Michael McCormack (Riverina, National Party, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Finance) Share this | Hansard source

I would like to, but he's facing me! And we make a very good latte, let me tell you!

I am very pleased to inform the House that, as I said, this will make a big difference to businesses operating in the Riverina—those operating the latte cafes and particularly those farmers who just want to get their crops from the trees and the ground, to get them into the trucks, to get them to port and to ensure that the food and fibre that my area produces gets to market as quickly as possible whilst at the same time protecting those backpackers who are picking those crops. Those fruit growers in particular rely heavily on temporary residents to meet their labour needs associated with their annual harvest. That is why it is so important not just for the Riverina but indeed for small businesses right throughout Australia. With that, I commend the bill to the House.

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