Tania Lawrence (Hasluck, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

by leave—On behalf of the member for Swan, I move:

That this House:

(1) recognises the commitment of the Government to Western Australia and its understanding of the specific needs of the Western Australian community;

(2) commends the Government for its investment in:

(a) the future of the critical minerals industry in Western Australia, noting its support for projects such as Pilbara Minerals' Pilgangoora lithium project and International Graphite's graphite battery anode material project, as well as the announcement of the $17 billion production tax incentive for critical minerals processing; and

(b) critical infrastructure, noting the support for the following major projects:

(i) Causeway Cyclist and Pedestrian Bridges;

(ii) Westport Project Development;

(iii) Metronet;

(iv) Tonkin Highway Corridor; and

(v) Outback Way;

(3) acknowledges the ongoing commitment of the Government to the goods and services tax deal for Western Australia;

(4) supports the Government as it continues to pay attention to the needs of Western Australia and respond to those needs strategically and responsibly; and

(5) calls on the Opposition to support the Government's initiatives that will secure a future for all Western Australians.

Rob Mitchell (McEwen, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I second the motion and reserve my right to speak.

Tania Lawrence (Hasluck, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

From Australia's western third, we look out to the Indian Ocean, the Southern Ocean or the Timor Sea. The rest of Australia is a long way from most of us. We have a different perspective—quite literally. We're proud of the contributions we've already made to Australia, and we look forward to the contributions we will make. To this end, I'm really pleased to speak on the member for Swan's motion.

An honourable member: North Queensland has [inaudible]!

Indeed! I particularly want to draw out that the member for Swan has endeavoured to cover a lot of different areas, because, as Western Australians, we aren't just there as the cash cow and the engine room of the nation's economy. We are a people who are very proud of where we come from, but we understand also Western Australia's particular needs, providing the community with levels of infrastructure and support that ensure it is a place where people want to live, work and recreate. Given the size of our state spans from Victoria all the way to Northern Queensland, it goes without saying that the differences are quite vast.

To this end, the member for Swan has applauded not just the efforts of the federal government but also the partnership with the state Cook Labor government around infrastructure for major projects such as the Causeway Pedestrian and Cyclist Bridges, the Westport project development, METRONET—the most significant rail infrastructure build that Western Australia has ever had—and the Tonkin Highway Corridor. There are so many other major works that have to happen in order to move the enormous amounts of resources that are produced from our great state.

But it's not just the infrastructure projects; we need to have that surety of funding. To this end, we have a federal government that has Western Australia's back. Being an economic powerhouse of the nation, Western Australia needs to be supported. Prime Minister Albanese is on the record as a leader fully committed to supporting Western Australia and its GST deal. The opposition leader has nothing to say on this matter. Leading Liberals like Malcolm Turnbull, Scott Morrison and Julie Bishop all cast doubt on his level of support for our GST deal. If we want to be able to ensure that Western Australia continues to drive the Australian economy, we need to ensure that well-paying jobs and security come with the right to our fair share of the GST.

A good part of the motion that the member for Swan has introduced points to the critical infrastructure sector. We are a vast state with enormous resources that benefit the entire nation, and the figures differ. The CME suggests that Western Australia contributes some $99 billion to the national economy with some 66,000 directly employed Australians. But the state forecasts are actually even more, with the mining sector contributing about $186 billion to the state's gross product. That as a share of the federal budget is at least six per cent. Needless to say, the numbers are vast, and it demonstrates the importance of supporting the sector.

The Albanese government's Future Made in Australia plan was music to sandgropers' ears. We're working, planning and building for an Australia that does not just provide homes, secure jobs, skilled workers and clean, cheap energy; the plan also unlocks the private sector investment required to be able to succeed in the new global economy. We're working to strengthen the global supply chains for our critical minerals and we're building the resilience of the industry. Of course, we've got a wealth of those critical minerals right under our feet, and they are needed for the solar panels, batteries and wind turbines. Without them, we simply are not able to transition to net zero.

We do really excel at extracting critical minerals, but now the challenge is to move into that processing stream. To that end, we're assisting young people to develop the necessary skills, with more than half a million fee-free TAFE places. Here I'd like to pay tribute to the outstanding work being done by my colleagues Madeleine King, the Minister for Resources, and Andrew Giles, the Minister for Skills and Training.

We know that there are geopolitical challenges impacting the critical minerals sector, and we're working on them, but we're also delivering incentives backed by industry, such as our production tax incentive. The $17 billion production tax incentive for critical minerals processing will grow the resources sector in a way that benefits all of our resource-rich states and, by extension, all of us. In Western Australia alone, it will boost $10 billion worth of critical mineral projects. Western Australia is where it's at, and I'm glad the Albanese Labor government gets Western Australia.

Melissa Price (Durack, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

It's incredible just how out of touch this government is. It's quite clear that, since Labor was elected, life for the vast majority of Western Australian families has got harder, not easier. That's despite those opposite saying life would be easier and would be cheaper under them. Yet here we are again, with those opposite giving themselves an almighty big pat on the back for overseeing this cost-of-living disaster.

The member for Swan, in her motion, calls on this chamber to recognise that this government understands the specific needs of the Western Australian community. Well, I'm sorry, but that is an absurd request, given the Albanese Labor government is making decisions over here in Canberra that, to the detriment of our estate, aim to shore up inner-city votes in the eastern states. Look no further than Labor's dreadful decision to wipe out the Western Australian live sheep trade. This is an industry that is unique to Western Australia. It supports some 3,000 workers across regional communities that depend on this trade. How can those opposite come into this place and say they understand WA's needs and they have our best interests in mind when they have turned their backs on our regional communities?

The Prime Minister talks a big game about how often he visits Western Australia. Just a couple of weeks ago he made time to hop on a plane—I'm not sure about the upgrade status—to Geraldton for a photo op with members of the really important crayfish industry, and then he was back on a plane to Perth. Credit where credit is due, I'm very pleased that the crayfish trade with China will resume, and I'd like to note all the constructive efforts of both sides of this House on that matter. While saying that, I'll note that it was reported that the Prime Minister was in Geraldton for just one hour. Obviously, his being in Geraldton for just one hour shows that he believes there's nothing else worthy of his attention in the midwest. Is he coming back, because we've got lots of things we need to talk to the Prime Minister about? It's a real shame that he didn't make the time to meet with our local sheep farmers, who have been targeted by this government, although we shouldn't be surprised, as he has not met once with the Western Australian farmers about this ban on their livelihoods.

Let's look at the so-called achievements that the member for Swan has included in her motion. She points to investments in critical infrastructure, and I notice that there is just one example of regional infrastructure, which is the funding for the Outback Way, also known as Australia's longest shortcut. I wonder if the member for Swan is aware that the significant funding for this project was committed to by the coalition government. Seriously, need we thank Labor for not tearing up this investment, like they did for a multitude of other WA projects, including the $48 million for upgrades to the Marble Bar Road in my electorate?

The very next line of the member's motion refers to Labor's support for the GST deal, which we delivered whilst we were in government.

A division having been called in the House of Representatives—

Sitting suspended from 18:04 to 18:16

Again, patting themselves on the back for adopting our policy, it seems the policies that those opposite are most proud of are the Liberal Party's. Of course, the GST contribution provides a great source of revenue for the WA government, but we cannot forget the contribution of our mining and resources sector. This is a sector that has been treated like dirt under the Albanese government. Labor's pursuit of more and more red and green tape is creating further hardship and hurdles for the sector, which has contributed to almost 60 per cent of the nation's iron ore, coal and gas projects having been delayed, disrupted or put on hold.

Australia has a pipeline of 421 resource and energy projects, with an investment value of more than $525 billion. Almost 40 per cent of these projects are in Western Australia, so they are WA jobs that this government is putting at risk. We are a mining state in a mining nation. It's simple: we won't be able to fund the essential services like Medicare and the NDIS, build the hospitals in Sydney or, indeed, the roads in Melbourne without a strong mining sector. This is a point those opposite fail to understand, as they make it harder and harder to get projects off the ground.

Western Australians are not mugs and we understand that Labor will attempt to pay us lip-service but, when push comes to shove, they will sell our state out if it means they have a better chance to hold off the Greens over in the east. At the next election, there will be a stark contrast between the Labor government, who has betrayed Western Australian farmers and industry, and a coalition who unashamedly backs Western Australia.

Tracey Roberts (Pearce, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I thank the member for Swan for the motion. I rise today to recognise the unwavering commitment of the Albanese Labor government to the unique needs of Western Australia. This commitment is not just a statement; it is a series of actions that reflect our dedication to fostering growth, innovation and prosperity in our great state.

We are a diverse and vibrant region, rich in resources and potential. Our government's focus on addressing these unique needs is commendable, ensuring that every corner of our state has the opportunity to thrive. One of the most significant areas where we see this commitment in action is the critical minerals industry. This sector is not just a cornerstone of our economy; it is a gateway to a sustainable future. The world is rapidly transitioning towards renewable energy sources, and Western Australia is poised to be at the forefront of this revolution.

Lithium is essential for battery production, and with the increasing demand for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage solutions, demand for the material is set to soar over the coming decades. The critical minerals industry is facing challenges however, including market manipulation and monopolisation.

The Albanese Labor government understands these issues, as well as the importance of supporting our emerging critical minerals processing industry in Australia. Also, International Graphite's battery anode material project represents another significant step forward. Graphite is vital for battery technology, and investing in local processing ensures we capture more value from our resources while contributing to environmental sustainability.

I'm also pleased about the recent announcement of a $17 billion production tax incentive for critical minerals processing. This bold move not only encourages investment but also positions Western Australia as a leader in critical minerals, attracting businesses and talent from around the globe. It is an exciting time for our state of Western Australia as we harness our natural resources responsibly and sustainably.

In addition to our investments in critical minerals, we must also acknowledge Albanese Labor government's commitment to critical infrastructure projects that enhance our communities and improve connectivity across Western Australia. Infrastructure development is essential for economic growth and social wellbeing. The following are some major projects that are set to transform our Western Australian landscape. The first one is the Westport project development, which aims to modernise port facilities, facilitating trade and boosting our economy by accommodating larger vessels and increasing efficiency. METRONET is an ambitious public transport initiative. It will connect communities across Perth and beyond, reducing congestion and making travel more convenient for all residents. The Tonkin Highway Corridor expansion will improve road safety and travel times, linking key areas of growth within our state. The Causeway cyclist and pedestrian bridges will promote active transport options, ensuring safe passage for cyclists and pedestrians while enhancing accessibility. The Outback Way, often referred to as Australia's longest shortcut, will enhance connectivity between remote communities, opening up opportunities for tourism, trade and local businesses. These projects are not merely about construction; they represent a vision of progress, one where every citizen can access essential services and opportunities.

I'd also like to emphasise the ongoing commitment of the Albanese Labor government to the goods and services tax deal for Western Australia. This agreement ensures that we receive our fair share of funding from the federal government. It allows us to invest in vital services, such as health care, education and infrastructure, that are fundamental to the wellbeing of our communities. The continuing advocacy for this deal reflects our understanding that equitable funding is essential for addressing disparities across the regions. It empowers us to make strategic investments that uplift all Western Australians.

We face many challenges: climate change, economic shifts and social inequalities. It is imperative that we respond responsibly and effectively. I call upon the opposition to unite with us in supporting these vital initiatives. By listening to community voices and prioritising their needs we can make sure no-one is left behind and secure a sustainable future for Western Australia. Together, we can create an environment where innovation flourishes, infrastructure thrives and communities are empowered.

Nola Marino (Forrest, Liberal Party, Shadow Assistant Minister for Education) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

There is one question Western Australians need to answer: have you actually been better or worse off since Labor came to government in 2022? In WA, we know Labor has delivered higher costs of living, higher mortgages, 12 interest rate rises, higher costs of doing business, shortages of housing and rental properties, and shortages of skilled workers in spite of record immigration. Western Australians are paying higher prices, higher taxes and higher mortgage repayments because of Labor's homegrown inflation. Labor is trying desperately to manipulate headline inflation through taxpayer funded subsidies, subsidies that will be paid for by current and future generations of WA taxpayers.

Over and above this, let's consider how Labor is deliberately and actively damaging Western Australia by closing the live sheep trade. As a farmer myself, I well understand why WA farmers know that the Labor government believes that we are expendable, that we simply don't matter. Axing the live sheep trade is a prime example. We Western Australians know that Labor is totally east coast, city, elite, activist focused, dictating to and actively sacrificing WA farmers and our communities. Every family and farming business matters in regional communities. That is something that Labor either doesn't understand or couldn't care less about. Each one of these businesses keeps their community going by buying locally from other small businesses and contractors. Livestock transporters, shearers, truckies, stock agents, schools, vets, mechanics and other small businesses are the lifeblood of rural and regional Australia. They're the ones that support our local volunteer emergency services, and sporting and community groups. Every local dollar that circulates in these communities helps to keep the whole community sustainable.

How about the dreadful financial and personal stress this is forcing onto our farmers and their families? Labor couldn't give a damn in WA. When I watched the then Labor ag minister smiling as he held up Labor's document to end live exports, I thought, 'How disgusting for WA farmers—an eastern states federal Labor minister celebrating an end to a farming industry in WA.' Labor is coming after WA farmers one sector at a time.

It's not just WA farmers; it's also our beautiful, productive regional communities. Labor is planning to build hundreds of around 300-metre offshore wind turbines in our iconic Geographe Bay, off my electorate. Labor will ride roughshod over our south-west by literally forcing our communities to bear the massive burden of Labor's intermittent, unreliable renewables-only obsession. Like the live sheep closure, Labor is targeting Western Australians once again. Its ruinously expensive green offshore wind dream is our regional communities' worst nightmare. Picture 4,000 square kilometres of hundreds of these 300-metre turbines in our pristine Geographe Bay. What a dreadful and appalling blight on our marine environment in an area that is a major tourist and recreation attraction in the south-west of WA.

People come to enjoy the sheer beauty and the amazing marine recreational area. They don't come to see visual pollution or bird-killing 300-metre wind turbines or the prospect of significant damage to our marine life. With each one of these actually needing exclusion zones, no-go zones, you can imagine the amount of ocean that won't be able to be enjoyed by our local people and tourists alike. With hundreds of turbines, these exclusion zones will excise and lock out all other activities all around the areas of the bay, with hundreds of kilometres of undersea cable, substations and onshore transmission lines.

Of course Western Australians will be guaranteed to pay more for their power because of the enormous cost of offshore wind. According to a CSIRO report last year, it's at least three times more expensive than onshore wind and the massive turbines will only last 25 years before they have to be removed and replaced—or south-western WA will be left with rotting wind towers in our pristine Geographe Bay. The community says no, and the coalition has said no. Our south-west and WA can be confident there will be no wind factory in Geographe Bay under a coalition government. That's in contrast to a Labor Government that continues to punish WA and our critical mining and resources sector, with changes around industrial relations, the nature positive act, layer upon layer of red and green tape, and uncertainty over approvals. They are continuously biting the hand that feeds them that is Western Australia. We on the coalition side will stand up for Western Australia every day of the week.

Bridget Archer (Bass, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The time allotted for this debate has expired. The debate is adjourned, and the resumption of the debate will be made an order of the day for the next sitting.