Brett Whiteley (Braddon, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

This may well be the most important 90-second statement that I make in this place. A recent Morgan poll revealed that most Tasmanians already know that the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement is in the best interests of not only Tasmania but also the country. Seventy-four per cent of Tasmanians support this agreement.

This agreement could not have been written any better for the Tasmanian economy and for Tasmanian workers. As a state that relies on the quality of its produce and its advanced manufacturing production, we know that trade agreements that result in our products getting to market more cheaply will boost the Tasmanian economy and create more jobs. But, like Labor of old, who were always willing to sacrifice the Tasmanian economy on the altar of Greens preferences, it is now trying to whip up a fear frenzy in order to block the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement, denying Tasmanians economic opportunity. Tasmanians, though, can see right through this tactic. It is a throwback to Labor's protectionist history of the 1900s. And Tasmanians, I have to say, are far too sophisticated to fall for the weak argument of Labor and the unions.

Those opposite may take Tasmanians for fools, but we understand the benefits that will flow from this agreement. Whether it is tourists and students or Chinese businesses wanting to invest in our state, it means a growing economy and more jobs. Those opposite need to get behind this China-Australia Free Trade Agreement and give Tasmanians a fair opportunity. (Time expired)

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