Anne Webster (Mallee, National Party) Share this | Hansard source

As we look to the future, Australians can have a great deal of hope and optimism. As we face the challenge of caring for our country and the globe, the track record of this government and members on this side of the House speaks for itself. From early pioneers who prepared fields with a wooden plough and a horse to farmers using modern digitally controlled harvesters, adaptation, hard work and a belief in ourselves have been our foundation. Our approach to emissions reductions must be pragmatic but based on science. The decisions we make now will affect our ability to put food on the table and whether we can afford the electricity to run a small business. The need for prudence is evidence. The need for a considered approach is obvious. Farmers in my electorate of Mallee are still feeling the bite of Kyoto. This drives me to ensure that we as the government make decisions that are right for now and for our future, but specifically do not risk the livelihoods of regional Australians. Australia has an incredible track record. We are already meeting and beating our current Paris commitments and are a leader in the world precisely because this government considered what the cost would be and how it would impact mums and dads, farmers, business owners and industry. Our children and grandchildren can trust that we will mitigate the risk and set up their future for growth and prosperity.

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