Bob Katter (Kennedy, Independent) Share this | Hansard source

My question without notice is to the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister would be aware that an estimated 3,500 of Australia’s estimated 4,500 banana and agricultural workers directly employed will lose their jobs over the ensuing fortnight. Could the Prime Minister assure the people of Far North Queensland that arrangements are being looked at to pay Newstart benefits as a part wage to the reconstruction groups rebuilding housing and other buildings and to the farmers, tourist operators and other people similarly rebuilding the industries of the area? The Prime Minister would also be aware of the guidelines proving overly restrictive. In light of this, could the Prime Minister assure Far North Queensland that they will be looked at and revised? Finally, is the Prime Minister aware that industry and local leaders, while appreciative of the Prime Minister’s assistance, are projecting early estimates that only $30 million of the $100 million will ultimately be provided for what is the worst cyclone in Australia’s history and, in financial terms, now one of the two worst natural disasters in Australian history?

See this speech in context