Media Releases
Economic Measures Against Russia And Lethal Military Equipment For Ukraine
28 February 2022
Prime Minister, Treasurer, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Women, Minister for Defence
The Australian Government is deeply concerned at Russia’s brutal invasion of Ukraine, which is a gross violation of international law and the United Nations Charter. We will continue to coordinate closely with our partners – including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, NATO and the EU - to impose a high cost on Russia.
We are holding Russian President Vladimir Putin to account for his egregious unjustified war against Ukraine. From midnight last night, Australian targeted financial sanctions and travel bans came into effect on the Russian President and remaining permanent members of Russia’s Security Council: Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, Defence Minister Sergey Shoigu, Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, and Internal Affairs Minister Vladimir Kolokoltsev.
President Putin, Foreign Minister Lavrov and Defence Minister Shoigu are directly responsible for Russia’s unprovoked and unlawful further invasion of Ukraine. It is exceedingly rare to designate a head of state, and reflects the depth of our concerns. President Putin joins a very small group that includes Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe, Muammar Gaddafi of Libya and Bashar al-Assad of Syria.
Australia will work with NATO and our other partners to provide lethal as well as non-lethal military equipment, medical supplies, and financial assistance to support the people of Ukraine. As an immediate measure, Australia will contribute US$3 million to NATO’s Trust Fund for Ukraine to support non-lethal military equipment and medical supplies. Details of Australia’s contribution of lethal military equipment are being worked through with our partners and will be announced soon.
Australia will continue to work with allies and like-minded countries to impose further economic sanctions on Russia, building on the raft of travel bans and asset freezes implemented in recent days against Russia’s most influential political and military actors. So far Australia has sanctioned more than 350 Russian individuals, including corrupt oligarchs, MPs, and military commanders who are facilitating Putin’s illegal and violent ambitions. Moreover, we have sanctioned 13 Belarusian individuals and entities, including Belarusian Minister of Defence Viktor Khrenin, who has aided and abetted Putin’s aggression by allowing Russia to launch attacks from Belarus.
The Australian Government strongly supports the announcements by the European Commission, France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States on further restrictive economic measures against key Russian banks, institutions and individuals.
These measures include:
removal of selected Russian banks from the SWIFT global payments messaging system
restrictive measures to prevent the Russian Central Bank from using its international reserves in a way that undermines sanctions
limiting so-called golden passports for wealthy Russians connected to the Russian government
a trans-Atlantic task force to identify and freeze the assets of sanctioned individuals and companies that exist within their jurisdictions.
Together, these measures will impose severe costs on the Russian economy by disconnecting its key banks from the international financial system and disrupting Russian trade and investment flows. They will also paralyse Russia’s foreign reserves and prevent Russian officials and elites from accessing key financial systems.
While we expect that the SWIFT measures as announced will be implemented at a global level, we will take complementary steps as required.
The Australian Government reiterates our staunch support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and for the people of Ukraine.
Nicolle Flint MP
27 February 2022
Nicolle Flint has been an invaluable member of the Liberal team and my government.
Nicolle has been a strong champion for Boothby and South Australia in the Liberal Party Room and the Federal Parliament.
I want to thank Nicolle for her service to the Federal Parliament, particularly in her role as a Deputy Whip and her committee work, and for her service to her community.
Nicolle has delivered not just on local projects like the Oaklands Crossing and the Flinders Link Rail, but also in her advocacy for people battling endometriosis and managing the loss felt from stillbirth.
The public attention from being a Parliamentarian does sometimes attract unacceptable behaviour, and I have admired Nicolle’s efforts to stand against the bullying and nastiness of particular groups and individuals.
Throughout those experiences however, Nicolle has kept a laser focus on her community and delivering for the people of Boothby and South Australia.
Nicolle is an impressive and passionate Parliamentarian who was the first woman elected to represent Boothby, and she has brought strong experience from her previous career to the role.
I look forward to continuing to work with Nicolle through the remainder of this term of Parliament, and to ensure we put forward a Liberal candidate who brings the same high-calibre qualities to the people of Boothby as she has.
I wish her all the best for what comes next.
Doorstop - Kedron, QLD
27 February 2022
PRIME MINISTER: Good afternoon, everyone. I'm joined by Minister McKenzie and I want to thank Premier Palaszczuk and [inaudible] and the Queensland Police Force and emergency response agencies for providing us with a very helpful briefing this afternoon on the very concerning situation here in Queensland. And but not just in Queensland, the weather event that we're seeing here in Queensland is likely to move south, and we're already seeing that in northern New South Wales. And elements of this weather event are expected to return to parts of southern New South Wales as the week progresses. So this is a serious natural weather event and this is a serious natural flooding event that we're seeing impact right throughout, everywhere from Bundaberg to the border and all the way out to Toowoomba. But particularly in places like Gympie, this is a very serious situation.
And the key message that we have is it's important for people to keep safe and to remain in place where they haven't been ordered to evacuate. This is incredibly important and people should not be driving around and looking at this event and sightseeing on those things. What we need people to do is remain at home in a place of shelter, unless they've been ordered to evacuate to one of the many shelter centres that have been established by the Queensland Government. If it's flooded, forget it. This is a constant message that is given by governments all around the country during these flood events - not just for your own safety, but for the safety of those who will have to go in and assist if you get yourself into trouble. So for the sake of those incredible volunteers and the many other professional response agencies that are out there keeping people safe as best as they possibly can, those resources are needed to get to those who are going to need them in significant circumstances. And so we ask everyone to remain at home, to remain safe.
It's going to be a very anxious night here in Brisbane, as we see the rain continue to fall and the impact of this flooding event continue to have its way right across the city and right across the metropolitan area and reaching into all the creeks and the inundation of homes that we will see. But what I want to assure everyone of is what we also worked on today is the planning for the recovery has already begun, and the resources and the support that will be necessary to ensure the clean up can get underway. I commend the Queensland Government for the work they're doing with the councils in a, in a proactive way to put them on the right footing, to be able to get in there as soon as the weather event moves on, and people are able to get out there and start cleaning up again - that they'll work hand in glove together with the State Government and the local government, and the Federal Government will be supporting also wherever we are requested to do so.
So far, the Federal Government has responded to every request that has been made of us, and, in particular, I want to commend the work of the Australian Defence Force, and particularly those involved with the two Australian Army MRH-90 Taipan helicopters, which have been very essential for many rescue operations. In fact, three lives were saved yesterday as a direct result of their actions. But, as we think of that, we think of the six lives that have already been lost, and we extend our sympathies to the families of those who have lost loved ones in this terrible flood. And we also have one additional person who is missing and we fear for their safety, and and we we don't want to see additional people added to this terrible loss of life that we've seen already. And the way to avoid that is for people to remain safe, to remain at home, and to get to a place of safety where they've been instructed to do so.
Emergency Management Australia, together with the Defence Forces, have been in the very room I have just left right from the outset of these floods, and working closely together to ensure the best of the the work that is comes from the Bureau of Meteorology and others is fed into the command centre here, and the best possible responses can be put in place.
But I do appreciate the Premier opening up that briefing to me today. It is important for us to understand how we can further help. We'll be looking to see how we can help, not just in the immediate effects of these floods. I'll ask Minister McKenzie to go through the payments that we have already authorised. We will be moving into providing the Disaster Recovery Allowance into the affected local government areas, and when the additional local government areas are identified by the Queensland Government, moving into those as well. There is already the $1,000 payment, which we have activated for two of the local government areas. I anticipate that will also be going to those affected in in other local government areas, including the City of Brisbane, shortly. But then there is the Recovery Allowance, which relates to income support payments for those. There are so many businesses who have gone through so much through the pandemic, and now to face the losses through these floods, and we'll be standing with them, just as we have through the many other things they've had to go through over these last couple of years, and those Disaster Recovery Allowance payments that are made by the Federal Government will be able to support them in those areas, and further support payments will be assessed once we get through the immediate impact of the flood events themselves. So with that, I'll hand over to Minister McKenzie.
SENATOR THE HON. BRIDGET MCKENZIE, MINISTER FOR EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AND NATIONAL RECOVERY AND RESILIENCE: Thanks, PM. Well, it's great to be here in Brisbane and I commend local and state governments and emergency service providers here in Queensland for their amazing response on the ground in the face of natural disasters. As the Prime Minister has said, our Federal Government stands with these communities and affected individuals, not just now in the immediate response period, but well into what will be a long recovery, as you know all too well.
What we've been able to activate today is the a Disaster Recovery Payment, which is for those residents in Gympie and North Burnett Regional Councils. We are responding to requests from the Queensland Government specifically, so we expect that to be obviously expanded as the extent of this flooding event becomes more well known. But these are direct payments to individuals of $1,000 per person and $400 per child. When you go through an event like this, you may need emergency accommodation, you may need fresh food, you may need petrol and you may not be able to access a bank. You may not be able to access your personal items to assist you to get that cash and to support your family. Those payments will be able to be applied for from one o'clock tomorrow through Services Australia.
We also have a joint announcement with Minister Mark Ryan, and that is for North Burnett and Gympie Councils, and Minister Ryan and Premier Palaszczuk may have made this announcement earlier today, but there's an additional $180 per person or $900 for a family of up to five or more people. Again, individual payments to assist those people at this very early response time.
And as the Prime Minister has already highlighted, the Disaster Recovery Allowance will be something we'll absolutely be rolling out, particularly to Gympie and North Burnett in the first instance. That is a 13-week payment, recognising that when you do have a flood event like this, often you are cut off from being able to even get to work to earn your wage. And so we recognise that particularly for these type of events, you can be cut off for days and weeks. And so this payment is to actually support those people, individuals, as the workers or indeed small business owners who may need this particular payment. Gympie is a classic case in point. This town is split into three as a result of the rise of the Mary River, and there will be many, many people who'd love to get to their work or open their business who will be unable to as a result of that inundation.
I also look after Emergency Management Australia, and they have activated COMDISPLAN, which means we've been able to get two Taipan helicopters to this state, and they've been doing some great work on the ground over the recent period, and I know that'll continue. And we've just recently released some ADF aerial capacity to do mapping to make sure that the data we're getting from local council flood maps matches the reality on the ground. And that's going to help us not just now in how we deal with the flow and where it's heading, and and it's impact in further downstream, but also the next event. I think that's one of the great changes we're making in our response to disaster recovery at a federal, at state and local level is, yes, we're focused on the response, but we live in Australia. These events are going to occur again, as you in Queensland know all too well, and we need to be better prepared for the next time. So we're already looking at how that can happen. But we stand with you all. We're all around Australia amazed with the resilience of Queenslanders and how you just get up, pitch in and get on with it, no matter what nature throws at you. And I know that I speak for all Australians in we stand with you at, not just this week in the heavy rains, but in the long recovery to come.
PRIME MINISTER: Thanks Bridget.
JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, apart from the ADF helicopters, is there any plans to utilise further ADF personnel or send any other assistance up to help on the ground?
PRIME MINISTER: Yes, if required and and as requested. The planning that is done by, you know, the excellent professional team that's here in Queensland understands the resources that are available to them and and where they're called upon, they'll be activated.
JOURNALIST: So you've offered those?
PRIME MINISTER: Yeah, from the very first drop of rain, pretty much. I spoke to the Premier yesterday when I was in Sydney and to get an update on where things were, and sadly things have deteriorated since then more than expected. And so we're hopeful that tonight the the forecast with this with this weather system moving and deteriorating will eventuate, and that will take some of the pressure off. But we anticipate from what I've just been briefed on it, those flood levels remaining are high for three or four days or thereabouts. Now hopefully it's not as long as that. But there's the issue of assisting with direct assistance right now, as we've seen with the Taipans and other events. We saw that some years ago up in Townsville, when the the military, the ADF there did an amazing job in supporting people in their local town. And there's there is plenty of ADF resource here in Queensland that can lend itself to those tasks so ...
JOURNALIST: So to be clear that they will be used only if the Premier asks for them?
PRIME MINISTER: Yeah, well, yes, that, I mean, because they're running the show.
SENATOR THE HON. BRIDGET MCKENZIE, MINISTER FOR EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AND NATIONAL RECOVERY AND RESILIENCE: Yeah.
PRIME MINISTER: That's how this works. They have a very professional team. They know what's needed. They're available to be, to be deployed. And I was speaking to the Defence Minister earlier today and on my way in here. He would have been joining us for this press conference, but unfortunately the floodwaters prevented him from actually being able to get here. So so they're at the ready. Defence is at the ready to provide whatever assistance is required and to, and that includes their equipment and not just for the immediate response, but also as we get to the recovery and the cleanup phase.
JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, have they been called in to help with any evacuations, the ADF? Are they helping with evacuations? What's the full extent of …
PRIME MINISTER: Yes, they have. Yes, they have. Well, they saved three lives yesterday specifically, and the Taipans are also involved in in delivering much needed supplies into places like Gympie, which, you know, has been cut off. And that's very essential. I mean, we're restocking supermarkets, things of that nature, because that is a concern. We're going to have issues with power in the short term, and hopefully that will be able to be remedied in the, in the next few days. But I think we can expect, whether there or up in Maryborough, where they're they're looking at a flood worse than the one we had in January and going back to the 1890s, I think they said on ...
SENATOR THE HON. BRIDGET MCKENZIE, MINISTER FOR EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AND NATIONAL RECOVERY AND RESILIENCE: '93.
PRIME MINISTER: 1893. So that's a very serious flooding event up there as well. And so that the Defence Force are there to help with all of those things - whether it's recovery and support evacuation if necessary, particularly in quite extreme situations, because they have the training to undertake those tasks.
JOURNALIST: Are there boots on the ground though currently and where?
PRIME MINISTER: Not as yet, not as yet. They haven't been requested as yet. And if they are requested, then you can expect them to be rolling out very, very quickly, as we've seen in in many other events. But there's no, there's no reticence on the part of the Federal Government. They are available and ready to be deployed as needed.
JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, speaking of the Minister for Defence, in his capacity as the Member for Dickson he set up a GoFundMe for the recovery in the Pine Waters Community. Isn't disaster recovery a job for the Government to pay for? Why is he setting up a GoFundMe and is this appropriate?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, communities and the Government respond to events such as this. In the last three years, the Federal Government has put $17 billion into such responses, so the Commonwealth Government has always done that. But communities themselves also respond. I think one of the questions I asked, what were some of the big lessons of the big floods over a decade ago here in Brisbane that are being applied now, and will be applied in in the days and weeks ahead? And the first response was the way the Brisbane community, in particular, responded and rolled up their sleeves. The Mud Army that got out there and helped clean up Brisbane after the, after the floods. And so there will be community responses and good local members will be supporting that. I have no doubt about that, and marshalling resources to achieve things above and beyond what is done significantly by the Commonwealth and state governments. So that sounds to me like someone doing their job.
JOURNALIST: Surely there's no purpose for an, for an MP to crowdfund disaster recovery when the Government has so many different disaster response funds ready to go?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, I'm, I am a local Member of Parliament, and as a local Member of Parliament you always look to try and harness community support for responding to major disasters. That's what our, that's what our job is - to work with our communities when they're in times of stress, in times of need. So I commend Peter for what he's doing. I mean, it might, I mean, I don't understand the criticism of it, frankly. I really don't. I mean, he is working with his community to add to the significant contributions that are being made by the Commonwealth and the state and the local government. He's looking after his community. That's what a good member for Dickson does.
JOURNALIST: This disaster is geographically so much larger than what Townsville experienced in 2019.
PRIME MINISTER: True.
JOURNALIST: Similar in that the weather event's kind of just sitting on top of us. How, do you think that this could be one of the most expensive disaster recovery efforts ever?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, I'm not making that speculation at the moment. We're just making sure that we respond to what the need is. I mean, when I remember back to the Townsville event, remember the Townsville event happened at the same time as the north western Queensland flooding event, which wiped out, almost wiped out our entire cattle industry in the north of Queensland. And that is, that's what led to the establishment of what is now the National Disaster Recovery and Resilience Agency. That Agency was born in the floods of Townsville and North Queensland, and now is the engine room for the Federal Government's broader response to all disasters, all floods, all fires, all cyclones, all things of that nature. So we've learnt an enormous amount. I mean, the last three years, when it comes to natural disasters, have been record setting - from fires. I mean, last time I sat in that room was about fires. Today I'm sitting in there about floods. We've been dealing with pandemics, we've been dealing with droughts, we've been dealing with mice plagues in New South Wales. We've been dealing with cyclones like Seroja over in Western Australia, and we see many cyclones in North Queensland. The Australian Government, working together with our state governments and local governments, have have made a very good team in responding to these. We we are world's best and that's why we sort of always seek the cooperation of the community. You can help them do their best job by keeping yourself safe and remaining where you are. I do appreciate that it's going to be an anxious night. I mean, I can, we can hear the rain falling as we've been standing here during this press conference, and we want people to stay safe tonight and ensure that, you know, people aren't going outside and putting themselves at risk because we want those who are there to help people who get in genuine need to be able to go to their aid. Ok, thanks very much, everyone.
Commonwealth financial assistance for Queensland flood victims
27 February 2022
Prime Minister, Minister for Emergency Management and National Recovery and Resilience, Minister for Government Services, Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme
Queenslanders in communities impacted by the unfolding flooding disaster across the state’s South East can apply for Commonwealth financial support from Monday 28 February.
The Morrison Government has activated the Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) of $1000 per eligible adult and $400 per eligible child to support people impacted by the South East Queensland flooding event that began on 22 February.
The Disaster Recovery Payment is a one-off, non-means tested payment and is available to eligible people in those affected local government areas who have suffered a significant loss, including a severely damaged or destroyed home or serious injury.
Eligible Queenslanders in the local government areas of Gympie and North Burnett can claim support via myGov or by calling Services Australia on 180 22 66 from 1pm Queensland time tomorrow (28 February).
We are closely monitoring the flood emergency and we expect further Commonwealth assistance to be extended to other impacted regions and local government areas as the flood impact is known.
Australian Defence Force personnel continue to support the emergency response efforts and will do more once the water recedes and the recovery effort starts.
The Disaster Recovery Allowance (DRA) will also be provided into the affected local government areas in Gympie and north Burnett, with further flood affected local government areas expected to be added in coming days, as the damage becomes clear.
The DRA assists employees, small business persons and farmers who experience a loss of income as a direct result of a major disaster. You might be eligible for a maximum of 13 weeks payment from the date you have or will have a loss of income as a direct result of a disaster. The DRA is taxable.
Since 2019-20 the Federal Government has provided $17 billion in disaster relief.
Services Australia’s Disaster Assistance phone line (180 22 66) is available for those who are unable to claim online from 1pm Queensland time tomorrow, Monday 28 February. For more information on support available, visit servicesaustralia.gov.au/disaster
Doorstop, St Andrews Ukrainian Church - Lidcombe, NSW
27 February 2022
PRIME MINISTER: It was very moving today for Jenny and I and my colleagues to be part of the wonderful service to offer our prayers for the people of Ukraine, to pray for a peace, a peace that is not just the absence of war, but a peace that enables people of Ukraine to live according to their own rules, according to their own sovereignty, and to have their own freedom and not be threatened or subject to violence and persecution and intimidation from across their border from Russia.
So today was an opportunity to pray for that peace and to offer encouragement to Australians of Ukrainian ancestry and to meet so many of them here. I think they are overwhelmed by the outpouring of support that they've received, not just from within the Christian faith community, but right across the entire country. Australians have really wrapped their arms around, and the Australian government will continue to stand up for what is right when it comes to Ukraine.
We are already providing significant support in terms of non-lethal aid, but I've just spoken with the Defence Minister and we'll be seeking to provide whatever support we can for lethal aid through our NATO partners, particularly the United States and the United Kingdom. And we'll be working through those channels because that's the most effective way to do it. They are already providing support in these areas and we will be assisting them with what they are doing.
The other issue that is very pressing is the issue of humanitarian support, and we are seeing the terrible tragedy unfold and Australia, once again, will be doing heavy lifting in all of those areas. Already, the Immigration Minister can confirm that the rapid processing of Ukrainian visas to Australia has been completed as of today. We are processing all visas that are coming in from Ukraine as a priority and they are getting the top priority in terms of them being processed. We will also be providing no doubt in the months to come and the years to come support through our humanitarian programme, but not just the humanitarian programme. The support through visas will come through all aspects of the visa programme to Australia. So that is in the family programme, that's in the skills programme, it's in the student programme. The humanitarian programme will not be the only programme through which we are providing support. And after two years where our immigration intake has been low, there is quite a lot of room within those programmes to take in more places and Ukrainians will have a priority in terms of processing for those visas. We've been in these situations before. We provided safe haven to the Kosovars for several years. But those who are from Ukraine, I have no doubt would want to go home to the Ukraine. And so whether it's in temporary support at their request or whether it's support longer-term or indeed providing humanitarian support and giving assistance to the Polish Government, especially in those bordering Ukraine, we will be engaged in those activities as well with the rest of the global community.
But for Jenny and I to be here with my colleagues today just simply to offer our prayers and our encouragement and support on behalf of the Australian people has been very important, and I'm very grateful for the warm reception that we've had.
JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, how many refugees will you be welcoming here?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, it's a bit too early to be making those decisions. At present, our focus is what's occurring in Ukraine right now and providing the immediate relief to those who would be coming across borders as hundreds of thousands of people are becoming displaced and the world community will work together on all of those issues. But Australia will be very prepared to take more and more and more as we have with Afghanistan. We haven't taken the foot off the pedal there either. And so the ultimate numbers will be determined down the track and that will involve, I have no doubt taking numbers in addition to our normal programme. But the details of that will have to be worked through. Right now, the priority is providing that support through NATO. Australia, obviously not a member of NATO, and particularly our partners in the UK and the United States.
JOURNALIST: Will your Government cut off all trade with Russia? Labor says it supports such a move. Are you considering it?
PRIME MINISTER: We're considering every option and we've been stepping up every single day. I confirm that we are taking the actions against President Putin and his Foreign Minister, and we will continue to add names to these lists. But we are considering the situation of the embassy here in Australia along with our partners, and we're working in lockstep with all of them. It does disappoint me that while the world is increasing its sanctions on Russia, there are countries that are easing their trade sanctions on Russia.
JOURNALIST: Will you - are you going to expel the Russian ambassador?
PRIME MINISTER: We are working in lockstep to be undertaking these decisions with our partners.
JOURNALIST: While Australia is not part of NATO, there are calls for NATO to include Ukraine, is that something you support?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, that's a matter for Ukraine. Firstly, if they wish to do that, and that's a matter for NATO and NATO, is there to provide, I think, stability and balance and peace across Europe and has been an important contributor to that ever since the Second World War. So this is - we are a keen supporter of NATO. We work closely with NATO. The more countries that are involved with NATO that only makes it stronger.
JOURNALIST: Obviously Prime Minister, we've seen some war games from China already. How concerned are you that they'll move on Taiwan?
PRIME MINISTER: No, I don't draw a parallel between those issues, and I think it would be I think it would be unhelpful to engage in that speculation. The situations are very, very different. The situation in Taiwan and the situation in Ukraine. So I want to put Australians at ease in not conflating those two issues. I am concerned, though, that at a time when we're seeing aggression from Russia unlawfully invading Ukraine, China thinks this is an appropriate time to be conducting those sorts of operations in the South China Sea. And at the same time, easing trade restrictions on Russia for wheat. I don't consider those types of actions consistent with the broader statement about seeking a peaceful resolution.
JOURNALIST: Are we doing enough? What about the Russian diplomats, are you considering expelling them?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, of course we are, and we're doing that in concert with other partners around the world, and we have been taking steps each and every day, and we will continue to take steps. You'll know that it was ourselves and the United Kingdom who were the first to say that Russia should be disconnected from SWIFT. And that was a key call that came from the Ukrainian community here in Australia, and we've acted on that and we can't do that in isolation and the discussions we've had with the United States in particular and our European partners, I think we're making some real progress on that front. And I welcome the reception we've had to those encouragements to the United States and and they’re now, as we can see, starting to disconnect Russian financial intermediaries from that payment system.
See, Russia must pay a heavy price. They must pay a heavy price, and we will continue to add to that price as we consider every single option that is in front of us. I've taken nothing off the table.
JOURNALIST: What about President Zelenskyy. Have you been impressed with him?
PRIME MINISTER: I've spoken with the Ukrainian Prime Minister and I spoke to him last week and offered him our great encouragement and support on a whole range of fronts. But look, I think the courage being shown by the Ukrainian people is absolutely extraordinary. The spirit that has been seen from their leadership all the way through to those who are showing such bravery and then those who are reaching out the arm of compassion to their fellow Ukrainians has been extraordinary. I'm going to leave it there. The Australian Government will continue to stand strong with Ukraine and we will continue to do everything we can to support them in the most practical and efficient way that we possibly can. Thanks everyone.
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.