Penny Wong (SA, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Finance and Deregulation) Share this | Hansard source

I think there are three aspects to that question. The first is the launch of a national-level representative body for cooperatives. Whilst that is an issue for the industry, as a matter of principle I think a body which enables more focused lobbying and more focused communication with government is obviously going to be of merit for the sector. The government will always consult with Australia's cooperative and member-owned business sector on relevant issues of policy and regulation and having a national body does enable that consultation to be more effective. In relation to Enterprise Connect, I am advised that some cooperatives have been accepted under that program on an exceptions basis. Cooperatives are also able to participate in Enterprise Connect's workshop, industry intelligence and network activities. Each round of these is themed to provide SMEs with targeted information—(Time expired)