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

Thank you, Senator Cameron. Thanks to our new car plan, the Australian industry is better placed than most to come through this difficult period in much stronger shape. General Motors has indicated that Holden will be an integral part of the new GM. This is especially significant, given the brutal effects of General Motors bankruptcy on workers, on suppliers and on dealers in the United States. The Automotive Transformation Scheme Bill is to be introduced to the House of Representatives this week, and it is designed to consolidate Australia’s advantage. This is a test for those opposite. Are they going to stop whingeing and wringing their hands, or are they going to support this legislation? Are they going to support this strategic industry? Are they going to support the tens of thousands of Australians who rely upon this industry for their livelihood? When are we going to hear from this opposition as to what they actually support rather than what they oppose? (Time expired)