Jacinta Collins (Victoria, Australian Labor Party, Parliamentary Secretary for School Education and Workplace Relations) Share this | Hansard source

I do not intend to travail this path much further. It has deteriorated to a considerable degree, I have to say, Senator Abetz, when I am told that we all know what happens when three denials occur. I am sorry, but you are definitely starting to go over the top. I know there is a bit of pressure from Senator Brandis occurring at the moment. I have to say that neither of you have quite the capacity in this area that you think you do.

For the third time, we will try. I explained in my summing up speech that, whilst you accurately describe recommendation 50, the government has decided to accept that recommendation in part. We have accepted that we should change the name by virtue of the word 'commission' but, with respect to 'fair work', I repeat: we think it is appropriate that we retain 'fair work' because the Fair Work Commission operates within the fair work system, which also includes, amongst other things, the Fair Work Ombudsman.

I do not intend to revisit this issue. I know that Senator Abetz wants to make a song and dance about this. He has made a song and dance about it before. I repeat my point: when the government consults, it certainly does not logically follow that we will accept every piece of advice we receive. It does not reflect a lack of confidence in the review panel. It does not reflect a lack of confidence in those whom we consult. It is the government's considered position with respect to those with whom we have consulted and with respect to the review panel.