Media Releases
Fast-Tracking Jobs And Technologies For Space
25 February 2022
Prime Minister, Minister for Defence Industry, Minister for Science and Technology, Premier of South Australia
The Morrison Government is injecting more than $65 million to get Australian technologies into space sooner and to make our nation a leading destination for launch.
And in another major boost for the Australian space sector that will drive jobs and technology investment, the Government has also instructed the Australian Space Agency to embark on a mission to put an Australian astronaut back into space.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the new $65 million funding was part of the Government’s ongoing mission to expand the sector, invest in cutting edge technologies and create new jobs.
“Australia is ready to launch and we are backing Australian companies and workers to look up and aim high,” the Prime Minister said.
“The journey to sending an Australian into space means serious investment in local jobs, local technologies and local businesses.
“Any astronaut and any spacecraft has a team of thousands behind them, not to mention invaluable technology and research and carefully manufactured parts.
“All of that means new technologies that make things simpler and safer, the job opportunities that come from a booming industry or the technology advancements that can be applied in our everyday lives.
“That’s why, since 2018, we have invested more than $800 million as part of our mission to triple the size of the sector to $12 billion and create up to 20,000 new jobs by 2030.”
The Government will co-invest more than $32 million into the development of up to three new or existing spaceports or launch sites across Australia.
The Australian Space Agency will also receive more than $32 million to procure and provide spaceflights and services for the Australian space sector.
This will help the sector gain an important ‘flight qualification’ – a common barrier to transitioning space technology from the laboratory to space.
The more than $32 million includes a $3.5 million national student space challenge that would see student payloads sent into orbit.
The Agency has also been tasked with international partners to put an Australian astronaut back into space.
South Australia Premier Steven Marshall said the investment was a major boost for South Australia’s space sector.
“This election is all about building a stronger future and opening new opportunities for South Australians – the space sector does both,” Premier Marshall said.
“South Australia is unequivocally the Space State – we have already created nearly 1600 space jobs in the State and today’s announcement is going to see that number take off.
“We are the home of the Space Discovery Centre, Mission Control, the Australian Space Agency, the Australian Space Park and more than 90 space-related companies are already based right here in SA.
“This sector is going gangbusters and it’s going to mean our young South Australians can have a rewarding career in the space sector right here without having to move interstate or overseas.”
Minister for Science and Technology Melissa Price said this latest investment would provide Australian industry with further opportunities to grow their capability and access global supply chains – and support more launches taking off on home soil.
“This is about so much more than just the excitement or inspiration of launch,” Minister Price said.
“By investing in the growth of the Australian space sector we’re investing in the future of all Australians.
“We’re doing that through investments via the Australian Space Agency and prioritising the space sector through our Modern Manufacturing Strategy and Australia’s Economic Accelerator.”
Head of the Australian Space Agency, Enrico Palermo, said the Fast-Tracking Access to Space package would help address gaps in the local sector.
“By supporting Australian businesses and researchers to get their products into space more quickly, we are helping them to demonstrate their capabilities to the world, which in turn will create new opportunities that see them grow,” Mr Palermo said.
“This co-investment in the development of spaceports makes Australia’s intentions clear – we want to become a launch nation of choice to attract further private sector investment.
“We are already a desirable launch location thanks to a range of factors, including our unique geographic perspective and political stability – this investment will cement that reputation.”
Interview with Sabra Lane, ABC AM
24 February 2022
Sabra Lane: Prime Minister, welcome back to AM.
Prime Minister: G'day, Sabra.
Lane: Russia's embassy says Australia's sanctions are xenophobic and it's written on Facebook the country's decision on Ukraine will not be reverted. What's your response?
Prime Minister: Well, I'm used to bullies saying those sorts of things when people stand up to them. They'll spread all sorts of misinformation. We've seen all this before. I completely reject that. I mean, these points were made by the Russian ambassador when they were called in yesterday. And the position Australia is taking, I think is very firm, very clear. And in speaking to Ukraine's Prime Minister last night, it's greatly appreciated by a country that is being threatened by an autocratic bully on its own borders.
Lane: The Russian ambassador, as you say, was called in to see the head of DFAT yesterday. Was he told to pack his bags?
Prime Minister: No, and we are taking this one step at a time. We've announced the sanctions that we are putting in now and this morning I'll be meeting with the Governor-General to confirm those arrangements on the regulatory changes under the Autonomous Sanctions Act. And that will enable us to be targeting specific individuals in relation to the sanctions we've announced. And this will be just the start. And as yet, we haven't seen the full scale invasion take place in Ukraine, and let's hope that that still is averted. But Russia is at peak readiness for such a full scale invasion, that's our advice, and so that means that things are imminent. But they need to be under no doubt that any suggestion there's some pretext for what they're doing, any suggestion that they have some legitimate claim here, that has to be completely denounced. This is unprovoked, unwarranted, uncalled for. This is a sheer act of bullying, threats, intimidation and aggression against a neighbour, and should be called out as such.
Lane: Ukraine's Foreign Minister has told the UN General Assembly the sanctions announced so far by all countries don't go far enough. Putin doesn't appear to be deterred. How much further and faster are allies prepared to go to to stop him.
Prime Minister: Well, I know that ourselves, the United States and the United Kingdom are certainly prepared to go further, and we are. We're still holding other measures to be able to proceed with those. But we are working in lockstep with the US and the UK on sharing the information that we have, particularly about those individuals. I mean, Russia seems quite intent on following through on their threats of violence. I think that's very clear. And what has to be clear from the international community is that there must be costs for that. And the costs for that are, of course, the economic sanctions. But also those who are supporting an authoritarian regime that is doing this, the oligarchs and others who were involved in this, they can't profit through that. And it's important that we act in concert with all other countries to ensure that we can prevent them from being able to sort of move around and conduct their business in a way where they can be completely separate from these events. They are sponsoring these events.
Lane: What would it take for Australia and the US and the UK and other Western allies to actually take military action in Ukraine? What is the red line that has to be crossed?
Prime Minister: Well, look, that's principally a matter for Europe. I mean, it's a long way from Australia, and these issues are principally dealt with in NATO and I think that's where those decisions are ultimately taken. For Australia, it's a matter of supporting our allies and partners in the actions they're taking, not with lethal responses but in the things that we're already doing. And look, I think President Biden has made it very clear about the line that exists along NATO's borders, NATO countries, and I think that's been very clear. But what further action is taken outside of those is really a matter for the Europeans. I mean, our focus is very much on our part of the world and the situation that we face in our part of the world. That's why I've been calling all countries in our part of the world to be denouncing what are these unprovoked threats of violence against Ukraine by Russia. The idea... sorry, go ahead.
Lane: Sorry, I was just going to say, are we seeing here the limits of American power? Will anything, do you think, stop President Putin?
Prime Minister: Look, he clearly looks very intent on taking his opportunity here, and I think it's very clear he's been warming this up for some period of time. I'm pleased to see the actions of the German Government on Nord Stream, that's welcome. And it's very important that Western democracies are very clear, that they don't get caught up in economic relationships that can leave them exposed to coercion, whether it's in Russia or anywhere else. And I think these events, I think, are waking people up to these threats. You know, we're in a very different world to the one we were in a decade ago. And the world is starting to separate between those sort of authoritarian autocratic regimes who want to go and do whatever they want, wherever they want, and western liberal democracies and others who want to support the rule of law. And so Australia's position on all that I think is very, very clear. And those who favour a world order that favours freedom need to stand up for it, as we do.
Lane: How many Australians have asked for assistance to leave Ukraine?
Prime Minister: We have 185 who have registered. We think there's around 1,400 people, Australians in Ukraine, but they are predominantly dual citizens and they have elected to stay. And so we are supporting our consular operations out of Poland and a number of other bordering countries, and we're still providing that support directly within Ukraine as well. One of the issues that I discussed with Ukraine's Prime Minister last night is our preparedness to assist on a humanitarian front. We've already announced that any Ukrainians in Australia who are on visas that expire by the 30th of June, their visas will be extended by a further six months. We've got around 430 visa applications that are on foot. I've asked, I've directed the Minister for Immigration to see that they are resolved promptly, which will provide the opportunity for those on those visas to come to Australia. And we will continue to work with particularly Poland, who are likely to see, in the event of a full scale invasion, displaced persons coming across their border, and providing support to them and the rest of the international community for humanitarian assistance there.
Lane: In the case that that might happen, how many extra refugees is Australia prepared to take if there is a war and mass displacement?
Prime Minister: Well, we're considering that at the moment. But I'd stress, particularly for Ukraine, it isn't just about the humanitarian program. That's why I stress all the other visa classes that are available. There could be many who would apply under our normal visa program. So it's not just about the humanitarian program. But we have acted in these areas in the past, you'll recall the Kosovar arrangements, which was a temporary arrangement and around 4,000 Kosovars came to Australia, and they were here for a period of time, largely down around Albury-Wodonga, and then they returned. And it's ultimately the goal of displaced people that they could return home, and we would have to see what the security situation is and the events are yet to unfold. So I think a lot of that is uncertain. But what is very clear is Australia will play its part.
Lane: One Australian Ukrainian yesterday told us that he was prepared to help fight for Ukraine. Do you endorse that?
Prime Minister: Well, I would have no doubt that should a full scale invasion take place, which is likely, that you will see an ongoing insurgency within Ukraine. We've seen that in the past, and I would expect to see that.
Lane: And you would endorse Australian dual citizens going there to fight?
Prime Minister: Well, look, I'm not going to make a comment speculatively about those issues. I don't think that's helpful. And I'm not aware of the person you’re referring to or the circumstances in which the comments were made. But what I have no doubt about is that there would be an insurgency where a country is invaded by its neighbour in this way.
Lane: Oil prices could rise further for Australians as a result. How might you mitigate that? Are you considering freezing fuel excise?
Prime Minister: Well, I've seen those suggestions from others, but I mean, this is a global issue with fuel prices. And Australia's fuel prices are very high, about $1.80 at the moment. The advice we're getting, particularly out of the International Energy Agency, is that this impact is likely to be short term, it's likely to be temporary. You don't go and completely recalibrate your budget based on fluctuations in oil prices. They've gone up, they've gone down. And so we’d need to assess what the long term impact would be. But certainly the advice at the moment is that this would have a short term impact. And when these suggestions are made, I mean, the movement in oil prices quickly overwhelms any sort of movements of the nature that you've suggested. So people make these points politically, but governments, I think, have to look at these things in a bigger context.
Lane: Prime Minister, thanks for joining AM.
Prime Minister: Thanks very much, Sabra.
Interview with David Koch, Sunrise
24 February 2022
David Koch: The Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, joins me now. Prime Minister, you phoned your Ukrainian counterpart overnight. What did he have to tell you? Does he believe the invasion has started?
Prime Minister: He was very appreciative of the incredible support he's getting all around the world, and the reason he wanted to speak to us was to thank Australia for its very strong stand, and we are going to work very closely with him and other neighbouring countries, particularly Poland, where we have people right now, both providing consular support into the Ukraine. We've got some 38,000 Australians here in Australia who will be very concerned about the situation in Ukraine. They've got Ukrainian heritage, about 1,400, we think Australians in Ukraine itself. And so the situation remains on very, at the most extreme level. And I mean, the invasion has effectively already begun. We completely reject the claims that Russia have made in relation to Ukraine and the territories that they've come and effectively already occupied. And the world has to continue to stand strong on this. And the Ukrainian Prime Minister was very appreciative of the strong stand, particularly Australia, has taken across a whole range of sanctions.
Koch: Prime Minister explain to Australians why we should care. Most Australians, probably we can't find Ukraine on a map. It's not in our backyard. Why do we need to take as hard, a tough stance?
Prime Minister: This is about the sovereignty of countries. We've got a very large country in Russia, which is bullying and threatening its neighbour and telling them the decisions that they have to make. And this is not how the world should work. This is not how the rule of law and international law can work. Now, Ukraine itself is not a member of the NATO alliance, but even still, when you have a country that is bullying and seeking to use force and threats of violence to get its own way against another country, that is not something that Australia could ever support.
Koch: Again, Ukraine is not in our backyard. China is. It's always had eyes on Taiwan. Do you think they're watching this closely and the world's reaction to Russia as they have Taiwan in the back of their mind?
Prime Minister: Well, I believe China, of course, is watching this very carefully, and that's why I've been at pains to say that China needs to take as strong a position as other countries in the world and in denouncing what Russia is doing. See, what we have to be very clear about is there's no pretext for this. There's no provocation of this for Russia. There's no just cause that Russia is seeking to pursue. I've seen the statements made by the Russian Ambassador here in Australia. I completely reject that. Cyber attacks are occurring again in Ukraine, and we know the Russian troops are there and already moving. And so we cannot have it stand that there's somehow justification for this. And that's why I welcome the fact that China so far has said that yes, tension should be de-escalated. But they need to go further and denounce the threats of violence. And any suggestion there is some sort of justification or pretext for this because, bullying wherever it's occurring and particularly in our own region, is things that we and my government has always stood up very strongly to.
Koch: So what you're really saying, China, don't you even think about Taiwan?
Prime Minister: Well, of course, and that's always been our position. But equal to that, it's important that they seek to play to a much larger global role. Well, the responsibilities that go with that is to denounce bullying and threats of violence against other countries for the purpose of seeking to control them. That's what coercion is.
Koch: We can't, we can't do much in terms of sanctions because we are going to have really big trade ties with Russia, unlike Europe. Do you fear any Russian retaliation towards us in terms of trade or political sanctions?
Prime Minister: Well, I think that the most pressing threat has to do with cyber attacks, and we know that Russia has been involved in those things before. They're involved in it right now against Ukraine, and we call that out. But what we can do is the legislation our Government brought in, which enables us to target individuals in Russia and to work with our partners, particularly the United States and UK, to ensure that we can freeze their assets. They can't move their money around. And because those who benefit from the aggression of Russia and support the regime in doing that, we can't have them be able to go around and moving their money and going shopping at Harrods and, and other places around the world and travelling in and out of countries and operating their businesses. I mean, we have no quarrel with the people of Russia, and I know so many Russian Australians would be appalled about what is occurring. So this isn't about the people of Russia. This is about an autocratic, authoritarian government that is seeking to bully others and those who support that regime cannot be enabled to go about their lives and move around the world, doing their business and profiting from that violence.
Koch: And just before we let you go, know you've got to go, but poor old Queensland. Borders open, tourism returns, hit by this wild weather and flooding. Anything the government is going to do in terms of support?
Prime Minister: Well we always work closely with the Queensland Government and respond to every request that is made as we have with other floods and fires and everything. And so we'll be working closely with the Queensland Government. You're absolutely right. It is just another, another terrible time for Queensland, but Queensland is, I would argue, one of the best, if not the best in the country at responding to these disasters. And we have a very close working relationship with them to do our bit when we're called upon, and we certainly will. If it's flooded, forget it. That is my plea. If it's flooded, forget it. We've already seen a loss of life there and we don't want to see more. So that is my appeal to follow the instructions of the authorities there in Queensland. And we're thinking of you and watching that situation very closely and we will be there the moment the Queensland Government seeks our support.
Koch: Prime Minister, we know you've got to to dash. Thanks for joining us.
Prime Minister: Thank you very much, David.
Interview with Karl Stefanovic, Today Show
24 February 2022
Karl Stefanovic: PM, good morning to you. He might be a thug and a bully, but who exactly is going to stand up and bully him back?
Prime Minister: Well, from Australia's point of view, we'll stand with the United States, the United Kingdom and many other countries in doing what we can do, which is to ensure those who profit from this regime, those who support this sort of aggressive, violent, threatening behaviour, that we'll take direct sanctions on them. In a few moments, I'll be meeting with the Governor-General to ensure we get regulations enacted that gives us that authority to go and target those individuals. And so together with the United States and the UK, our AUKUS partners, we are taking the actions that we can take. And it's important that that is done, that there are consequences for this threatening and bullying and aggressive behaviour.
Stefanovic: Let's be brutally honest, though. I mean, Europe has hit Russia with the equivalent of a wet lettuce leaf, and the US under Joe Biden has completely lost its swagger.
Prime Minister: Well, look, I'm not going to lecture Europe, they're the ones that are closest to this, I mean, any more than I'd welcome Europe's lecturing Australia about what are in our strategic security interests in this part of the world and the decisions that we make about our security interests. But I mean, they're the ones whose own people, if they were to have troops deployed in Ukraine, that would have been their people, their soldiers. And, you know, they're obviously decisions that they have to take about what's in their best interests. And the United States is a NATO partner joined in that. But from our point of view, we have to send a very clear message that people who treat international borders and international law like this need to be singled out, isolated and called out. And that's what I've been seeking to do. It's not enough just to say, well, we'd like them to step back and we'd like them to not pursue this. We have to denounce specifically that they have no just cause here, Russia. There's no provocation from Ukraine. There's no legitimate interest that Russia is pursuing here. This is straight out threatening of violence to get what they want.
Stefanovic: He doesn't care...
Prime Minister: And whether that's there or anywhere else, that's not something Australia or our allies and partners will put up with.
Stefanovic: PM, he honestly, and you know, honestly, Vladimir Putin does not care. He will not stop in the face of sanctions. He spotted a weakness and he's driving his military trucks through it. That's what bullies do.
Prime Minister: Well, that is what bullies do. And this has obviously been premeditated and they've been building to this for some time. But again, that's why it's important for the entire international community to be at one, regardless of whether they’re liberal democracies or other regimes. It's not enough to just say, oh, they should sit down and talk. Any suggestion that Russia has some legitimate claim here or some legitimate interest has to be denounced by all the members of the Security Council in the United Nations, all of them. And anyone who's giving Russia aid and support and some cover on this, that's just not okay. That's not a country that's seeking to play a positive role in global politics.
Stefanovic: I'll get back to that in a second, but you're 100 per cent right. You've been around the block a few times on this. Look, no one is actually, and you're right to mention the EU, the UN and the United States, but no one is standing shoulder to shoulder with the Ukrainians. No one's sitting on the front line with weapons at the ready. Everyone's too scared.
Prime Minister: Well, look, I don't know if I'll sort of draw an analysis on that other than to say this. I spoke to Ukraine's Prime Minister last night. He was extraordinarily grateful for the position that Australia has taken and reached out to say thank you. He was very appreciative of the work that we're doing to support the Ukrainian community here in Australia. And just to remind everyone, if you're in Australia, a Ukrainian citizen and your visa runs out by the 30th of June, we will extend it by a further six months. We've taken all the visa applications of Ukrainian citizens and put them at the top of the pile, and I've asked for them to be resolved as quickly as possible so that those Ukrainian citizens might come to Australia. So we're working to deal with many of the humanitarian issues that may evolve from this, and we're working with Poland and other countries who will end up probably taking large numbers of displaced persons. We've dealt with this before with Kosovars, who had some temporary safe haven in Australia. So we're working on all those issues. So we're focussing on the things, Karl, that we can focus on, but also taking a very strong stand to send a message to any bully, any thug, anywhere that you can't use threats of violence to coerce other countries into bending to your will.
Stefanovic: He's just not going to listen to that, though. He's going to run his own race.
Prime Minister: Well, I agree with that, Karl. But that doesn't mean you don't do it. I mean, it's very important that, I suspect when he takes that action, I'd like to say if, but when he takes that action, there must be these follow on consequences. And particularly for those who are directly involved with this regime. And that's what's different now. The Autonomous Sanctions Bill that our government put in place now enables us not to target a country, but individuals. And we are swapping notes with the Americans and the British to make sure we're targeting the people who should be held to account most and freezing their assets and stopping them from moving their money around. They shouldn't be allowed to go and shop at Harrods or come down here to Australia or go and have a holiday up in North Queensland, do that sort of thing. We are shutting them out. And if the rest of the world does that, then there are genuine consequences for bullies.
Stefanovic: The issue is, for the UK and I suspect here as well, that we don't mind the colour of their money. That's been going on for decades in the UK alone. Let's talk about cyber attacks and protections from Russia. You've said all along that we're ready for it, that we've spent enough money on it. But are we still exposed?
Prime Minister: Well cyber attacks are a real threat and they're a present threat. And that is the most likely response from Russia in terms of what we've done. That's why already, for some time now, we've been working privately with many of our big companies, looking at our critical infrastructure to ensure that we can have them as best stepped up in their defences as you can. But in addition to that, now, we're making those warnings very public. And so I'd be encouraging people go to the ASD website and making sure that everything from the smallest business to the largest business, you're doing a good check on your cyber security. Because it's not just what they would seek possibly to do directly, but it's what can be collateral cyber impacts here in Australia from other computer viruses and other things that can be released that just take on a course of their own.
Stefanovic: You've said this morning that you'll be cracking down on individuals who support or don't take action against Russia. China has refused to sanction Russia. What action will we be taking on China this morning in terms of sanctions?
Prime Minister: Oh, there's no actions in relation to China. I mean, what we're talking about is those in Russia, those who are part of that regime, those who support that and benefit from that regime in Russia. That's what the law enables us to do.
Stefanovic: Isn't not taking any action in terms of deploring Russian behaviour or activity, by China not doing anything isn't that an act of will?
Prime Minister: Well, what I've been seeking to do and I've encouraged others who share my view to articulate it, and that is it's very important for China, and they have moved since I started making these comments, I'm not claiming credit for that, I'm just pleased that they at least have gone further than they had originally done in starting to say, well, no, Russia needs to step back. But what would have to go further, there can be no suggestion that Russia has some legitimate claim here or that both sides have issues and they have to work them out. No. This is unprovoked, unwarranted and as a result, there is no course that Russia could follow other than just to step back. Now, I think the likelihood of that occurring is very, very small. But China as well as all other large countries, all of those on the Security Council and more broadly, I think should be echoing what I've been saying for some time now. They should fully denounce it.
Stefanovic: If you're sitting in Taiwan, you're sitting very nervously this morning, right?
Prime Minister: Well, look, I'd caution about drawing too many strong parallels between those situations. They are quite different. But the point I would make is that countries that seek to bully and threaten, and those who don't call out countries that bully and threaten, that is concerning. And silence on those issues is very concerning in our part of the world, not just for Australia, but all countries in our region want to know that those who are a lot bigger than us are going to act in a responsible way and denounce bullying and intimidation.
Stefanovic: Let's see if they do that. PM, good to talk to you.
Prime Minister: True, fair point. Thanks, Karl.
Statement on Russia's invasion of Ukraine
24 February 2022
Prime Minister, Minister for Foreign Affairs
Australia joins our partners in condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
There is no justification for this aggression, whose cost will be borne by innocent Ukrainians.
Vladimir Putin has fabricated a feeble pretext on which to invade. Russia’s disinformation and propaganda has convinced no one.
We call on Russia to cease its illegal and unprovoked actions, and to stop violating Ukraine’s independence. Russia must reverse its breach of international law and of the UN Charter, and withdraw its military from Ukraine.
We reiterate our staunch support for Ukraine’s independence and territorial integrity – the bedrock principles of a rules-based world order.
Russia’s actions are of deep concern to Australians – especially those who have family and loved ones there.
Australia will continue playing our part to ensure Russia pays the high price this invasion warrants.
We will place financial sanctions on an additional 25 persons and four entities who have been responsible for the unprovoked and unacceptable aggression.
We will put restrictions on Australians investing in a further four financial institutions.
We will be working with like-minded countries on further consequences for Russia.
The Australian Government will continue working with our partners to keep Australians safe and defend our values and principles.
Australia's response to Russia's aggression against Ukraine
23 February 2022
Prime Minister, Minister for Foreign Affairs
The Morrison Government is taking immediate action to sanction Russian individuals, organisations and banks as part of the international effort to impose a sharp cost on Russia for its unprovoked and unacceptable aggression against Ukraine.
Under a first phase, we will impose travel bans and targeted financial sanctions on eight members of Russia’s Security Council. The Council bears responsibility for the current phase of the invasion by providing policy advice and justification to President Putin’s unilateral declaration recognising the so-called Donetsk People's Republic and the Luhansk People's Republic.
Targeted financial sanctions will mean Australian individuals and entities cannot do business with the following banks: Rossiya Bank, Promsvyazbank, IS Bank, Genbank and the Black Sea Bank for Development and Reconstruction. This is in addition to restrictions on Australians investing in the state development bank VEB.
We will amend the Autonomous Sanctions Regulations 2011 to extend existing sanctions that apply to Crimea and Sevastopol to Donetsk and Luhansk. This will impose strong economic sanctions in the regions of Donetsk and Luhansk prohibiting trade in the transport, energy, telecommunications, and oil, gas and minerals sectors.
We will also amend the Regulations to significantly broaden the scope of people and entities that Australia can list for sanctions to include those of “strategic and economic significance to Russia”. We are working with our partners to identify additional individuals who will be subject to these sanctions.
In taking these actions, we are in alignment with our key partners, the United States and the United Kingdom.
This is the beginning of our sanctions process, as we remain deeply concerned that Russia is escalating its aggression. We are determined to work with responsible nations worldwide to ensure any further invasion by Russia against its smaller, democratic neighbour incurs the high cost it deserves.
All Ukrainian nationals in Australia with a visa that is due to expire up to 30 June, will be given an automatic extension for six months.
Outstanding visa applications from Ukrainian citizens, which number approximately 430, will be prioritised and fast tracked for a decision by immigration officials, as soon as possible.
Regarding sanctions, we will not hesitate to further amend the Autonomous Sanctions Regulations 2011 to expand sanctions as necessary, and already have a wider package of sanctions on persons and entities in reserve should Russia escalate its unlawful conduct in Eastern Ukraine.
We welcome the actions taken by other likeminded countries who want to see a stable international order, notably Germany which has suspended the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline project.
$800 million to strengthen our leadership in Antarctica
22 February 2022
Prime Minister, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Minister for Women, Minister for the Environment
The Morrison Government will send a clear international signal of Australia’s world-leading Antarctic leadership with an $804.4 million investment over the next ten years to strengthen our strategic and scientific capabilities in the region.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the package would both strengthen Australia’s national interests in Antarcticaand be a jobs boost for Australians through local procurement.
“The money we are investing in drone fleets, helicopters and other vehicles will enable us to explore areas of East Antarctica’s inland that no country has ever been able to reach before,” the Prime Minister said.
“My Government will continue to back our world-class scientists and expeditioners with the necessary funding and resources, because their research on the frozen continent and in the southern ocean is critically important to Australia’s future.
“Our ongoing investment in Antarctica will directly support jobs at home, with Australian businesses, contractors, medical suppliers and providores reaping the benefits of local procurement.
“Our $800 million commitment supports the next decade of Australia’s operations in Antarctica and provides more opportunities for local businesses across Australia that support this work, especially in Tasmania.”
The new measures include:
$136.6 million to support Australia’s inland traverse capability, critical charting activities, mobile stations, environmental protection and other core activities
$109 million to increase aerial and inland capability:
$60.6 million for drone fleets and other autonomous vehicles able to map inaccessible and fragile areas of East Antarctic, establishing an ‘Antarctic eye’ with integrated censors and cameras feeding real-time information
$35 million for four new medium lift helicopters with a range of 550 kilometres that when launched from the Nuyina can access parts of the continent we could never reach previously
$13.6 million for capability development to further enhance Australia’s reach inland including investigations into modern intracontinental aeroplanes
$44.2 million in additional shipping support to enable the RSV Nuyina to focus on extended science voyages
$17.4 million for marine science in the Southern Ocean and a new state-of-the-art krill aquarium in Hobart
$14.3 million for environmental management including a ‘Cleaner Antarctica Strategy’ to remove legacy waste and to establish new ‘geographic information system’ technology to support environmental management
$7.4 million for research focused on Antarctic ice sheet science to build global understanding of climate change impacts – improving our ability to support Pacific partners to monitor information about climate and oceans, including sea level rise
$3.4 million to enhance Australia’s international engagement to support the rules and norms of the Antarctic Treaty system and promote Australia’s leadership in Antarctic affairs
The new funding package also includes $92.2 million a year from 2026-27 to further support Antarctic activities.
Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Women Marise Payne said the package would reinforce Australia’s commitment to the Antarctic Treaty system, and to promoting Tasmania as the gateway to East Antarctica.
“Our investments are a clear marker of our enduring commitment to the Antarctic Treaty system, its scientific foundations, and Australia’s leadership within it,” Minister Payne said.
“The investment will also strengthen Tasmania’s status as an international science hub and pave the way for more opportunities in the years ahead as we continue to work on further projects such as the Antarctic Science and Research Precinct under the Hobart City Deal.”
Minister for the Environment Sussan Ley said the package will significantly enhance our scientific capability which is at the heart of our leadership within the Treaty system.
“When I sit down with world leaders to discuss the Antarctic and the Southern Ocean in the face of increasing pressures, the strategic importance of our scientific leadership is clear,” Minister Ley said.
“We need to ensure that the Antarctic remains a place of science and conservation, one that is free from conflict and which is protected from exploitation.
“Science is the key to that future. This investment, together with the window of discovery that is already being opened through RSV Nuyina, will reflect Australia’s commitment to our sovereignty in the Australian Antarctic Territory and its leading voice in the region.”
$1 Billion Defence Contract Delivers Tasmania Jobs Boost
21 February 2022
Prime Minister, Minister for Defence Industry, Minister for Science and Technology
Tasmania will share in the benefits of a $1 billion defence industry contract signed by the Morrison Government last year, with around 55 new jobs to be created at Wynyard-based manufacturing company Elphinstone.
Elphinstone will manufacture 45 turrets and hulls for the Australian Army’s new Huntsman howitzers, delivering a major boost to Tasmania’s defence industry.
This is part of a $1 billion defence contract for new self-propelled howitzers for the Australian Army which was last year awarded to Hanwha Defense Australia, based in Greater Geelong.
Elphinstone will complete the steel fabrication, machining and painting of the turrets and hulls at their Wynyard factory, before shipping them to Hanwha in Geelong where the Huntsman vehicles will be assembled.
The Prime Minister said this was a major vote of confidence in Elphinstone and Tasmania.
“My Government will always back Tasmanians and ensure they benefit from our significant investment in defence industry,” the Prime Minister said.
“After decades specialising in mining manufacturing capabilities, Elphinstone has secured its first defence contract – this is a big win for our highly skilled workers in Wynyard.
“As manufacturing ramps up, around 55 new jobs will be created for locals in north-west Tasmania, in so many roles, including boilermaker welders, painters, fitters, machinists and other trades.
“Tasmanians should be proud that they will be significant contributors to increasing the firepower and security of Australian artillery capability.
“My Government can always be trusted to keep our nation and our region safe and to protect our interests in a rapidly changing global environment.”
Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price said Australian industry will play a vital role delivering and sustaining the Huntsman howitzers.
“Right across the country we are backing our small and medium businesses and creating local jobs, and Elphinstone is a prime example of this commitment to grow our defence industry,” Minister Price said.
“Tasmania has a formidable reputation for exporting niche, high-quality products and services to the world.
“I have no doubt it will continue to make an outstanding contribution to our Government’s Defence programs, boosting statewide employment and economic opportunities.
“Our Defence investments are giving Elphinstone an important opportunity to diversify its manufacturing operations.
“Our decision to back Australian industry is a demonstration of our determination to ensure that we have the ability to maintain a lethal, relevant and effective sovereign defence capability in Australia.”
In addition to the manufacture of turrets and hulls, Elphinstone will also undertake structural repairs over the life of the howitzers, including design changes and modifications in the future.
$86 million on offer to grow Australia's plantation estate
21 February 2022
Prime Minister, Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia, Deputy Leader of The Nationals, Assistant Minister for Forestry and Fisheries, Assistant Minister for Industry Development
The Morrison Government will invest more than $86 million over five years to support the establishment of new plantations for our future wood supply.
The Government will partner with states and territories to deliver this through a grants program, backing in a key component of the National Forest Industries Plan.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said that timber was a critical national resource and the Government was committed to securing its future supply.
“This program is about getting more trees in the ground and securing an Australian supply of timber for future generations,” said the Prime Minister.
“Australia has 1.77 million hectares of plantations and we want that to grow further, that’s why we’re making the largest investment of any Australian Government in this space for more than 30 years.
“Getting more trees in the right places will help to meet future demand for wood products, which at a global scale is expected to quadruple by 2050.
“The farming, fishing and forestry sectors are projected to be worth $84 billion in production value this year and my Government will keep doing everything we can to see that grow even further.”
Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia David Littleproud said this program would have long-lasting benefits for rural and regional communities.
“This program will create jobs in regional Australia, not just in the planting phase, but in 25 or 30 years’ time when that wood is harvested and processed into a truss, a timber frame or an engineered wood product,” Minister Littleproud said.
“We want to partner with states and territories who own and manage forestry resources to plan for the future and turbo-charge this industry.
“Forestry is a renewable, sustainable industry that continues to create jobs in the regions and delivers quality, Australian-made products for this country.”
Assistant Minister for Forestry and Fisheries Jonno Duniam said that this commitment was a clear indication that only a Morrison Government could be trusted to back-in the future of the forestry sector.
“In contrast to the Labor party who are intent on shutting our sustainable, world-class forest industries down, we are focused on growing them,” Assistant Minister Duniam said.
“We have worked hand-in-hand with industry to address the immediate and long-term challenges facing this sector, and will continue to back them in every step of the way.
“Whether it is opening access to carbon credits, providing support following the Black Summer bushfires, or this important $86 million investment in growing our plantation estate, our Government will always support this sector and the rural communities that rely upon it.”
For more information on the program visit: www.awe.gov.au/agriculture-land/forestry
Interview with Mike O'Loughlin, Tasmania Talks
21 February 2022
MIKE O’LOUGHLIN: Prime Minister, good morning. Thanks for your time this morning. Welcome to Tassie.
PRIME MINISTER: Great to be here.
O’LOUGHLIN: You’re in today, in Tassie today, and what announcing the $86 million for forestry, and I had a look at that regional forestry hubs map and there's a fair bit on the mainland, but it includes all of Tasmania.
PRIME MINISTER: That, that's right, and what this is about 150 million trees all around the country. But this is just goes further to demonstrate our commitment, particularly to the Tasmanian forestry industry, to ensure that it has a sustainable future. We know how many jobs depend on that, and we're not a equivocal about it. We support the forestry industry here in Tasmania and always have and and will always will.
O’LOUGHLIN: It's all dependent, though, on whether the Morrison Government’s voted back in the federal election.
PRIME MINISTER: Well, of course, that's what, it's in the Budget, though. That’s my point. It’s it’s not a promise. It's in the Budget. It's actually in the books. And if Labor, God forbid, were able to form a government, they would have to cut that funding. So we’ve put that in the Budget and and that's why I'm pleased to announce it here today. As you know, some years ago, we we outlined further funding and that was, that has been well supported, and this would be done together with state governments and industry. So, for example, we put a $4 million subsidy in to support new plantings, combined with the support that would come from the state government and then matched by industry 50-50. That leverages up $20 million investment in new plantations. And that's a lot of jobs.
O’LOUGHLIN: It's also a massive shortage of timber. I mean, well, let's have what immediate benefit so can you really say to builders struggling to get timber product in Tasmania now?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, we've already put in significant resources, particularly after the bushfires, to try and ensure that we're dealing with some of these shortages, and we're seeing that sort of affect the house price construction right across the country. And so we've been sort of getting the logs from everywhere we possibly can. There’s been transport subsidies, a range of other programs that have been dealing with the immediate challenges. What we’re talking about here with new plantations, obviously, is the medium to long term future of the industry. So you’ve got to work across all three fronts if you’re serious about supporting the Tasmanian forestry industry, and we are.
O’LOUGHLIN: What about manufacturing in Australia, is there a big push? Of course, Anthony Albanese’s been pushing more manufacturing for Australia. How do you feel? I mean, we should be pushing and making it a stronger, stronger push for your Government?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, we've already been doing it. That's the thing. I mean, he talks about it. We've been doing it. The Modern Manufacturing Initiative was in two Budgets ago. We've highlighted a series of of critical parts of our manufacturing sector. But I tell you what a huge part of it is, it's about ensuring you've got reliable, affordable energy to support your manufacturing industries. It's about supporting our data and digital economy, which is so important to manufacturing businesses. It's about having lower taxes for these manufacturing businesses - all the things that we are doing. Sovereign manufacturing capability is essential to not only Australia's economic interests, but frankly, our security interests as well. And we've been pouring billions into that over the last, particularly since the last election. We made it a priority for my Government and we've been following through on that and we've got the investment through the Modern Manufacturing Initiative, which takes us well out into the future.
O’LOUGHLIN: Marinus Link - starter sooner than later, Prime Minister?
PRIME MINISTER: Look, we're very keen to see this happen. It's important not only just for Tasmania, it will be a real boom for Tasmania, not just in the works to establish it, but the opportunities for Tasmania's green energy industry and its hydro industry as part of that, and connecting it to, you know, the mainland and the customers that are there. It's also important for the mainland to keep electricity prices down. We've been successful in seeing electricity prices around the country fall by eight per cent in the last two years, five in the last year. I mean, under Labor they went up by over 100 per cent. And, so, reliable, affordable electricity is essential for families, but it's also essential for businesses. And Marinus Link and Battery to the Nation has a major role to play in our national economy, and we're still working through the details of that with Premier Gutwein. And and, you know, but we're making good progress on that. We both want to see this work. We both want to see it happen. We're both very, very committed to it.
O’LOUGHLIN: Can I ask and can you offer any insight on when you're going to call an election, Prime Minister. We know it has to happen in the first half of the year. So can you please just put us out of our misery?
PRIME MINISTER: Election has to be held by about the middle of May. That's what the constitutional requirements are and and, you know, the election will be held this year. I've never been terribly shy about this issue. I always said it was going to be in 2022. Everybody else was carrying on about an earlier date. I mean, look, my record is I, you know, I run the Government to term.
O’LOUGHLIN: There’s some recent Newspoll figures, and you’d love the Newspolls, they’ve shown Labor has a 55-45 two party preferred lead, but you remain the preferred Prime Minister over Anthony Albanese by around five per cent. How confident are you heading into the election?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, I'm I'm very confident about the wisdom of Australians who know that there is a choice to be made at this election and that those choices have consequences. Here in Tasmania, last time when Labor was in the Federal Government, the number of people unemployed was twice what it is now. So 20,000 people unemployed, there's 10,000 around that now. So our Government has been actually getting people into jobs. Our Government has been supporting our manufacturing industries and our rural and and agricultural industries. Our Government has been ensuring that we're keeping Australians safe, particularly when we look at what's happening in the world today. I mean, we've got Russians on, Russian troops on the border of Ukraine. We've got Chinese naval ships going through the Arafura Sea, pointing laser pointers at Australian surveillance aircraft. And we've got a very volatile Indo-Pacific. But our Government has been taking action to increase our Defence Force funding, increase our intelligence agencies funding, increase the funding for the Australian Federal Police. That’s what you do if you're serious about national security. When Labor was in Government, they cut all of those things - defence, intelligence, AFP, border protection. And so there is a choice to be made, and Australians when they get close to election weigh up these choices and understand the consequences of what electing one of the the most left wing leader of the Labor Party we've seen since Gough Whitlam, and what the implications of that are for our economy and national security.
O’LOUGHLIN: Well, you've launched some pretty extraordinary attacks on Labor in the last week or so with regard to China. The rhetoric’s been criticised by ASIO Director-General Mike Burgess and former top spy Dennis Richardson. Now, given there’s so much bipartisan support on China, low blow?
PRIME MINISTER: No, not at all. I mean, this is a serious issue, and it's it’s not an area where Australians should be unaware of the differences. I mean, we set a high bar for bipartisanship and Labor don't measure up to it, because what I just said, you can't say you've got a strong position on national security when last time you were in Government you cut funding to defence, intelligence, border protection and the Australian Federal Police. I mean, they can say all they like, but what I know is is what Labor's longer term record is and that that record has has implications and it has consequences. We've demonstrated in Government our strength on national security and our credentials are there to see, and so I think it's entirely reasonable for Australians to be fully informed of the differences between us and Labor and the Greens. Let's not forget, Tasmanians know better than anyone that Labor forms government with Greens, and the Greens’ policies on national security are even worse than Labor’s. And guess who’ll be pulling their chain if if Labor’s elected to government.
O’LOUGHLIN: It's interesting, though, it's such a difficult situation we are in internationally. You've got Russia and Ukraine. I mean, that's incredibly concerning. Ore-imminent Russia's invasion of Ukraine, we know that, but they signed that, I mean, Russia signed that incredible, strong agreement with China, which doesn't help our exports to China.
PRIME MINISTER: What is concerning us is the increasing cooperation between authoritarian regimes around the world, and that's why countries like Australia have been standing up and standing up to them. This is why we've taken such a strong stand. You remember, you know, I was the one who shut the borders to China at the start of the. Of the pandemic. I was the one who called for there to being a fair dinkum investigation as to how this pandemic started. Everybody attacked me for doing it. But, you know, Australia, under my leadership, is standing up for itself. And that's important. It takes strength to do that. You can't have weakness in this job. It's a, it's an increasingly dangerous world and Australians have to stand up for what they believe in and not go down the appeasement path.
O’LOUGHLIN: Well, you've mentioned that. I mean, it was incredibly well, as your quote, bullying, coercion with the ADF detected that Chinese navy ship using that laser on the Australian Defence aircraft. I mean, you've demanded answers from Xi Jinping in Beijing. What do you hope to achieve here?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, first step is they should be conducting an investigation there to see how they did this. I mean, this was dangerous, it was unprofessional and it was reckless for a professional Navy, and we want some answers as to why they did this. Could you imagine if that had been an Australian frigate going through the Taiwan Strait that pointed a laser at a Chinese surveillance aircraft, or indeed a British ship or a Japanese ship or or an American, US ship, could you imagine what the reaction would be? So we’re we're expecting answers. This was reckless. It was dangerous, and at worst, it was intimidating and bullying. And so they're the ones who need to explain, not just to Australia, but to think of all the countries in our region. I mean, this is not good that this would occur. It could occur to anyone else who is just simply doing the normal surveillance of their own Exclusive Economic Zone. And and to be confronted with that, I think, is just absolutely unacceptable. There's no excuse for it.
O’LOUGHLIN: Now, your Government’s been criticised for refusing to accept blame over supply shortages throughout the pandemic. What's your response there?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, we agreed back in November, when it comes to rapid antigen tests, the rapid antigen tests for the public in in the states was to be provided by the states, and we were doing it for aged care. But, you know, we've been able to overcome those challenges. We've been able to get those tests in. Omicron changed everything. Let's not forget that these tests weren’t even approved in Australia until November, and then Omicron came and changed everything about the virus. But we’ve pushed through the summer, we’ve got back those supplies, they're out there available now, they've been provided to school kids in Victoria and New South Wales and and and here also in Tasmania. So, you know, we've had our challenges. We always overcome them. We work together. We get the job done. But Omicron was a completely different virus. It was like we had to start all over again. But we moved quickly, got on top of it, and we were able to press ahead, and look at us now. It's one of the strongest economies in the world. Highest vaccination, one of the highest vaccination rates in the world, and one of the lowest death rates in the world, including for those who are elderly Australians, of anywhere in the world. That's what Australia is achieving. When you look at we're doing, internationally then this is the place you you want to be.
O’LOUGHLIN: And look, I know that Budget's coming next month and [inaudible] to be all carrot, no stick, I was reading. What major benefits will be, we be seeing here in Tasmania?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, look, it’s going to continue to invest obviously in the health system and in infrastructure, important projects. We're going to continue to invest in in projects that we’ve announced like hydrogen hubs and these sorts of things, which have great opportunities for Tasmania, continuing invest in the energy infrastructure. As I said, we're working through those details with the, with Premier Gutwein now in terms of Lyons Link, as we’ve, as it’s known, Marinus Link. And so there are many projects we're obviously very focused on. But all of that and and further details will be there when the Budget is handed down at the end of this month. The Treasurer is in Tasmania with me also today, we're here with Bridget Archer this morning, then over with Gav in Braddon later today, and then down in Lyons. So we're getting around today and I'm pleased, thrilled to be back. Jenny's with me today. And and we're looking forward to also welcoming back all the international tourists, which starts today, which is tremendous, and that's going to be a big boom for Tasmania to getting those international tourists back and and seeing those that money flow into the tourism economy, which I know the Tasmanian tourism industry has, you know, really pushed through, done it tough. And and so what they've waited for has finally arrived. So we're going to get those tourists back and and start getting the cash into the Tasmanian economy. So it's looking up.
O’LOUGHLIN: And the states want to, so on to health, Prime Minister, I mean, the premiers are demanding, what is it, $20 billion to tackle the extreme pressure that's been placed on the health system by the pandemic. And then again, you know, Tasmania needs to be a a benefit to that. We seem to get left out a fair bit, but the states want a costs split 50-50 with the Commonwealth. Is this something we'll see happen?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, we've increased funding here to Tasmanian hospital system by 75 per cent since we came to Government. Across the country, you know, we've doubled, more than doubled across all the states and territories their increased investment in hospitals. When you look at all the health expenditure in the country, you know, when you take into account Medicare, the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, all of these sorts of things, the Commonwealth picks up more than 60 per cent of health expenditure in the country. And we also are increasingly picking up, we’re over 60 per cent of covering the costs of the National Disability Insurance Scheme. And that's only going north. So we do our fair share of the heavy lifting when it comes to social services expenditure, health expenditure, supporting hospitals. All of that, and particularly here in Tassie, we're still got $71 million that was provided to the Tasmanian Health Plan. So that included hospital and health services infrastructure of $35 million, new cancer infrastructure of $4.4 million, more MRI units, medical research of $12.4 million, more mental health support of $24.4 million, and improved alcohol and drug support at $7.4 million. So my Government is investing heavily in health services here of Tasmania, and we'll continue to do so. But I think it's important, remember Medicare doesn't pay for itself, and the states don't pay one cent of it. I'm not saying they should. I'm simply saying that we do our share of the heavy lifting. In fact, more than 60 per cent of health costs right across the country are paid for by the Federal Government.
O’LOUGHLIN: And Prime Minister, I've been given the word that you have to go. You’re keeping all the reporters. I'm I'm sorry about that, but I had a tonne more questions.
PRIME MINISTER: Not at all.
O’LOUGHLIN: But I do appreciate your time this morning. I thank you for that.
PRIME MINISTER: It’s great to be in Tassie and it's going to be a great year for Tassie.
O’LOUGHLIN: Please keep in touch.
PRIME MINISTER: I will. Thank you. Bye.
O’LOUGHLIN: Ok, thanks. Good to talk to you. Prime Minister Scott Morrison.
Interview with Ben Fordham, 2GB
21 February 2022
Ben Fordham: Prime Minister, good morning.
Prime Minister: Good morning, Ben.
Fordham: I know you're not in charge of negotiations about the trains in Sydney, but I'm interested in that last comment from the Union boss Mark Morey, who says these strikes are just the beginning. They'll happen next week, next month and the month after that. Would this have anything to do with the federal election coming in May?
Prime Minister: Well, they have to explain that, but all I know is is there are people who this morning who are going to have an overpriced Uber or they're going to be not able to get to work. This thing was sprung up at 2am in the morning. This is, this is just not how you behave and this is not how you treat your fellow citizens. We've had, you know, nurses, we've had teachers, we've had police officers and and, you know, everyone working hard over through the pandemic. We've got international arrivals opening up today and the unions welcome to them will be a train strike. I mean, this is not how this should be done. And I feel for all of those Sydneysiders today who are affected by this strike. It was, I mean last, just over a week ago, Ben, we had the AMWU actually protesting against the AUKUS agreement. So they're, you know, the unions are ramping up, there's no doubt about that, and it's a poor taste of what they could expect, I suspect, with with licence from Labor.
Fordham: Well, we've got nurses who can't get to work, police officers who can't get to police stations, aged care workers who can't get to nursing homes. And therefore you've got normal people whose lives are disrupted and put in danger.
Prime Minister: And done at 2am in the morning. I mean, all of this, whenever it was called, but honestly, the the disrespect being shown to their their fellow Sydneysiders who are going about their day, you know, kids trying to get to school, parents trying to, you know, get get their week underway. But as you rightly say, Ben, aged care workers, nurses, police officers, firies, ambulance officers, all having to deal with the unions carrying on like this in the middle of the night to cause such terrible disruption.
Fordham: Is there a sense that there's going to be more of this because we've got an election on the horizon?
Prime Minister: Well, we've already had to stare down as a Government work, actions by the Maritime Union and and they backed off. But that's our, that's what our Government will do when it's falling into areas of our responsibility. And I have no doubt that the New South Wales Government will take a strong stand as well. But, you know, when they think they've they've they've got the power, well, you know what they do. We've seen it before, from our waterfront to our now our trains. And, as I said, we even had the Manufacturers Union protesting against the AUKUS agreement with the United States and the United Kingdom, which is there to keep Australians safe.
Fordham: And this is a day that we should be celebrating, the first international tourists arriving in two years. So they'll be flying in this morning and then discovering there are no trains. This is a good sign that we're somewhat back to normal, but how embarrassing that this is what they're met with.
Prime Minister: Well, I agree. I mean, this is an important day that Australians have looked forward to. And whether you're up in Far North Queensland or or here in in Sydney. I mean, Sydney is one of the, is our biggest international gateway, and that's where most of the planes will be coming in today with the reopening of international tourism. And that's going to be welcome news for so many tourism operators in Sydney. You know, you don't have to be a long way away from the cities to to be reliant on international tourism, and Sydney is a tourist city like that. So it's great news from that point of view that we're pushing through the pandemic. We're coming out the other side. But the union movement has decided to, you know, really pull the rug out from under that on our first day back.
Fordham: We're joined by Prime Minister Scott Morrison, who is demanding answers this morning from Beijing after a Chinese naval vessel pointed a military grade laser at a RAAF aircraft. Have we received any explanation from Beijing, because this is a pretty serious incident?
Prime Minister: We haven't received an explanation as yet, but what we've called for, working through the diplomatic and defence channels, is a full investigation into this event and for them to provide answers to how this dangerous act could be undertaken. One, I mean, it's for a, what is supposed to be a professional Defence Force, this is a dangerous and reckless act. And worse, it can be seen, as I said yesterday, as an act of intimidation and bullying. They were in our exclusive economic zone and they were pointing a later, a laser at an Australian surveillance aircraft. Now, could you imagine if that had been an Australian frigate up in the Taiwan Strait or or a US vessel or a Japanese or French or German or UK vessel, and they were pointing lasers at at Chinese surveillance aircraft, which would have had every right to be up there, just as our surveillance aircraft were. I mean, could you imagine their reaction to that in Beijing.
Fordham: Did this put Aussie lives in danger?
Prime Minister: Yes, it did. There's no, I mean, you go, I mean, we know that if you go and point lasers in the eyes of pilots eyes, I mean, that can, that can, it is a direct threat to them and their safety. It is a dangerous and reckless act.
Fordham: Let me ask you about a few other things, because I know you're due to jump on a plane. Coronavirus - it's been revealed this morning Her Majesty the Queen has tested positive for COVID. We know that Prince Charles and Camilla had it in the last week or so, but this is particularly concerning considering she's 95 years of age.
Prime Minister: Well, that is true, and we wish Her Majesty all the best for for a speedy recovery. There are few people more resilient than Her Majesty, and we wish her all the best as she works her way through this. I had a constituent of my own, not really, not that long ago she turned 101, and she'd just gone through COVID as well. So, I mean, we do know that people of that age can, it depending on the nature of how the illness has impacted them, can pull through, and I have no doubt, and I would certainly hope and pray that that would be the case for Her Majesty, and we wish her all the best.
Fordham: Now, we've seen some footage of you over the weekend having a crack at welding, Prime Minister. We've seen you, we've seen you playing the ukulele, we've seen you washing hair in women's hair salons. And now you've had a go at welding in the Northern Territory. Apparently you're supposed to have the face shield down when you're welding. Did you know that?
Prime Minister: Well, of course I did. This was a pretty tricky little device I was trying to use. I hadn't used that one before. But Ben, what I like to do, and it doesn't matter whether I'm at a welding shop or whether I'm in a hairdressers, I like to learn and understand what our trainees and apprentices are doing. Now, people want to have a crack at me about that. They can. But, you know, we've got more trade apprentices in training today - 220,000 - than any other time in our recorded economic history since 1963. So if people want to have a chip at me because I'm not a good welder, well, that's not my day job. Or, you know, or I'm not a good hairdresser. And, you know, I think it's sort of a bit passing strange, you know, that they'll have a, they never used to say anything about me doing things on welding or, you know, those things that people think are more blokey jobs. But I go and do what what young female apprentices are learning to do at a hairdressing salon, and they have a crack at me. I think they're fantastic. I think all of our apprentices are fantastic. They're hard jobs and you've got a lot to learn, as I showed everybody. I've got a lot to learn if I wanted to do those jobs. I just think our apprentices and the small businesses that are giving them a go are fantastic, and if all the narks, you know, in the bubble want to have a crack at me, well, they can. But what I'm doing is showcasing the great work of our apprentices and small businesses.
Fordham: Where are you off to today?
Prime Minister: Heading down to Tassie today, Jenny and I are heading down to Tassie, and looking forward to getting down there. We're looking forward to, you know, being well out of Canberra now and being able to connect directly with Australians, talking about how we're making our economy stronger, how we're keeping Australians safe. We've got many issues we're still dealing with. The situation in Ukraine is very serious. You know, I I certainly hope that the latest efforts that European leaders are engaged in to prevent what is increasingly seeing imminent and inevitable. But what can't happen is we can't have a situation where threats of intimidation and violence by Russia can be used to somehow gain concessions and leverage. They, this is an unprovoked threat to from Ukraine. Ukraine should have every right to decide their own future and not be bullied and intimidated by its neighbour. And we will always stand up to authoritarian autocrats who think they can bully others.
Fordham: Have a safe flight to Tasmania. We'll talk to you soon.
Prime Minister: Thanks a lot, Ben.
Fordham: Prime Minister Scott Morrison live on the line.
$678 million to further seal and upgrade Outback Way
21 February 2022
Prime Minister, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia, Senator for Queensland and Special Envoy for Northern Australia, Federal Member for O’Connor
The Morrison-Joyce Government will invest an additional $678 million to seal another 1,000 kilometres of road and deliver further upgrades along Australia’s longest shortcut, Outback Way, creating thousands of jobs and better connecting regional industries and communities.
As part of the works, the remaining unsealed and substandard sections of Outback Way in Queensland and Western Australia will be sealed. Additional priority sections on the Plenty Highway and Tjukaruru Road in the Northern Territory will also be upgraded.
The Government is committed to sealing the entire 2,720 kilometres of Outback Way and today’s funding commitment will help get the job done, cutting travel times for freight and tourists while giving residents along the route improved access to the supplies they need to live.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the upgrades would support 2,197 jobs, and deliver an important economic boost across Australia’s centre.
“Our additional investment of $678 million in Outback Way is part of our plan for a strong economy across Queensland, the Northern Territory and Western Australia,” the Prime Minister said.
“Investing in infrastructure right across Australia will keep our economy strong and growing while ensuring Australians, regardless of where they live, have jobs.
“Our investment locks in a pipeline of works that will drive investment in regional Australia and boost economies from Winton in Queensland to Laverton in Western Australia, helping regional and remote communities and those who call them home to grow and prosper.”
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said the Government was delivering on its commitment to seal the entire length of Outback Way.
“The Nationals and Liberals had the vision to start these upgrades and we are driving ahead with the sealing of the third road that runs east to west across our nation, from Winton to Laverton,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.
“Outback Way is a vital piece of national transport infrastructure that supports regional economies the length of the 2,720 kilometre route and connects them to the rest of Australia.
“This additional funding builds on the $330 million we’ve invested since 2013 to seal over 600 kilometres of Outback Way, giving freight, tourists and locals a smoother, safer drive.
“$124 million will be spent on upgrades in the Northern Territory alone, creating 442 jobs for locals and delivering a much-needed economic injection in the Territory.
“These upgrades will spark new opportunities for industries along the route, including the critical earth precincts north of Alice Springs, the gold precincts around Laverton and the massive beef industry, while ensuring communities and people on the corridor have better access to supplies.”
Federal Member for Maranoa David Littleproud said $154 million would be invested in the Queensland section of Outback Way, creating 671 jobs across the state and driving economic growth.
“Sealing and upgrading Outback Way will reduce the long and unreliable travel times that freight and motorists experience along sections of the route,” Minister Littleproud said.
“The upgrades will also drive economic growth in remote communities, bring more tourists, improve connections between people, jobs and services, and goods with markets.”
Senator for Queensland and Special Envoy for Northern Australia Susan McDonald said mining and agriculture businesses would benefit from the Government’s investment in in western Queensland.
“$41.5 million of this funding will go towards progressively sealing the remaining unsealed sections of the Donohue Highway in Queensland, to improve safety and efficiency,” Senator McDonald said.
“Solely-funded by the Australian Government, the Donohue Highway sealing works will support around 124 jobs during construction, providing a major boost to the local economy.”
Federal Member for O’Connor Rick Wilson said the Federal Government had put $400 million on the table to seal the full length of Outback Way in Western Australia.
“This funding commitment will create 1,084 jobs in Western Australia, delivering a significant boost to our regional and remote towns,” Mr Wilson said.
“A sealed route will also deliver social benefits for communities by improving access to goods and services and increased employment opportunities, particularly for Indigenous communities.”
The Government’s additional funding for Outback Way means upgrades can continue to be rolled out as previously funded works are completed.
The Australian Government’s funding commitment represents 80 per cent of the total funding package, with state and territory governments providing the remaining 20 per cent.
50th anniversary of Australia-Poland diplomatic relations
20 February 2022
Joint Statement by Prime Ministers Scott Morrison and Mateusz Morawiecki
Today marks 50 years since the establishment of full diplomatic relations between Australia and Poland on 20 February 1972. On that day, we affirmed the warm friendship between our nations.
Our enduring relationship dates back to the arrival of the first Polish migrants to Australia in the 19th century. Since then, generations of men and women of Polish heritage have made significant contributions to the progress of modern Australia.
The 1939 invasion of Poland spurred Australia’s entry into the Second World War. We honour our service personnel who bravely fought side by side, most famously in 1941 during the Siege of Tobruk, and the Australian and Polish aircrew who flew in support of the Warsaw Uprising.
In the aftermath of war, Australia welcomed thousands of Poles who journeyed here to establish new lives in a new land. Australians stood fast in support of the brave struggle of the Polish people against communist rule and martial law, and celebrated Poland’s return to democracy in 1989.
In recent years our countries have worked closely together as democracies — supporting the rules-based international order and open and fair trade. We have enjoyed strong economic growth and the increasing success of our business links. We cooperate closely in the United Nations, the World Trade Organization and other fora.
Our relationship is one of mutual respect, underpinned by ties of family, friendship, history, heritage, and strong community links. After the catastrophic bushfires in 2019, Polish volunteer firefighters were involved in coordinating donations to the Kosciuszko National Park. In the latest expression of our bond, in 2021 Poland shared with Australia its surplus doses of COVID-19 vaccine, helping to protect Australians and our communities and thereby saving many Australian lives.
For 50 years, Australia and Poland have cooperated to build and enhance our strong bilateral relations. Today, we are proud of our friendship, confident in our shared interests and optimistic in the opportunities that lie ahead.
Bombing of Darwin - 80 years since Australia came under attack
19 February 2022
Prime Minister, Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Minister for Defence Personnel
On the morning of 19 February 1942, the fighting of the Second World War reached the shores of mainland Australia for the first time, when over 240 Japanese aircraft bombed Darwin.
On that day, tragically 252 lives were lost in two separate raids, including members of all three Australian armed services, Allied personnel, merchant seamen and Australian civilians.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison remembered all those who lived through the Bombing of Darwin and honoured the memory of those who lost their lives in the devastating attack.
“The Bombing of Darwin began a testing chapter in the history of our nation – a series of air raids across north-western Australia which continued for 21 long months until November 1943,” the Prime Minister said.
“It was the greatest threat our people ever faced. But in our darkest hour, we rose to the challenge. Australia’s response to the Second World War was the greatest national effort in our history, and like Gallipoli almost 30 years before, the Bombing of Darwin proved to be an early tragedy, followed by ultimate triumph.
“In New Guinea, Borneo, Solomon Islands, and across the South Pacific and Southeast Asia, Australia helped to halt and then push back militaristic Japanese forces. With our allies, we turned the tide against militarism, and won a heroic victory.
“Today, it is more timely and necessary than ever to acknowledge what they went through, and to assure their place in the story of our nation.
“We also acknowledge the deep and lasting friendship between the people of Australia and Japan – out of the suffering of war we have turned to each other in a spirit of reconciliation and respect. Our nations’ commitment to freedom, security and democracy now provides a solid foundation for the future peace and stability of the region.
“On this day in the city of Darwin – and in every part of Australia – we will remember. Lest we forget.”
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Andrew Gee said the 80th anniversary the Bombing of Darwin was an important time for all Australians to reflect on that dark day in Australian history.
“Few survivors of the terrible surprise attack on Darwin are still with us today to share their experiences, so the duty now rests with us to ensure their stories are told, and their courage and sacrifice is remembered,” Minister Gee said.
“It is hard to imagine the fear and confusion that must have been felt by the people of Darwin and Australia that day, when hundreds of enemy aircraft filled the skies above the city.
“The danger of invasion was real, yet the determination to defend was resolute and there were great acts of bravery from both the military and civilians.
“The first two Military Medals for bravery in battle on Australian soil were awarded to Gunner Wilburt Hudson and Lance Bombardier Fred Wombey, for their actions on that day.
“Our men and women in uniform, as well as civilians, rescued crewmen from burning ships, while local doctors and nurses treated the badly wounded survivors.”
It had taken Japanese troops just two months to overrun all of Thailand and Malaya, and invade modern day Indonesia and Papua New Guinea.
By the middle of February 1942 the Allied ‘fortress’ of Singapore had surrendered, Timor had fallen and Darwin came under attack.
When the first wave of 188 Japanese aircraft struck Darwin, the bombing and strafing continued for about 40 minutes, targeting the port and ships, and overwhelming Darwin’s defences.
Eight of the 47 ships in the harbour – three naval and five merchant class – were sunk. The cargo of one ship, which included 200 anti-submarine warfare weapons, exploded as it lay alongside the Darwin wharf, causing further destruction.
A short time later a second wave of 54 Japanese planes targeted the Royal Australian Air Force Station a few kilometres north east of Darwin.
Sixteen Australian servicemen and one servicewoman were killed in the raids. The bombing killed at least 21 civilian wharf labourers and a bomb which hit the main Darwin post office killed the Post-master and his family, and six young women telegraphists.
The Destroyer USS Peary was also sunk in the raids, killing 88 American sailors and wounding 13 on board.
“Australia may have escaped invasion, but it did not escape further attack, with a total of 97 Japanese air raids inflicted on northern Australia over the next two years,” Minister Gee said.
“As the living memory of that day and the terrifying period that followed fades away, it is all the more important that we pause and reflect on a dark chapter forever etched in our nation’s history.
“On 19 February, I encourage all Australians to take time out to remember and honour all those who died in these attacks and in the defence of Australia during the Second World War.”
More information about the attacks on Australia in 1942 and the courage shown by service personnel and civilians is available on the Department of Veterans’ Affairs Anzac Portal.
Doorstop - Darwin City, NT
19 February 2022
PRIME MINISTER: The events in Ukraine continue to be profoundly disturbing. I concur with the statements of so many leaders of free countries around the world that what we are seeing in Ukraine is looking regrettably inevitable. We hope that this is not the case. We hope that Russia will step back from its violent threats of intimidation on its neighbour, Ukraine. But it does appear, particularly in the reports that we've seen, that the likelihood of an invasion of Ukraine by Russia is imminent.
Such threats of violence and intimidation are totally unacceptable. Threats against Ukraine are uninvited, unwelcome, unprovoked and unacceptable, and all free nations of the world will hold that view. I agree with Prime Minister Kishida, who has remarked, importantly, that we don't effectively get to go and change the rules by using threats of violence in order to achieve that, and by seeking to intimidate sovereign nations.
All nations, all nations that favour a world order that that is in favour of freedom support the sovereignty of all nations. And the fact that a nation would seek to threaten another's sovereignty on the pretence that it's being done in their own security interests is completely unacceptable. So there can't be compromises when it comes to the status quo, which actually protects world order and protects freedom and protects the liberty of nations and their sovereignty. These things cannot and should never be allowed to be changed through threats of intimidation and coercion.
Australia has always taken a strong stand against these issues, and we always will. And we'll always be proud to stand with others like the United States and Japan and so many others around the world, our friends in Europe and the United Kingdom, who have been prepared to call this out. Australia's calling it out and we'll provide the support that is necessary to assist, with our like-minded partners, to support those in Ukraine.
For Australians who are in Ukraine, we have been warning now for many, many weeks, going back to well into late last year, but our consular teams and diplomats standing ready in a number of countries that are bordering the affected areas of Ukraine. And we're working with other countries in Europe, and I particularly want to acknowledge the support we've had from France in in these particular efforts. And we will continue to work, whether it's standing by our partners in making these very strong points. I note the Dutch Government have made very strong statements and offers of support. So we'll work with all of them because this cannot stand.
We cannot have a situation where a nation such as Russia can threaten and bully those countries that border its its borders. We cannot have it that they can intimidate and threaten in this way. That is not how we can have a sustainable peace. And no country should be taking any comfort from this whatsoever. They can't. This is not something that we can allow to stand. And Australia will stand with all those who will stand against this violence and this aggression.
JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, if war does happen, you mentioned support there. What are you talking about there? Would that be a contribution of troops? What sort of support is that? And have you seen the intelligence that Mr Biden has been referring to?
PRIME MINISTER: Well we we participate in an intelligence community together with our allies, our allies, and we're very well-informed of the events that have been taking place in Ukraine and on their border. There hasn't been any withdrawal of of Russian troops from the borders. The pretence is being sought for an invasion. There is no pretence for an invasion into Ukraine. There is no justification for it. There is no provocation of it. Russia has only one decision that it can make, and that is to withdraw, to not proceed with this invasion. To not pretend that there is some justification for it, because there is none. And they cannot use the threat of war and invasion as a way of trying to leverage and negotiate other changes that they may be seeking. That is not how free nations, democratic nations, nations that are in favour of peace should behave. We've seen this before, and we cannot allow it to stand.
Now, Australia has not been asked or nor would we be providing support through troops or anything of that nature. We work with our allies and partners in many other ways, and we will seek to do that in with the practical things that we can do to assist those efforts. Had such discussions with the UK Prime Minister and others about how we proceed along that basis. We stand together in supporting the statements of the President of the United States that we've heard overnight, and I think he sums up the position extremely well.
Boosting the economy and jobs in the Northern Territory
18 February 2022
Prime Minister, Minister for Defence Industry, Minister for Science and Technology
The Morrison Government is boosting the Northern Territory’s economy with a $282 million injection across two Defence projects that will create local jobs and opportunities for businesses across the Territory.
The Morrison Government will establish a Regional Maintenance Centre in Darwin to support our national naval shipbuilding enterprise, with a tender for a new Industry Partner to head up the centre to be advertised in coming weeks. The establishment of a centre in Darwin reflects its status as a critical strategic location.
In addition, our Government will invest up to $122 million in 34 Department of Defence projects to bolster Australia’s defence capabilities across the Northern Territory as part of the 2022-23 Estate Works Program.
The Prime Minister said the total $282 million economic injection in Defence projects would create hundreds of jobs, and support thousands more.
“The Regional Maintenance Centre alone will initially inject around $160 million into the local economy, create around 70 jobs over the next five years, and support the work of more than 1,500 tradies from the Darwin region,” the Prime Minister said.
“It will play a key role in sustaining complex naval capabilities, initially including the new evolved Cape Class Patrol Boats and Arafura Class Offshore Patrol Vessels.
“This will provide valuable long-term contract opportunities to large and small defence industry businesses from Darwin to Alice Springs, strengthening the local defence industry and growing jobs.
“Our up to $122 million investment in 2022-23 for Defence estate works across the Territory will see more than 200 tradies from local businesses employed during the design, planning and delivery stages across the 34 projects.
“We will upgrade airfields, working accommodation, and critical communication stations, as well as improving bases including the RAAF Base Tindal, RAAF Base Darwin, Robertson Barracks, and Defence Training areas such as the Bradshaw Training area.
“The Northern Territory is a key strategic area for Defence and it is the guardian of Australia’s northern approaches. These investments are recognition of the key role the Northern Territory provides for Defence and Australia.”
Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price said the investments in the Northern Territory were further evidence of the Government’s commitment to growing Australia’s defence industry.
“We have built an incredibly strong record on local job creation, particularly in the Northern Territory,” Minister Price said.
“More than $8 billion will be invested over the coming decade into the refresh and redevelopment of Defence facilities in the NT.
“The local carpenters, electricians, boilermakers, mechanics and many other tradespeople are getting unprecedented opportunities to support our Defence bases.
“This level of support is being mirrored across the country, where we will invest $270 billion in defence capability over the coming decade, supporting more than 100,000 jobs across the economy.
“It is in stark contrast to Labor, which when last in government cut Defence spending by $18 billion – its lowest level since World War II – and would no doubt look to repeat those cuts if it were to slide into government.
“Given its appalling record of failing to take Defence investment seriously, the Labor Party simply cannot be trusted when it comes to the defence of our nation.”
Interview with Eliza Goetze, ABC Alice Springs
18 February 2022
PRIME MINISTER: Good morning, Eliza,
ELIZA GOETZE: Will you be meeting with the Mayor today?
PRIME MINISTER: We won't have the opportunity today, Ken Wyatt met with him five days after we met, after we received that letter up here in Alice Springs. So I really want to thank Matt for writing to us. And when Ken has come and he's already announced it's over $3 million of funding, which is supporting programs to address the very issues that the Mayor has raised. And I want to thank Matt that for the really constructive partnership he’s forming to address this issue. I'm going from here to see Ben Schaber this morning, who was one of the finalists in the Indigenous Business Awards to make the other announcement of the program we're doing for Indigenous business leadership. And then I have another very big announcement to make up further up the road up in Darwin today about defence project funding, which will have a massive impact here, also in central Australia, some $282 million in defence projects and works. But I'm looking forward to catching up with Matt. I think it's an incredibly important issue.
GOETZE: So do you have five minutes, you mean you don't have any time to squeeze him in at all?
PRIME MINISTER: I would love to if I could. I'll be leaving very early this morning after being at a couple of things this morning, but I'd love to talk to him. As I said, within five days of that letter being received, Indigenous Australians Minister Ken Wyatt was here talking to Matt and a program already in place, over $3 million on creating networks in the community, culture camps, bush cooking, giving youth inclusion in community decisions, mentorships. I mean, these are the things that need to be done. And so with these five days action from my Government and my Minister.
GOETZE: The reality is and the contents of that letter from Matt Patterson, residents in this town often don't feel safe to walk the streets at night. Just the other day, in broad daylight, a woman was assaulted while she was out running. People are having their homes and businesses broken into. They don't feel safe to go to sleep at night. Business owners are forking out often for security gear. The Gunner Government doesn't appear to be acting on law and order in the town of Alice Springs. You've announced culture camps, but is that enough? What more are you going to do to make Alice Springs a safer place?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, I want to work with the Territory Government, as you say. I mean, we've poured significant resources into the Territory Government, and when I was Treasurer, we put in an extra $260 million to top up funding on GST to do exactly these sort of things to fund law and order in the territory. And so we're providing those resources that we want to support them to keep doing it. We've got $36 million invested over four years from 2019 to 2023 in youth sector programs through the Indigenous Advancement Strategy. So we're stepping up. And of course, Damien Ryan, a Mayor of Alice Springs for a very long time, understands these issues better than anyone, other than obviously the current Mayor who's dealing with them right now. And so with Damien Ryan, who's the CLP candidate for Lingiari, I think he has a pretty good handle on this, and I'll work really closely with him to address these law and order issues here in Alice Springs. I mean, I think coming up to Alice Springs for 30 years and I've seen how the town has changed over that period of time, back to my time when I was in tourism, I understand how important getting law and order under control in the Alice is not just important, obviously, for the safety of so many people living here in the Alice, it's important for the town and its economy and its future. So I get it.
GOETZE: So you'll be back here by the sounds to meet with Matt Patterson on crime, some stage?
PRIME MINISTER: I'd love to, but we'll arrange to talk further about this. No doubt about it. And I'm sure Damien's working closely with him as well. And that's why, you know, he's such a great pick for the CLP to be the right candidate for Lingiari, as the CLP candidate.
GOETZE: You're here today, Barnaby Joyce is expected here next week. It sounds like Lingiari is an important seat. What makes Damien Ryan a better candidate than Labor's Marion Scrymgour for the job?
PRIME MINISTER: He gets it. I mean, he's been here serving this Alice Springs community in particular for a long time, and he's got that reputation and he's got the track record. He understands the issues and he's got the performance to back it up. I mean, he's someone who knows how to get things done and he can get things done in a government. And you know, the Government has been delivering across so many programmes.
GOETZE: Marion’s also got decades of experience in government, and she's an Aboriginal woman. What makes Damien any better?
PRIME MINISTER: Service in government as a leader in this community and taking responsibility for the decisions you have to take.
GOETZE: She's also been in government.
PRIME MINISTER: Working in a town like this. I'm talking about a person has been the Mayor, someone who …
GOETZE: She's been in Territory Government.
PRIME MINISTER: I’m talking about somebody who the buck stops with someone in the town of Alice Springs.
GOETZE: She's been in local government, she's been at a high level. What makes him ready for that job more than her?
PRIME MINISTER: His experience and his commitment to this town in particular and his track record of performance and people understand that he gets it.
GOETZE: How much pressure are you feeling for Damien to win the seat of Lingiari? How important is this seat to you?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, of course every seat is important all across the country, but let me make this point. It isn't just Damien Ryan, it's actually our Government. I mean, if you, if you vote for Damien Ryan, you're not just getting a great candidate, you're getting an Australian Government who's been able to ensure that we come through this pandemic with one of the lowest fatality rates in the world, the strongest economies and highest vaccination rates. You've got a Government that's delivered 1.1 million jobs since the pandemic hit. We've got the highest number of trade apprentices trained ...
GOETZE: Sorry to interrupt.
PRIME MINISTER: If you just wouldn't mind me answering the question - 220,000 trade apprenticeships in trade training right now, that's the highest level since 1963. So people sitting here in Alice Springs and around Lingiari, they know they're going to have a better chance of a job, a more successful business, at the backing in on important issues of national security, law and order, because that's our form, that's what we do. And then you've got Damien on the ground, experienced local Mayor who can actually deal with the local problems that are on the ground here, and he has a track record of supporting it.
GOETZE: I just wanted to touch on there. The vaccination rates across our remote communities have actually been very low compared to the national average, and Lingiari, it's a massive seat covering pretty much the whole Territory outside Darwin. It's typically won out bush. How do you plan to win this seat? How do you win over those communities?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, first of all, I'd say, I mean, we've been working closely with the Gunner Government on Indigenous vaccinations. It's a challenging task. But Australia's vaccination rates, particularly for Indigenous populations, is also one of the highest in the world. When I was in the United States, I met with Vice-President Harris and we were talking about Indigenous vaccination rates in the United States and in Australia. You know what they were talking about, how good theirs was, and ours were the same and better. So it's challenging. It's hard. We've seen the same thing in western New South Wales and other parts of the country. We've got big challenges over in Western Australia as well, and you just got to go community by community. That's what we’ve been doing with the Gunner Government. And on top of that, we've been getting great support from Indigenous leaders. And Ken Wyatt has just been phenomenal, engaging directly with Indigenous leaders to work with the community to get this done. I mean, we are the Government who actually did the Closing the Gap agreement with Indigenous people. Not a top down approach. We actually got together with Pat Turner, the Coalition of Peaks. We completely rewrote the Closing the Gap agreement to put Indigenous people in a real partnership with my Government and to close that gap - not some pronouncement from Canberra. And we also got a territory and state governments enlisted in the Closing the Gap program because, as you would know and listeners would know, state and territory governments have an enormous role to play in closing the gap and they've been left on the sidelines by Labor under their Closing the Gap approach.
GOETZE: I wanted to ask you about Closing the Gap and what you will do to better the lives of people who are living out bush. How will the Defence investment in the Territory announced today by your Government, what would that mean to people who live out on the Utopia homelands or out of Papunya?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, let me point out two these figures for you. First of all, 23,000 Commonwealth contracts, that includes Defence contracts, have been given to Indigenous businesses just since I became Prime Minister - 23,000. Now companies like Ben’s or other companies here up in the Territory - meeting with another one today up and in Darwin - they're involved in these types of works and these programs, and they're deploying Indigenous young people. And the program I'm announcing today about Indigenous business leadership is about improving their capabilities from their staff to the businesses themselves, to the leaders and owners of those businesses, so they can take advantage of those opportunities. I was blown away. Jenny and I met him last Friday at the [Ethnic] Business Awards, where he was a finalist. And he's passionate. I mean, he's a guy, he changed his life when he got out of jail, got a job, got a trade, started a business, and now he's employing about a dozen people here in the Territory, including young Indigenous people. That's how you benefit. You create jobs and you support businesses and Indigenous business leaders. Now that's why we're putting over $20 million into supporting that imitative around the country. I need more Bens and Indigenous people need more Bens because that means more jobs for Indigenous Australians.
GOETZE: People from, say, Yuendumu, they just want a job that's meaningful and something that's not on the CDP. We're still experiencing fallout from the intervention, where control has been creeping back into the lives of Aboriginal people and especially people who live remote. What are you going to do to undo the damage by the intervention, noting that the legislation that underpinned a lot of that policy, the Stronger Futures legislation, some of that expires this year. So what are you going to do to wind that back? Some of it includes alcohol laws.
PRIME MINISTER: Well, Eliza, I don't know, you mustn't have heard my last answer to my last question. I mean, a real job is the job at Ben's business. I mean, that's what's happening. I said 23,000 Commonwealth contracts have gone to Indigenous businesses. I mean, that's where the real jobs are. That's not CDP jobs. That's real jobs in real businesses run by Indigenous Australians. That's what changes. That's what closes the gap. What closes the gap is the empowerment of Indigenous Australians to get jobs, to get training, to get skills, to run businesses, to employ people in remote communities, which is what is happening exactly in Indigenous businesses. The winner of the Indigenous Business Awards is putting power into remote stations all across the Northern Territory, Western Australia and in Queensland. I mean, that's the answer - Indigenous Australians like Ben stepping up, creating businesses, changing their lives, getting support from programs like the one I'm announcing today.
GOETZE: But if I've grown up remotely, I don't speak or read English. It's not my first language. How will this $21.9 million you're announcing here benefit me in leadership?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, I then referred to the fact that we've got 93 per cent of Indigenous children today enrolled in early childhood education. That's up from 77 per cent in 2016 because of the investments we've been putting into early childhood education. And that includes specific funding into early childhood education in remote places all across the country and particularly here in central Australia. Now the reason we do that is early childhood education is one of the biggest game changers for young Indigenous children. And the research that shows that absolutely it is generational changing stuff. So we've got a generation of very young Indigenous Australians at the moment growing up, getting early childhood education. Their parents didn't get it. The grandparents certainly didn't get it. And that's what's turning around. We've got to get kids in school. We've got to make sure they're safe in their communities and we've got to make sure they've got a job to go to and even better, a job in a business owned and run by an Indigenous Australian. That's what my Government's doing.
GOETZE: In Alice Springs you don't have to go far to see people living in third world conditions. Housing is inadequate. There's overcrowding, which has exacerbated the spread of COVID. Shouldn't you be spending money on the basics like housing and food and health before programs like this?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, we have. We absolutely have. I mean, health funding in the Northern Territory itself has increased $212.9 million.
GOETZE: And where's that money being spent?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, you better talk to Minister Gunner about it because he's the one we sent it to.
GOETZE: Do you think the Gunner Government's doing a good job?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, look, I'll let the Northern Territory people make those judgements. I'm working with the Gunner Government to address the pandemic, the challenges in remote Indigenous communities. I think Lia is an absolute superstar and I think people are really understanding the great contribution she can make as a leader in the Northern Territory, but that I'm not here to get involved in Northern Territory politics. I'm here to actually talk about the things we're doing to improve the lives of Territorians, keeping them safe and investing in the Defence projects which are driving their businesses and giving the massive opportunities into the future. I mean, the investments we're putting right across the country. Tindal Air Base was the last time I was up this way and we had major projects there, which is drawing jobs and opportunities and training and apprentices right across the territory. This is the positive stuff that's going on and it's really exciting to see it. That doesn't mean we haven't got problems. Of course we do. The Territory is a hard place. Of course it's a hard place, but people love it and I understand why they do, and that's why we're ensuring that we're getting the support. Another good example is the Reinsurance Pool - $10 billion Reinsurance Pool to make it easier for people to get insurances in the north of Australia. I mean, that is a cost of living that people living in the north actually have to face. That's our Government that's doing something about it. Plenty of other people have talked about it, but we're actually doing it.
GOETZE: You're on ABC Alice Springs. And you’re hearing from the Prime Minister Scott Morrison. I want to talk about roads, the Stuart Highway. It's a federal road. Just a couple of weeks ago, the supermarket shelves were bare for weeks in the Centre and across remote communities because that road was flooded. What are you going to do to mitigate that and stop that happening in the future?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, again, I mean, in every single Budget we announce significant funding for all roads. We've got $110 billion infrastructure program.
GOETZE: Is there anything specific for the Stuart?
PRIME MINISTER: I'll leave it for the Deputy Prime Minister when he's here next week to go into that more. I mean, he'll be here next week and he can take you through all of that.
GOETZE: We'll certainly ask him that.
PRIME MINISTER: I have no doubt you will Eliza. I've got no doubt about that at all. And look, I think these are great questions, and I think these are the real issues that people want to focus on. They want to focus on: can they get a job? What's the future of their business? What's the future of their health care? And how are we dealing with the pandemic? I mean, I do commend the partnership I've had with the Chief Minister Gunner on COVID. It's been a very tough situation. Northern Territory has had very different challenges to the rest of the country. That's why the Biosecurity Act changes extensions were made by the Health Minister. We've worked hand in glove and with the ACCHOs right across the Northern Territory as well, delivering those health services, giving them specific funding and support to help them with the vaccination programs.
GOETZE: Prime Minister, we're just a minute away from news. I'm sorry to interrupt you. I just want to get one more question in about the regeneration deal. It's $150 million for Alice Springs. It's got the backing of the Chief Minister. Do you support it? Will you sign that dotted line?
PRIME MINISTER: I will keep talking to them about and I'll be talking to Damien about what further announcements we’ll be making. But just before I go, we announced $147 million for the Northern Territory, including bring forward ...
GOETZE: Ok that was a yes or no question. We don't have much time before the news. I'm sorry, Prime Minister. The last question is from a listener, just how concerned are you for your job?
PRIME MINISTER: Eliza, let me answer your earlier question because you asked - $73.4 million for the ROSI Alice Springs to Darwin Corridor upgrade, $43.5 million for the ROSI Adelaide River to Wadeye Corridor upgrade. And $30 million in the Northern Territory's position on the Outback Way commitment. So that's what we're doing on roads. But the Deputy Prime Minister can outline more of that to you when you, when he's here next week.
GOETZE: Prime Minister, thank you.
Strengthening Indigenous Leadership and Governance
18 February 2022
Prime Minister, Minister for Indigenous Australians
The Morrison Government is today launching a $21.9 million Indigenous Leadership and Governance package to support the next generation of Indigenous leaders.
The Indigenous Leadership and Governance package includes:
$13.5 million for the Australian Indigenous Mentoring Experience (AIME) to continue its operations and implement a strategic plan for expansion to support young Indigenous Australians to undertake leadership roles, further education and employment;
$6.7 million for Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations (ORIC) to develop governance training materials for Indigenous organisations; and
$1.7 million to the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) to provide scholarships for Indigenous Australians to undertake company directors’ courses, and to monitor and evaluate the entire package.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the $21.9 million investment would support thousands of Indigenous individuals and many organisations to realise their potential.
“Our $13.5 million investment in the Australian Indigenous Mentoring Experience program will extend this successful program by three years to 2025 and expand its support to 10,000 students a year, up from the current 6,000 students a year,” the Prime Minister said.
“This will ensure even more young Indigenous Australians can realise their leadership potential and career dreams through this proven mentoring and skills development program, and become the next generation of leaders in business, community and the public sector.
“In addition, Indigenous businesses will be strengthened with a $6.7 million investment in governance, and we are providing $1.7 million to deliver scholarships for Indigenous Australians to undertake company director courses to provide Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with the skills to take their business to the next level or sit on the boards of our top companies.
“This is about maximising the burgeoning opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs and businesses, as well as the economic advancement of all Indigenous Australians. With the right supports and opportunities, even more Indigenous Australians will be able to launch from entry-level roles into higher-skilled and higher-paying technical, managerial and leadership careers.”
Minister for Indigenous Australians the Hon Ken Wyatt AM, MP said the package would help to realise the recently released National Roadmap on Indigenous Skills, Jobs and Wealth Creation.
“When I launched the Roadmap at the end of last year it was clear that we need to strengthen Indigenous leadership and governance capability across the nation,” Minister Wyatt said.
“This is about supporting the aspirations of Indigenous youth to dream big and thrive at no matter what they turn their minds to as well as providing the tools for all Indigenous businesses and business people to take the next step towards expansion or leadership roles.
“Since 2005, AIME, an Indigenous organisation, has supported more than 25,000 young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to further their education and kick-start their careers, with an average of 96.1 per cent of their participants attaining Year 12 and moving on to further education or employment.”
The recent Indigenous Australian Workforce Report delivered by Skills Australia confirmed that, on average, Indigenous people tend to work in high growth but lower skill level jobs.
“This funding will help turn that around, providing the launching pad Indigenous Australians need to develop leadership skills and network to support them on their journey,” Minister Wyatt said.
This package directly supports Priority Reforms Two and Three of Closing the Gap and contributes to the overarching aims of the Government’s Roadmap for Indigenous Skills, Jobs, and Wealth Creation.
Petroleum Exploration Permit (PEP-11)
17 February 2022
The Morrison Government has taken the next step to formally reject the application for the Offshore Petroleum Exploration Permit PEP-11.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said following the Government’s proposed decision to not suspend, extend and vary the title conditions of PEP-11 on 16 December 2021, the National Offshore Petroleum Titles Administrator (NOPTA) issued the applicant a Notice of Intention to Refuse and granted the applicant 30 days to respond to the notice.
“After considering the applicant’s response, I have made the decision under section 59(3) of the Offshore Petroleum and Greenhouse Gas Storage Act 2006 to propose to refuse the application,” the Prime Minister said.
“As a result, I have written to New South Wales Deputy Premier Paul Toole, as the joint authority partner, advising of the Government’s proposed decision.“
Deputy Premier Toole has 30 days to respond, following which a decision will be finalised.
Timor-Leste – Australia Leaders’ Meeting
17 February 2022
Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Prime Minister Taur Matan Ruak met virtually on Thursday 17 February 2022.
The two Prime Ministers reaffirmed the fundamental importance of the Australia-Timor-Leste bilateral relationship, and noted 2022 marks twenty years of diplomatic relations between Australia and Timor-Leste. They welcomed the substantial expansion in cooperation between the two countries since Prime Minister Morrison’s visit to Timor-Leste in August 2019.
The Prime Ministers discussed their appreciation for the strong and enduring friendship between the peoples of Timor-Leste and Australia, and reinforced the commitment both countries share to upholding democratic values.
Prime Minister Taur Matan Ruak expressed appreciation for Australia’s comprehensive support for Timor-Leste’s COVID-19 response, including deployment of Australian Medical Assistance Teams in April and September 2021, end-to-end support for Timor-Leste’s national vaccine roll-out, and Australia’s provision of vaccines for primary course doses and boosters. Australia has been the largest donor of COVID-19 vaccines to Timor-Leste.
The two Prime Ministers announced the commencement of a new five-year, AUD30 million phase of Australia’s health sector support for Timor-Leste, to strengthen the delivery of primary health care services including to improve nutrition, hygiene and sanitation, and sexual and reproductive health.
The Prime Ministers agreed to work together to support economic recovery from the pandemic. Australia has provided AUD30 million in budget support and other assistance to Timor-Leste to maintain jobs and economic activity during the crisis, including funding for Timor-Leste’s National Village Development Program enabling construction of community infrastructure such as irrigation systems, small bridges and roads in more than two thirds of all villages in Timor-Leste.
The Prime Ministers recognised the importance of strengthening critical infrastructure to promote Timor-Leste’s longer-term economic prosperity. Prime Minister Taur Matan Ruak reiterated Timor-Leste’s commitment to the implementation of the Timor-Leste South Submarine Cable link to Australia to enable faster, more reliable, and more affordable internet services for Timor-Leste consumers and businesses, and welcomed Australia’s offer of additional support for the delivery of the cable.
Prime Minister Morrison confirmed that Australia would also provide support for the redevelopment of Dili International Airport.
The Prime Ministers welcomed the announcement by Qantas Chief Executive Officer, Alan Joyce, that Qantas will establish a permanent commercial route between Darwin and Dili, with an increased number of flights, under the new Australia-Timor-Leste Air Services Agreement. These new flights will increase opportunities for trade, tourism and labour mobility between our countries.
The Prime Ministers discussed the importance of labour mobility in promoting economic recovery in both countries. Timor-Leste has a pool of more than 6,500 fully vaccinated workers ready to mobilise to Australia. The strong demand for workers in Australia is expected to lead to a substantial expansion in 2022 in the number of Timorese workers employed under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme.
The Prime Ministers discussed the important contribution the exploitation of gas resources in the Timor Sea makes to both countries’ economic prosperity, and the close cooperation between Australia and Timor-Leste under the Maritime Boundaries Treaty, which entered into force in 2019. Prime Minister Morrison committed to establish an LNG Partnership Fund to deepen links between Australia and Timor-Leste in gas development and trade, including in the use of carbon capture and storage.
The Prime Ministers discussed Australia and Timor-Leste’s shared interests in an open, inclusive and resilient Indo-Pacific region where the rights of all states are respected, and where the sovereignty and independence of each country is upheld. They highlighted the resolution of the long-running dispute over maritime boundaries through the compulsory conciliation process under UNCLOS as a powerful example of the peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law.
The Prime Ministers resolved to work together to prevent the Timor Sea from being used by illegal fishers, people smugglers and other transnational criminal actors. They committed to continuing to deepen cooperation on maritime security, and Prime Minister Morrison confirmed Australia’s commitment to provide two Guardian class patrol boats, the Aitana and Laline, to Timor-Leste in 2023. They welcomed the work underway to prepare for the delivery of the two vessels, including infrastructure upgrades at Port Hera Naval Base on Timor-Leste’s north coast.
The Prime Ministers discussed Timor-Leste’s enhanced engagement with multilateral organisations, including its bids for membership of ASEAN and the World Trade Organization, and Australia’s strong and longstanding support.