Media Releases
Interview with David Penberthy and Will Goodings, FiveAA
26 November 2021
Host: Prime Minister, good morning to you.
Prime Minister: G’day Will, g’day Penbo.
Host: Good to have you here, PM. It feels a bit surreal because, you know, you've been, spent a lot, even though you're the leader of the nation, you've spent quite a long time this year incarcerated in the, in the Lodge and elsewhere. I don’t, I don’t mean that in a sort of ICAC sense, but you know, this week we've opened the borders here in SA.
Prime Minister: Yeah.
Host: And you would have seen all those wonderful photographs of families being reunited.
Prime Minister: Yeah, that was a real ‘Love Actually’ moment.
Host: It was.
Prime Minister: And it's been happening all around the country. I mean, it was happening in Melbourne and and now in South Australia. Looking forward to it happening right around the country. Australia is reopening and we're already seeing the dramatic impact that’s having on the economy, and with 350,000 people in five weeks going back into work, now, that is a spring back of the economic story here in Australia. And, you know, there was, the Australian economy has been arguably one of the strongest, if not the strongest, of advanced economies coming through the pandemic. You combine that with the, one of the lowest fatality rates from COVID in the world and and now also one of the highest vaccination rates in the world, and a big shout out to South Australia, and a challenge to South Australians today - as you're waking up today, it is absolutely achievable today that that South Australia will hit 80 per cent double dose vaccinated. You’ve got about a half a per cent to go, based on the figures …
Host: One last push, folks.
Prime Minister: ... I just got it today from this morning, so you're just a half a per cent away. So, if you're in, South Australians, go out and get vaccinated today. Wake up to the news tomorrow morning that South Australia is 80 per cent vaccinated.
Host: It is funny. If a week’s a long time in politics, then six months is an, is an eternity. I reckon it’s six months since we spoke to you, and I would admit that we, like other radio hosts that week, were slightly unpleasant and possibly even bordering on disrespectful.
Prime Minister: No, no.
Host: Well, no, it was in the, it was in, it was in …
Host: Part of the mission statement [inaudible].
Host: But it was in the back draught of the, you know, it's not a race stuff and everything else. And people felt like the whole vaccine thing was just, you know, stuck. Now, I mean, if it was a race, it feels like we might have won.
Prime Minister: Well, I think you're right about that. And as I said, look, we had some challenges, but I said, you know, I take responsibility for fixing those challenges, and we did. And we have. And now we've gone past the United Kingdom. We've gone past so many countries in Europe. We raced past the United States, and particularly we've been able to do it for those most vulnerable in our community - our elderly. I mean, our over 70s vaccination rates is is over 96 per cent, and that means that our hospitals won't be as vulnerable to any, you know, potential outbreaks or anything like that. So, Australians have done amazingly well. When I say Australians, yeah, sure, we've done our part, and Steve Marshall has done a great job here too. But Australians have done their part, and that's what the National Plan was all about. I saw it as a deal with Australians. I said, ‘You go and do your thing and we've got to do our thing,’ and that's why I'm pleased to be here today. I wanted to be in South Australia the second I could after it opened up, because that says the National Plan is being implemented. And I want to thank Steven, Premier Marshall, for getting this National Plan happening here in South Australia.
Host: So, South Australia leading the way, unsurprisingly, everyone at home saying right now. When when's the date you've got circled or or the period, sometime probably next year, when you can reasonably think we talk about border restrictions in the, we talk about it in the past tense?
Prime Minister: Well, look, we've always just taken this one step at a time, and I would hope it would, you know, be well in the first half of, you know, in the first half of next year. And we've just opened up from the 1st of December. We're opening up to all skilled migrants, which is very important for South Australia, and to students, and they can all come from the 1st of December if they’re double vaccinated. We've opened up fully to people coming from Singapore, from the 1st of December fully from Japan and Korea, and we're looking to see what more we can add to that before the end of the year. We're obviously watching closely what's happening in Europe and North America because they're going through another wave. So, we’ve worked pretty hard, very hard to get to where we are, and we don't want to put that at risk. Now, my motto’s been, open safely so you can stay safely open. That's what the National Plan is about. I, particularly in a state like South Australia, which has been so successful in not having the COVID impacts that we've had in in the eastern states, particularly New South Wales, Victoria and the ACT, you know, we've got to be careful, but at the same time, we have to move forward. I mean, you wrote, you've written about it today, David, and it was a great piece, vintage Penbo, going back to your days at The Daily Tele. I think many more years ago ...
Host: Flattery will get you everywhere, Prime Minister.
Prime Minister: … when we first met many years ago. But you know, that is right. We've got to live with this virus and we've got to live together with this virus, too. I mean, you know, once, that's the whole point of getting everybody vaccinated.
Host: But does it worry you then, PM, to hear Mark McGowan say yesterday, ‘Oh, we're keeping a close eye on SA.’ There’s, you know, there’s three cases, three cases, three cases since November 23. He's quite seriously raised the prospect of shutting the border to South Australia now that we've reopened.
Prime Minister: Well, I think the experience of the rest of the country will be its own testimony. It will show, as we’re already seeing, as I said, 350,000 people getting back into work. Now, I know in the West and, you know, they've done a great job, just like here with Steven Marshall, in keeping people safe. And, you know, the Western Australian economy works, you know, different to many others. And it is an economy with a very big mining sector and and can support itself, but it can't do that forever. And I I'm quite sure that Premier McGowan understands that. But, you know, once you hit, I mean, they're not at 80 per cent yet either, they’ve still got a bit of work to do. So, when I'm asked about it that in the West, well, the first answer to that question is we've got to get to 80 per cent. And, so, let's get there in WA, let's get there in Queensland, and as South Australia can get there today, and that means you can, you can move forward, Australians can step forward and, frankly, governments can step back.
Host: You’ve come to South Australia on a day when newspapers right around the country are telling the story, well News Limited papers the very least still, but Chinese spy ship that was in the economic zone off of Darwin, spent a bit of time in September and August off of Sydney as well, having a look at things that weren't, there was no naval operation going on, but they were clearly taking a little bit of a peak. It coincides with the Indonesian Government beginning to bristle about some of the deep sea mapping that's going on in their territorial waters. Is this, are we starting to see the sort of South China Sea style belligerence of China in our own neck of the woods?
Prime Minister: Well, they were in the economic zone and, of course, we knew who were there. I mean, they can be in those areas, just like we can be in the South China Sea. And, so, we don't make an argument about that. And, you know, that's entirely consistent with the rule of international law. But, it also does, you know, very, I think, firmly highlight the nature of what's going on in the Indo-Pacific. I mean, people aren't making this up. I mean, what is going on in the Indo-Pacific is real. It does mean that Australia has to be on its guard. It does mean that Australia has to stand up for its interests and stand up to those who want to coerce us, who want to slap unfair trade sanctions on our wine and things like that, which has an impact, particularly here in South Australia, and our Government is standing up to that. And when I was in between those long stints at the Lodge and I was meeting with others around the world at the, both when I was in Rome at the G20, but also earlier that year at the G7, the rest of the world, liberal democracies, are so proud of what Australia has done in standing up for itself. I mean, if we didn't do it, who else was going to do it? And we did stand up for it, whether it was on COVID or whether it's been on these trade issues or whether it's been on the coercion. I mean, right now, quite sadly, we're seeing a very upsetting situation up in the Solomon Islands. And yesterday we made a decision to send AFP and ADF personnel up there to get to, to restore peace and stability. But, you know what I, as difficult as that situation was, and you never take these decisions lightly because it is a dangerous situation. The Solomon Islands reached out to us first. They reached out to us as family because they trust us, and we've worked hard for that trust in the Pacific. And that's important because they're family. But it's also important because that is our region and we're standing up to secure our region with our partners, our friends, our family and allies.
Host: Is that what you get, though, for for adopting the position of standing up, as you say, you get Chinese warships on your doorstep?
Prime Minister: Well, you've got to be who you are and you've got to stand up for what you believe in. And that honestly takes a lot of strength. It takes a lot of persistence. You've got to put up with a, with the, I remember when we first started doing this, people were accusing us of being racist. I mean, that was ridiculous. We're standing up for Australia's interests. There might be others who want to join the chorus of those who might want to attack Australia. But, as Prime Minister, that's your first duty - stand up for Australia and stand up to those who who want to coerce you.
Host: Speaking of standing up to those who want to coerce you, PM, how’s Alex Antic and the rest of the gang? Can you, can you get them all back in the tent?
Prime Minister: Yeah, look, look, there's a lot of games in Parliament this week. You guys are very familiar with all that and, you know, people get very focused on all the games. But what's important is that, as Prime Minister and as a Government, we don't get distracted by all the political theatre. I mean, there was a lot of showboating going on over the course of the last week, right across the Parliament, there were all sorts of games going on. But, you know, we were dealing with serious issues and we're dealing with serious things like we were just talking about, issues around national security and the threats that present there, dealing with the very serious issue we were doing with the Solomon Islands ...
Host: But could it affect, could it affect the, could it affect your ability to do all those things? I mean, is it that serious that it ...
Prime Minister: No, look, I was engaging, particularly with Alex, over the course of the week, obviously a Senator for South Australia. You know, the whole point of the Parliament, and this is the thing about the Liberal Party, you know, we’re, they're not a bunch of drones. They're not a bunch of, you know, just warm bodies that we move around in the Parliament. They, you know, they come to Canberra. They come to Parliament with strong views and beliefs. They listen to their community. They raise issues. And as Prime Minister, I've always sought to respect that. I might not always agree with them, but I always listen to them. And and we work through some issues this week and we've improved some things, and particularly in relation to the indemnity scheme, because on the indemnity scheme, I mean, vaccinations have gone very well here, but of course, with any vaccination program, there will be some adverse reactions that people will have. I don't mean politically, I mean physically. And we need to ensure that the the scheme that we have to support them is adequate and we've strengthened that. And I think that was a good outcome.
Host: Well, PM, we thank you for coming in today. I've got to say it feels a little bit odd and otherworldly sitting here like, you know, two feet away from each other, even the, even the nation's leaders spent a large part of 2021 locked, locked up at the Lodge.
Prime Minister: We did, looking like, looking at screens like the one you've got in here. I was, in fact, I was just on one last night with Asian and European leaders, and there we all were doing the whole Zoom thing, but it has been great getting back. I mean, Cabinet is all sitting around the one table now, and I think that's a positive thing. But it's great to be back here in South Australia. Congratulations for opening up and that one last challenge - if you haven’t been vaccinated in South Australia, get out there today. Let's wake up to the news tomorrow that 80 per cent of South Australians have been vaccinated. Well done, South Australia.
Host: Good stuff.
Prime Minister: [Inaudible] get one of those shirazes you like so much down [inaudible].
Host: Oh yeah, they’re pretty good, hard to buy a bad one here in SA.
Prime Minister: It is, it is.
Host: Dave will have some recommendations for you, don’t worry about that.
Host: I’ll write down a short list for you after the interview finishes.
Prime Minister: Good to see you guys.
Host: Thanks.
Townsville Small Business Awarded Outstanding Veterans' Employer Of The Year
25 November 2021
Prime Minister, Minister for Veteran's Affairs, Minister for Defence Personnel, Federal Member for Herbert
Australian Expedition Vehicles (AEV) has been named the Outstanding Veterans’ Employer of the Year in the 2021 Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Awards.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the Townsville-based business had been recognised for its exceptional support of veteran employees, after previously winning this year’s Veterans’ Employer of the Year small business.
“AEV is a worthy recipient of Outstanding Veterans’ Employer of the Year, with veterans making up around 50 per cent of the AEV workforce,” the Prime Minister said.
“AEV design, build and deliver specialised military and civilian off-roads vehicles as well as vehicle engineering, modification and maintenance support services, providing the perfect opportunity for the men and women who have served in the Australian Defence Force to transition their skills to the civilian workforce.
“It fills me with great pride to see a local Queensland business providing targeted employment opportunities for veterans and working with employees to adapt jobs to the needs of the veteran. It’s businesses like AEV that provide hope and support for anyone wishing to translate those skills learned in the ADF.
“I want to congratulate AEV for creating a workplace where veterans not only thrive, but where they gain qualifications and share their skills with others.”
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Andrew Gee praised the Townsville business on its significant achievement.
“AEV is a local veteran-owned business supporting veteran employees, including some with health issues who have been supported by AEV through their rehabilitation,” Minister Gee said.
“They are a success story that should be a beacon for other Australian businesses. It makes good business sense to employ our veterans as we know they have a strong work ethic, work well in a team and bring the abilities learnt in the ADF to the workforce.”
Federal Member for Herbert Phil Thompson said AEV is a renowned manufacturer in Townsville.
“It’s fantastic to see a local veteran-owned company support our servicemen and women in their transition from military to civilian life,” Mr Thompson said.
“We need to continue to do everything we can to make sure our veterans and their families are given all the support they need and deserve.”
Managing Director of AEV Michael McMillan served in the ADF and said he wants to create opportunities like the ones he enjoyed.
“Understanding the needs of veterans is very important when creating a workplace that meets their needs,” Mr McMillan said.
“They want to be part of a team that is delivering something, whether that be a product or a service, and they want to be part of a like-minded group.
“I am proud we have created a business where we make sure the role fits the veteran, their skillset, help them gain qualifications and where they can see opportunities once they leave the ADF.”
This year the Australian Government is investing $11.7 billion to support more than 336,000 veterans and their families across the country.
More than $17 million has been provided to establish the Joint Transition Authority to better prepare and support our ADF personnel and their families as they transition to civilian life.
The Government also provides veterans with free mental health care for life, and has expanded access to the 24/7 counselling services for both veterans and their families.
Find out more about the AEV commitment to veteran employment here.
Solomon Islands
25 November 2021
Prime Minister, Minister for International Development and the Pacific
Solomon Islands is part of our Pacific family and is among our closest neighbours.
We have been watching the ongoing protests in Honiara with concern. We continue to call for calm, for an end to any further violence and emphasise the importance of resolving tensions peacefully.
Australia has received a formal request for assistance from the Solomon Islands Government under our 2017 Bilateral Security Treaty. Australia has agreed to provide assistance to Solomon Islands in line with our Treaty arrangement.
A Royal Australian Air Force aircraft has departed Canberra this evening to provide airlift for members of the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in support of the Australian Government response to the request for assistance.
On 26 November, approximately 40 Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel from Army’s 3rd Brigade, 6th Brigade and 17th Brigade will depart Townsville for Honiara.
A further ADF aircraft will also depart Canberra tomorrow with additional DFAT officials and AFP members.
The AFP and ADF elements will support the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force in helping to stabilise the situation.
The ADF will also deploy a Navy vessel to the Solomon Islands to support the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force with maritime security.
This deployment expands upon our longstanding bilateral security relationship, underpinned by strong cooperation between police, border and defence agencies in Australia and Solomon Islands.
The Australian Government is committed to a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific.
The Australian High Commission in Honiara remains operational. Australians in Solomon Islands in need of assistance should contact the High Commission or for 24 hour emergency consular assistance contact DFAT’s Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 and monitor smartraveller.gov.au.
Further Steps to Reopen Australia and Secure Our Economic Recovery
22 November 2021
Prime Minister, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Minister for Home Affairs, Minister for Education and Youth, Minister for Women
Australia continues to take further steps to safely reopen to the world, with additional changes to our international border arrangements coming into effect on 1 December.
Consistent with the National Plan to safely reopen Australia, these changes will ensure we continue to protect the health of Australians, while reuniting families and securing our economic recovery by opening our border to skilled and student visa holders.
From 1 December 2021, fully vaccinated eligible visa holders can come to Australia without needing to apply for a travel exemption. Eligible visa holders include skilled and student cohorts, as well as humanitarian, working holiday maker and provisional family visa holders.
Under these arrangements, travellers must:
Be fully vaccinated with a completed dosage of a vaccine approved or recognised by Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)
Hold a valid visa for one of the eligible visa subclasses
Provide proof of their vaccination status
Present a negative COVID-19 Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test taken within three days of departure.
Travellers to Australia must comply with the quarantine requirements in the state or territory of their arrival, and any other state or territory to which they plan to travel.
The return of skilled workers and international students to Australia will further cement our economic recovery, providing the valuable workers our economy needs and supporting our important education sector.
From 1 December 2021, Australia will also welcome back fully vaccinated citizens from Japan and the Republic of Korea. Under these arrangements, citizens of Japan and the Republic of Korea who hold a valid Australian visa will be able to travel from their home country quarantine-free to participating states and territories, without needing to seek a travel exemption.
Under these arrangements, travellers must:
Depart from their home country
Be fully vaccinated with a completed dosage of a vaccine approved or recognised by the TGA
Hold a valid Australian visa
Provide proof of their vaccination status
Present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within three days of departure.
Today’s announcement follows earlier changes which have seen us welcome home fully vaccinated Australians, permanent residents and their immediate family members since 1 November, and follows the commencement of the Singapore safe travel zone yesterday.
These changes demonstrate the success of our National Plan, as the Government continues to get Australia back to normal and reopen to the world safely.
Work Kicks Off on Sydney's Newest Airport Terminal
19 November 2021
The Hon. Scott Morrison MP
Prime Minister
The Hon. Paul Fletcher MP
Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts
Senator the Hon. Simon Birmingham
Minister for Finance
The Hon. Dominic Perrottet MP
Premier of New South Wales
The new Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport has hit another major milestone with construction now underway on the world-class passenger terminal.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said today’s announcement marked a significant step in this once-in-a-generation, city-shaping infrastructure project for Western Sydney, and Australia.
“The delivery of the Western Sydney International Airport proves once again our Government’s ability to get things done,” the Prime Minister said.
“We have made this happen. It is already delivering major benefits for Western Sydney, as we knew it would, and it only gets better from here.
“The Coalition will continue to invest in job-creating infrastructure that drives investment and secures Australia’s economic recovery.
“Our total $14 billion investment in the airport and transport links is transforming this powerhouse region, attracting investment and supporting jobs for generations to come.
“Around 11,000 jobs will be supported during construction alone, and currently around one in two workers are from right here in Western Sydney, driving income and opportunity for families across the region.
“Tens of thousands more jobs will be created when the airport is up and running in 2026, and millions of travellers are arriving into Sydney’s newest airport every year.
“The airport will also play a crucial role in the nation’s aviation future, delivering dynamic global connections for the region and opening up even further possibilities for new routes and services.”
Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts Paul Fletcher said construction on one of the most significant infrastructure projects in Australia was now around one quarter complete.
“Despite the challenges of the global pandemic, work has continued to progress with nearly 22 million cubic metres of earth now moved to date across the site – which is about three times bigger than the Sydney CBD – and the airport on track to open in late 2026,” Minister Fletcher said.
“Today we announce another important milestone has been reached, with work now underway on the new state-of-the-art integrated passenger terminal, which will have the capacity to handle up to 10 million passengers a year once open.
“With this unique opportunity to build an airport from the ground up, we are able to roll out cutting-edge technology to make the passenger experience smoother and easier than at existing airports, and the security systems more effective but less intrusive.
“The new airport will not only be a state-of-the art piece of infrastructure but is an integral element of the surrounding aerotropolis and the broader Western Parkland city.
“In its own right, Western Sydney would be Australia’s fourth largest city and third largest economy, which is why the Morrison Government has committed $14 billion to the airport and vital metro rail and road links that will transform the region.”
Minister for Finance Simon Birmingham said construction of Western Sydney International’s world-leading innovative domestic and international airport had fastened its seatbelt and was ready for take-off.
“One of Australia’s largest infrastructure projects is now visibly taking shape and is delivering long-term jobs and economic benefits to Western Sydney,” Minister Birmingham said.
“Economic stimulus and job creation in Western Sydney is critical right now. Start of construction on the world-class terminal will see more jobs begin to flow in the coming months.
“Acting to build a second Sydney airport has been in the too hard basket for many years but our government is delivering this critical piece of infrastructure that will lift productivity and growth for decades to come.”
Federal Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh welcomed the airport exceeding its local employment targets, saying the project would continue to create local jobs, for local people.
“Over $100 million has already been injected into businesses in Western Sydney, supercharging our local economy,” Ms McIntosh said.
“The airport will continue to provide more opportunities for local small businesses, opening up new markets and opportunities across Australia and beyond.
“This will drive more job creation for generations, particularly in the emerging industries recognising Western Sydney is at the forefront of fields including advanced manufacturing, research, and space, as a result of the Morrison Government’s investment.”
New South Wales Premier Dominic Perrottet said the airport would boost economic activity and provide employment opportunities for the Western Sydney region.
“This new airport integrates with our vision for Western Sydney and the future of how people will live, work and travel,” Mr Perrottet said.
“It means jobs for Western Sydney and will create new, convenient travel options for those who live in our west.”
The contract for the airside pavements package, which will include the 3.7-kilometre runway and rapid-exit taxiways, was awarded in September, with construction due to begin next year. Bulk earthworks are around 75 per cent complete.
In addition to the $5.3 billion investment in Western Sydney International, the Morrison Government has committed another $9 billion for the vital rail and road links that will transform the Western Sydney region.
This includes the $3.5 billion investment to deliver new major road infrastructure and upgrades under the Western Sydney Infrastructure Plan and $5.25 billion towards the first stage of the Sydney Metro – Western Sydney Airport rail link.
$111 Million Investment To Back Australia's Quantum Technology Future
17 November 2021
Prime Minister, Minister for Superannuation, Financial Services and the Digital Economy, Minister for Women's Economic Security
The Morrison Government is investing $111 million to secure Australia’s quantum future, supporting the commercialisation, adoption and use of this new technology to create jobs, support Australian business and keep Australians safe.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison today released the Blueprint and Action Plan for Critical Technologies, identifying quantum technologies as one of the Government’s nine technologies for initial focus.
The quantum investment includes $70 million for the Quantum Commercialisation Hub to foster strategic partnerships with likeminded countries to commercialise Australia’s quantum research and help Australian businesses access new markets and investors.
The Hub will be supported by the development of a National Quantum Strategy and quantum technologies prospectus, designed to align industry and government efforts and unlock greater private sector investment.
The strategy will be informed by a National Committee on Quantum, comprised of a group of industry stakeholders and experts which will be led by Australia’s Chief Scientist, Dr Cathy Foley.
“This investment will help secure future economic opportunities for Australian businesses, create local jobs and importantly, it will help keep Australians safe,” the Prime Minister said.
It is estimated that the development, commercialisation and adoption of quantum technologies can deliver Australia $4 billion in economic value and create 16,000 new jobs by 2040.
Minister for Science and Technology Melissa Price said quantum technology offers incredible defence industry, scientific and economic opportunities for Australia.
“Australia is a world leader in quantum,” Minister Price said.
“These investments will enhance our global reputation and help us work with other like-minded countries to develop this critical technology.
“This is a fantastic technology that will improve our lives and transform our industries like finance, communications, energy, health, mining, manufacturing and agriculture.
“Australian scientists are at the cutting edge of quantum development and our research in this important area punches well above our weight internationally.
“Australia now has an important mission to commercialise our research, particularly given quantum technologies are increasingly vital for industries in key areas like defence and national security, as flagged in the recent AUKUS agreement.”
Minister for the Digital Economy Jane Hume said the Morrison Government is grasping the opportunities in quantum technology for Australians - as a jobs creation vehicle and game changing technology for research, innovation and productivity.
“The global quantum industry is expected to be worth at least $86 billion by 2040, and I’m determined to see Australians secure their share of those jobs and economic activity” Minister Hume said.
“By embracing and fostering this technology we can increase the power of computing, as well as help create more reliable navigation and more secure communications. It’s the logical extension of our investment in digitisation and a focus of the Digital Economy Strategy.”
More details on the Quantum Commercialisation Hub and National Quantum Strategy can be found here https://www.industry.gov.au/news/new-investment-in-australias-quantum-technology-industry
Interview with Neil Mitchell, 3AW
12 November 2021
NEIL MITCHELL: Prime Minister Scott Morrison, good morning.
PRIME MINISTER: Good morning Neil, and I'm looking forward to being at Bert's funeral as well today and joining everyone else here in Melbourne at what is a really important event, I think, for Australians. And our hearts go out to Patty and the whole family today.
MITCHELL: Yeah, I was going to ask you, as a man who grew up in New South Wales, what was your impression? What did you know about Bert Newton?
PRIME MINISTER: The Don Lane Show, when I was a kid, when I would convince my parents to let me stay up late to watch. And it was always Bert you wanted to watch because he was just so funny and he was just so easy. And as I said when he passed, he was welcomed into our living rooms at a time when, you know, there was no streaming or watching that, it was on at 9:30. And it was that sort of thing and the family would come together and he was there with us. And they're my memories.
MITCHELL: Other business, the pandemic legislation in Victoria has caused uproar. The legal profession seems united. I mean, the claims are it could lead to government by decree. People could be detained indefinitely without charge, without right of appeal to a court. Would you try to block it?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, let me make this point first. I mean, today, Australia has gone past 90 per cent, those figures have just come in this morning, over 90 per cent first dose vaccinations. In Victoria there's actually 92.6 and over 86 per cent second doses. So Australians, and particularly here in Victoria, have been keeping their side of the deal when it comes to the National Plan, which is all about opening up and for governments to be getting out of the lives of Australians. That's the direction we need to be heading in. So look I really understand why Victorians, who have gone through the worst of the pandemic, the pandemic has had its biggest blows here in Victoria and particularly in Melbourne, and at a time when everybody's now opening up and moving ahead, I can understand their frustration of, you know, where governments may be seeking to have more involvement in their lives. So at a Federal Government, at a Commonwealth Government, we're heading in the opposite direction. We're about opening up and giving people back what they've, what is theirs. And they've kept their side of the deal to ensure that they have that.
MITCHELL: So, can you do anything to dissuade or stop this undemocratic approach in Victoria?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, this is entirely a matter for the Victorian parliament. That's the nature of our Federation.
MITCHELL: Your Assistant Attorney General, Amanda Stoker said that you could have a look at Section 51 of the Constitution and you might be able to take action.
PRIME MINISTER: That's not my advice. My advice ...
MITCHELL: You can't do anything.
PRIME MINISTER: This is a matter for the Victorian parliament and the Victorian Government. And you know, that's the thing about the Federation. We're all responsible for the things we're responsible for and we're accountable for them. And so, you know, we take our policies to the election. I'm accountable for the decisions that we make and what we put into our parliament. And the same is true for every single Premier and Chief Minister in the country. So we've all got to be accountable for what we're doing, and the public make up their mind.
MITCHELL: Do you agree this legislation is deeply scary and undemocratic?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, as I said, I mean, we're going the opposite direction.
MITCHELL: No, I know, but what do you think of this legislation?
PRIME MINISTER: [Inaudible] trying to free up. So, you know, this is something for the Victorian people to determine and for the Victorian Government to determine. What I'm saying is that Australians have had enough of governments telling them what to do.
MITCHELL: [Inaudible]
PRIME MINISTER: That has been necessary for a couple of years Neil in restrictions that have been in place and we've saved over 30,000 lives, but we're coming out of that now.
MITCHELL: But surely as Prime Minister, as Prime Minister, you are really well entitled to have a view on it? Senator Stoker says deeply scary and undemocratic. Do you share those concerns?
PRIME MINISTER: I have concerns that governments are continuing to want to be involved more and more in people's lives, that's what I'm concerned about.
MITCHELL: What about this legislation, Prime Minister?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, look, I'm always respectful of the Federation, Neil. I am respectful. I don't give lectures to other governments about what they should be doing.
MITCHELL: Josh Frydenberg has given a few over the years, there's been a few through this pandemic.
PRIME MINISTER: As Prime Minister, I respect the Federation. I work with all the Premiers and Chief Ministers, but the clear message about it is this – your call, your responsibility. And don't expect the Federal Government to go and argue your case when it's not a policy that we have.
MITCHELL: But would you argue the case of the people here? Because the people, I would argue, are furious about it. We know you're getting on better with Daniel Andrews, wouldn't you just raise it?
PRIME MINISTER: I think I've set out my principles pretty clearly, Neil. I've been doing it all week. I don't think government should be seeking to get more involved in people's lives.
MITCHELL: But you're not willing to criticise this legislation. You're not willing to criticise this legislation.
PRIME MINISTER: Well, I'm not a Victorian, one, and I'm not in the Victorian Parliament and I'm not the Victorian Premier, and I'm not the Victorian Leader of the Opposition. They should all do their jobs and I'm going to keep doing mine. But my principle is very clear here. I put the National Plan in place to get Victoria to open up. And we're opening up now, which I think is fantastic. We set the benchmarks of vaccination, they're being achieved, Victoria is opening up. And frankly, I think you should be getting on with it, not seeking to put more controls on people.
MITCHELL: There's inconsistency there. You won't criticise or be involved in Victoria, but you took direct action against the Belt and Road deal we were signing with China. You were willing to get involved in Victorian politics there and stop it.
PRIME MINISTER: No, I was willing to get involved in federal politics because that was a federal issue. The government was responsible for foreign relations and that was in direct constitution to what we believe was the constitutional authority of the Federal Government. And so we stood up for what the Federal Government had actual responsibility for. So I think it's quite different.
MITCHELL: So those vaccination figures, you've just got those have you? 90 per cent first dose.
PRIME MINISTER: Yeah, over 90 per cent first dose, which is great news and that's an extraordinary, we're going to have one of the highest vaccination rates in the world. That goes with having one of the best records in the world on saving lives, 30,000 lives, well over that have been saved in our country throughout the course of the pandemic, lowest fatality rates. And we've got one of the strongest developed economies who have been coming through the pandemic, from the pandemic recession. So those three things together, those three things together, I think, show an extraordinary performance by Australians through the pandemic. We've obviously been very pleased to take that lead role in achieving these outcomes, but it's been the Australian people who've endured some of the toughest times that they've ever known in their lives and no one has going through more than the Victorian people on that.
MITCHELL: When will the other states, sorry, Queensland and WA come into, you must be concerned that the virus is going to get in there and cause havoc because of their low vaccination rate.
PRIME MINISTER: Well, their vaccination rates to be fair, I mean, Queensland has just gone past the 80 per cent first dose mark yesterday, Western Australia we're there, South Australia is already above that. We're expecting to see the balance of those states to get 80 per cent before the end of the year. And that's the mark that the Doherty Institute has made very clear in their regular advice to the National Cabinet, to all the Premiers and Chief Ministers that that's the mark you need to achieve to be able to open safely and then stay safely open. So that's what the science says. It's also what the economics says, that once you get above 80 per cent that if you have to have restrictions beyond that point, then you're actually doing more harm to your economy than good.
MITCHELL: Prime Minister, we're talking to Prime Minister Scott Morrison, you ever told a lie in public life?
PRIME MINISTER: I don't believe I have, no.
MITCHELL: How does it feel when a former mate, Malcolm Turnbull calls you a serial liar?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, look, in politics people take sledges, sadly, all the time, Neil. Anyone in public life...
MITCHELL: But he's a mate, he was a friend and he's saying you have always been a liar? That must hurt.
PRIME MINISTER: Look, Neil, I've learnt in public life over a long period of time to not have a thin skin and to not get bitter, to just stay focussed on the job. You'll get slings and arrows from everywhere. You'll get, there'll be politics, you'll get them from the media, you'll get them from time to time. And if you haven't got the thick skin to deal with that, you're in the wrong job. And it's not something that distracts me. I tend not to take things personally. I think that's a good practice if you want to be in public life. Just stay focussed on the job and don't get distracted by the sledges.
MITCHELL: So have you spoken to him?
PRIME MINISTER: No.
MITCHELL: Don't want to?
PRIME MINISTER: No.
MITCHELL: You've got a former Prime Minister of Australia, you've got the French President both calling you a liar. And it doesn't worry you? Even politically? I mean, personally...
PRIME MINISTER: No, because I'm making the right decisions, Neil. I'm making the decision to protect Australia's national defence interests, to ensure that we got rid of and didn't proceed with a contract which wasn't going to do the right thing for Australia. I wasn't intimidated by the fact that might upset some people and ruffle some feathers. And I knew it was the right decision for Australia to work with the United States and the United Kingdom to get access to technology that only one other country has received since 1958 and to ensure that Australia had access to that. And so I was prepared to make the decisions that I had no doubt was going to draw some flak and people would disagree with it. And if you don't have the strength to do that, if you don't have the strength to deal with the sledges and other things that come your way, well you shouldn't be in this job. And I certainly, I think, got a pretty good track record of being able to cop what comes and to be able to keep focussed on the job and get things done and stand up for what I think's right.
MITCHELL: Well do you want Malcolm Turnbull out of the Liberal Party?
PRIME MINISTER: That's not a judgement for me, it's a matter for the Liberal Party and I don't see the need for that. I mean, if others do, that's fine, but it's just not something I think about, Neil. Why would I spend a second worrying about ...
MITCHELL: Well because Malcolm Turnbull has written, Malcolm Turnbull has written the Labor Party campaign strategy for the next election. All they do is here's your saying he's a liar. A serial liar. There's their advertising campaign, you must have to worry about that.
PRIME MINISTER: Neil, we've spent more time in this interview talking about it than I've spent time actually even thinking about it.
MITCHELL: Well, let's get onto something else. The US inflation figures, highest in 31 years. The US interest rates will have to go up. This has to affect Australia now, whether the Reserve moves interest rates or not, the banks will. We have to see increased interest rates in this country, do we not?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, what I would say is it does highlight that we're moving into a different economic phase and the economic uncertainty that is going to come with the post-pandemic period is very real. Now what's going on in the United States is different to what's going on here. Our Reserve Bank Governor, I think, has also made that very clear. So I don't think it is a direct knock on or a direct follow on here.
But it is right to say that, and I made this point earlier this week in my speech to the Victorian Chamber of Commerce, that the changes of what's happening in the global economy means an environment in which economic management of Australia is going to be more important than ever. I mean, we've done extremely well through the pandemic to get to where we are. Next month's jobs figures, I think will look very different. I mean, the last most recent ones that came out yesterday, that was still at a time when both Victoria and New South Wales were still in heavy lockdowns. So obviously we'll see that turn around and the more recent data is demonstrating that. But you are right to say that, of course, there is uncertainty ahead when it comes to the global economy and what we're seeing with inflation and supply chain pressures and, you know, there are labour shortages now in Australia and that will put pressure on. So economic management will be more important than ever and the choices we make about that. And that's why we're for a business led growth economy, not governments being at the centre. And that's what our plans are about.
MITCHELL: But are you saying here though, the average person having just been through a couple of years of pandemic is looking at a tough economic few years?
PRIME MINISTER: Challenges are what I'd more say, Neil. I think there are great economic opportunities, too, in the years ahead. I think Australia is well positioned at a whole range of new sectors. I mean, today, making further announcements about our manufacturing plants. I mean, we've got a million people back in manufacturing jobs now. Under Labor, one in eight manufacturing jobs went. We've got those jobs back and we're growing our manufacturing sector. We've got over $30 million further investments we're making, announcing today in the food and beverage manufacturing sector, which is our biggest manufacturing employment sector. I'm catching up with the Premier later today to talk about medical manufacturing in particular here in Victoria. And that's an area which I think Victoria, and Melbourne in particular, has a real strong advantage in. We'll be talking about infrastructure and a few other things as well. But what's important is getting people into jobs and having certainty of employment, and our government has a very strong track record when it comes to getting Australians in jobs and off welfare.
MITCHELL: Well, the election is next year. You're not going any earlier, correct? It will be next year?
PRIME MINISTER: Yes, I've been saying that for a year.
MITCHELL: Yeah, no, so you'll decide, what, sometime January when you're going to call it?
PRIME MINISTER: We'll decide next year.
MITCHELL: Okay. Do you believe you'll start the underdog, will you start from behind?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, I think that's where we are now, I think that's true. I mean, that's not uncommon for incumbent government, on more than one occasion that's been the case. And, you know, as we get closer to that time, I think people will start to frame their decision. And the point I'm making is simply this. How we secure Australia's economic recovery is the big challenge now. We've come through this pandemic. It's not over yet, but we've come through this pandemic with one of the lowest fatality rates, strongest economies and highest vaccination rates in the world, and now we've got to embrace this economic recovery. And that means shifting from the pandemic mindset where you get government at the centre telling everybody what to do. We need businesses to lead our economic growth, not governments. Governments need to support it. So whether that's investments we're making in clean energy technology or manufacturing or skills training or the digital economy. We're doing all of this as part of our economic plan. But it's also important that we get these regulations which will impede investment, and that'll enable businesses now to move ahead. That's what's going to drive our growth, not governments telling people what to do.
MITCHELL: That's going to win it for you, not climate change?
PRIME MINISTER: Well climate change, we've got, you know, a very significant commitment we've made. And I think that sets that out in terms of our, the actions we're taking there, but the way we're going to ... sorry Neil.
MITCHELL: What's going to win it for you? People driving to work now, and a lot of people are driving, what's going to convince them to vote for you? What is your winning strategy? Is it climate change? Is it more car parks, more pork barrelling? What is it?
PRIME MINISTER: I answered your question a second ago. Securing Australia's economic recovery. That is the major challenge Australians face and Australia faces coming out of this pandemic. Your job, your business, how much you're paying on your household bills, on your electricity costs, because our approach to dealing with climate change isn't about putting the cost up of your petrol or your electricity. It's about putting down the costs of the choices you want to make when it might come to other forms of things that you want to buy, what sort of car you want to buy, or whatever.
But we're not about forcing people's choices. We're about giving people their choices and not having governments tell them what to do. That is really the big difference we've seen between Labor and I think Liberals and Nationals over the course of the last couple of years. I mean, the things that have had to happen over the last couple of years, these are not things that Liberals and Nationals have, you know, instinctively moved towards. And that's why we will move as quickly away from them as we possibly can when it comes to government trying to control people's lives. It's just not what we do. And we want to get back in this country to where governments support people rather than try and control them.
MITCHELL: You mentioned discussions on medical manufacturing, is that the mRNA facility?
PRIME MINISTER: Yeah, we'll have a discussion about that today. I mean, there's a lot of interest in that around the country. And so I'm looking forward to the conversation with Dan about that this evening.
MITCHELL: You going to have a holiday through Christmas?
PRIME MINISTER: I will. Yes, we will take a few days. Jenny and I and the girls are looking forward to that in January and we'll just be not far away out of Sydney
MITCHELL: And have a think then about an election?
PRIME MINISTER: Well we're always thinking about the best plans for Australia, Neil, all the time. That's my 24/7 job, whatever time of the year.
MITCHELL: Just one other thing I was going to ask you, looking at the US inflation figures, fuel prices are a big part of it. Do you think $2 a litre fuel is inevitable in Australia?
PRIME MINISTER: No, not necessarily. No, I don't think so. And I don't, see I don't take a view that almost anything is inevitable, Neil, and that's why economic choices that you make over energy policy is important. I mean, we were talking this week about fuel standards. Now the last election, and it's still Labor's policy, they want to have a fuel policy which actually puts up the price of fuel to try and force people to make other choices about what cars they're going to buy. Now, I think that's a good illustration of the difference between Liberals and Nationals and Labor. They want to put prices up on people to force them to make other choices. We want to grow the economy and let business run it and so Australians can make their own choices. That's what freedom is about.
MITCHELL: Thanks so much for your time. It's started, hasn't it, the election campaign.
PRIME MINISTER: Well, some people say it never ends. You know, that's the good thing about Australia. We're a liberal democracy and we love working with other liberal democracies. I particularly welcome the comments by the National Security Adviser in the United States, overnight. I think that's tremendous. Our AUKUS partnership is a strong and solid one. We work closely together with our like-minded partners here to deal and ensure we have a free and open Indo-Pacific. We're not double minded about that as Liberals and Nationals, the coalition government. We don't have an each way bet on those things. When it comes to national security, just like on the economy, I think Australians know that we've got the strength to continue to make the right decisions in both cases.
MITCHELL: Thank you so much for your time again, thank you.
Securing Australia's Economic Recovery
12 November 2021
Prime Minister, Minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction
The Morrison Government is securing Australia’s economic recovery by backing businesses to succeed and create jobs with a further $33 million to support Australian made food and beverage companies.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the funding was part of the latest round of the $1.3 billion Modern Manufacturing Initiative (MMI).
“Liberals and Nationals will continue to protect and grow manufacturing jobs to secure Australia’s economic recovery,” the Prime Minister said.
“More than one million Australians are once again employed in manufacturing and we want businesses to be successful and create even more jobs.
“Under Labor, one in eight manufacturing jobs were lost and Australians can’t risk this sort of economic mismanagement as we begin to open up again.”
Seven Australian companies will share in the funding, which will unlock new manufacturing opportunities, boost production, and create more jobs across the country.
The investment would boost manufacturing from Kingaroy in the north, to Hobart in the south.
Food and beverage production is the largest manufacturing sector in Australia, employing one in four manufacturing workers and contributing around $22.4 billion to our economy.
Minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction Angus Taylor said these grants would bolster the thriving food and beverage sector and unlock further significant investment from the sector.
“This funding will help some of the most innovative producers leverage technology to increase their production, while meeting growing export demand and creating new local jobs,” Minister Taylor said.
“Not only will this funding help maximise the agricultural advantages we enjoy, but it will also help regional Australia and the supply chains that operate throughout it.”
The successful Food and Beverage recipients under the Initiative are:
Sabrini Foods (VIC, NSW, SA) will use $1.4 million to become the first local manufacturer to transform Aussie dairy into extended shelf life and frozen paneer, overcoming one of the constraints to export.
Bulla (VIC) will use $4.5 million for a purpose-built facility to make new ice cream lines such as cones and sandwiches from Australian dairy for sale here and overseas.
Plenty Foods (QLD) will use its $9 million in funding to transform Australian nuts into locally-made protein nut flour.
Turbine Sunshine Coast (QLD) will use its $8.7 million in funding to establish a research and development centre and large-scale contract beverage manufacturing facility.
Mulgowie Fresh (QLD, VIC) will use its $5.1 million in funding to expand its processing capability and capacity in sweet corn and beans, increasing its supplies both domestically and in South East Asia.
Sullivans Cove Distillery (TAS) will use its $3.3 million in funding to help build its new state-of-the-art production facility, which doubles as a world-class tourism experience.
Ennio (SA) will use its $ 1.3 million in funding to develop its world-first patented technology for manufacturing nettings and casings specifically for the global meat and poultry industry.
The MMI is the centrepiece of the Government’s $1.5 billion Modern Manufacturing Strategy, designed to position Australia as a globally recognised, high-quality and sustainable manufacturing nation.
Food and Beverage is the fourth stream of funding across priority areas identified under the MMI, and follows $100 million invested in Space, Medical Products, and Resources Technology and Critical Minerals Processing announced in July.
Funding across the remaining areas of Recycling and Defence will be announced soon.
To learn more about the Strategy and the MMI visit www.industry.gov.au/manufacturing
Interview with Brad Smith, Microsoft President and Vice Chair APEC CEO Summit
11 November 2021
Brad Smith, Microsoft President and Vice Chair: Thank you, Vanessa. It's a real pleasure for me to be here with Prime Minister Scott Morrison from Australia today. Mr Prime Minister, thank you for joining us.
Prime Minister: Well, thank you, Brad and Kia Ora, to everybody in New Zealand and everyone joining us for this important session. Very happy to be here.
Brad Smith, Microsoft President and Vice Chair: Well, Prime Minister Morrison, I think one thing that's apparent to somebody like me who has the opportunity to work on a global basis on technology, is that Australia has become such a global leader. I think the country has become a global leader in the use of technology, the growth of the tech sector, as well as really in some ways, defining the next frontier in legislating and regulating technology. You have the critical infrastructure regulation, the news media bargaining code. You remain on the forefront of protecting consumers and addressing competition issues through the ACCC. I thought I might start with a question that captures all of that as you have needed to lead the government and address such a variety of issues and factors. How have you sought to prioritise issues and just to balance all of the societal interests that are at stake here?
Prime Minister: Sure. Well, look, thanks for the question. It's a very practical response that we've had here in Australia. We recognise the massive opportunities that can be delivered, obviously through digital platforms and digital technologies. That's a no brainer. And that section of our economy is growing four times faster than the rest. So it's obviously an important source of income and wealth and jobs for our country. And we embrace it 100 per cent and we have the goal of being one of the top 10 digital economies in the world by 2030. But when you're looking at your digital sector, it has developed well ahead of where the regulatory settings have been. And we have a very simple rule. The rules that apply in the real world should apply in the digital world. So whether that's antitrust or whether that's consumer protection, whether it's paying tax, whether it's respecting content and all of those sorts of issues, I mean, we can't treat the digital world like it's the Wild West and it's a lawless space and you can't have business models, which depend on it being that, either. And so the way we approach it is to set that up as a very clear rule. If you can't do it in the real world, you shouldn't be able to do it in the digital world. But equally, if you can trade in the real world, you should be able to trade in the digital world, if you can share information in the real world, you should be able to do it in the digital world as well. And so it really is about a process of modernising and bringing up to speed all of our rules, that weren't written for a digital world, and making sure that they're relevant in one. Now, we think it's very important, as I know, you know, at Microsoft and others we work with, whether it's Google or whoever, Facebook, or the many others who are involved - Amazon - it's important that those who are creating this digital world are part of that process because if you just leave it to governments to do it, well, they'll stuff it up. Because they don't understand it the same way. And I think there's always been a lot of benefit in a regulatory partnership which sees these, these rules that are put in place, which get the best out of digital platforms, but also don't let those digital platforms operate with a free kick, ie, different to what would happen in in the normal real world. So that's how we approach it. It's just a very practical project. And so whether that's our Online Safety Act, as you said, the media bargaining code or making sure that companies pay tax and where IP is recognised and all of these are just practical issues, they're not ideological questions, they're just straightforward technical issues that need to be resolved. They're better resolved in partnership because if they're not, governments will just do it anyway. And when we will do it, we won't do it as well as I think we possibly can. And each time we've done this now, I think it's got better and better and better because the partnership has got better. I think the sector hasn't resisted these things as much as it frankly did originally. And business models now, I think, are taking into account a broader accountability and responsibility for the safety of the digital world in which in which citizens, and particularly Australian citizens, reside.
Brad Smith, Microsoft President and Vice Chair: But at the same time that you've been moving forward with this legal framework, the tech sector in the Australian economy has continued to grow. It's been an interesting, as you said, you want to be a top 10 digital economy by 2030. I think you might achieve that result well ahead of 2030. What I find interesting in part, is when you look at the Australian economy today, the two largest sectors are financial services and mining. That's probably not surprising to people who follow Australia. But technology is now the third largest sector in the economy. When you just take stock of what the Australian economy has been doing in recent years, to what do you attribute that rapid growth?
Prime Minister: Well, "getting it", for one. Understanding that that's where the world's heading, and being very practical about our response, and the responses aren't just what we've just been talking about in the regulatory space. I mean, if I go back to what we've been doing in fintech and when I was the treasurer, we created the regulatory sandbox, which was enabling, you know, the developers to be able to operate and try new products and get them to a point. It's very frustrating, I think, in the tech sector where the regulation can kill a venture before it even gets out of the ground, basically. And so creating that space and that room for innovation and the technology to, to be able to flourish. In addition to that, I think it's about getting the right skill sets in place. We are investing a lot in the digital skills of our population, of our workforce. It's one of those critical skill sets that we want in our workforce. And it really doesn't matter what industry you're in. Whether you are in the manufacturing industry, the services industry or even the high tech sector itself. These critical skills, whether at a vocational level or a high end level in our universities, you know, where we're looking to make advances in critical technologies like AI and so on, we need the high end skills. But basically your population needs those skills. Australians are actually quite good at applying technology. Kiwis are the same. You know, we develop quite a bit ourselves. That's true. But much of it is developed elsewhere. The real value comes, as you guys know Microsoft, is when you apply it to problems. Apply it to businesses. Get it utilised within your small business sector in particular. I mean, take this, for example. I mean, we've put in place our payments platform now, which is 24-7. And one of the most important things, for financial architecture, is to ensure you can get immediate payment. Now, if you're a small business and you don't have to wait seven days to get paid, your cashflow completely changes. All of your financial risks change. Everything that you can potentially do changes. Something as simple as that infrastructure investment, which is similarly what we're doing with the National Broadband Network, which is rolled out right across the country now. And the other thing I'd add to this, in addition to the infrastructure, is cyber security. Cyber security now is more important than ever. All systems are vulnerable both to, you know, criminal actors, state actors. This is the real world of cyber security. And, you know, for it to be successful, people have to feel very safe in there from a commercial point of view. And we've always given that a very high priority as a government, not just for our own systems, but to ensure we're working with our corporate sector to ensure that they can have confidence about their cyber security systems.
Brad Smith, Microsoft President and Vice Chair: Why don't we pick up on that last theme for a moment, because you have been, and the whole government has been so focussed on cyber security, including in the context of supply chains. Can you tell us a little bit about what you're aiming to accomplish when you're thinking about the resilience and security of supply chains for technology and what that means to Australia?
Prime Minister: Well, you've just hit it on the head. Security and resilience. I mean, that's what it's about. And Narendra Modi, I quote him often on this, supply chains used to be about cost and efficiency, and that is still true. But he says now more than ever, they're about trust. And that trust is about who you're doing business with and we've learnt that during this pandemic. Trusted supply chains are frankly more valuable to you than some, that might actually be a bit cheaper, because you know they'll always be there. And the resilience of those supply chains, yes, it requires their digital security, but it also means that there is a a like mindedness between partners now that is probably more important than ever. Those supply chains, yes, they have to be resilient. Yes, they have to be secure. But they also have to be competitive. And what I mean by that, particularly in the rare earths and critical minerals sector, we discussed this at the the summit, which President Biden pulled together at the end of the G20 in Rome, just last week. And both Canada and Australia were making these points very, very strong. Justin and I were making these points. That, you know, the critical minerals rare earths supply chain and what it feeds into with new energy technologies and what will take the world towards net zero, at the moment is very dependent on largely one supplier, which has the ability to apply a lot of monopolistic power to prevent other supply chains being developed. Now, Australia feels very strongly about ensuring that the alternative supply chains around rare earths and critical minerals can be developed and support whole new lists of customers that operate at various points down the chain. And this is something we've been championing through the Quad. Together with Australia, the United States, Japan and India. Four countries that, between us, can encompass entire supply chains, particularly in the technology and clean energy supply chain space. And so that is a very important project for us. We all have different roles to play in it and ensuring that we can build that up over time. We'd love to see European economies become part of that as well. I've discussed it in the past with President Macron, for example. And so whether it's in the UK or across in Europe, we do see real opportunities to develop these alternative supply chains. Because it also feeds, not just in sort of digital technologies, but it plays a huge role, obviously, in the in the new energy technologies as well. And next year, early next year, we're hosting, through the Quad, a clean energy supply chain summit in Australia. Now, that's not about getting politicians together, they get together often enough through APEC and all the other events. This is about getting the scientists, the technologies, the entrepreneurs, the industrialists. Yeah, there will be a few of us there too. But there will be regulators there as well. And getting those minds in the room about, you know, where we can actually develop these partnerships for these supply chains to be durable, resilient, trusted and secure. And most of all, competitive.
Brad Smith, Microsoft President and Vice Chair: And let's, if we could, build a little bit more on that looking forward. Obviously, the world is not yet out of COVID, but I think around the world people are increasingly looking beyond it. They're talking about what needs to come next. Technology played a role during the pandemic of just sort of sustaining economic activity. When you look at Australia's economy and the country's needs, say, a year or two from now post-pandemic, are there new or different challenges we're all going to need to talk about? Is the role of technology going to need to adapt in any particular way to help support that?
Prime Minister: The short answer is yes, but the short answer to that question is always yes. I think regardless of what's occurred. During the pandemic, our digital pathway just accelerated like most, I think, advanced economies around the world. There'd always been a bit of a resistance, not through anything other than people were comfortable with the way they were doing their books, the way they were invoicing, the way they were talking to their customers. There was a familiarity to do that, particularly in the SME sector. Enter COVID, the only way you can talk to people then is on a digital platform. And so businesses, you know, radically changed their business models overnight to survive and that has caused an innovation in the application of technology to so many businesses in Australia and really given us a very strong leap forward in this space. Similarly, for consumers, I mean the amount of retail and so on, which is now being done through parcels and post - in the United States, that's already been happening for some time - but that really has come on very strongly here. And so the role of big distribution centres and the technology that support those and how that feeds in, you know, operating in real-time and the competition is now on is how quickly can you get it from the click to the front door that's all happening now in Australia. And that's, I think, good for our economy because it's challenging our economy and our business models. Then you've got the consumer interface with this. One of the disturbing and distressing parts of the pandemic is because all of our kids have been online doing school and frankly, just catching up with their friends and doing all of those sorts of things, the presence of criminal behaviour online and predators and all of this actually is accelerated also. You know, the crooks are just as good as applying technology as anyone else. And we've seen that in this country, we've seen it all in all countries. And that's why our regulatory systems and our protection systems really have to kick in and go to a whole other level. And that's where I do really appeal to the digital platforms in the sector themselves. We remember after Christchurch - the terrible events there with the massacre - and I took a proposal to the G20 following that and of course, there was the Christchurch Call led by Prime Minister Ardern together with President Macron. And the digital platforms have responded to that and they do have the technological capabilities, I think, to prevent the digital platforms, the internet being used as a weapon for terrorists. But we need to now make sure that it's not being used as a tool for people to harass people, to exploit people, to intimidate people. We're seeing this more and more the impact on the mental health of our young people, through cyber bullying and cyber abuse. And there are two key issues here, I think. The first one is to recognise that, you know, digital platforms are publishers. And the second one is free speech only works in a free society where there isn't anonymity. Free speech isn't about to say whatever you want and not be accountable for it. That's the whole point of free speech. Say whatever you like in our country, but you're accountable for what you say. We can't have digital platforms providing a shield for people to engage in online abuse, because if we allow that to happen, digital platforms will not be a safe space for consumers, for our children - we won't get the right outcomes on education and skills development and the broader, you know, commercial opportunities that are there. So we all have to work, I think, even more closely together to make the digital world safe. And that's not just about hacking and cyber security. That's about the interactions of people online. And we don't think those rules are tough enough and we are moving forward on that. Online privacy for young people, I mean young people, particularly children, shouldn't be able to have their data used in such a way where they can be targeted and we all know how the algorithms work. You know, adults are different. Kids need protection. So they're the challenges I think we have to have an environment that keeps the world safe online. Just like as I started out saying, they're the rules that exist in the real world - they should exist online too.
Brad Smith, Microsoft President and Vice Chair: Well, I know we're now coming to a close so I want to say thank you, but I think you've just laid out in such an exceptional way a framework for all of us to think about. We're accelerating use of technology, as you put it - it's not just about development, but it's about deployment, it's about applying technology. And that really requires that we learn from the pandemic. As you said, invest in the digital skills for people, stimulate its use, make sure it's subject to the rule of law, that we have supply chain resilience and trust and that we keep people safe. So I think in short order, you've given us a lot of the formula that we're all going to need to talk even more about. So thank you. Certainly, from my perspective and on behalf of Microsoft, it's a real privilege to have the opportunity to talk.
Prime Minister: You guys are a great partner and I appreciate the work you do with us as well, because government has to do their bit too. And we've learnt that in the pandemic as well, you know, everything from downloading a digital vaccination certificate, to scanning codes when you're going into restaurants, you know, the government has been doing its bit, ensuring that we're delivering more of our services directly, which is a way of getting your whole population digital. So it's the big challenge, but I think it's going to mean a lot for all of our economies and I'm very pleased it's on the APEC agenda. Thanks for the chat.
Brad Smith, Microsoft President and Vice Chair: Ok, thank you. Thank you again.
Interview with Allison Langdon, Today Show
11 November 2021
Allison Langdon: Prime Minister, good morning.
Prime Minister: Good morning, Ally.
Langdon: Well, why haven't you kissed a baby yet? Because then we'd know for sure.
Prime Minister: Well, today, as you know, it's all about Remembrance Day. And I'm here at the Doncaster RSL, I'll be at the Shrine a little later and we're just giving thanks and paying our respects to all those who have sacrificed so much for Australians over so many generations. And whether it's most recently, on the way back from overseas recently I had the great privilege to call in in Dubai at AMAB and thank all of those who were so involved in evacuating 4,100 people fleeing to safety. And now so many of those are living in Australia now, becoming Australians. And so whether it's saying thank you to them or of course, those who went ashore at Gallipoli all those years ago, we honour them and their sacrifice.
Langdon: Well said, it is an incredibly important day. Let's just talk election for a moment, because Albo wants December. Are you running a little scared of a Christmas election?
Prime Minister: No, I always said it was next year. I've been saying that all year. Others have speculated, he thought it was going to be this year, I don't know why he would think that. I've been pretty clear. I said, you know, governments are elected to serve for those three years and that's always been my intention. We've got a lot of work to do. The job now, particularly, is focused on securing our economic recovery. We've come through COVID incredibly well compared to so many other countries around the world, which was reinforced to me when I was overseas. And we're now going to have one of the highest vaccination rates in the world. Victoria, here, will soon hit the 90 per cent mark. New South Wales is already there. The other states are really starting to catch up, which is great. And so with that, one of the lowest fatality rates in the world from COVID and one of the strongest economies coming through COVID as well, the figures we've seen just this morning on jobs data picking up, confidence coming back. And certainly here in Melbourne as I've been out and about catching up with people who are just so pleased to be out and about, whether it's at the pub last night or other places. Melbourne is really coming back to life, which is great.
Langdon: All right. So look, it's next year. Whether it's March or May, the Coalition is behind in the polls. Do you have a trust problem?
Prime Minister: Of course not, because at the moment and at all times, you know, elections are always closely fought in Australia. They always have been. And what this election is going to be about is who is best placed to secure this economic recovery and ensure that we can stand up for Australia's interests, particularly in a part of the world, which is becoming increasingly uncertain. You've got to have the strength to stand up for Australia and stand up for the policies that are needed to secure this recovery and keep Australians safe …
Langdon: But when a world leader and a former Prime Minister call you a liar, and whether that's true or not, you must be concerned that that will stick?
Prime Minister: Well, no. I see Anthony Albanese backed in the Chinese Government and a number of others in having a crack at me as well. I mean, that's up for him. What I'm always going to do is stand up for Australia's interests. And whether that's making sure we make the right decisions about what submarines Australia needs to defend our interests or what's the right set of climate policies to protect jobs in rural and regional areas and the suburbs of our major cities, I'm always going to be standing up for Australia. I'm not seeking to pander to others in other places and try and impress them. I have one audience and that's the Australian people. And I have to do the right thing for them. And that often means you've got to be strong on these things and you've got to be prepared to cop the flak and the sledges that they come from, whether it's from Anthony Albanese or elsewhere.
Langdon: I'll tell you what, over the last couple of weeks you've had to have broad shoulders. There's been a few coming in from different directions.
Prime Minister: Well, it goes with the job, Ally.
Langdon: You just mentioned climate policies there too, the $1 billion fund for low emission technologies that you announced yesterday. So we've got the likes of Matt Canavan, he's going to cross the floor on it. One Nation thinks it's a waste of money. You'll need Labor's support and Anthony Albanese told us this morning that you don't have it at this point. So is it dead before it even gets started?
Prime Minister: Well, it's important that we do do it, and Labor should support it. They've already voted against, in the Parliament, us being able to invest in carbon capture and storage. Now this is an important technology. Not just me saying it, President Biden is saying it, Bill Gates is saying it. These are the technologies that actually will get you to net zero by 2050 without having to put taxes on, without telling people what to do. See, the Australian way that we're getting emissions down, and it's important to recognise Australia's emissions are down by more than 20 per cent. There are only four countries in the G20 that has a better record than that. And when you look at our emissions reduction as a share of our economy, only the UK has, we rank second in the G20. We've got the highest rate of rooftop solar in the world. And so Australians are getting on and doing it. But we're doing it, not by telling them what to do and taxes. That's the Labor way. The Liberal-Nationals way is to invest in this technology, so we'll be able to hit those marks and let the entrepreneurs, the risk takers, the scientists, the manufacturers, they're the ones who are going to make this work. Not governments getting together and telling everybody what to do. That's Labor's approach.
Langdon: It's very strange hearing a Coalition leader put climate change front and centre of an election. Electric cars, do you think we'll see any more of Bill Shorten's policies in the lead up to the election?
Prime Minister: Well, it all depends if he tries and rolls Anthony Albanese, I suppose.
Langdon: Nice come back.
Prime Minister: But you know, who knows what their policies are. Because, you know, it's after COP26 now. We still don't know what their 2030 target is. We still have no idea how they think they're going to get to net zero by 2050. They're always happy to be rubbishing our plans, but our plans are about backing Australians in the decisions they want to make, not telling them what to do. So if he doesn't like our plans, he must be wanting to tell people what to do and put taxes on them. Because that's what we've seen before. I mean, their electric vehicles policy was about pushing up the price of petrol to force people to change. That's not our view. I'm not going to go and send lots of taxpayers money to multinational car companies to bolster their profits so they can try and sell cars in Australia.
Langdon: So when are we going to see your modelling? When are we going to see that, the modelling?
Prime Minister: Well, before we get back to Parliament.
Langdon: So will we potentially see that this week?
Prime Minister: You’ll see it soon.
Langdon: All right. Hey, I want to talk to you, too, about Paul Keating. It was an extraordinary defence of China yesterday saying it's not a threat. Is he out of line?
Prime Minister: Well, I don't think he's out of line with a lot of people in the Labor Party, he's certainly out of line with what our Government's policy is, and we certainly don't share that view. As people know, we've taken a very strong position here in the Indo-Pacific and we've taken a very strong stance standing up for Australia's interests. And we've worked closely with our allies and our partners right across the region, not just the United States, but of course, Japan and India and the many nations of ASEAN who we work closely with, to make sure that we aren't pushed around in this part of the world. But the views that Paul Keating has expressed is in line with many, I think, in the Labor Party. And that's why, you know, I said at the start, how we secure Australia's interests in our part of the world, you've got to be strong. You've got to be able to stand up for it. You've got to be able to see things clearly. And we are. That's why we're investing more than the nation has invested in our defence at any time since the Second World War. And so that is why, you know, our Government is focused on this challenge. And I think Australians get it. We want to have a positive relationship with countries like China and trade with them. But at the same time, we're not going to get pushed around.
Langdon: What did you think about that line, about the submarines being toothpicks? It was quite odd yesterday.
Prime Minister: Oh look, again, the Labor Party walks both sides of the street on these issues, and that's why you really can't trust them when it comes to these national security issues. I mean, Anthony Albanese was joining with the Chinese Government and others from overseas having an attack on me the other day. So when it comes to these issues, you need someone who actually is prepared to stand up for what Australia wants, stands up for the decisions that we're taking. And sure, you get a bit of flak here and there, but you've got to be prepared to cop that to do what's right for Australia. With the Labor Party, on these issues, people know they're just not solid.
Langdon: So just give us an idea then. Campaigning, are we looking at four months here or are we potentially looking at six months?
Prime Minister: Well, the election is due, of course, in May of next year. That's when it has to be held by. And I've always been pretty open about this as you probably know, Ally. People have been asking me about it for ages and they were saying it was going to be this year. I said, no, it's not. It's going to be in 2022.
Langdon: So May 2022, is that right?
Prime Minister: It's due, it's due in May of next year. So the election will be next year. And I've always been very clear about that. Others have speculated, I don't know why they've done that. I've been pretty upfront about it, actually.
Langdon: I think we just all want to know, you know. I mean, I know we haven't seen you kissing babies yet, but we did see you pouring beers.
Karl Stefanovic: There we are.
Prime Minister: Yeah, that was fun.
Langdon: That's alright, so if this job doesn't work out for you, there you go. I mean, you know, a bartender.
Prime Minister: I can get down to Northies.
Langdon: Well pubs are crying out for workers, so there you go.
Prime Minister: They certainly are.
Langdon: Prime Minister, always nice to talk to you.
Prime Minister: You too, Ally, take care.
Interview with David Koch and Natalie Barr, Sunrise
11 November 2021
David Koch: The Prime Minister joins us now from Melbourne. Prime Minister, thanks for your time. Why do you think the Australian public has fallen out of love with you?
Prime Minister: Well, what matters now is the economic recovery out of this pandemic. I've been down here in Melbourne this week, it's fantastic to see how the economy's opening up again. It's great to see people out and about here in Melbourne. Today's Remembrance Day, of course, a very important day. I'm here at the Doncaster RSL and people will be coming together and frankly giving thanks for the tremendous sacrifice of our Diggers over more than 100 years. And so we, you know, we think of them today. And my job is to focus on securing this economic recovery. That's what matters to Australians. We're seeing people getting back into jobs, we're seeing the recovery lift off, which is exactly what we want to see. And securing that recovery and the decisions we make to do that is really what the future is all about.
Natalie Barr: Yeah, you're right. It is so important for this country, isn't it? But the polls, 54 to 46, that's a big gap. Is that why you've started this election campaign so early?
Prime Minister: Well, I said before we went to Glasgow that it was really important that we go and explain the decisions that we're making. I mean, Australia has reduced our emissions by more than 20 per cent. There are only four countries in the G20 that have actually done better than Australia on that front. And when you look at emissions as a share of our size of our economy, only the United Kingdom has. We've got the highest rate of rooftop solar in the world. We put more renewable energy installed into the grid in one year than the Labor Party did in six. So Australia is getting this done, but we're going to keep getting it done, not by telling people what to do. We're going to do it by the “can do” spirit of Australians who just get on with it. Our entrepreneurs, our scientists, the people who risk their own money to get these things happening in Australia, which has already seen us achieve more than 20 per cent reductions in our emissions. So Australia's track record is strong, it's positive and we're getting on with it. And we're not going to do it by telling people what to do in their lives. I think Australians have had enough of governments telling them what to do in their lives, particularly over the course of this pandemic. And so it's now important that we get governments out of the way and let the Australian people and businesses get the economy roaring back to life.
Koch: Yeah, Prime Minister, you've launched this Low Emissions Technology Fund and a new electric vehicles policy. You've got a big focus on sort of reducing our emissions, encouraging electronic, electric vehicles. But Australians remember this back in your last election campaign. This is what you said.
[Excerpt plays]
Koch: It's a massive backflip, isn't it? What changed your view? It was almost a come to Jesus moment for you.
Prime Minister: Well, Bill Shorten and the Labor Party wanted to force people to do this. And I still don't want to do that. You don't get people to do something else by pushing up the price of what they're currently doing. And that's still what Labor wants to do. They want to put up your petrol prices. They want to increase your cost of living to force you to make other choices. We want to respect the choices people make. People want to buy electric cars. Fantastic. That's what our policy was at the last election. But the way you achieve that is ensuring you drive down the technologies. And that's our approach to getting emissions down. Not by forcing choices on people. It's about respecting the choices Australians want to make. We back them, they make good decisions. Remember, the Labor Party wanted to spend $6 billion paying people to get the vaccine that they'd already got. We trusted the Australian people and look at our vaccine rates now. On the pandemic, we're going to have one of the highest vaccination rates in the world, and that goes with having one of the lowest fatality rates for COVID and one of the strongest economies amongst the advanced world as we've come through COVID. So that's a pretty good trifecta of achievements that the Australian people had been able to put out there.
Barr: Prime Minister, the Labor Party weren't forcing people, were they? It wasn't a mandate at the last election that they were introducing. It was a non-binding target of 50 per cent. Wasn't that the same as yours?
Prime Minister: Well, no. They were going to put up the price of fuel. Now that's not going to help anybody sitting out there commuting on their way to work today from the outer suburbs, whether it's here in Melbourne or up in Sydney or Brisbane or elsewhere. They were going to put up the cost of fuel to try and force people to switch over. That's not how we do things. We don't, we're not a government that goes around trying to tell people what to do. I think Australians have had a gutful of governments telling them what to do in their lives. That's not how you're going to spark up your economy, going around telling businesses what they have to do with more regulation. What they want is to be able to get people, staff back in their businesses. They're opening up again. We're seeing that happening. I mean, having come through this most difficult part of COVID, getting those vaccination rates to one of the highest in the world, now we've got to secure that economic recovery. Economic management has never been [more] important than right now. And the choices we make, the way we seek to run our economy and let the business sector get ahead now, that is going to be crucial to securing people's prosperity going forward. Now the Labor Party likes to tell people what to do. They love telling people what to do. That's not my approach. That's not my government's approach.
Koch: OK. Just finally, New South Wales Premier Bob Carr, would be interested in your thoughts on his comments, has called for anti-vaxxers to be stripped of Medicare for ignoring the warning signs of the virus. Has he got a point?
Prime Minister: Well, again, again, I mean, we don't have a mandatory vaccine policy as a Federal Government. That's not something that we have done. We respect people's choices. Of course, we want people to get vaccinated and they have been getting vaccinated under these policies. I mean, New South Wales is now at 90 per cent double dose. Victoria will soon be there. We've got other states we've had less COVID now at 80 per cent up in Queensland when it comes to their first doses. We'll hit 90 per cent first dose this weekend for the whole country. And we got there because we've just trusted Australians. They know what they need to do. But, you know, we live in a country where we're not going to go around demonising those who want to make their own choices. I think that's very important. That's not how our government sees it. Of course, we want people to get vaccinated, but we're not going to take that heavy handed approach, which the Labor Party just always seems to like doing, whether it's Bob Carr or many of the others who we've seen come down with those types of views. It's not our approach.
Koch: All right. Prime Minister, appreciate your time. Thank you.
Additional Vaccines For Indonesia's Recovery
10 November 2021
Prime Minister, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Women
Australia will share a further 7.5 million COVID-19 doses with our good friend and partner Indonesia as we deepen our cooperation on fostering a shared regional recovery from the pandemic.
The additional doses committed brings the Morrison Government’s total pledge to 10 million doses for Indonesia from Australia’s supply.
Tomorrow, 1.2 million of these doses will arrive in Indonesia, bringing our total shared to date to 3.4 million, with more deliveries planned soon.
These commitments, together with a $107 million vaccine procurement through UNICEF will deliver over 20 million doses to Indonesia under our health partnership to support Indonesia’s national vaccine rollout.
Supporting equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines for our region and ensuring their safe roll out are the highest priorities for Australia. Australia has committed to supply up to 60 million doses to the Indo-Pacific by the end of 2022. Nearly 7.2 million of these doses will have been delivered to countries across the Indo-Pacific by the end of this week.
Through the Australia-Indonesia Health Security Partnership, we are partnering with Indonesia to strengthen health system foundations to ensure the continuation of quality health services during the pandemic.
Australia has also committed more than $25 million in emergency assistance for Indonesia in 2021.
This has included the delivery of a $12 million package of oxygen-related and other medical supplies, as well as a commitment of $13 million to expand our work with NGOs, UN agencies, community organisations and provincial governments to support Indonesia’s local health response and enhanced community resilience.
Our previous support has included ventilators, oxygen concentrators and rapid antigen tests. Australia will continue to partner with Indonesia as we stand together to strengthen our region’s health security through the recovery and beyond.
Q&A, Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry
10 November 2021
MR PAUL GUERRA, CEO, VICTORIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY: Thank you, Prime Minister. We’ve got time for some audience questions, which I know you’re open to as well, so start thinking about what those questions might be. But, I might kick it off, Prime Minister. Can-do capitalism and a highly vaccinated population that we will be, and almost are in Victoria. In fact, I look at that across the rest of the country as well. Those two together, with the innovation that you talked about, all the way back to Sir John Monash. We've got people from Monash University here today. How do we use that, in your opinion, to Victoria's advantage, and perhaps the rest of Australia's advantage as well?
PRIME MINISTER: One of the biggest challenges I think we're facing at the moment is we've got to get regulation out of the way of our economy. When I was speaking to the clean tech entrepreneurs and financiers in Glasgow, I said, ‘What can we do?’ They didn’t ask for subsidies. There was no sort of, sort of rent-seeking fiesta, well at least at that occasion. It was simply, can you please ensure that when we develop these technologies and we seek to establish manufacturing and we seek to do all these things, that we're not going to get tied up in all of these approval processes that put costs onto these things that don't have to be there. And this is one of the important things we did, I mean, National Cabinet has got a pretty bad rap from some, but it, what many people wouldn’t have seen is a lot of the things that have changed underneath the surface.
You know, one of the key things that has chaired is the group that Josh chairs - The Council on Federal Financial Relations - which has been around a while, but plugs into this new National Cabinet structure, and their job, and Josh has a tough job, convincing states and territories to streamline and deregulate, because we can do that at a federal level, but as you know, at the Victorian Chamber - if I was talking to other chambers they’d have a similar view - much of the and most of the regulation that businesses face is actually at a state and local level. We have to do our job and ASIC and APRA and in super and financial institutions and so on. That’s our bailiwick. And the EPBC Act, which we're seeking to reform at the moment and getting no help from the Labor Party who tend to like telling people what to do with their lives. But it's, what's important is that we break through that. And you're right, we are primed and ready to go in this country. We’re set up, but we've got to make sure that governments in Australia remember that we are a can do capitalist country, not a don’t do Governments country.
MR PAUL GUERRA, CEO, VICTORIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY: That's the theme that we're going to continue it on, now we’re going to push, because it resonates so much in the room. Have we got any questions from out there? We’ve got one on down, one down here. Table eight. Pascale Quester from Swinburne’s got her hand up.
QUESTION: Prime Minister, thank you for being here today. You’ll be pleased to know that despite my French accent, I'm not going to ask anything about submarines.
PRIME MINISTER: The answer will still be the same.
QUESTION: So my question relates to the message that you have for young people and students today as they kind of face Australia's future coming out of the pandemic. Thank you.
PRIME MINISTER: Get excited, be positive, be optimistic. Alan Tudge knows this. I’ve been chatting to the students at Wesley. I really feel for those kids who, particularly been through eleven, Year 11 and Year 12 the last two years. I mean, they’ve had what are often two of the, you know, hopefully for most young people in Australia, two of the best years of their lives. And they’ve had them taken away from them by this pandemic. And that's a terrible thing that they've had to endure, but they’ve pushed through. I think they’ll be a resilient generation like, unlike others, because of what they've had to get through, and parents of of kids in those years I’m sure will appreciate that, and well done to you as well helping your kids get through.
What we've pumped into mental health support, particularly for young people right over the country, is very much about recognising that, and I think the services, particularly headspace - I mentioned Pat before - has been quite extraordinary in, I think, seeing people through. Australia’s had a very strong focus on mental health during the pandemic. I’d say we’ve been a world leader in that space, to get us through the pandemic. But having come through that, I really just want young people to feel excited.
You know, when I was at COP26, I sat there and I listened to people, one after the other, talking about the problem, but not enough people talking about the solution, and being optimistic about it. And when I sat around the G20 table, particularly looking directly at like-minded, market-based, capitalist, liberal democracy countries. And Australia’s saying, this is how we've always done this, as countries. I don't know why we want to borrow from from other countries that have a, have a more interventionist approach from governments. I mean, we've had to do our fair share of that, but I think we have to realise and recognise, you know, what we sprung from. Alan’s trying to do that in our education curriculum and make sure our young people understand what makes this country tick and what makes it vibrant. You know, I go to all these events and honestly, Australians are always, aren’t they Alan, the most optimistic people in the room. Alan Finkel knows that too. They go, you Australians, you are hopelessly optimistic. And I go, yes, because we see the world differently and we look at things like climate change and go, we can deal with that. We're not going to be beaten by it, we're not going to get depressed about it. We're going to fix it, because that's what you do in Australia. You don’t whinge and whine about it. You just get on with it and you get through the challenge. And I think that's one of the reasons why Australians have pushed through this pandemic so much better than other countries. Yeah, it's tough. It's been awful, particularly here in Melbourne. It's been just awful. But here you all are, here you all are. We’re going to roar back. That's my message to the young people. We’re going to roar back in this country, and we’re going to roar back with them.
MR PAUL GUERRA, CEO, VICTORIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY: Finding solutions to problems is one of the aspects that business is very, very good at. And as the young kids come through …
PRIME MINISTER: They’re better at it than governments.
MR PAUL GUERRA, CEO, VICTORIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY: Yeah, that's why we like it. I'm going to come to table 18. Richard, I think you've got one.
QUESTION: [Inaudible], a small to medium-sized enterprise here in Melbourne. The skilled immigration, when will we get some staff to help with this recovery? We need people and we just can't get them. I mean, I can take ten today if they were available. Can you make a comment on that, please.
PRIME MINISTER: I want to get them back as soon as possible, and [inaudible] I believe we’ll have, certainly skilled migration happening, well, it will be, it’s happening already now. But Singapore opens up on the 21st of November. I think we’ll move fairly quickly beyond that into Korea and Japan, and before the end of the year I hope we're opening up even more. We've just got to get through these next couple of weeks. And, you know, Australians have been through a lot. They don't want to see it get the wobbles now in terms of how we're managing the safely reopening process. And I think it's going really well. I commend both the Victorian and New South Wales Governments for what they've done in abolishing, you know, quarantine for those coming from overseas who’ve had two dose vaccinations. I mean, vaccination was the key part of the answer. So, people have been vaccinated, so that has to be honoured. And I think, you know, the experience that is being lived out now is a positive one in both states. I think both states have, I give credit where it's due in terms of planning for the impact on hospitals. That has been a key focus of the National Cabinet for many, many, many months now, preparing for this moment, and the plans are working. And I think that should be encouragement to other states that will remain locked up for a bit longer. And we hope that will end as soon as possible. Because once you get 80 per cent, as the Doherty Institute shows, well, you can, you can move on, you can move on. And, so, I think we'll see that here in Victoria and New South Wales very soon, is my, is my short answer to that question. I wish it would be true for the rest of the country. And I think other parts of the country, which will be suffering the same skill shortages that you already are here, will need to see those borders open for their own economic performance. And otherwise it will cause more harm, having things locked up, than opening them up.
MR PAUL GUERRA, CEO, VICTORIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY: Thanks Tim. And I know Minister Tudge, sitting with Duncan and Pascale today, would’ve, the reflection back on international students as they start to come back in, with international students ...
PRIME MINISTER: Students will be back, I think, before the end of the year, particularly here in Victoria.
MR PAUL GUERRA, CEO, VICTORIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY: That’s great to hear. That is very good news and, of course, it flows to the tourism side as well, and I’ve got members out there …
PRIME MINISTER: Touch wood, everything continuing to go as it is.
MR PAUL GUERRA, CEO, VICTORIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY: I know time is precious, so I'm just going to finish with one, then we'll take you back down into the audience, perhaps finish off with a coffee and meet with a couple of people. But speaking of coffee, the next couple of days in Melbourne, what's in store?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, what I'm just really enjoying doing, cause like all of you, we've been, we've been kept at home or kept in the office. If I’d had to do another 14-day quarantine after coming back, it would have been my fifth in the last year, and I'm probably the most quarantined Prime Minister anywhere in the world. They were all pleased to know when I was over there that I wasn't going to have to quarantine this time. So, it was good to be there, but it's great to be back. And I think Australians know that there's nothing I love more than just getting out and about and amongst amongst the country - whether it's out in the far reaches of northern Queensland or, you know, the great streets of Melbourne. And that’s why it’s just a real thrill for us all to be, you know, we, I think we've really rediscovered, if there's one big lesson we take out of these awful times, it’s just to never take those liberties and freedoms ever for granted again.
We had a period of prosperity in this country, unmatched anywhere in the world. And if there was one thing that, if there was only, if there's another side to that coin, it was that we could possibly get a bit complacent about how important that was. We cannot take our economy for granted. We cannot take the freedoms we have for granted. The most simple of things - whether that's the freedom of our our political structure here in Australia and our democracy, which many other countries in the world don't enjoy, the way our economy works, and the important economic decisions and decisions we’ll have to make in, next year and into the future. The pandemic has taught us not to take our economy and our freedoms for granted. And, so, the choices we make about that and the importance of the leadership that is needed to to protect our country to ensure that our economy is secured and our recovery is secured, I think is the big reminder for me, and I'm looking forward to sharing that with Australians all around the country and connecting again.
MR PAUL GUERRA, CEO, VICTORIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY: Great way to finish, great to have you back in Melbourne, great to have you back in Victoria. We hope it's not too long before you come back again. Thank you.
Billion Dollar Fund to Drive Low Emissions Technology Investment
10 November 2021
Prime Minister, Minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction
The Morrison Government will establish a new $1 billion technology fund to turbocharge investment in Australian companies to develop new low emissions technology.
The Low Emissions Technology Commercialisation Fund (the Fund) will combine $500 million of new capital for the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) with $500 million from private sector investors.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the Fund would back Australian early stage companies to develop new technology.
“Our Plan to reach net zero by 2050 is an Australian one that’s focused on technology not taxes and this Fund backs in Australian companies to find new solutions,” the Prime Minister said.
“Australia can become a world leader in creating low emissions technology that is both affordable and scalable, helping get emissions down while creating jobs.
“We are backing Australian businesses by creating an environment for their successful ideas to thrive in contrast to Labor’s approach to always wanting to tax success.”
Minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction Angus Taylor said the Fund demonstrates the Government’s commitment to achieve net zero emissions through investments in technology.
“The Fund will support Australian innovators to develop their intellectual property and grow their businesses in Australia,” Minister Taylor said.
“It will address a gap in the Australian market, where currently small, complex, technology-focused start-ups can be considered to be too risky to finance.
“Together with other new initiatives, like the increased investment in establishing seven Clean Hydrogen Industrial Hubs around Australia, today’s announcement brings our commitment to more than $21 billion of public investment in low emissions technologies by 2030.
“Our investment will leverage 3-5x that amount in co-investment from the private sector and other levels of government, or between $84 billion and $126 billion in total investment by 2030.”
The Government will introduce legislation to establish the Fund in this term of Parliament. The Fund is expected to earn a positive return for taxpayers.
The Fund builds on the CEFC’s success as the world’s largest government-owned green bank. The CEFC has committed $9.5 billion across 220 large scale projects and 23,700 smaller-scale transactions, driving $33 billion in new investments across the economy.
Driving Consumer Choice & Uptake of Low-Emissions Vehicles
09 November 2021
The Hon. Scott Morrison MP
Prime Minister
The Hon. Angus Taylor MP
Minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction
The Morrison Government has released the first national Future Fuels and Vehicles Strategy backed by an expanded $250 million Future Fuels Fund investment.
The technology-led Strategy will see the Government work with industry to enhance consumer choice, create jobs and reduce emissions in Australia’s transport sector.
The expanded Future Fuels Fund, will focus on four key areas of investment, including:
Public electric vehicle charging and hydrogen refuelling infrastructure
Heavy and long-distance vehicle technologies
Commercial fleets
Household smart charging
The Government will deliver the Strategy with an expanded $250 million Future Fuels Fund, including $178 million in new funding. The Strategy is expected to result in more than $500 million of combined private and public co-investment directed into the uptake of future fuels in Australia and the creation of more than 2,600 new jobs.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the Future Fuels and Vehicles Strategy delivers on the Government’s recently released Long-Term Emissions Reduction Plan, which provides an Australian way to achieving net zero emissions by 2050.
“Our Plan promised technology not taxes, choices not mandates and driving down the cost of new technologies, and that’s exactly what this Strategy delivers to Australians,” the Prime Minister said.
“Australians love their family sedan, farmers rely on their trusted ute and our economy counts on trucks and trains to deliver goods from coast to coast.
“We will not be forcing Australians out of the car they want to drive or penalising those who can least afford it through bans or taxes. Instead, the Strategy will work to drive down the cost of low and zero emission vehicles, and enhance consumer choice.
“We will do this by creating the right environment for industry co-investment in technology development.
“Just as Australians have taken their own decision to embrace roof-top solar at the highest rate in the world, when new vehicle technologies are cost competitive Australians will embrace them too.”
Minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction Angus Taylor said the Strategy is about helping motorists embrace the increasing range of technologies available to keep them moving in an informed and fair way.
“The Future Fuels and Vehicles Strategy sets out the Government’s technology-led approach to reducing transport emissions while ensuring Australians can drive their preferred type of vehicle – be that petrol, diesel, hydrogen or electric powered," Minister Taylor said.
“Our technology-led approach is already helping to enhance consumer and industry confidence. In the last eight months there has been a 20 per cent increase in the number of low emissions vehicle models available in Australia.
“We are continuing to invest in the right infrastructure, while ensuring both those in the cities and regions can access this $250 million Fund.
“Like we saw with our world-leading rooftop solar uptake, we know that when new technologies reach price parity, Australians rapidly adopt them. We will take these lessons from solar integration into our reform work to ensure our grid is ‘EV ready’ to keep the lights on and bills affordable for everyone.
“Voluntary adoption of electric vehicles is the right pathway for reducing transport emissions over the long term. Stringent standards, bans or regressive taxes will limit choice and increase the upfront costs of cars for Australians.”
The Government will also take the lead on reforms through Energy Ministers to ensure the electricity grid is ready for an increase in electric vehicles. These reforms will help to keep the grid reliable and affordable, along with avoiding the estimated $224 million in electricity network upgrades needed by 2030. Without this action, these costs would be passed on to all electricity consumers, even those who do not choose to buy an electric vehicle.
In addition, the Government will continue to work closely with the states and territories to address barriers to low emission vehicle uptake in their jurisdictions. We will also ensure consumers have access to reliable, easy-to-understand information on low emission vehicles to enable informed choices. Many Australians are already making the choice to switch to new technology vehicles, with the EV Council reporting that battery electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles hit a record 8,688 sales in the first half of 2021. This is compared to 6,900 in 2020.
The Future Fuels and Vehicles Strategy contributes to Australia’s Long Term Emissions Reduction Plan by enabling the accelerated deployment of electric vehicles and other low emission transport technologies.
It also complements other government policies that will deliver strong economic and emissions reduction outcomes, including the Technology Investment Roadmap, Modern Manufacturing Strategy, National Hydrogen Strategy and the forthcoming Bioenergy Roadmap.
The additional investment in the Future Fuels Fund come off the back of a successful round one of funding, which leveraged $55 million in private sector co-investment to drive a seven-fold increase in the number of fast charging stations across urban and regional centres.
Interview with 2HD with Richard and Shanna
8 November 2021
RICHARD: Out and about for the first time in a long time, our Prime Minister Scott Morrison, who is on the line. Good morning, Prime Minister.
SHANNA: Good morning.
PRIME MINISTER: Good morning, Richard. Good morning, Shanna.
RICHARD: Nice to have you here. Must be nice to not have to quarantine when you returned last week thanks to our high vaccination rate. A bit of a change for you?
PRIME MINISTER: Yes, it is. It would have been the fifth time in the past year, so I'm pleased that that's not the case, but more pleased for all of all of New South Wales and right across the country, we’re over 80 per cent fully vaccinated over 16s now, which is a tremendous achievement for the country and in New South Wales, we should crack that 90 per cent this week. So New South Wales has done a terrific job.
RICHARD: But in some states and amongst some groups, particularly indigenous communities, there is still a long way to go PM.
PRIME MINISTER: Yeah, that's true. And Western Australia and in Queensland, but they'll soon join the rest of the state, the rest of the country, I should say, over the next month or so in getting up to those 80 per cent rates. There is a challenge in indigenous communities, particularly in both of those states. In New South Wales, the indigenous rates of vaccinations have been lifting and there's been some really good work there. But that is a challenge that we find all around the world. I've spoken to other leaders, particularly in the United States, about the challenges of vaccinating indigenous populations, and we're on a similar track to those countries.
SHANNA: Prime Minister, can you explain to our listeners the purpose of your visit to the region today?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, I'm looking forward to coming up to announce a $1.5 million grant, ARENA grant, to assess the feasibility of a green hydrogen hub at the Port of Newcastle. This is all about plugging Newcastle into the hydrogen industry, a hydrogen hub we want to see occur in the Hunter. This is the new source of energy which is driving so much of the world's response to climate change, having just returned from Glasgow, this is one of the key technologies that will enable not just Australia to get there, but developing countries, particularly in our part of the world, our major trading partners and Japan and Korea in particular. And this will ensure the ongoing prosperity of the Hunter. I mean, when I think about our plan for low emissions to reach net zero, I mean, the Hunter is at the centre of it as and regions just like it all around the country. So I'm really looking forward to coming up. We're working with other partners, Port of Newcastle, Macquarie Group and Lake Macquarie City Council. University of Newcastle. It's a great team effort.
RICHARD: A lot of so-called experts have described our, you know, zero 2050 emissions plan as being a technology development plan. I read one comment over the weekend, referred to it as an exercise in imagining things get better over time, and it does rely exactly on that, things getting better over time and this hydrogen that the whole hydrogen, are we going to see it in our lifetime, do you think?
PRIME MINISTER: Of course we will. Of course we will. We're already seeing exports coming out of Victoria now, going up to Japan and this is the whole point. You don't have to tax people's jobs away or regulate their jobs away to hit net zero. This is one of the great myths that I think has been exposed. I mean, the way you get to net zero is not by putting restrictions on people. You do it by driving down the cost of the new technologies such as hydrogen that makes this achievable. I mean, that's what that's what you know, the plan is. Not to go around making people buy this or buy that or do this or do that. I mean, that's how the Labor Party likes to do things, telling everybody what to do. Our plan is different to that. Our plan is to invest. We're investing over $20 billion in developing these technologies, drawing in another $60 to $100 billion from private sector, many of whom I met with when I was overseas. There is a torrent of investment capital going into these technologies, and our job is to direct them to ensure that Australia wins from this and in particular, the Hunter.
SHANNA: Federal member for Shortland, Pat Conroy, said your speech wasn't well received at the COP26 in Glasgow and adding to this, obviously the recent spat with France over the dumped submarine deal. Do you think your image has been tarnished in the last month or so?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, Labor always sort of sticks up for people who have a crack at Australia. I mean, our position is about developing technology so we don't take people's jobs away. Labor seems to have a very different approach. I mean, I didn't see him here, but I mean, what I do know is Nell McGill will be running against him at the next election, and she's a fantastic local mum and lawyer who does a great job working in that community. And I think she provides a real alternative to the usual sort of political, politically shrill sort of commentary we get from the local member.
RICHARD: We spoke to a number of listeners who actually live in the red zone, the PFAS Williamtown area, very disappointed about the special activation precinct being shrunk to practically nothing. Banks won't lend them money, and if people want to buy into that area, they won't lend them money. Not a lot seemed to have happened as far as the federal government, and don't forget it is a defence force base where this has come from. The remediation of that red zone, is there, can we expect an announcement prior to the election?
PRIME MINISTER: We've got $86 million in remediation works that is taking place there. The settlement has been supported, that we worked through over some period of time. There's ongoing remediation works that is occurring as a result of what has occurred there. And you know, that's what we'll continue to do. We'll honour the things that we've said we will do and we will continue to roll those out in that community.
SHANNA: Now, the recent Independent Commission Against Corruption inquiry into former New South Wales Premier Gladys Berejiklian has really reignited calls for a federal ICAC. But Prime Minister, are you for or against the implementation of a federal ICAC?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, not one that looks like what happens in New South Wales, that's for sure. I mean, I've seen that process now over a long time, and it's not one that really commends itself to us. We have an alternative proposal which we've worked up over the last year. Legislation for that, draft legislation will be released soon. So, you know, but if the Labor Party doesn't support that, well, not much we can do to advance that. But no, the type of sort of thing we've seen happen in New South Wales, that type of model is not something we're looking at at a federal level.
RICHARD: A number of government MPs and including yourself, have spoken out against the renewal of the PEP11 exploration licence off the coast of, well, your electorate and end up here in the Hunter as well. Keith Pitt's the sole person responsible for making a call on that, but he seems reluctant to do it. Can we expect an announcement re PEP11?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, I think people know my view about this. It's very clear. I can assure you that that's the position that I will continue to progress. And I think that should give people a lot of comfort that the Prime Minister is not supportive of that.
RICHARD: Okay, coal, it's obviously a major part of not only the Hunter Valley's economy, New South Wales and the Australian economy. Hypothetical. Do you think the New South Wales Government should approve any new coal mines or the expansion of any existing mines, Prime Minister?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, provided they meet all the environmental regulations, I don't see why not. And you know, those would have to be commercially based. I mean, there's certainly no suggestion that there'd be any sort of taxpayers money to subsidise those things. Where there are commercially viable projects that meet all the environmental guidelines and regulations and planning arrangements, then I don't see any reason why they should be withheld.
SHANNA: Now, Prime Minister, are you going to give us a Richard and Shanna exclusive with a date for the federal election?
PRIME MINISTER: Next year.
RICHARD: Next year. All right, well thank you very much for your time.
SHANNA: Yeah, we appreciate it.
RICHARD: Really appreciate it. And you must be appreciating being able to get out and about now.
PRIME MINISTER: Very much, yeah. And I'm looking forward to the big projects that are happening all around the country. Really big infrastructure projects. But I'm very excited about what's happening up in the Hunter, and I know that Brooke Vitnell and Nell McGill, they want to be part of that plan to back in and creating those opportunities that we'll be announcing today.
RICHARD: Thank you for your time. Have a good day.
PRIME MINISTER: Thanks a lot.
Investment to Support Newcastle Port’s Hydrogen Potential
8 November 2021
Prime Minister, Minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction
The potential of the Hunter to be a leader of Australia’s clean hydrogen industry continues to grow with work beginning on the viability of a hydrogen hub at the Port of Newcastle.
The Morrison Government, through the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), will deliver an extra $1.5 million to support Macquarie Group’s Green Investment Group, the Port of Newcastle and project partners to conduct a $3 million study on the hub’s potential.
The study will consider the best location in the Port for hydrogen infrastructure, with Newcastle having great potential both as a local energy provider and exporter of clean hydrogen.
Other project partners include Snowy Hydro, Idemitsu, Keolis Downer, Lake Macquarie, Jemena, and project collaborators Macquarie Agriculture and the University of Newcastle.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the study would identify the region’s current and future potential as a hydrogen hub.
“Newcastle and the Hunter will be a key part of the $1.2 billion we’re investing in Australia’s hydrogen industry,” the Prime Minister said.
“The region has been key to Australia’s energy security and with continuing strong demand for baseload power fuels and the potential as a clean energy hub, Newcastle and the Hunter will be an important part of Australia’s transition under our plan to reach net zero emissions by 2050.
“Newcastle is the biggest port on the east coast, with 50 per cent of its capacity available for future industry development making it a great asset for the region to become one of the seven Clean Hydrogen Industrial Hubs my government is delivering.
“Not only does it have the highly skilled workforce and natural resources to sustain a hydrogen industry, the Port also has existing export routes to the important markets of Japan and Korea.
“We’re committed to developing a world-leading hydrogen industry while providing investment and growth opportunities for our communities like Newcastle and the Hunter.”
Minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction Angus Taylor said the Government was determined to reach the goal of producing clean hydrogen at a competitive price, and this work underway in the Hunter will help Australia to achieve that goal.
“This feasibility study will investigate the deployment of a 40 MW electrolyser, which would be four times bigger than the current largest electrolysers in the world,” Minister Taylor said.
“Producing hydrogen in the Hunter not only provides fantastic export opportunities, but also the chance to grow local industries such as using clean ammonia for domestic fertiliser use.”
“Importantly, Government is partnering with industry, business and researchers to create new economic opportunities and new jobs.
“We expect the future Australian hydrogen industry to directly support more than 16,000 jobs by 2050, plus an additional 13,000 jobs from the construction of related renewable energy infrastructure. Australian hydrogen production for export and domestic use could also generate more than $50 billion in additional GDP by 2050. It’s a win-win.”
The Morrison Government released the National Hydrogen Strategy in 2019, which sets out a vision for Australia to become a major global hydrogen supplier by 2030.
Producing clean hydrogen under $2 a kilogram (‘H2 under 2’) is a priority under the Government’s Technology Investment Roadmap, part of the long-term plan to reach net zero by 2050.
The Government is investing more than $1.2 billion to accelerate the development of an Australian hydrogen industry, including $464 million to develop up to seven Clean Hydrogen Industrial Hubs in regional Australia.
Hydrogen is a flexible, safe, transportable and storable fuel that when used produces no carbon emissions.
The Late Sir James Gobbo AC CVO QC
8 November 2021
Sir James Gobbo was the quintessential Australian success story.
The son of Italian migrants, James spoke little English during his childhood.
However, a powerful intellect and drive resulted in him being awarded a Rhodes Scholarship 70 years ago.
He went on to be a barrister, Queens Counsel, Judge of the Victorian Supreme Court, Lieutenant-Governor of Victoria and ultimately Governor of Victoria.
Sir James was rightly proud of his rich Italian heritage and of the multicultural nation he served. In so many ways Sir James was the father of modern multiculturalism in Australia, which stands as one of his most significant legacies.
He had a deep Catholic faith and was a recipient of the Knight Grand Cross of the Order of St Gregory from The Vatican.
Sir James gave generously of his time to so many causes throughout his life including the Council for the Order of Australia, the National Library of Australia and the Australian Multicultural Foundation.
He was married to Lady Shirley for more than sixty years.
On behalf of the Australian Government, I extend my condolences to Lady Shirley and his family.
M4-M5 Link Tunnels: The Final Breakthrough
5 November 2021
Prime Minister, Premier of New South Wales, Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts, New South Wales Minister for Tansport and Roads
The final tunnelling breakthrough on the M4-M5 Link Tunnels has been completed, marking a major construction milestone in Australia’s largest road infrastructure project.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the $16.8 billion project was cutting travel times and supporting thousands of families with work as Sydney and Australia were reopening from COVID lockdowns.
“This breakthrough isn’t just for a tunnel, but it’s a breakthrough for getting people home sooner and safer and helping workers to move around,” the Prime Minister said.
“As well as the 9,000 jobs this project has been delivering, the tunnel is going to make it easier for people across Sydney to pick up work and jobs that just wouldn’t have been possible before with traffic.
“As we reopen Sydney and Australia, projects like this bypass and our record $110 billion infrastructure investment are going to give our economy even more of a boost.”
New South Wales Premier Dominic Perrottet said the third stage of WestConnex is now another step closer to forming a western bypass of the Sydney CBD.
“This project will change the lives of thousands of people, bypassing dozens of sets of traffic lights and allowing an uninterrupted drive from the Blue Mountains to the city,” the Premier said.
“As part of the New South Wales Government’s record $108.5 billion investment pipeline, WestConnex is already easing congestion, creating jobs and connecting communities, right across our city.
“Our Government has its eye to the future and this breakthrough will complete a ‘missing link’ between the new M4 Tunnels at Haberfield and the M8 at St Peters.”
Federal Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts Paul Fletcher said the Commonwealth Government had co-funded WestConnex from the outset with a grant of $1.5 billion and a concessional loan of $2 billion.
“This is a major milestone in what is one of the most significant road infrastructure projects in the country, which is already delivering major benefits for Sydney commuters by reducing travel times, easing congestion and improving safety,” Minister Fletcher said.
“When opened to traffic in 2023, the M4-M5 Link Tunnels and Rozelle Interchange will complete the WestConnex project, providing improved links between key employment hubs and local communities.”
NSW Minister for Transport and Roads Rob Stokes said 22 of the 33 kilometres of WestConnex would be underground, including the 7.5 kilometres that make up the M4-M5 Link Tunnels.
“This final breakthrough means both the north and southbound tunnels are connected for the first time, with roadheaders carving out the rock 43 metres below ground at Leichhardt,” Minister Stokes said.
“The milestone is an enormous credit to every one of the 9,000 workers and sub-contractors who’ve worked on the project, ensuring construction continues safely.
“The M4-M5 Link Tunnels will remove tens of thousands of vehicles from surrounding streets, including Parramatta Road, and will help slash up to 40 minutes from an average peak journey between Parramatta and the Sydney Airport.”
Transurban CEO Scott Charlton said drivers are already enjoying the benefits of WestConnex, with close to 150 million trips made on the first two stages in the last financial year.
“The New M4 Tunnels and M8 have been transformative for Sydney, by easing traffic congestion and improving liveability for local communities,” Mr Charlton said.
National Cabinet Statement
05 November 2021
National Cabinet met today to discuss Australia’s COVID-19 response, recent outbreaks of COVID-19 and the Australian COVID-19 Vaccine Strategy.
Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly provided an update on the current COVID-19 situation and health response across Australia including new principles for test, trace, isolate and quarantine as well as public health and safety measures.
Since the beginning of the pandemic there have been 177,393 confirmed cases in Australia and, sadly, 1,795 people have died. More than 44 million tests have been undertaken. Testing has increased nationally over recent days with 1,088,293 tests reported in the past 7 days.
Globally there have been over 248 million cases and sadly over 5 million deaths, with 502,386 new cases and 7,801 deaths reported in the last 24 hours. The COVID-19 pandemic continues to surge in many countries around the world.
Australia’s COVID-19 vaccine roll out continues to expand. To date 36.4 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines have been administered in Australia, including a record 181,833 doses in the previous 24 hours.
In the previous 7 days, more than 1.1 million vaccines have been administered in Australia. More than 89 per cent of the Australian population aged 16 years and over have now had a first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, including over 95 per cent of over 50 year olds and more than 99 per cent of over 70 year olds.
More than 79 per cent of Australians aged 16 years and over are now fully vaccinated, including more than 87 per cent of over 50 year olds and more than 92 per cent of Australians over 70 years of age.
Lieutenant General John Frewen, DSC, AM, Coordinator General of the National COVID Vaccine Taskforce (Operation COVID Shield) also reported on work underway to support a higher level of vaccination uptake amongst Indigenous Australians. All leaders reiterated the importance of Australians, especially those in vulnerable groups, to get two doses of a COVID-19 vaccination.
Lt General Frewen, Commonwealth Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly and Secretary of the Commonwealth Department of Health Professor Brendan Murphy also provided an update on boosters and third dose vaccinations.
National Cabinet and the National Federation Reform Council agreed to meet next on Friday 10 December.
Vaccination and Booster Plans
National Cabinet discussed the roll out of the booster program following approvals by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and Australian Technology Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) supporting COVID-19 boosters for Australians aged 18 and over who have received two doses at least six months ago.
The booster program has commenced for immunocompromised Australians and high priority groups. Already around 150,000 third doses have been administered. The booster program will open more broadly on 8 November 2021.
The booster roll out will continue to utilise the existing vaccination infrastructure with around 10,000 general practices and pharmacies, augmented by in-reach services and state clinics across Australia. Commonwealth funding under the vaccine schedule of the National Partnership on COVID-19 Response will continue.
Lt General Frewen provided an update on plans to accelerate the roll out for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across all jurisdictions in order to deliver vaccinations in partnership with Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) and relevant jurisdictions. With supplies available, there are significant opportunities available to be vaccinated across urban, rural, remote and very remote areas. Hesitancy continues to be a factor in low uptake, with all jurisdictions introducing measures to reduce hesitancy.
National Cabinet received advice from the Chief Medical Officer on emerging scientific evidence of the benefits of vaccinating for 5-11 year olds. A vaccination program for children aged 5-11 years will be implemented, if supported by upcoming regulatory decisions from the TGA and advice from ATAGI.
Ensuring COVID-19 Outbreak Readiness for Indigenous Communities
National Cabinet noted the risks of COVID-19 outbreaks for Indigenous communities from the easing restrictions in Phases B and C of the National Plan to transition Australia’s National COVID-19 Response, particularly where vaccination rates are lower, including in regional and remote communities.
National Cabinet noted recent developments provided an opportunity to update existing outbreak preparedness plans, including revised Communicable Diseases Network Australia (CDNA) National Guidance for remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities for COVID-19, due to be updated in early November; revised Doherty modelling of outbreak scenarios which take higher vaccination rates into account; and learnings from recent outbreaks.
National Cabinet agreed that the Commonwealth and all jurisdictions will update outbreak management plans, in partnership with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community sector, and ensure that Emergency Management Australia (EMA) is consulted in the updated planning, and that plans include timely requests for support through EMA where needed, particularly to support localised vaccine acceleration and/or establishing quarantine facilities.
The Commonwealth and all jurisdictions will return to National Cabinet in December with updated outbreak management plans for final agreement.
National Plan to Transition Australia’s COVID-19 Response
National Cabinet received its final update from Professor Jodie McVernon from the Doherty Institute on the second phase of modelling work under the National Plan to transition Australia’s National COVID-19 Response.
National Cabinet noted that this modelling, which incorporates updated parameters and recent evidence, confirms that Doherty’s previous findings regarding the thresholds for moving to Phases B and C of the National Plan remain robust.
The modelling also confirmed the importance of high vaccine coverage in the Australian population, combined with public health strategies. Streamlined public health responses, such as testing and isolating only close contacts, combined with high vaccination rates, can also reduce transmission risks. It also finds shorter periods of quarantine below 14 days may be effective for vaccinated people testing positive.
Doherty found that localised health strategies may be required with high case numbers and for key high risk groups, areas and settings, including Indigenous communities and in schools.
The modelling found that cases resulting from international arrivals would be manageable once 80 per cent or more of the eligible Australian population is fully vaccinated.
Doherty found that surveillance in high risk areas to identify outbreaks early and contact management can reduce infections, keep schools open and minimise disruptions to face-to-face learning.
The Doherty Institute, in consultation with the CDNA and the AHPPC, identified strategies to streamline and focus test, trace, isolate and quarantine responses as jurisdictions move into Phases B and C of the National Plan in the context of increasing caseloads, the current Delta strain and high vaccine coverage.
National Cabinet thanked the Doherty Institute and Professor McVernon for their work which has informed the development and implementation of the National Plan.
The Taskforce summary of these findings is attached and will be available on www.pmc.gov.au. Detailed modelling reports will be released by The Doherty Institute over the coming days.
Doherty Institute COVID-19 modelling: 2nd tranche [PDF 651 KB]
Living with COVID-19 - Revised Test, Trace, Isolate and Quarantine (TTIQ) and Public Health and Social Measures (PHSMs)
National Cabinet received updated advice from AHPPC on test, trace, isolate and quarantine (TTIQ) measures and public health and social measures (PHSMs) in place during the transition to living with COVID-19.
National Cabinet agreed to the AHPPC principles of test, trace, isolate and quarantine (TTIQ) applicable from Phase B of the National Plan, and the AHPPC principles to guide the application of public health and social measures (PHSM) appropriate to maintain disease control.
National Cabinet further agreed to adopt the baseline PHSM with the implementation of Phase C of the National Plan, with flexibility to apply variable PHSM in communities with less than 80 per cent vaccination coverage, and as required by specific epidemiological circumstances.
National Cabinet also agreed, from Phase C, to adopt a risk-based approach to changes to quarantine arrangements for contacts, including differential arrangements for fully vaccinated close contacts.
For vaccinated primary close contacts:
Jurisdictions to adopt an appropriate testing regime
Jurisdictions to consider risk-based quarantine arrangements for fully vaccinated primary contacts, including no quarantine or minimal quarantine for up to 7 days
Casual contacts, where identified, required only to seek testing and isolate if experiencing symptoms, and avoid high risk settings until a negative result
Unvaccinated close contacts quarantining for 14 days
The National Coordinating Mechanism will develop and communicate TTIQ approaches to maintain operation of key sectors of the economy (including food distribution) in high-case scenarios, in consultation with relevant government and non-government bodies.
National Cabinet further agreed that the Commonwealth Department of Health with the AHPPC will develop a nationally consistent framework for the use of Rapid Antigen Testing (RAT), including recommended cadence for screening and outbreak management, protocols for management of positive RAT and advice on high risk settings and prevalence.
National Cabinet further noted the Second Review of Quarantine Arrangements in Australia and thanked Ms Jane Halton AO PSM on the recommendations which align with the phases in the National Plan to transition Australia’s National COVID-19 Response.
Living with COVID-19 - Health System Capacity
National Cabinet received an update on progress being made by all jurisdictions on enhancing health system capacity planning under the various phases of the National Plan to Transition Australia’s National COVID-19 response.
All states and territories have confirmed that each has sufficient health system capacity to transition to living with COVID-19 and under different levels of community transmission.
National Cabinet agreed to release updated Doherty Institute modelling in coming days on health system capacities at living with COVID and surge capacity at different levels of community transmission.
National Cabinet noted the Commonwealth’s additional support for the health sector during the transition to living with COVID, including primary health care support, the minimum funding guarantee for hospitals continuing through 2021-22, the extension of COVID-19 AUSMAT Support for Vulnerable Australian Communities and support to facilitating overseas health practitioner migration.
National Cabinet agreed to release a revised Common Operating Picture including revised metrics for health system capacity.
National Cabinet endorsed the AHPPC papers on vaccinations of home care and disability care workers.
Borders and International Travel
National Cabinet noted the successful reopening of international borders with no quarantine into New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory and Victoria for fully vaccinated international arrivals. Since the last National Cabinet:
Commonwealth has set new caps for vaccinated and unvaccinated inbound arrivals
One way travel bubble has reopened with New Zealand
Removal of restrictions on outbound travel for fully vaccinated Australians
Quarantine free travel into NSW, Victoria and ACT for fully vaccinated international arrivals, including Australians, permanent residents, immediate family, parents and exempt foreigners visa holders. Already around 7,000 fully vaccinated travellers have arrived through Sydney and Melbourne Airports
Commencement of Pacific Pathways Plan for workers from COVID free Pacific countries
Extension of travel exemptions for inbound travel for parents of Australians
Singapore two way travel bubble for Singaporean Nationals will commence on 21 November
National Cabinet also noted a paper on international cruise ship reopening.
National Cabinet noted that states and territories will control the recommencement of cruises in each jurisdiction when the Commonwealth Minister for Health and Aged Care has revoked the BioSecurity (Human Biosecurity Emergency)(Human Coronavirus with Pandemic Potential)(Emergency Requirements for Cruise Ships).
High Risk Weather Events
National Cabinet received a briefing from Emergency Management Australia on the 2021-22 High Risk Weather Season, and noted that a La Niña watch has been issued in 2021.