Kim Carr (Victoria, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research) Share this | Hansard source

I thank Senator Ellison for his question. The point has been made by the government on numerous occasions that the green paper has been issued for the purpose of consultation. This government is a government that takes the issues of climate change exceptionally seriously. The approach that has been taken by this government is in sharp contrast to that which was taken by the opposition. The opposition took the view that we could deal with these questions over any length of time and it really was not a matter of urgency. The government, under the portfolio responsibilities of Senator Wong, has taken on these issues with deliberation and has sought to ensure that there is an effective means by which these questions can be dealt with. The government has demonstrated that it is committed to reducing the enormous competitive challenges faced by emissions-intensive industries in such a manner as to ensure that incentives remain for those industries to adjust to the emerging global, carbon constrained environment.

On that basis, the government put out a green paper for consultation. It welcomes discussion with industry. It is seeking to ensure that the proposed scheme is effective, meets the criteria that the government has set and allows industry in Australia to remain competitive while at the same time encouraging a fundamental shift in attitudes on climate change. This is the way in which we can ensure that this country is prepared for the future. This is the way in which we can attract new investment. This is the way in which we can ensure that industry is able to meet its responsibilities and that this community as a whole is able to face up to the challenges of climate change.