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

I can only repeat that the administrative arrangements regarding cooperatives are the direct responsibility of state and territory governments. Notwithstanding that, the government stands ready to work with enterprises to ensure that we provide all the assistance that is available and to ensure that the necessary arrangements are made, particularly through Enterprise Connect, to provide the support needed for industries to be able to transform themselves in this process of rapid change. There is quite substantial support available—up to $20 billion—as a result of the legislation that is currently before the parliament. There is $20 billion of industry support for those industries that are in the business of transforming themselves and preparing themselves for the 21st century. That is why these measures are so important to ensure high-skill, high-wage jobs for Australians into the future.