Michael McCormack (Riverina, National Party, Shadow Minister for International Development and the Pacific) Share this | Hansard source

Anyway, I would love an answer at some stage because the project is vital. You know that. I know that. I'm sure Senator Wong and Senator Birmingham know that as well. I'll hope for a positive answer. The $7.5 million, in the grand scheme of what we do with our foreign aid in the area PNG, is a brilliant investment.

Given the fact that I am allowed the last 30 seconds—I'm sure I'll get a positive answer on that other one, because it's too important not to do it, Minister—I note that changes have been made with the PALM labour mobility scheme. Stakeholders who have consulted with me say the changes are moving in the right direction, but they'd like to see it extended further, to be averaged over eight to 12 weeks, not just the four weeks that you've done, to bring it in line with the horticultural award. Will you please consider making this change to further ensure the success of this scheme. Again, it's too important not to do it.

See this speech in context