Martin Ferguson (Batman, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Resources and Energy) Share this | Hansard source

Absolutely, Mr Speaker. It actually takes some time to go through all the different policy positions on the other side of the House. But let us go to Senator Barnaby Joyce: ‘I’m prepared for the people to look at the mining sector to pay more tax.’ I must say I am starting to try and think through what is the opposition’s real position. What is the gospel truth? Do these views all represent considered views drafted by the Leader of the Opposition, as he stands there checking the weather vane to assess where to jump from day to day on what is a complex tax debate.

Clearly, the opposition is totally focused not on a policy debate that we have to have. It is unprepared to accept the view of the government that there should be a reasonable super profits tax put in place. The headline will be 40 per cent. The tax will also ensure Australia gets a fair return on our precious non-renewable resources and that we put in place a tax system that further encourages investment. I simply say in conclusion: what we have is an opposition that has sold out lock, stock and barrel to some sections of the mining industry because it is more focused on a return to its own pockets in the form of donations than a complex debate.

See this speech in context