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

This is a reform for young Australians. It will increase their choices and their chances in life. It will enable them to discover their talents and to develop their skills. But it is also a major economic reform. It will help us accelerate innovation and lift productivity. It will give us the capable and adaptable workforce which we need to meet the competitive challenges of the decade ahead. It will mean that 80,000 students who move from state to state each year will no longer have to absorb a new curriculum. It will take us one step closer to creating a seamless national economy, a strong and efficient economy that can thrive in the global market place. It will provide the basis for this country to go forward and I would urge conservative parties of this country to come on board this major reform. (Time expired)