Anthony Albanese (Grayndler, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Opposition) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Nothing is more important than keeping Australians safe. Labor welcomes the measures to protect the public health and safety of all Australians in response to the coronavirus outbreak. For those affected, both in Australia and overseas, I wish you and your loved ones a speedy recovery and a return home. This is a tough time for many members of our Australian community. It's also particularly a tough time for members of the Chinese Australian community and Asian Australians more broadly.

The fact is that there has been a rise in racism as a result of the coronavirus. The fact is, any racist language or behaviour must not be tolerated and it must be called out. Chinese Australians helped build this country. They are our teachers and nurses, our neighbours, our business owners, our hairdressers. They are proud Australians. All of us must stand up and speak out against the ugly, divisive and racist behaviour that has been directed to some of our fellow Australians, whether it's on social media or on the streets, at school or at work.

Labor has always stood against all forms of discrimination and we always will. To our Chinese Australians: Labor stands with you—and I'm sure the whole of this parliament stands with you—in standing up against the increased racism and expresses solidarity with you. I encourage people to support our businesses in places like Ashfield and other places right around the nation.

Tony Smith (Speaker) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

It being almost 2 pm, the time for members' statements has concluded. The Prime Minister on indulgence.

Scott Morrison (Cook, Liberal Party, Prime Minister) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

on indulgence—I would like to endorse the Leader of the Opposition's comments and also extend, as I have on a number of occasions, my great thanks to the Chinese Australian community for the way that they have dealt with what has been a very challenging time for them, whether it's in Ashfield, Box Hill, Hurstville or any part of the country.

Honourable Member:

An honourable member interjecting—

Scott Morrison (Cook, Liberal Party, Prime Minister) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Sunnybank, sure. I want to thank the Chinese Australian community for the way they've supported each other. So many other Australians have supported them—those who might have been involved in self-isolation and the medical professionals working within these communities. This is a very significant challenge, and the Chinese Australian community has risen to that challenge. They deserve our great appreciation and support. Going forward, I know that that will continue. The House stands as one on this matter.