Media Releases
Interview with Darren James, 3AW
5 March 2022
HOST: The Prime Minister of Australia, the Honourable Scott Morrison, has called through and joins us now. Prime Minister, good morning to you.
PRIME MINISTER: Good morning. But it's not a very good morning today. It's numbingly shocking to hear about Shane Warne's passing today and plenty of other things going on in the country, of course, with the floods which are brewing in other parts of the country. But I think the whole country would have woken up in shock today. I know I certainly did. It was just terrible.
HOST: It was terrible. It happened overnight and as I've told the story earlier, I thought there were tributes at that hour at 4:30 this morning being played with highlights of Shane. I thought it must be his birthday. They seem to be playing a lot of highlights. Then to hear the news of that he's passed away in Thailand was a huge shock and we've been looking back at his career, which you would have no doubt like all of us admired, Mr Prime Minister.
PRIME MINISTER: Of course, I mean, he was one of those players that changed the game globally, not just here in Australia. We've had many great cricketers. I mean, we'd only just been mourning the loss of Rod Marsh the day before. So this comes as a double blow to the Australian cricket family and community. But with Shane Warne, that is just at such a young age, younger than me. That is a terrible shock to all those who knew and loved him. And I was only speaking to him at the Sydney Test earlier this year, and he was in fine form his usual wit and cheekiness, and he was giving me a few tips about my own bowling action on that occasion. I remember he wasn't too harsh either, I got to say he was very kind and he was such a character that was, I think, what Australians loved about him as well. I mean, he knew he wasn't perfect. His life was full of great achievements, but also regrets, and he carried them the same way with an honesty and a humility about it. I think, and I think people could see a lot of themselves in Shane in that way. And but his dedication and professionalism and talent and, you know, as a cricketer that was just unrivalled, he was extraordinary.
HOST: Prime Minister, is it possible to find the right words for how the nation is feeling today?
PRIME MINISTER: I think the first word is just shock. There's a numbness, I think, to this, and that will give way to an obvious sadness at losing someone like Shane from our community, not just the cricketing community, but the Australian community. And then there is just moments I think you move on to just reflection and you'll smile and you laugh and you remember the ball of the century. I mean, the look on Gatting's face, no one will ever forget. It was just, it was just one of the most amazing things. I remember I was watching it myself at the time, and I said what was that? And that was the whole thing about Shane's career. So I think just numb and shocked today, guys, I think is the real word. I've been in contact with Pat and to extend our, you know, condolences to the whole team over there. They've obviously had a shock as well over there with that blast that was 100 or so kilometres away from where they are. I've been speaking to the chair of Cricket Australia this morning about that, but also, of course, the Commonwealth Government will be offering a state funeral, of course for Shane, and we'll do that in concert with the State Government has done the same thing, which is totally appropriate, so we'll make the appropriate arrangements and of course, out of respect for what the Warne family wants and Cricket Australia. But, you know, at a national level, I think it's very important to honour him for the character he was. But most importantly, I think the way that, on how many occasions did Shane Warne lift the nation's spirits? On how many occasions.
HOST: Yeah and we've had we've had our Premier offer the family a state funeral. We've just heard. That's appropriate too.
PRIME MINISTER: Yeah, I've been in touch with Dan and we'll work something out obviously that, of course, in Victoria. But and to do that, I think to the way that is appropriate and I mean he is a person of national and state significance, there's no doubt about that. But to pass away in such a shock, I mean, I can only imagine what it must be like for his kids that must be must be just terrible for them to find out this way and our love and support are to them. We all throw our arms around them as well.
HOST: Absolutely. Jackson, Brooke and Summar are all in our thoughts. Without giving secrets away. When you caught up with Warnie, would you talk cricket with him or did he want to talk to you about all the other affairs of the country?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, to be honest, we didn't meet too on too many occasions. And but it was only, you know, we were, I was at the Sydney Test that day and I heard he was there, and he heard I was there. So we caught up for a bit and he gave me a bit of encouragement, I got to tell you, not just on my cricket action, which needs more than encouragement, but you know, he was interested in the things that happened across Australia. He was interested in the future of the country. And so, you know, we had a good private conversation about those things, and he was very encouraging and I really appreciated him because, you know, it was a tough time over that summer and particularly we were going through. And he just, you know, encouraged me to keep going, pressing ahead and doing what we needed to do. And that was very kind of him to do that. And I'll always remember that about him. He had a generous heart and he was an optimistic guy, and I loved his cheekiness. It was just, it was so Australian.
HOST: You've got the COVID at the minute, you're up and about, you're sounding a bit full of it still, you travelling alright?
PRIME MINISTER: Yeah, I'm on the mend. This thing, you know, it's a serious virus, but I've been doing okay and I appreciate the ask and I do appreciate all the kind words and encouragement I've had from people around the country. But I'm doing okay. There's a lot to push through. You know, the floods issue is very serious and I've been in contact again with the New South Wales Premier this morning and dealing with the issues in the northern rivers and overnight. So it's very hard for people there, but we're getting the support to where we need to get them, up there in Evans Head or anywhere else. I know it's really tough for you and everyone's working through the night, at all hours to get as much support as we can. I know Victorians would be sending their best to everyone in New South Wales and Queenslander who suffered under these terrible floods.
HOST: Yeah, well, you keep your fluids up and also the great work of you sending that gear over to Ukraine, too. Was good to see the planes leaving just to support their country. You know, they are going through tough times, obviously.
PRIME MINISTER: They are. And I said that those that lethal defence support would be on its way and it's on it is on its way. It will be there very shortly. And our thoughts are with all the people of Ukraine, particularly Ukrainian Australians here.
HOST: And Prime Minister we've got Rob Sinclair. This is his hour. He runs a business called E&S right and it's kitchen, bathroom, laundry. He was interested when you were cooking pizzas with Josh when he stayed at your joint. And he says if you need new appliances in the Lodge, anything kitchen, bathroom, laundry, he'll spin you a good deal. I mean, Prime Minister, I'd love to know what you've got on the Lodge, prime minister. You know what oven you're cooking on?
HOST: Is it a gas or an [inaudible]?
PRIME MINISTER: It's a big steel thing.
HOST: You got no idea. Blokes don't know their appliances Prime Minister, that's the problem.
PRIME MINISTER: Yeah that's true, but we're well looked after there, but I tend to cook a bit more up at Kirribilli, but Josh, you know, he was he was he was a helpful hand in the kitchen.
HOST: Sure. And you mentioned your bowling action before with you talking to Shane about your action. I hope it's better than former Prime Minister John Howard.
PRIME MINISTER: Well, what had happened at the time, it hadn't been that long before I'd been up in Brisbane, and I was having a, throwing the arm over with some kids up there and Shane actually did a thing on Fox, where he did a full analysis of my action, which was quite kind. And I just mentioned this to him, he had a bit of a giggle about it. And he said you've obviously done it before. And I said, yeah, but no where near, you know, what others can. But anyway, it's a lot of fun. I enjoy getting out there and doing that with the kids in particular. And I know Shane did, too. You know how many kids did Shane Warne inspire?
HOST: Yeah.
PRIME MINISTER: You know, that are out there today, our champions of today and not just today, but for generations to come. He'll have an impact on this game, you know, we dare not say like Bradman, but gosh, if there was anyone who you could put in the same league, it'd be Shane.
HOST: Yeah. On that note, watch this space to some help from the government and the state to celebrate the life of Shane Warne, and hey really appreciate you calling through. Feel free to feel free to call through any time.
PRIME MINISTER: Not at all. Thanks for the opportunity. All the best to everybody out there today. We remember Shane.
HOST: Good on you. That's the Prime Minister, if you don't mind of Australia. ScoMo. Beautifully spoken.
HOST: He was very sincere and interested about all that, wasn't he?
Financial help for flood-hit small businesses, primary producers and communities in SEQ
5 March 2022
Prime Minister, Premier of Queensland, Minister for Emergency Management and National Recovery and Resilience
Financial support for flood-affected Queensland small businesses, farmers, not-for-profit organisations, and sporting and community clubs will now be available following a new agreement between the Prime Minister and Premier.
An initial $558.5 million, jointly funded by the Commonwealth and Queensland governments will be provided to support communities in need.
Demand driven grants of up to $75,000 for primary producers, up to $50,000 for affected small businesses and not-for-profit organisations, and $20,000 for sporting and community clubs and associations will be available through Queensland Government agencies to help flood-affected communities get back on their feet.
These grants will be available through the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority, call 1800 623 946 or visit http://www.qrida.qld.gov.au.
Nineteen affected councils will also be helped through a $1 million injection each to assist with urgent clean-up works.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said this package was the first phase of financial support to ensure flood-affected communities in Queensland get the support they need.
“I saw the devastation of this flood with my own eyes this week in Brisbane and I knew how important it was to get money in the hands of farmers, small businesses and local community groups across Queensland to help them rebuild and recover,” the Prime Minister said.
“This initial package is in addition to the federally funded $1,000 disaster relief payment and the 13-week income replacement for employees and small businesses, which to date has already paid out over $100 million, including $77 million to those affected in Queensland.
“We are continuing to work with the Queensland and New South Wales governments to develop further support packages to help them rebuild and respond as flood waters recede.”
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the Queensland Government was committed to backing small businesses and primary producers across the region to recover as quickly as possible.
“I’ve seen first-hand the devastation this event has caused Queensland communities, many of which had already done it tough through the COVID pandemic and when Ex Tropical Cyclone Seth hit our state just two months ago,” Premier Palaszczuk said.
“It’s essential that we get our small businesses, primary producers and not-for-profits back up and running again to support our local jobs, economy and communities.
“Many small businesses and not-for-profits are experiencing loss of infrastructure, equipment, stock and trading, and primary producers are again facing losses to crops, equipment and infrastructure, but through these grants we’re here to help them in their recovery.
“Every council affected by these floods has different recovery priorities and a $1 million injection will help them to get on with the immediate clean-up activities that their communities need most.
“This will be followed by reimbursements to councils and agencies across those 19 areas for costs incurred in counter disaster operations, such as sandbagging, and the restoration of essential public assets including roads and bridges.
“From the start of these floods we have said we are in this together and this extraordinary assistance package is an example of just that. We will continue to work with all impacted communities, and local governments, to identify what additional support may be required as Queensland’s recovery commences.”
Federal Minister for Emergency Management and National Recovery and Resilience Bridget McKenzie said the swift introduction of a comprehensive grants program will provide much needed support to key impacted areas of the community, including those sectors hit hardest.
“This has been an extraordinary event and it requires an extraordinary response. The Commonwealth and Queensland governments have worked closely on this jointly funded package to help flood affected communities get back on their feet as quickly as possible,” Minister McKenzie said.
“We want small businesses, primary producers and not-for-profit organisations to be supported to progress their massive clean-up and repair efforts right now and these grants will help.
“While impact assessments are ongoing, it’s already clear these sectors have been hit very hard, which is why we’re not waiting another day to make these grants available.
“Sadly, many sporting and community clubs and associations have been devastated by these floods. We know how important these organisations are to each and every community, which is why this package also includes assistance to repair damaged infrastructure and replace lost equipment.
“This latest funding package builds upon emergency personal hardship assistance that has already been made available by both the Australian and Queensland governments.”
The payments are being provided through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) for eligible applicants in the 19 local government areas of Brisbane, Fraser Coast, Gladstone, Gold Coast, Goondiwindi, Gympie, Ipswich, Lockyer Valley, Logan, Moreton Bay, Noosa, North Burnett, Redland, Scenic Rim, Somerset, South Burnett, Southern Downs, Sunshine Coast and Toowoomba.
This DRFA assistance is in addition to assistance already available for cases of personal hardship, as well as for councils and agencies for counter disaster operations and the reconstruction of essential infrastructure.
Summary of extraordinary packages across affected 19 council areas:
$1 million each for 19 affected councils for immediate clean-up activities
$75,000 grants for affected primary producers (note – these grants are available in 17 local government areas activated for DRFA Category B primary producer assistance)
$50,000 grants for affected small businesses and not-for-profit organisations
$20,000 for sport and community clubs and associations.
For more information on grants for primary producers, small businesses and non-profit organisations, phone the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority on 1800 623 946 or visit http://www.qrida.qld.gov.au.
Information on disaster assistance can be found on the Queensland Reconstruction Authority’s website at www.qra.qld.gov.au.
Shane Warne
5 March 2022
Australians have woken in shock and sadness to the awful news of the death of Shane Warne.
Shane was one of our greatest cricketers of all time, one of only a few that could approach the extraordinary achievements of the great Don Bradman. His achievements were the product of his talent, his discipline and passion for the game he loved.
But Shane was more than this to Australians. Shane was one of our nation’s greatest characters. His humour, his passion, his irreverence, his approachability ensured he was loved by all. Australians loved him. We all did.
There was something magical that he brought to our summers. The bleached blonde hair, the almost casual way he moved to send down a delivery, and his engagement with the crowd. He was one of a kind.
He inspired so many girls and boys to try their hand at cricket. He made it all look so easy. At some point, in most Australian backyards, we all tried to deliver a flipper.
As we heard as a commentator, behind the playfulness that we associated with Shane, there was a player who understood the strategies and intricacies of cricket as few others. A brilliance that will always be remembered alongside that of Bradman and Benaud.
There was also a generosity to so many people away from the cameras. With a smile and a g’day he’d bridge every gap.
Shane was his own man, following his own path. In those times when he could have been knocked down by the headlines, he got back up. He always did.
Shane was the “King of Spin” because there was none like him. The “ball of the century” will be talked about forever.
Our love and condolences go to Shane’s family and particularly his children Brooke, Jackson, and Summer.
We have lost one of Australia’s greatest cricketers and today we are bewildered by this sad and sudden loss.
In recognition of Shane Warne’s national achievements his family will be offered a state funeral by the Commonwealth Government. This will be done in consultation with the Warne family, Cricket Australia and the Victorian Government to ensure we honour Shane’s passing and memory.
Interview with Gareth Parker, 6PR
4 March 2022
GARETH PARKER: Who I'm pleased to say we've been able to make this work with, obviously some pretty busy scheduling issues, but he is the Prime Minister of Australia. Scott Morrison, good morning.
PRIME MINISTER: Good morning, Gareth and caught Marsh, bowled Lillee. That's, I gotta say one of the most enduring memories of Australian cricket. It's a sad day. He was a childhood hero of mine that led me to actually try and be a wicketkeeper in primary school. Wasn't very good at it, but everyone wanted to be Rod Marsh. Everyone, you know, you put on the fake mo, all that sort of thing. He was part of the one of the most exciting periods in Australian cricket, world cricket, and he was at the centre of it. He was, he was just larger than life, and he committed his life to the whole game after that, you know, raising up great West Australian greats like Justin Langer, you know, and you know, how good a job has Justin Langer done for Australian cricket? Yeah, it's sad. It's really sad.
PARKER: And everyone's thoughts this morning with Ros and his three boys as well. Just, you know, a really sad day. And we feared the worst after that heart attack in Queensland last week. And now here we are. But there will be
PRIME MINISTER: Yeah and sorry to bang on about it, but I'm sure, I mean, I think one of the most enduring memories most Australians would have apart from all of those amazing catches and his, you know, his antics and his charisma and his great cricket was 1981 and where he stood up when it came to the, one of the most infamous incidents in Australian cricket. You know, he said, don't do it, mate. Don't do it, mate. Of course, I'm talking about the underarm. And you know, that said a lot about him as a sportsman and what cricket was about and without going into the ins and outs of all of that, because plenty of people have done that. But you know, he's a guy who always stood up for what he believed in and about the game. And I hope we've got so many more like him. I reckon we do.
PARKER: I think you're absolutely right about that. Prime Minister, an important call last night, which we'll come to in a moment.
PRIME MINISTER: Yeah.
PARKER: But, how are you feeling? We can hear that your voice is not it's normal, well, it's not the normal Scott Morrison voice we used to hear, you do sound a little bit under the weather.
PRIME MINISTER: Yeah, a bit, but certainly better than the last couple of days. So, so I appreciate all the very kind wishes I've had from everybody from right across the country, including from Mark McGowan. It was really nice to get a lovely message from Mark and about the family, so I appreciate that. But we are. We're getting through it. There's, there's so much on obviously the situation in Ukraine, but over here on the east coast, I heard the weather report just when I was waiting to come on, very different weather reports we're getting over here on this side and it's been a very, very dangerous and distressing situation here. I appreciate all the kind messages we've had from the West about what's happening over here. Of course, Western Australia is no stranger to natural disasters. In April last year, I was up there in Kalbarri when Seroja went through and you know, Australians had such a hard time with these disasters over recent years. And then of course, there's the pandemic.
PARKER: Just on the natural disasters story. Are you agreeing with the IPCC report that says that we should come to expect more of these because of climate change?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, this is what the Bureau of Meteorology is telling us. This is what all of these things tell us. And so, you know, there's obviously a lot of change that's occurring, and that's why we've got the policies that we have. But we've also got to deal with the practical issues of the here and now, and these impacts will continue. And so the resilience that we need to build up right across the country and that's why we established the National Recovery and Resilience Agency, which we set up. It was built on what we did with the North Queensland flood response. You might remember that back in 2018, wiped out about half of the cattle herd up there. And so we built up a lot of experience now in how we can better prepare for these events. I mean, Kalbarri was interesting because it was devastating to the community, but it was a place where cyclones normally didn't go that far south and hit. And as a result, the place was not built to withstand a cyclone of that force. So, you know, these are the lessons that we have to adapt to and climate resilience is, is, you know, something that has to become part of our everyday planning and preparations and certainly is from the federal government's point of view.
PARKER: We're seven days of fighting into this outrageous Russian invasion into Ukraine. Last night, you held a conversation with the leaders of Japan, India and the United States. What did you tell them?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, what I said was obviously we're outraged by what's occurred in Ukraine and the invasion of Ukraine and outlined the clear steps that Australia had taken because Russia must pay a heavy and lasting price for what it's doing, now, I'm not one of those who thinks that President Putin is one who is dissuaded from his murderous acts here. He will continue to press and do what he's going to do, but that should not stop the rest of the world from further pressing in and tightening the vise, that's incredibly important because Russia has, through President Putin has self-nominated as a pariah state. You know, we can line them up with, with North Korea and others. And they should be treated accordingly. And they are they are being they are paying a high price. I mean, their ruble has fallen, their interest rates have risen. Their central bank has been cut off. They've been, their institutions taken off the SWIFT payment system. This is having a very damaging impact on their economy and I think the targeted sanctions against individuals which ourselves, the United States, United Kingdom, so many others have been doing is having an impact on the oligarchs and the whole support system to President Putin. Now this all sends a very clear message to anyone else, any other autocratic regime, and we know about a few of those in our own region. And it should be a clear message to not take the wrong lesson out of this. If you seek to violate the international order, rules based order and the principles that underpin it, there will be a heavy transactional cost in reputation and in economic terms and and potentially even militarily, as you know, the world has also been providing support to Ukraine, including Australia, in providing missiles and other lethal support for Ukraine's defensive efforts.
PARKER: So are you talking about, Prime Minister, China and Taiwan there? Are you warning China that they should just hit pause if they've got any plans at all to do anything territorial about Taiwan?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, I wouldn't conflate the issues of Taiwan and Ukraine. I think they're very different issues. I mean, Ukraine is not a member of NATO, and there's a clear red line when it comes to if Russia was to cross over into a NATO country, I think they'd know exactly what happens. So I wouldn't equateUkraine with Taiwan. There's also, I think, a very clear understanding of what the implications would be if China were to seek to realise its ambitions for Taiwan. But it's important for us to understand that autocratic regimes don't play by the same rules as liberal democracies and those who support an international order based on the rule of law. And I think there should be a lesson out of this, but I wasn't one of those who thought President Putin was, was just playing for time or seeking to gain some leverage. He'd been planning this for a long time. It's been revealed that he discussed that with President Xi, and that is of deep concern when you get an alignment,an instinctive alignment between countries like that. And as I said, we've got to call that out and I have called it out. I mean, China has eased trade restrictions on Russia for wheat. So has Pakistan, by the way, so at a time when they're invading another country, China has, has sought to ease trade restrictions and fire them an economic lifeline. And this is a key point I was making last night. I mean, the Quad is about the Indo-Pacific. It's not about Europe, and we're very focused on regional security, economic development, humanitarian support, COVID, et cetera, in our region. But we need to take the right lessons out of what is occurring Ukraine. And one is that autocrats will pursue their agendas and won't always play by the same rules as the rest of us, and we need to be prepared.
PARKER: So just on that and you know, Peter Dutton was right about this earlier in the week when he said that President Xi seems to be one of the only people Vladimir Putin listens to. Did you tell the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi that you'd like to see more from him because India have been almost sitting on the sidelines of this, they've abstained from key votes at the UN security Council or at the UN.
PRIME MINISTER: Well, I certainly wouldn't put them in the same category as China, not not even remotely. I mean, India has been in direct armed conflict with China.
PARKER: Of course, but just in terms of their reluctance to condemn Vladimir Putin.
PRIME MINISTER: And look and look, I think we've got to work patiently with our, with our partners who work for the same objectives as we do in the Indo-Pacific, and that's what we'll do. So I don't draw an equivalence between India and China whatsoever. And I do know from the discussions that we had last night that India is seeking to ensure that this violence ends. They have, they have some very real concerns right now. And some of the listeners who may, you know, family back in India will know that there's quite a, I think, 16,000 Indian students that are in the Ukraine who we’re trying to get out of there and get to safety. So they have a lot of issues that they're managing, so we'll work closely with them. But of course, we want to see the world not throw Russia a lifeline, and India certainly are not doing that. I mean, they're not easing their trade restrictions on, on Russia, but China is. And you know, I'm not saying that to be provocative or anything like that. I just think we have to call these things out. I've got, I've got form on doing that. I've been criticised for doing it before. I did it on COVID. I've done it on a range of issues and you know, we can't pretend that these things aren't going on, and Australia has a very clear, clear eyed view about what's going on in our region. And I think what's happened in Ukraine, hopefully will lead to a greater realisation about what autocrats are capable of.
PARKER: Just very quickly, Prime Minister, are you happy to see Australia one again with the WA border coming down?
PRIME MINISTER: Oh, I'm thrilled. I'm absolutely thrilled. And the moving scenes of families reunitedand people reunited over such a long way. My first response is to say thank you, Western Australia for your patience, your endurance. You had a very different experience of COVID to the rest of the country and you've had a great deal of success. You know, we've been pleased as a federal government to be there to support you. $14 billion in direct economic support, to JobKeeper cash flow boost payments, veterans care and other income support and $455 million directly to support WA's health response. And we still will continue to provide 50 per cent of the COVID health response. And that includes everything from testing centres, obviously paying for all the vaccines. But even the administration of the vaccines, there's mental health support, so that's all continuing. Western Australia has been, you know, has been very much foremost in our mind along with all the other rest of the country. So thanks for pushing through. Looking forward to the hospital system holding up in Western Australia, there's been plenty of time to make sure that's the case. Plenty of resource to support it and supporting Premier McGowan as he manages and gets that balance right. But also, I know he'll be taking the lessons from the east coast, which he had a, you know, a courtside seat for to see what was occurring there. Omicron is different to Delta and so the, this, what you use to manage Omicron is very different. I can say that from personal experience having now having Omicron and so managing that is, I think is getting the balance right is, is the key and he's best placed to make that judgement.
PARKER: Prime Minister, get well soon, and I'm sure we'll see you here in the West very soon.
PRIME MINISTER: Well, I look forward to that. And and again, our sincere condolences to all of Rod Marsh's family and to all Western Australians, he was a great Western Australian, he was a great Aussie. Thank you very much.
PARKER: Good on you, PM. Prime Minister Scott Morrison on 6PR Breakfast.
Thom Report
4 March 2022
Earlier today the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet provided me with advice following the process undertaken in relation to Dr Vivienne Thom’s report into serious allegations made by Ms Rachelle Miller regarding the then Minister for Human Services, Alan Tudge. These allegations related to events in 2017.
This process started in December last year, at my instruction, after serious allegations were raised by Ms Miller that required a fair, independent and vigorous investigation by a qualified and independent person.
Dr Vivienne Thom AM was appointed by my Department, following their recommendation. Dr Thom is an eminent and respected former public servant with more than thirty years of experience as Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security, ombudsman and a statutory officer.
Ms Miller and Minister Tudge were invited to take part in this process by Dr Thom and the investigation was aimed at properly assessing views by a number of parties in relation to these issues. Ultimately, Ms Miller chose not to participate in the inquiry but the inquiry was able to draw on her public statements.
Dr Thom and the Department have sought to engage Ms Miller throughout this process through her nominated representative.
Dr Thom found that ‘the evidence considered in this Inquiry does not provide a basis for a finding that Mr Tudge’s conduct breached the Ministerial Standards’. I have accepted her advice.
Ms Miller and Minister Tudge have been provided with a full copy of this report.
In December, Minister Tudge agreed to my request to stand aside from the Ministry, while these allegations were examined. Today he has informed me that in the interests of his family and his own well-being and in order to focus on his re-election as the Member for Aston he is not seeking to return to the frontbench, and I support his decision.
Minister Stuart Robert will continue in his role as Acting Minister for Education and Youth and Minister for Employment, Workforce, Skills, Small and Family Business.
The report by Dr Thom will be released in full today on my Department’s website, with minor redactions made to de-identify individuals.
These matters are deeply distressing both for Ms Miller and Mr Tudge, and the families who are affected by these events, and I know today will be a difficult day for them.
Support will continue to be available to Ms Miller, Mr Tudge and any current or former staff impacted by this report, should they seek it, through our Parliamentary Workplace Support Service or the Parliamentary Support Line.
Quad Leaders' Virtual Meeting
4 March 2022
Prime Minister, Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida of Japan, President Joe Biden of the United States
Today the Quad Leaders – Prime Minister Scott Morrison of Australia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida of Japan, and President Joe Biden of the United States – convened to reaffirm their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, in which the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states is respected and countries are free from military, economic, and political coercion. They reaffirmed their dedication to the Quad as a mechanism to promote regional stability and prosperity.
The Quad Leaders discussed the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis in Ukraine and assessed its broader implications. They agreed to stand up a new humanitarian assistance and disaster relief mechanism which will enable the Quad to meet future humanitarian challenges in the Indo-Pacific and provide a channel for communication as they each address and respond to the crisis in Ukraine.
In their continuing pursuit of a free and open Indo-Pacific, the Quad Leaders agreed to meet in person in Tokyo in the coming months.
Quad Leaders' Virtual Meeting
4 March 2022
Overnight I had the important opportunity to engage with my fellow Quad Leaders. We discussed the conflict in Ukraine and assessed its implications for regional stability in the Indo-Pacific. This is what the Quad is all about: four Leaders of liberal democratic nations who uphold the values and principles of our rules based international order.
We come together to support a free and open Indo-Pacific and to take action to deliver for our region. Together we are committed to supporting a region where the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states is respected, the status quo cannot be changed by force, and coercion is not tolerated.
The Australian Government’s view of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is clear: Russia’s actions are a gross violation of international law and the UN Charter. There is no justification for Russia’s aggression, which is illegal, unjustified and unprovoked. Australia has implemented strong sanctions against Russia in close coordination with our Indo-Pacific and global partners. We are supporting Ukraine, including through US$50m of military assistance to support Ukraine’s defence and US$25m of immediate humanitarian assistance at a time of great suffering for Ukraine’s people.
My meeting with Quad Leaders comes at a critical time for our region and the world. We cannot allow what is happening in Ukraine now to ever happen in the Indo-Pacific. We are resolute in our commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region where smaller states do not need to live in fear of more powerful ones.
The events in Ukraine only reaffirm the importance of the positive work being done by the Quad to ensure a free and independent Indo-Pacific - our health and humanitarian initiatives, improving the resilience of critical supply chains, supporting economic development, strengthening regional energy and food security, and enhancing regional stability.
I look forward to seeing Quad Leaders at our next Summit in Tokyo in the coming months.
Funding to help flood-hit communities, farmers, small businesses and councils
3 March 2022
Prime Minister, Minister for Emergency Management and National Recovery and Resilience, Deputy Premier of New South Wales, Minister for Regional NSW, New South Wales Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience
A new support package for flood-affected communities across New South Wales will be released today to support farmers, businesses and local councils to recover and rebuild.
This initial $434.7 million of funding from the Commonwealth and New South Wales governments will be provided to support communities clean up and remove damage and debris, as well as further support local government areas (LGAs) that have been flood-affected.
Grants of up to $75,000 for primary producers and up to $50,000 for small businesses and not for profit organisations devastated by flooding will soon be available through NSW Government agencies, with registration now open through Service NSW. This program will be demand driven.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said this package is just the first phase of the financial support that will support communities in need.
“We will be there to help farmers, small businesses and every community in New South Wales to get back on their feet as soon as possible when flood waters recede,” the Prime Minister said.
“Farmers will need to restock and rebuild and small businesses will need help replacing damaged goods and shop fronts, and when more support is needed, more support will be given.
“I have already asked the New South Wales Premier to provide my Government with a proposal for a second support package to ensure all communities get the support they need.
“We are working with Queensland on what support will be made available under Category D funding, ensuring communities receive the funding they require to rebuild, and my Government has requested a proposal of projects from the Queensland Government.
“This initial package is in addition to the federally funded $1,000 disaster relief payment and the 13-week income replacement for employees and small business, which to date has already paid out almost $63 million in a matter of days.”
New South Wales Premier Dominic Perrottet said the NSW Government stood ready to support communities hit hard by the floods across the State.
“We activated these measures during the 2021 floods, and we have done so again – they are large grants that will get much-needed funds to people quickly to provide some relief and assistance,” Premier Perrottet said.
“We know these supports will have an immediate positive effect and I would encourage anyone in NSW impacted by these awful floods to please contact Service NSW and find out what you are eligible for.”
Seventeen LGAs have been declared as disaster areas and are eligible for support through Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
Minister for Emergency Management and National Recovery and Resilience Bridget McKenzie said the activation of extraordinary Category D grant assistance under the DRFA was vital to help kick start the recovery of affected primary producers and small businesses.
“The Commonwealth and NSW Governments are focused on giving small businesses and not-for-profits the tools they need to clean-up, rebuild and keep operating,” Minister McKenzie said.
“We will continue to work with the NSW Government to roll out ongoing targeted support for communities impacted by these devastating storms and floods.”
New South Wales Deputy Premier Paul Toole said a phased approach to support was being adopted to ensure communities had the resources and support they needed at every stage from response to recovery.
“We know it’s going to be a long road to recovery for many of our regional communities and this targeted funding will ensure they get immediate assistance as well as in the weeks and months ahead,” Deputy Premier Toole said.
“In addition to the funding now available, Service NSW offers a one-stop shop for all information and support on disaster assistance by phoning 13 77 88 or online via service.nsw.gov.au.”
New South Wales Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience Steph Cooke said the mass clean-up is already underway and recovery grants have been designed to kick-start recovery.
“Many areas are still in the emergency phase and many more are unfortunately at risk of flooding. We are focused on delivering as much support as possible to impacted communities right across the State,” Ms Cooke said.
“While the acute response continues, we are working tirelessly in the background preparing for the significant clean-up and recovery ahead of us.”
People in NSW requiring assistance are urged to contact Service NSW on 13 77 88 or online at: www.service.nsw.gov.au/floods.
People and businesses can register their interest for these grant programs through Service NSW, with funding soon available through NSW Government agencies at: https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/campaign/storm-and-flood-assistance-businesses
The phase one package includes:
Demand driven - $75,000 grants to assist primary producers that have suffered direct damage from the recent severe weather and flooding. NSW Government estimate this to initially be $111.5 million.
Demand driven - $50,000 grants to assist small business and not-for-profit organisations that have suffered direct damage from the event. NSW Government estimate this to initially be $89.7 million.
$210 million to assist affected communities with the clean-up and removal of flood and storm related damage, debris and green waste. This will enable LGAs to work with Resilience NSW and NSW Government agencies to coordinate clean-up activities in their communities.
$1 million grants to impacted councils to assist with their immediate social, built, economic and environmental needs. This list may continue to grow.
$6.5 million to provide Community Recovery Officers to support communities impacted by this event.
The 17 LGAs are Armidale, Ballina, Bellingen, Byron, Clarence Valley, Coffs Harbour, Glen Innes Severn, Hornsby, Kempsey, Kyogle, Lismore, Nambucca, Port Macquarie/Hastings, Richmond, Tenterfield, The Hills and Tweed.
This is one tranche of assistance that will be offered to NSW residents, and is in addition to the disaster payments already available to flood victims.
The Commonwealth stands ready to provide similar financial help to victims of the flood disaster in Queensland once a request is received from the Queensland Premier.
Media Statement
1 March 2022
Tonight I tested positive to COVID-19.
I am experiencing flu-like symptoms and will be recovering over the next week.
I had tested myself daily since Sunday, including this morning, with all tests returning a negative result.
I took a further test this evening after developing a fever late today. The test was inconclusive so I took a PCR test tonight which returned a positive result late this evening.
I am continuing to follow health guidelines and am isolating at home in Sydney.
Jenny and the girls have thankfully tested negative but will isolate for seven days at home as close contacts.
While in isolation I will continue to discharge all my responsibilities as Prime Minister, including virtually chairing meetings of the National Security and Expenditure Review Committees of Cabinet, focusing on our emergency response to the devastating floods in Queensland and New South Wales, and ensuring we stand with each and every one of the affected communities both now and as the waters eventually recede.
I will also be focused on our urgent response to the tragedy unfolding in the Ukraine and Russia’s senseless aggression, staying in regular contact with our security and intelligence officials and our international partners, as well as working with the Treasurer to finalise the Budget.
Australian support to Ukraine
1 March 2022
Prime Minister, Minister for Defence
Australia will provide significant additional military assistance and emergency humanitarian support to help the people of Ukraine following the brutal invasion by Russia.
Australia stands in solidarity with our friends and partners in supporting Ukraine and condemning Russia utterly for its unprovoked and unjustified attack on its neighbour.
Australia will provide around $70 million in lethal military assistance to support the defence of Ukraine, including missiles and weapons. We will also provide a range of non-lethal military equipment and medical supplies in response to a specific request from the Ukrainian Government.
Our contributions will complement actions taken by partners such as the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, the European Union and other European nations – each of which we welcome. We will work with and through our closest partners and allies to supplement the already substantial support from the international community.
Australia will also commit immediate humanitarian assistance of an initial $35 million to help meet the urgent needs of the Ukrainian people. This assistance will deliver lifesaving services and supplies, including the provision of shelter, food, medical care and water.
Our lethal and non-lethal military assistance, along with our humanitarian funding, are in addition to the significant sanctions we have already imposed on Russia.
With the situation now seriously deteriorating after Russia’s invasion, current indications are that at least 160,000 people have been displaced inside Ukraine and around half a million people have fled to neighbouring countries. Numbers of displaced people will rise sharply as the security situation deteriorates further.
The cost of Russia’s aggression is being borne by innocent Ukrainians. This is a challenge the international community will meet, and Australia stands ready to provide further humanitarian assistance to support the people of Ukraine, including those fleeing to neighbouring countries.
Russia’s actions are a gross violation of international law and the UN Charter. There is no justification for these actions in Ukraine which are illegal, unjustified and unprovoked.
Australia To Host Landmark Global Clean Energy Supply Chain Forum
1 March 2022
Australia will welcome global leaders in business, technology, finance and clean energy to Sydney on 12-13 July for a major summit on clean energy development and supply chains across the Indo-Pacific region.
The Indo-Pacific Clean Energy Supply Chain Forum will be co-hosted by the Australian Government and the International Energy Agency (IEA), in partnership with the Business Council of Australia.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said this ground-breaking Forum was the first of its kind, and showed Australia’s commitment to clean energy development across the region.
“We know that the adoption of low emissions technology across the globe will be critical to a collective effort to meet our climate goals.
“Australian industry and our communities are leaders in the adoption of renewables and the Forum is a chance to share our expertise with neighbours across the region,” the Prime Minister said.
“But we must ensure that the transition does not deny our citizens, especially in developing economies, their livelihoods or the opportunity for a better quality of life.
“The solutions we need for the challenges we face need to be as affordable and practical in Australia as they are for our regional partners.
“Technology will be the cornerstone of this transition. This Forum is about making sure that technologies, resources, workforces and supply chains are well understood and that all nations can participate in the economic opportunities.’’
Regional and global experts will be invited to work together to realise the opportunities and tackle the challenges to enable diverse, competitive and resilient clean energy supply chains in the Indo-Pacific region.
Dr Alan Finkel AC will chair a high level panel of eminent global experts in low emissions technology, finance, industry and research, to shape and lead discussions at the Forum.
“These discussions will have a technical and practical focus and will identify concrete actions to secure the opportunities of the Indo-Pacific’s clean energy transition,” Dr Finkel said.
Prime Minister Morrison said that partnering with the world’s leading energy agency, the International Energy Agency and the business sector would be crucial to the success of the Forum.
“I am pleased to co-host this event with the world’s leading international energy body. I am confident that together we can deliver practical outcomes at the Forum,” the Prime Minister said.
“It is also critical that Australia’s world-leading businesses are at the table and shaping this important initiative from day one – and we are happy the Business Council of Australia will be working closely with us to deliver this event.”
Dr Fatih Birol said, “It is a privilege for the IEA to co-host the forum with Australia. It is clear that more diverse and competitive supply chains will be essential to support the energy transition and security of the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.”
Business Council of Australia chief executive Jennifer Westacott welcomed the opportunity for the BCA to partner in delivering the Forum and commended the Government for its leadership.
“Many Australian companies are leading the world in driving a clean energy future. They are at the forefront of making the most of our natural advantages, investing, innovating, transforming processes and creating new industries and jobs,’’ Ms Westacott said.
“This Forum is an enormous opportunity to position the region to take advantage of the massive changes underway and fully embrace a cleaner and more prosperous future.’’
The Forum will build on and provide input to the international work of the IEA, the International Renewable Energy Agency, ASEAN, Indonesia’s 2022 G20 Presidency, the Quad, and the 27th Conference of the Parties (COP27) in Egypt.
Further information about the Forum is available at www.pmc.gov.au.
Additional Commonwealth financial assistance for flood victims in Queensland and New South Wales
28 February 2022
Prime Minister, Minister for Emergency Management and National Recovery and Resilience, Minister for Government Services and the National Disability Insurance Scheme
Residents in 26 flood affected local government areas across Queensland and New South Wales can start applying for Commonwealth financial support through Services Australia from 9am tomorrow.
This includes affected Queensland residents in Brisbane, Fraser Coast, Gold Coast, Ipswich, Lockyer Valley, Logan, Moreton Bay, Noosa, Redland, Scenic Rim, Somerset, South Burnett, Southern Downs, Sunshine Coast and Toowoomba local government areas.
Financial support has also been activated for Northern New South Wales local government areas of Ballina, Bellingen, Byron, Clarence Valley, Coffs Harbour, Kyogle, Lismore, Richmond Valley and Tweed.
These communities are in addition to the local government areas of Gympie and North Burnett, who become eligible to apply on February 28.
Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) of $1,000 per eligible adult and $400 per eligible child is now available for people impacted by a flooding event.
The AGDRP 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.
The Disaster Recovery Allowance (DRA) will also be provided into the 26 affected local government areas.
The DRA assists employees, small business persons and farmers who experience a loss of income as a direct result of a major disaster. This allowance provides 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 payment is set at the maximum equivalent rate of Jobseeker Payment or Youth Allowance, depending on your personal circumstances, and is taxable.
The Morrison Government funds these payments entirely and have been made immediately to support those flood hit communities in Queensland and New South Wales.
Eligible residents in the 26 Queensland and New South Wales local government can claim support via myGov or by calling Services Australia on 180 22 66.
Affected Queensland local government areas from tomorrow (1 March) can claim AGDRP from 9am (AEST) and can claim DRA from 1pm (AEST).
Claims for AGDRP and DRA for NSW local government areas will be open from 2pm (AEDT) tomorrow (1 March).
The Morrison Government also jointly delivers Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) with the Queensland Government for flood-affected residents, with payments for Personal Hardship Assistance and grants for local councils.
The DRFA assistance provides grants of up to $180 per person, to a maximum of $900 for a family of five or more.
These payments are available in Gympie and North Burnett local government areas and the Queensland Government is responsible for activating these payments.
Australian Defence Force personnel continue to support the emergency response efforts and will do more once the water recedes and the recovery effort starts. This includes the arrival of ADF in Lismore today to assist NSW.
Since 2019-20 the Federal Government has provided $17 billion in disaster relief.
For more information on support available, visit servicesaustralia.gov.au/disaster
Doorstop - Brisbane, QLD
28 February 2022
MR ADRIAN SCHRINNER, LORD MAYOR OF BRISBANE: Good morning, everyone. It's been good to have the Prime Minister here today. We've just been through our local Disaster Coordination Centre here in Brisbane Square, to update him on the situation. It's very timely that he's with us because we've just been through the flood. We have had a BOM prediction late last night that there would be a flood peak of four metres. What we've seen is slightly below that, which is a great thing, but we had a rapidly changing situation last night. BOM advice started off at 3.4 metres and then shortly after with 3.7 metres and then finally to 4 metres. And that's just because of the sheer amount of rain coming down last night. So we've seen the rain stopped in most parts of Brisbane. That is a positive thing. But my key message to the people of Brisbane is that we are not out of the woods yet. Floodwaters will rise again tonight after the peak this morning. We will see another peak tonight that will be around 8pm. Current projections is for that peak to be 3.5 metres. So still a significant flood. 3.5 is classed as a major flood, so you will see another major flood coming through tonight. So please to the people of Brisbane, stay at home wherever possible. Now is not the time to be out and about across the city. There are a lot of areas across Brisbane that have been impacted and are emergency service personnel and essential workers need to be getting out there and moving around the city freely. If there's too much traffic on the road from people, you know, by just looking around seeing what's going on that impedes the work of our essential workers in emergency service personnel, so please stay at home, stay safe.
For those who are in a situation where their properties were inundated this morning or for those who are fearful about tonight, definitely continue to use your instincts. If your instincts are telling you that you're unsafe and you need to evacuate, listen to those instincts. Look for opportunities to stay with friends and family. Also, our evacuation centres are available. We have two evacuation centres up and running. They are in different parts of the city and there's capacity in those evacuation centres. We have approaching 300 people in those centres right now. There is room for more. If you are in any danger, call 000. If you need SES support, there's a number there to call for the SES. We've continued to do rescues, both police, fire and emergency services. And also, SES, there have been many people rescued in and saved this morning during the peak, and we're expect that will happen again tonight as well.
Overall, I want to thank the people of Brisbane for their resilience at this particularly challenging time. We have been through worse than this before. We know that there are also many parts of Brisbane that weren't affected in previous floods that have been affected this time, and we're going to be activating right across the city, the Mud Army 2.0. The new Mud Army will be activated in the coming days. At the moment, our priority is to make sure that we get through this dangerous flooding point. But once it's safe to go out, once it's safe for people to go out and help, we'll be coordinating the new Mud Army. That is a key priority for us going forward. We know there's a massive amount of goodwill in the community and people that want to help out with those who are in need and those that have suffered, and we will make sure we can coordinate a city wide effort to support this cleanup. The key priority will be getting those flood damaged items out onto the kerb and then taken away, so there'll be great opportunities for people to help out across the city. And we thank you to the people of Brisbane for your interest in helping out. Right now, though, key priority is stay at home wherever possible. Stay safe if you are in a flooding area, use your instincts to evacuate. Come to one of our emergency evacuation centres or stay with friends and family.
Final thing I want to say as well is that this situation a lot of people have asked how it compares to previous floods and events, how it compares to 2011. It is a very different thing. First of all, in 2011, as we saw the flood was rising, it was very dry in many parts of Brisbane. The rain had stopped and the floodwaters didn't rise until many, many days after the rain has stopped. We saw a different situation now. We've also seen lots of creek flooding and overland flow flooding as well. So you've had every type of flooding happening at once. In 2011, it was only river flooding that happened. So we've had almost the perfect storm with this rain bomb that has come down, flooding increase, overland flow and also river flooding all at the same time. So this is a very unprecedented situation in terms of the management of different authorities in the dams. We've been watching very carefully and I can say I believe they have done it exactly by the manual. They've done it exactly by the book from what I've seen. They've released the water only to coincide with the low tides, and we haven't seen any dam releases adding to the high tides, which has been a really positive thing. There will continue to need to be dam releases over the coming days. They need to get those dam levels down. We don't know whether there will be any more rain. They need to make preparations in case there is. So that's the next phase as well. Obviously, we're all happy that the rain has subsided, but we don't know whether there'll be any more rain, so we're preparing for that eventuality as well. I'm going to hand over now to the Prime Minister. Once again. I'm grateful that he's managed to come here to visit us and to show his support. And I know he's got some important announcements as well.
PRIME MINISTER: Thank you Adrian. I'm very glad I've been able to be here, of course yesterday and today. The sheer impact of what is an extraordinary weather event. It has to be seem. And to have seen that over the last almost 24 hours, I think has been very helpful for our response. The response of the Australian Defence Forces, the response of the Emergency Management Authority, I was here with, Bridget McKenzie yesterday. This weather event of course, is impacted severely on the city of Brisbane, but it has for all the way up to the Bundaberg, all the way down toward Toowoomba, Ipswich, Logan we're seeing serious flood events occurring down in the Gold Coast as part of south east Queensland. And we are seeing a terrible flood of events in Lismore in Northern New South Wales. I've spoken to Premier Perrottet on several occasions this morning. We have activated our defence support there. Our discussions, as I mentioned very early this morning, our Defence Force were activated. Over 200 ADF deployed to assist with helicopter support is on its way. It should be arriving soon in Lismore to assist with what are very serious evacuations. So this weather event has had imposed a heavy blow on south east Queensland and it is now moving south and will ultimately be impacting on the south coast of New South Wales later this week. So I want to join with the Lord Mayor in thanking everyone in south east Queensland and particularly the people of Brisbane. I want to thank you too Adrian for the great leadership you've shown here working closely with the state government and I thank them for all their efforts as well, I've just come from an operations room where everyone's working together, taking calls, solving problems, dealing with the immediate response. They're highly professional in what they do, and they have one focus to keep you safe and to ensure that the city of Brisbane can recover quickly.
To assist that today, we are announcing that we will be extending the Australian Government's discovery disaster recovery payment to the following local government areas. Brisbane City, Fraser Coast, Gold Coast, Gympie, Ipswich, Lockyer Valley, Logan, Moreton Bay, Noosa, North Burnett, Redland City, Scenic Rim, Somerset, South Burnett, Southern Downs, Sunshine Coast, Toowoomba and local government areas in and around the Lismore in the city of Lismore. Now this is a disaster recovery payments for eligible people who have been directly impacted by the floods. $1000 per eligible adult. And $400 per eligible child. That is provided 100 per cent by the federal government. And you can access that support through the Services Australia Disaster Assistance Phone Line on 180 22 66. And you can also do it online, and you can do that through by visiting the ServicesAustralia.gov.au/disaster. These payments are there to provide for some of the most basic things that people have been impacted by flooding, such as this. They are the same payments that we provide in other natural disasters with cyclones and bushfires and things of that nature. And Services Australia is set up to support those applications.
All of the areas I mentioned, other Gympie and North Burnett, they will be available from tomorrow and you'll be able to call tomorrow to make your applications for that support if that's what you require. Right now we've been focusing on Gympie and North Burnett, which was the two local government areas that were activated earlier, in addition to that, this also extends the disaster recovery allowance. Which is a payment for up to 13 weeks for those that have a loss of income as a result of this disaster. That's, I believe will be particularly useful for small businesses who will be unable to earn and income because of the need to engage in the recovery and the clean up, which would prevent them from trading and that will impact their business. This has always proved to be a very helpful payment to help people through what is a very difficult time and I share a great concern for the small business community right across south-east Queensland, particularly for Brisbane. They've had to deal with a lot, pandemics and floods, and we really want to work with them to help them get through this. I welcome the Lord Mayor's announcement as general of the Mud Army 2.0 here in Brisbane. That was one of the most inspiring things to see after the last terrible flood of the sort here in Brisbane. There have been many lessons from those last floods and we were talking today about the sort of backwash mechanisms that were put in place that have proven to be very effective in managing what is not just one flood event, but three combined together which makes this a very challenging situation.
And so, you know, a lot of the lessons from those plans are being implemented here in Brisbane, and we will be supporting those efforts through the Defence Forces. I'll be meeting with some of the local defence forces here this morning. Be talking about their planning and preparations for how they could assist with that recovery and cleanup effort. But right now, the crisis has not yet passed. There may be glimpses of sunshine through those clouds out there in Brisbane, which is welcome. It was a very anxious night last night for all of south east Queensland, but also, as I've said, in Northern New South Wales. But remember, those floodwaters will remain at their peaks for some days yet, and it may look quite tranquil on the surface, but underneath it can be very, very different. So if it's flooded, forget it. You're not only putting your own life at risk or your own safety at risk, when you enter into those floodwaters. But those who have to come and assist you if you become impacted or in a position where you can't help yourself. So I urge people, as the Lord Mayor has said, stay in a safe place over these next few days and we don't need to be adding the terrible further loss of life that we saw and have seen overnight and further people missing is highly distressing, and we extend our deepest sympathies to those who have been directly impacted by the loss of loved ones and for those who are missing, and we hope for the best for those who are missing.
But right now, everything is being done that can be done to support people right across south east Queensland and indeed in the even more crisis situations that we're now seeing in norther New South Wales. The flood event there, they're used to floods just like in Queensland, northern New South Wales but the floods we have seen in Lismore, they have not seen. They have not seen them before, and people who were in areas that have never been touched by floods have been overnight. And that is a crisis situation and we are working closely with the New South Wales Government to give every support. After some meetings this morning, I'll be returning to Canberra to meet with the Emergency Management Authority at the Situation Room there in Canberra to look at the broader impact of these floods right across the east coast of Australia. The National Security Committee of Cabinet will be meeting in the morning, obviously not just to address these very serious issues, but also to address the ongoing situation in Ukraine. And with that, happy to take some questions.
JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, what defence preparations are underway today for the recovery effort?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, that is literally what I'm going to speak to the team out at Enoggera today about. I mean, they have standard operations for recovery events such as this. They are working closely with the city council here and many other local government areas, one of the great advantages of the City of Brisbane is it has a highly skilled council administration and they have a lot of heavy equipment that can be used to support these works. And so where there is additional assistance required in the City of Brisbane, of course, that will come and the state government doing the same. But I anticipate that the Defence Forces will be there to support some of the other councils in south east Queensland, which won't have the same level of capability as the City of Brisbane, and can be with heavy equipment, troops themselves engaged directly in the same cleanup effort that so many people from the City of Brisbane engage with as part of the Mud Army.
JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, [inaudible] people who are trapped on roofs, when can they expect their support to arrive?
PRIME MINISTER: It should be there now. It was deployed earlier today and we've been in discussions since earlier this morning. Those flood waters have been moving very, very rapidly, as I said I had several discussions with the Premier earlier this morning. And there was already engagement between our defences forces and NSW agencies even earlier than that today, but we are somewhat encumbered by the weather system, which does frustrate aerial operations for the evacuation. I've heard the reports of many people and those from emergency services who are getting people on roofs, then themselves had to be air evacuated. So it is a very, very distressing situation in northern New South Wales and every resource and asset we have available to help people in that situation and to support the New South Wales government's plans for evacuation. They have the lead on this. That's how these things work, we are there to support their rescue plan and their efforts. The New South Wales Government has significant assets when it comes to flood boats and others that can support evacuations. But the floods that we're seeing are extremely serious, and that also can put real impediments to the evacuation efforts.
JOURNALIST: Just briefly on another topic, Prime Minister, what lethal aid are providing to Ukraine and how are we getting it there. Can you put a dollar figure on on that?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, let me just go over a few things. Right now, we imposed sanctions on 370 individuals, 339 members of the Russian parliament who voted for their illegal war. All 12 members of the Russian Security Council, including the foreign minister and the defence minister, directed sanctions against President Putin himself. 8 oligarchs who are close to President Putin, the Russian army commander, deputy defence ministers and mercenaries, entities involved in the development sale of military technology, weapons and financial institutions subject to targeted financial sanctions. And there's 6 of those. And 13 Belarusian individuals and entities supporting the Russians war effort. Yesterday I announced that we were extending our aid to lethal aid. That has been done directly through NATO, that planning has been going on over the last 24-36 hours. And that's what the national security committee is meeting about tomorrow to receive those reports and that advice, to enable us to action a number of those initiatives. The extent of what we announce will also be subject to national security considerations, so I don't want to flag that this will soon be a list that we may provide, we will consider that as we work through those issues. But the lethal aid support sees us step up again together with the rest of the world. I was pleased to receive a message from the President last night and the President was very grateful for Australia's strong stand, in particular, extending our support to lethal aid. We actually endeavoured to speak last night, he was keen to speak, but as you can imagine, communications are not very straightforward. And we may indeed speak later today in which I look forward to give him encouragement. But I think the Ukrainian people have shown tremendous strength, tremendous resolve. But the situation remains terribly concerning, but I am pleased that we are seeing an accelerating and increasing the strength of response from Western democracies in standing up against what is thuggish brutality for which there's no justification. There was no provocation. It is unwarranted. And it is absolutely essential that Russia abandons abandons these illegal acts of brutality and violence and thuggish behaviour against its neighbour, and I call on all countries to denounce in the strongest possible terms. And to join the sanctions, Russia must a price for this behaviour and Australia is doing everything in our power, including encouraging other countries, particularly the move we made on SWIFT and supporting that and working with our US counterparts. The treasurer, our Treasurer has been working with the US Treasury Secretary overnight as well to encourage those actions, and I'm very pleased to see the actions of the US and others have been taking on SWIFT. The actions of the German Government and more broadly across the EU.
JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, [inaudible] Australia who want to travel and join Ukraine fight, to do so?
PRIME MINISTER: Well, this is a complicated situation, and at present it is still somewhat unclear what the President of Ukraine has proposed. Our law sets out arrangements where people can be involved in official activity by a sovereign state, which Ukraine qualifies, but the nature of these arrangements are very uncertain, and I would stress this, our travel advice to all Australians is do not travel. So let me be very clear about that. That is the Australian Government's advice for all Australians not to travel to Ukraine for obvious reasons. And I would counsel against making assumptions about the legality of such activity at this point, given the uncertainties that are associated with the arrangements and the force that the President of Ukraine is putting in place, so we'll obviously discuss these matters further tomorrow at NSC. But I would counsel against that. It's purely for the safety of all Australians, that they would not travel to Ukraine. I can understand absolutely the strong feelings and the motivations for people to go and do that. But I would say at this time, the legality of such actions are uncertain under Australian law. Thanks very much everyone.
Nominations Open For 2022 Prime Minister’s Veterans' Employment Awards
28 February 2022
Prime Minister, Minister for Veterans' Affairs, Minister for Defence Personnel
The search is on for Australia’s top veteran employers and employees, with nominations now open for the 2022 Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Awards.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the awards recognise veterans for their contribution to the nation after their military service, as well as the businesses that support them.
“Our Defence men and women receive world-class training, are disciplined, loyal and resilient – they are adept at problem-solving, working in teams and leading,” the Prime Minister said.
“Smart Australian businesses know that veterans bring valuable knowledge, skills and experience into the workplace and make great employees.
“This is a great opportunity to acknowledge those veterans making an ongoing, outstanding contribution to our nation and the businesses and organisations that are backing them.
“If you know a veteran making a great contribution in the workplace or an employer going above and beyond to support their veteran employees, get online and nominate them.”
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Andrew Gee said this year’s awards were being expanded to further recognise partners of current and former Australian Defence Force personnel.
“It’s not easy being the partner of a Defence member or veteran, and they often face their own unique employment challenges,” Minister Gee said.
“It is also significant that this year we will further recognise those businesses and organisations that not only embrace veterans, but also show commitment and flexibility to supporting the partners of veterans and serving members.
“Employing veterans is a win-win; it’s great for business and it’s great for those men and women who have served our nation and want to continue to contribute in civilian life.
“I saw these mutual benefits firsthand when I recently visited 2021 Award winner HENSOLDT Australia, a technical solutions provider founded by two veterans that actively hires veteran employees.
“Veterans make up 70 per cent of their workforce, including long-term unemployed veterans who have now re-engaged with the civilian workforce, bringing their years of ADF experience with them.”
The annual awards are part of the Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Program which brings together a range of resources and initiatives to support veteran and veteran partner job-seekers and employers.
This includes the Veterans’ Employment Commitment, which currently boasts over 700 signatories, demonstrating the high number of organisations committed to supporting greater employment opportunities for veterans.
Nominations for the 2022 Awards open today and close on 31 March 2022, with the winners to be announced in November 2022.
For more information on the Awards and to nominate an employer or employee, visit the Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Program website (www.veteransemployment.gov.au).
Interview with Neil Breen, 4BC
28 February 2022
Neil Breen: Scott Morrison, he arrived yesterday, he was at the Kedron Emergency Centre with the Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk. He joins me on the line. Prime Minister, thanks for your time.
Prime Minister: Good morning Neil.
Breen: Just extraordinary that you happened to be here to witness this yourself. Tell us what you're feeling and seeing about what the people of south east Queensland are going through.
Prime Minister: Well, it's a very serious and very anxious time. I've been scheduled to come up this week, but I've decided to come early on the basis of what we're seeing with the floods. I spoke to the Premier on Saturday and we were getting regular updates and we've activated assistance in a whole range of areas, particularly the ADF. But the news of a further life having been lost and these are floods that aren't just affecting obviously Brisbane, but also Logan and Ipswich and up to Maryborough and the whole impact zone goes from Bundaberg all the way down. And of course, now we're seeing very desperate situation a bit further south down in Lismore, where I've been speaking to New South Wales Premier this morning. So there's a lot to be done. The ADF are activated and are providing every assistance. The financial assistance is flowing, we'll be advising further council areas that will be able to access the disaster recovery payment and the allowance, that will include Brisbane City, Moreton Bay and many others, and we'll be making further announcements about that this morning. But the most important thing right now is as the floodwaters continue to rise, is that people, wherever they can be in a safe place and people moving around is very dangerous, as we've seen, and it's important to know if it is flooded forget it, and to ensure that people where if they are in a place of safety to remain there.
Breen: Yeah. Well, Prime Minister, people think, look, I just got to get across that road there. It should be fairly easy to do. I saw it myself at three o'clock this morning, I saw these small cars. Look, people have four wheel drives will have a crack. They shouldn't either. The people with small cars, they just lost their vehicles. It's amazing to think people do it.
Prime Minister: Well, this is why, I've been here, as you know, overnight in the Brisbane City Council and I’m meeting with the Lord Mayor this morning and be going through the same, very similar issues I went through with the Premier yesterday. But this message of if it's flooded, forget it, is is very, very serious and these are very serious floods. We've got a weather bomb across the top of south east Queensland and it's going to be moving down the coast. It's a rather extraordinary weather event and it is causing, you know, incredible impacts. So people need to be obviously taking this as seriously as they possibly can. I'm sure they are, but I think it is, oh if, I could just get across there or I need this, a moment's convenience that you think might come from that, could could turn into something very fatal. So I'd urge people to to remain in safety in place.
Breen: Yesterday, the disaster payment that you announced so far for people in Gympie and other places North Burnett Regional Council, you said it will extend and that announcement will be made. So it's a $180 a person or $900 for a family of five or more. So how can they access it? How do they actually go about it and how long will it take to get it to them?
Prime Minister: Well, there are two types of payments that's that's one of them that's done with the Queensland Government. Our payments are $1000 per eligible adult and $400 per eligible child, and that is available through Services Australia Disaster Assistance Phone Line, which is 180 22 66. Or you can go to the ServiceAustralia.gov.au/disaster website. These are the same places where COVID disaster payments and other disaster payments have been made. And so those who have accessed those before will know that process is a very efficient one. These are the payments made by the Federal Government, and there are also under the allowance that will also be announced, and that is helping people who are affected with income loss, unable to physically get to work because of floods and things of that nature. These are the same payments that were being affected during bushfires and in so many other natural disasters. So, they will be they will be progressively activated. I've been speaking to Bridget McKenzie, who's the Minister for Emergency Management this morning, in about extending those further. We discussed it yesterday. She was with me here in Brisbane for that briefing with the Premier and all the emergency service authorities yesterday.
Breen: OK, $1000 eligible adult, $400 eligible children, 180 22 66, Service.Australia.gov.au, we'll put all these details out through through the through the morning as we go. How long are you staying?
Prime Minister: Sorry, Neil I should say, now we should say when we activate those for the Brisbane Council area, those I expect will be making those decisions late today. And so I anticipate that then those payments would flow probably from from tomorrow.
Breen: OK, from tomorrow. How long are you in Brisbane for, Prime Minister?
Prime Minister: Well, I'm here today and there are significant limits on where we can move. I mean, we certainly don't want to get in the way of any of the disaster recovery efforts that will be taking place, but right now we're in the middle of disaster response. We don't need the Prime Minister's cars or anything moving around, getting in the way of emergency assistance. I'll be here in Brisbane dealing with some of the other issues about where we can provide further support, also connecting a lot with the New South Wales Government about the serious situation they've got there. We're rolling out ADF support. I've just spoken to the Premier this morning about that for Lismore as well. We've got the team up here at Enoggera as well who are on standby and have been for the entire time. The real issue is not just, of course, dealing with the direct response in the middle of this flood event, but also then the recovery operation that will follow. And that's where I anticipate, having spoken to the Premier, tomorrow ADF and others will be playing a more significant role.
Breen: Well, you've got a fair bit on your plate. Prime Minister Scott Morrison, because obviously Ukraine, and I can update people when I let you go so I don't take too much more your time, there's a lot of developments overnight. Russia is making threats, nuclear type threats. But you've put out a statement this morning along with the Treasurer, Marise Payne, Peter Dutton as well, and Australia's going to work with NATO to provide lethal as well as non-lethal military equipment, medical medical supplies and financial assistance to support the people of Ukraine. So tell us about that move.
Prime Minister: Well, all of the above as you've just said and I actually got a message from the President of Ukraine last night, very appreciative of what Australia was doing and the stance we've taken, but also extending our support to lethal lethal aid support. We're working that through with our NATO partners now. The most effective way to do that is through them and their supply chains and their ways of getting that into Ukraine. So that's on that front. On the humanitarian support, I made some announcements yesterday about how we're supporting through visas. We've got an initial commitment into NATO this morning, which is providing nonlethal support, so that medical packages those sorts of things to assist in the conflict zone. But we'll be making further announcements about a broader humanitarian assistance support. Many other countries have been doing that. The Treasurer and I and the Foreign Minister have been discussing that this morning. And so we'll make an announcement later after further assessment about what will be, I think, an important but significant humanitarian package of support financially and that will occur, that will assist in places like Poland and other neighbouring countries, where we are seeing large numbers of displaced people arrive.
Breen: I did a lot of reading on the weekend. It looks like the financial squeeze the world has put on Russia is having an effect. But Prime Minister, I have to ask you. Vladimir Putin has ordered the defence chiefs to put the country's nuclear deterrence forces on high alert. Does that concern you?
Prime Minister: Well, of course it does. It is a reckless thing to say in these circumstances, and I think the response from so many countries, particularly in NATO countries, but also, you know, Australia, Canada and others, we've been doing our bit as well to to support this initiative. I think the advance in Ukraine has not gone to quite the timetable or plan that I think Russia expected. And I think the world's response has been swift and has been significant. It's literally SWIFT, the payment system, I was calling for that early this week. I'm so pleased that the advocacy we're undertaking, particularly with Europe and the United States has been effective and that is now moving. I think the announcements by the German Government overnight have been very, very strong and I welcome and commend the Chancellor for his his announcements. This has really, I think, focused the minds of the world and there is a real difference occurring here. There are those autocratic bullying states and there are liberal democracies who aren't going to stand for it. And so I think the bravery and courage we've seen from the Ukrainian people has been extraordinary. I was with the Ukrainian Sydney community yesterday at their at their church and offering prayers as well as support. The strength and courage they're showing is extraordinary. I understand I'll be talking to the President later today.
Breen: Oh, okay, yeah, you'll be talking later today, he's been amazing. Prime Minister Scott Morrison, thanks so much for your time this morning. Thanks for being in Brisbane.
Prime Minister: Thanks Neil. Everybody, stay safe, wherever you are. Please stay safe. And that's the best way you can help all the emergency authorities is by ensuring that you don't need to call on them, and you can do that by staying exactly where you are.
Breen: Yeah. And Prime Minister, when you're out and about today, to your press conference and your meetings, if it's flooded, forget it.
Prime Minister: Absolutely. That's, we'll be following our own advice.
Breen: Exactly. 20 after 7. Thanks Prime Minister.
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.