Nick Sherry (Tasmania, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Superannuation and Corporate Law) Share this | Hansard source

I concur with Senator Abetz at least on one issue, and that is that every day is of consequence. Without going through the very important reasons why this package is so critical for the economic future of Australia and for supporting jobs, given the financial and economic crisis that has been spreading so rapidly around the world and has been enveloping all comparable economies and now China, I would point out, as I read into the Hansard yesterday, that a number of countries—indeed, many countries; I did not go to all those on the list—have recognised the critical nature and importance of a package such as we are considering here. It is very important that the package is passed. A time line has been set for tonight and, as I say again, it is not unusual in any piece of legislation to have amendments circulated during the course of the day. If that is to occur from the government, there are some 14 hours to go, as I say, and that is not an unusual circumstance.