Steve Georganas (Adelaide, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

I move:

That this House:

(1) notes the mature approach which has been demonstrated by the Government in the ongoing negotiation of a trade agreement with the European Union;

(2) congratulates the Government for its unwavering support of Australia's interests, including those of Australian farmers, businesses, and exporters during these negotiations; and

(3) supports the Minister for Trade and Tourism in his ongoing fight for a deal that defends Australia's interests and delivers meaningful outcomes for Australia's workers, businesses, and consumers.

The Albanese Labor government believes in free, fair and open trade. Our focus is very clear. This government's trade strategy articulates a key concept: trade diversification. It's not just a notion; it's the very core of our approach. It's an approach where we not only strengthen but expand our trading relationships, particularly in our own backyard. This isn't just about to trade; it's about building bridges and relationships that lead to a stronger, more prosperous future. For example, in the green energy economy area, by building stronger international partnerships on green trade and investment, we can harness the potential of hydrogen and critical minerals. The goal is clear: global leadership, focusing on what's sustainable, to drive Australia to become a renewable energy superpower. By investing in green industries, we're investing in our shared tomorrow. It is a journey marked by action, not just words.

For example, developing a Southeast Asian economic strategy is a vital initiative. Multilateral, rules based trading systems, defending and reaffirming the multilateral rules based trading system including the World Trade Organization, is not just a priority; it's a necessity. We have a responsibility to be responsive, efficient and capable of addressing modern challenges.

The EU free trade agreement negotiations are taking place at the moment, and this government is all about paving the way for a better future, a future where a free trade agreement with the EU is a reality. In our trade landscape, the EU is Australia's third-largest trading partner. The EU is massive. It's a high-income market of around 450 million people with a GDP of around $24 trillion in 2022. The bilateral trade spanning both goods and services surged to an impressive $97 billion during the period 2021-22.

This agreement could serve as a platform for addressing critical global challenges. Australia has made it clear we are committed to clean energy transitions, and so has the EU. The EU has made it clear that companies are eager to tap into Australian critical minerals. Strengthening our economic partnership will play a pivotal role in reaching the goal of working to eliminate import tariffs on critical minerals. To make this dream a reality, the Minister for Trade and Tourism is currently negotiating to secure the best trade deal possible with the EU, and we will only sign off on a deal that delivers commercially meaningful market access for Australian farmers.

This government will only agree to a deal that delivers outcomes in the interest of Australian people because that is the No. 1 goal. We're very interested in protecting workers rights during these negotiations, as well. In fact, this agreement would go further to implement legally binding commitments to uphold labour rights, placing the essence of International Labour Organization conventions at its heart. So we're committed to strengthening the role of civil society engagement, including unions, because we recognise the pivotal role that they play. So, if you're still asking yourself why free trade agreements with the EU are important, be assured the answer is clear and it's big: trade doesn't merely play a part in Australia's GDP; it forms a significant 29 per cent.

This isn't just about numbers; it's about lives. One in every four Australian jobs is intertwined with trade. In my electorate of Adelaide, we had some great businesses showcased right here in parliament last year which were the 2022 national finalists for the 60th Australian Export Awards. We had Avance Clinical in the international health category, Accolade Wines in the sustainability category and ODD Games in the creative industries category, and we had a great company called MyVenue, which was the winner in the emerging exporter category. All are great businesses within the trade sector in my electorate. They are great reminders that the trade industry is important locally and nationally and that jobs within export industries bring home incomes that exceed the national average by a notable five per cent. In a global landscape, this agreement with the EU isn't just a deal—it's a strategic step towards amplifying Australia's trade potential, fostering economic resilience and forging a pathway to shared prosperity.

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