to help shine a light on the unknown and map a path for the future,” Minister Andrews said.

“But the field of science is far broader than these issues alone. The prizes show how Australian scientists are coming up with innovative solutions to improve our lives, from new cancer treatments to global sustainability issues.”

Additional prizes presented on the night were:

• The $250,000 Prime Minister’s Prize for Innovation was presented to Professor Thomas Maschmeyer from the University of Sydney, for his dual work in developing commercially viable processes to recycle mixed plastics and developing a new low‑cost battery technology to store renewable energy.

• The $50,000 Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Secondary Schools was presented to Willetton Senior High School (WA) teacher Darren Hamley, for his work establishing extracurricular programs to help students relate their scientific learnings to real-world applications.

• The $50,000 Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Primary Schools was presented to Bonython Primary School (ACT) STEM Specialist Teacher Sarah Fletcher, for her outstanding contribution to not only the school’s STEM program but also the wider education community.

• The $50,000 Frank Fenner Prize for Life Scientist of the Year was presented to Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre clinician-scientist Professor Mark Dawson for world-leading research in the field of epigenetics, including the development of new treatment strategies and therapies for blood cancers.

• The $50,000 Malcolm McIntosh Prize for Physical Scientist of the Year was presented to UNSW Scientia Associate Professor Xiaojing Hao, who has emerged as a world-renowned leader in thin-film solar photovoltaics. Associate Professor Hao’s work developing more environmentally friendly and efficient solar cells has set global records for energy conversion efficiency.

• The $50,000 Prize for New Innovators was presented to Flinders University Associate Professor Justin Chalker for his invention of a new class of polymers that turn waste plastics into global sustainability solutions. These include a range of materials that can remove mercury from polluted soil and water, help absorb oil from ocean spills, and provide more effective slow-release fertilisers.

The Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science are Australia’s most prestigious awards for outstanding achievements in scientific research, research-based innovation and excellence in science teaching.

Due to COVID-19, the 2020 awards presentation was held online and can be viewed at industry.gov.au/pmscienceprizes.

https://pmtranscripts.pmc.gov.au/release/transcript-43105

Appointments to the High Court of Australia

28 October 2020

Prime Minister, Attorney General

His Excellency the Governor-General has accepted the advice of the Government to appoint the Honourable Justice Simon Steward and the Honourable Justice Jacqueline Gleeson as Justices of the High Court of Australia.

Justice Steward and Justice Gleeson will respectively fill the vacancies that will arise upon the retirements of the Honourable Justice Geoffrey Nettle AC on 30 November 2020 and the Honourable Justice Virginia Bell AC on 28 February 2021.

Justice Steward completed a Bachelor of Laws (First Class Honours) in 1990 and a Masters of Law in 2000, at the University of Melbourne.  He was admitted to practice as a legal practitioner of the Supreme Court of Victoria in 1992 and signed the High Court Roll in the same year. 

Justice Steward was called to the Victorian Bar in 1999 and was appointed Silk in 2009.  In 2009 he commenced as a Senior Fellow in the Faculty of Law at the University of Melbourne.  He was appointed as a Judge of the Federal Court of Australia in 2017 and commenced his career on the Bench in 2018.

Justice Gleeson graduated from the University of Sydney with a Bachelor of Arts in 1986 and a Bachelor of Laws in 1989. She began practising at the New South Wales Bar in 1991.  Justice Gleeson left the Bar in late 2000 to practise as a solicitor, firstly with the Australian Broadcasting Authority and later the Australian Government Solicitor, before returning to the Bar in 2007.

Justice Gleeson completed a Master of Laws at the University of Sydney in 2005 and was appointed Senior Counsel in 2012. She was appointed as a Judge of the Federal Court in 2014.

The Government congratulates Justice Steward and Justice Gleeson on their appointments.

We also take this opportunity to thank His Honour Justice Nettle and Her Honour Justice Bell for their judicial service.

The Honourable Justice Simon Steward:

2018 - Judge, Federal Court of Australia

2014 - Appointed Queen’s Counsel

2009-2017 - Queen’s Counsel/ Senior Counsel, Aickin Chambers

2009 - Appointed Senior Counsel

1999 - Signed Bar Roll, Victorian Bar

1992-1999 - Solicitor/Senior Associate, Mallesons Stephen Jaques

1992 - Signed High Court Roll

1992 - Admitted as a Barrister and Solicitor, Supreme Court of Victoria

Education

2000 - Master of Laws, University of Melbourne

1990 - Bachelor of Laws (First Class Honours), University of Melbourne

The Honourable Justice Jacqueline Gleeson

2014 - Judge, Federal Court of Australia

2012 - Appointed Senior Counsel

2007-2014 - Barrister, private practice

2003-2006 - Senior Executive Lawyer, Australian Government Solicitor

2001-2003 - General Counsel, Australian Broadcasting Authority

1991 - Admitted as Barrister of the Supreme Court of New South Wales

1990-2000 - Solicitor/Barrister

1989 - Associate to the Honourable Justice Trevor Morling, Federal Court of Australia

1989 - Admitted as a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of New South Wales

Education

2005 - Masters of Laws, University of Sydney

1989 - Bachelor of Laws, University of Sydney

1986 - Bachelor of Arts, University of Sydney

https://pmtranscripts.pmc.gov.au/release/transcript-43103

Steps to Victoria's Reopening

26 October 2020

Prime Minister, Treasurer, Minister for Health

The Commonwealth Government welcomes the announcement by the Victorian Premier to ease restrictions from 11.59pm on Tuesday.

Victorians have worked hard and sacrificed a lot to get to this point. We thank them for their patience and perseverance.

Today’s announcement is a reflection of the dedication and effort of Victorians - taking the next step to reopen Victorian society and the state’s economy.

After a long winter, there is light at the end of the tunnel for Victorians.

As we said yesterday - Victorians have made great progress in reducing the rate of COVID-19 infections from the second wave outbreak in Victoria.

The new National Framework to reopen by Christmas is a clear and transparent, three step national plan which provides the Australian community and businesses with a way forward where Australians can live and work in a COVID Normal Australia, ensuring that we maintain strong health protections and minimise job losses and mental health impacts.

Under the new ‘National Framework’ released last week, Victoria is now moving towards Step 1 - an important step on the pathway to COVID Normal.

Australia has been a world leader in fighting the virus to save lives and to save livelihoods and with today’s announcement, we look forward to Victoria continuing to make progress on the path to reopening and joining the rest of the country at Steps 2 and 3 in the national plan.

It will be important for the Victorian Government to provide even more clarity to Victorians in the coming days and where restrictions do not have a health basis that they are removed quickly.

We congratulate Victorians - this was the announcement that they were expecting and one they have worked hard to achieve.

It is important for Victoria to safely open and stay safely open.

The Prime Minister and Premiers Berejiklian, Marshall and Andrews will continue to take advice regarding hard border restrictions.

The Commonwealth Government will continue to support Victoria through this crisis.

https://pmtranscripts.pmc.gov.au/release/transcript-43101

Victorian Restrictions

25 October 2020

Prime Minister, Treasurer, Minister for Health

Victorians have made great progress in reducing the rate of COVID-19 infections from the second wave outbreak in Victoria.

While the Commonwealth Government welcomes Victoria’s commitment to the national framework agreed at National Cabinet to have Australia open by Christmas, for many Victorian businesses and their workers today’s announcement will mean they will simply not be able to make it.

The new Framework to reopen by Christmas is a clear and transparent, three step plan which provides the Australian community and businesses with a way forward where Australians can live and work in a COVID Normal Australia, ensuring that we maintain strong health protections and minimise job losses and mental health impacts.

Victorians are to be congratulated for meeting and beating the considerable benchmarks that were set by their State Government before restrictions could be eased. They have played their part and sacrificed much in the pursuit of reaching those targets in the belief restrictions would be eased.

Under the Victorian Stage 4 lockdown, Victoria has seen the devastation of more than 1,000 job losses per day. We have also agonisingly witnessed a 31 per cent increase in Medicare funded mental health presentations in Victoria during the lockdown and significant increases in other mental health services.

At some point, you have to move forward and put your public health systems to work in a bid to reclaim the jobs that have been lost, and rescue the livelihoods and peace of mind of so many Victorians who have been affected by the inability to contain the outbreak that led to the second Victorian wave.

Victoria’s public health systems are either up to the task of dealing with future outbreaks or they are not. The decision to keep businesses closed suggests that there is still not sufficient confidence within the Government that their systems can support reopening.

This is a profound disappointment. Of course, Victorians do not want to face another lockdown and of course they don’t want all of this to have been for nothing. That is why ensuring the State Government’s capability to deal with outbreaks through their public health response is so essential. This is what you need for Victoria to open up safely and stay safely open.

Borders and closures are not indicators of public health success. They are the opposite.

Victoria’s infection rate is now below the Victorian Government’s own target of a 14 day rolling average of fewer than 5 cases per day to further reduce restrictions. It is also well below the Commonwealth’s hot spot definition, based on the advice of the acting Chief Medical Officer, of a rolling average of fewer than 10 cases per day over 3 days.

During this time, the Victorian Government has greatly benefitted from the cooperation of the Victorian public and business community who have paid a significant price as a result of the prolonged lockdown measures.

The Commonwealth Government has also provided significant assistance from the ADF, medical and technical experts with the management of the lockdown and boosting Victoria’s contact tracing systems.

The Victorian Government has stated that they have now significantly improved their contact tracing capabilities to deal with any future outbreaks. Such capacity has been critical to enabling NSW to deal with numerous outbreaks, whilst staying open.

If this is the case, then we strongly encourage the Victorian Government to rapidly take the next steps to implement the National Framework and mirror the NSW COVID Safe restrictions for the sake of health, mental health and halting the loss of more than 1,000 jobs per day.

The Australian Government will continue to support Victorians through this crisis through our record economic and income supports. We will also continue to work with the Victorian Government to assist them to strengthen their public health and contact tracing capacity.

https://pmtranscripts.pmc.gov.au/release/transcript-44017

Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment for Queensland Workers

23 October 2020

Prime Minister, Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme, Minister for Agriculture Drought and Emergency Management

Queenslanders who can't earn an income because they must self-isolate or quarantine, or are caring for someone with COVID-19 can now access support with a $1500 Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment.

The Australian Government has extended Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment arrangements to include Queensland following agreement with the Queensland Government.

The $1500 lump sum Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment is already available in Victoria, Tasmania, New South Wales and Western Australia.

If an individual is instructed by a health official to self-isolate or quarantine, and has used up all appropriate leave entitlements, including any special pandemic leave, they may be eligible for the payment. They may also be eligible if they’re the parent or guardian of a child aged 16 or under who has been instructed to isolate as they are a close contact or has tested positive for COVID-19, or they are caring for someone with COVID-19.

In line with arrangements with other states, Queensland workers will not be eligible for the payment if they are receiving income, earnings or salary maintenance from work, receiving JobKeeper Payment or other forms of Australian or Queensland Government income support.

To date, more than $15.5 million in Pandemic Leave Disaster Payments has been paid for some 10,300 granted claims since 6 August.

The fastest and easiest way to make a claim is over the phone by calling 180 22 66. Please do not visit a service centre.

More information is available at www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/disaster.

https://pmtranscripts.pmc.gov.au/release/transcript-43098

Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment for South Australia

23 October 2020

Prime Minister, Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme, Minister for Agriculture Drought and Emergency Management

The Australian Government has extended Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment arrangements in place with Victoria, New South Wales, Western Australia and Tasmania following agreement with the South Australian Government. The Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment is a lump sum payment to help an individual during the 14 day self-isolation, quarantine or caring period.

The agreement will see the Commonwealth Government extend the $1,500 Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment to South Australian workers who cannot earn an income because they must self-isolate, quarantine or care for someone with COVID-19.

If an individual is instructed by a health official to self-isolate or quarantine, and they have used up all appropriate leave entitlements, including any special pandemic leave, they may be eligible to make a claim. They may also be eligible if they’re the parent or guardian of a child aged 16 or under who has been instructed to isolate as they are a close contact or has tested positive for COVID-19, or they’re caring for someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.

In line with arrangements with other states, South Australian workers will not be eligible for the payment if they are receiving income, earnings or salary maintenance from work, receiving the JobKeeper Payment or other forms of Australian Government income support, or receive a Pandemic Leave payment from the South Australian Government.

The payment can be claimed again should an extended self-isolation or quarantine period longer than 14 days be instructed by health officials, or their period of caring is extended.

To date, more than $15.5 million in Pandemic Leave Disaster Payments have been paid for more than 10,300 granted claims since 6 August.

The fastest and easiest way to make a claim is over the phone by calling 180 22 66. Please do not visit a service centre.

Further information is available at www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/disaster.

https://pmtranscripts.pmc.gov.au/release/transcript-43097

National Cabinet Statement

23 October 2020

The National Cabinet met again today to discuss Australia’s COVID-19 response, recent progress following the Victorian outbreak, easing restrictions (including international border measures), helping Australians prepare to go back to work in a COVID-safe environment and getting the economy moving again.

National Cabinet continues to work together to address issues and find solutions to the health and economic consequences of COVID-19. Australia has done well on both the health and economic fronts compared to most countries around the world.

The Acting Chief Medical Officer, Professor Paul Kelly, provided an update on the latest epidemiological data and medical advice in relation to COVID-19. 

There have been more than 27,000 confirmed cases in Australia and, sadly, 905 people have died. There are now around 220 active cases in Australia, a decrease from around 1,100 cases five weeks ago. There continues to be differences in testing rates between states and territories, and National Cabinet agreed on the importance of enhanced testing. More than 8.4 million tests have been undertaken in Australia.

National Cabinet noted the increase in COVID-19 cases in many countries and the comparative strength of Australia’s effort in addressing COVID compared to most other developed economies. 

National Cabinet noted the 2020-21 Budget and the collective work needed across the Federation to facilitate economic recovery measures. National Cabinet thanked the Council on Federal Financial Relations for its work and noted further work is underway to coordinate the federation-wide economic response to the COVID-19 pandemic and to drive a more productive economic recovery.

National Cabinet will meet again on Friday 13 November 2020.

Framework for National Reopening - A COVID Normal Australia

The Commonwealth, New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory agreed in-principle to a new ‘Framework for National Reopening Australia by Christmas’ (document attached), building on and enhancing the 3-Step Framework for a COVID Safe Australia developed in May 2020. 

Western Australia did not agree to the National Framework for Reopening, specifically the domestic border and international arrival proposals.

The Framework will provide the Australian community and businesses with a way forward where Australians can live and work in a COVID Normal Australia, recognising that the highly infectious nature of COVID-19 means that it will be present until a COVID-19 vaccine is found. The Framework underscores the need for continued health vigilance while providing a path to easing the physical and mental burden on Australians.

The Framework will establish an updated Common Operating Picture with strengthened criteria to ensure that health systems are prepared and detailed information is publicly available on COVID-19 conditions. The criteria take into account the National Hotel Quarantine Review by Ms Jane Halton AO PSM and will be informed by further work underway by Australia’s Chief Scientist Dr Alan Finkel AO on digital contact tracing and public health systems, and advice from the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC).

The Commonwealth and seven states and territories agreed to finalise the Framework by the next National Cabinet meeting on 13 November 2020 and ensure that a new Common Operating Picture is publicly available by 1 December 2020. 

The Commonwealth and seven states and territories agreed that reopening by Christmas under the Framework sets a pathway for the removal of domestic border restrictions where it is safe to do so, and with free movement of people and freight consistent with National Cabinet’s strategy of suppression with a goal of no community transmission. 

Improving Quarantine Systems

Ms Jane Halton AO PSM presented the final report of the National Review of Hotel Quarantine (document attached). National Cabinet thanked Ms Halton for the extensive work undertaken to review the hotel quarantine system in seven of eight states and territories.

Ms Halton noted that quarantine constitutes a first line of defence in preventing the importation of COVID-19 into Australia. While the quarantine system should be managed to limit breaches, the robustness of a second line of defence (testing and contact tracing) is essential as it is not possible to manage a quarantine system that is completely error free. There must also be a third line of defence - physical distancing, hygiene and health system capacity. 

National Cabinet agreed to publish the National Review of Hotel Quarantine and to implement  recommendations, noting that the Commonwealth and the Northern Territory had already established an emergency-surge quarantine capacity supported by the Northern Territory at Howard Springs.  

National Cabinet agreed to keep working on risk stratification as an appropriate approach to progressively increasing the number of international arrivals to Australia in a COVID-safe manner, including Australians returning home. Potential alternative approaches could include quarantine such as  home quarantine, on farm quarantine, quarantine by universities and private providers, and use of technology and expanding international travel arrangements with very low risk countries and cohorts.

As noted by Ms Halton and AHPPC, alternatives to hotel quarantine for low risk cohorts can also free up significant capacity in Australia’s hotel quarantine system for returning Australians.  

National Cabinet noted that any changes to quarantine settings for international arrivals must be done in a way that maintains health considerations as an absolute priority. 

Australians returning home 

National Cabinet noted that there are a significant number of Australians wishing to return home from overseas, with the Commonwealth already taken steps to further support those facing personal hardship.

National Cabinet agreed that all jurisdictions would continue to work towards enabling more Australians to return home.  Existing international air passenger arrival caps will continue until 21 November 2020, with ongoing review by National Cabinet.

National Cabinet noted that a number of the states and territories will support the Commonwealth in increasing the number of vulnerable Australians returning home.  This includes the Commonwealth-Northern Territory arrangement to provide 500 beds at Howard Springs, with the first flight dedicated to vulnerable Australians arriving in Darwin today.

A further arrangement, soon to be finalised with the Australian Capital Territory, will support 150 returning Australians every 16-18 days.  In addition, a limited and dedicated number of spaces will be provided on existing international commercial services for vulnerable Australians where possible. This includes an additional:

• 140 arrivals per week into Perth;

• 100 arrivals every 14-16 days into Adelaide;

• 150 arrivals per week into Queensland(to be finalised once a new Government is formally sworn in).

Tasmania has also offered further support where required.

The Commonwealth thanks the states and territories for their support in helping more Australians return home for Christmas.

Mental Health National Cabinet Reform Committee

National Cabinet noted 3,318 Australians died by suicide in 2019, equivalent to nine Australians each and every day. This represents a significant loss to our communities, our families and our nation.

Today, National Cabinet commissioned the new Mental Health National Cabinet Reform Committee. The Committee will:

• deliver a new National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement by November 2021; and

• oversee, and provide advice to National Cabinet on, the implementation of the National Mental Health and Wellbeing Pandemic Response Plan which guides jurisdictions’ responses to COVID-19.

This work builds on all jurisdictions’ efforts to scale resources and investment to support Australians’ mental health and prevent suicide during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Aged Care Emergency Response Centres

National Cabinet again noted the critical importance of minimising the COVID-19 pandemic risk in aged care, cementing preparedness arrangements based on the three previously agreed actions of 21 August.

The Department of Health continues weekly engagement with the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission and states and territories. Weekly jurisdictional reporting is now established.

All jurisdictions have provided assurances that their Aged Care Emergency Response Centres can be stood up within 48 hours. Jurisdictions have completed the Response Centre Preparedness Assessment which has provided additional clarity about where further focus is needed. 

National Cabinet expressed its thanks to the Victorian Aged Care Response Centre which has supplied to all jurisdictions—through the Department of Health—with its extensive suite of resources for use or adaption as required.

The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission continues its program of infection control site visits to residential aged care facilities in all jurisdictions to monitor and assess aged care preparedness. The Commission is distributing summary reports of its spot check visits to each jurisdiction to enable targeted focus on areas for improvement.  

States and territories are supporting the Commission’s preparedness visits through sharing of public health intelligence, conducting supplementary visits to residential aged care facilities and prioritising face to face infection prevention and control training. Across jurisdictions a range of training models are in place. States and territories continue to consider how best to tailor this training to their jurisdictional requirements.

National Federation Reform Council

National Cabinet agreed to establish a Taskforce on Veterans’ Wellbeing in recognition of the challenges faced by our current and ex-service personnel. The Taskforce will meet at the first meeting of the National Federation Reform Council on 11 December.

On 26 June 2020, National Cabinet agreed that Mr Peter Conran AM would conduct a review of the former COAG Councils and Ministerial Forums with a view to rationalising and resetting the structure and work programs. 

Today, National Cabinet accepted the Review's recommendations that include reducing the number of ministerial forums and ensuring that those that remain are more agile and responsive, with direct responsibility for decision-making resting with Ministers. Consistent with the direction set by National Cabinet, ministers’ meetings will not report to National Cabinet (or the National Federation Reform Council) unless tasked.

This represents a significant reform to Commonwealth-State relations and will significantly reduce bureaucracy and red tape. National Cabinet also noted that the range of significant reforms agreed today have come about directly through the collaboration of National Cabinet, as the country comes together to continue to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Further information is available here: https://pmc.gov.au/domestic-policy/national-federation-reform-council

https://pmtranscripts.pmc.gov.au/release/transcript-44016

Nominations for Veterans' Employment Awards Now Open

19 October 2020

Prime Minister, Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Minister for Defence Personnel

Nominations for the 2021 Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Awards, which recognise the contributions made by veterans in the civilian workforce and the organisations that support them, are now open.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said many businesses were doing it tough, but in the face of this adversity, organisations were adapting and thinking innovatively, and embracing the skills and experience of our veterans.

“Service in the Australian Defence Force (ADF) teaches and hones skills and abilities that stack up in the civilian workforce, particularly as we face the current challenges,” the Prime Minister said.

“Complex problem-solving, leadership and a willingness to have a go. These all come with hiring a veteran and will help you get the most out of your business and your other employees.

“The Awards are an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate these veterans, and the organisations from across Australia who employ them and their families.

“I encourage any veteran or organisation that is committed to veteran employment to nominate for the 2021 Awards.”

More than 300 organisations of all sizes have now signed up to the Veterans’ Employment Commitment which means that employers are hearing the message that veterans are good for business and are putting this into action.

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Darren Chester said that along with mental health and transition support, employment was one of the top priority areas for the Government.

“The Government is committed to supporting the successful transition and mental health for ADF members, which includes helping them get a job after service,” Mr Chester said.

“The successful Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Program and the Awards are an important part of showcasing to the Australian community how veterans are an asset to any workplace.

“The 2020–21 Budget provided a further $6 million to continue this program as well as to provide training for veterans looking to start their own business.

“Since inception, the Awards have illustrated how entrepreneurial our veterans are and the Government is providing support through Prince’s Trust Australia to provide them with the training to succeed.”

The Awards are part of the broader Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Program, which is aimed at building an understanding in the greater community of the valuable skills ADF personnel possess.

Nominations for the Awards are now open online. For further information and to nominate visit the Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Program website. Nominations close on 20 November 2020, with winners to be announced in 2021.

Nomination categories for the 2021 Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Awards:

• Veteran Employee of the Year

• Veteran Entrepreneur of the Year

• Veterans’ Employer of the Year – Small

• Veterans’ Employer of the Year – Medium

• Veterans’ Employer of the Year – Large

• Public Sector Excellence in Supporting Veteran Employment

• Excellence in Supporting Veteran Employment

• Excellence in Supporting Partner Employment

https://pmtranscripts.pmc.gov.au/release/transcript-43094

Joint Media Statement - Victorian Restrictions

18 October 2020

Prime Minister, Minister for Health, Treasurer

We welcome the continued and sustained reduction in COVID-19 cases in Victoria which has enabled the Victorian Government’s announcement today of a further easing of restrictions.

It has been a very challenging time for Victorians. 

We understand the ability to now travel up to 25 kilometres, spend more time outdoors, go to the hairdresser and greater freedom to undertake a range of outdoor activities will be important to the economic and social wellbeing of the community.

As we said at the time, it was regrettable such tough restrictions had to be implemented. It has been to the credit of Victorians that they have managed to adhere to these rules and we commend them for their commitment.

The Federal Government has supported Victorian households and businesses with around $31 billion of initiatives including JobKeeper, cash flow support, payment of the COVID Supplement, pandemic disaster leave and substantial wage subsidies to hire and keep on apprentices.

Whilst the Premier’s announcement of the Victorian Government’s decisions today enable some businesses to return to a limited COVIDSafe operation, many remain closed. We understand and sympathise with the frustration and concern expressed by businesses about the ongoing cost and impact on their jobs and livelihoods of this second wave.

Victoria’s three-day rolling average is now below two cases per day. Maintaining this result will make a strong case for the retail and hospitality sectors to reopen before the next review date in November. This should remain under active consideration.

Every day Victoria remains under restrictions to get the second wave in Victoria under control comes at a heavy cost.

Throughout the lockdown more than 1000 jobs have been lost, on average, every day. There has also been a 31 per cent increase in mental health services being accessed under Medicare for the same four-week period up to 11 October in Victoria compared with last year, whilst it has been only an eight per cent increase in NSW and seven per cent nationally. 

The continued health, mental health and financial impacts of these restrictions will be profound on many Victorians. That is why we encourage Victoria to move safely and quickly towards the NSW model of strong contact tracing and a COVIDSafe but predominately open economy. 

Our national health picture indicates we can safely reopen small businesses, retail stores and hospitality venues, as long as we do it with COVIDSafe practices. This involves physical distancing, strong testing, vigilant contract tracing systems and COVIDSafe plans for all businesses.

The national picture is a positive one, we are now seeing a vast improvement in case numbers and where outbreaks emerge, they are successfully being managed, such as we have seen in NSW.

With every release of the Common Operating Picture of COVID-19 responses across states and territories we can see a steady improvement. This improvement demonstrates to us all that we are learning how to live with COVID-19 and that we should be working to reopen our businesses, manufacturing industries, education and training, hospitality and retail sectors. 

We all know this upcoming Christmas is going to be different to ones we have celebrated in the past, however by working together and allowing for the reopening of small and large businesses, venues and industries we can take a little of the strain away. We are confident with the work all states and territories have been putting in place with testing, contact tracing systems and the COVIDSafe plans we are asking all businesses to have, we can continue on our current suppression trajectory. 

We look forward to seeing a further opening up of Australia’s economy and  continuing to work with all our State and Territory colleagues in reopening Australia, and seeing families starting to enjoy all that Australia has to offer.

https://pmtranscripts.pmc.gov.au/release/transcript-44015