Joe Ludwig (Queensland, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry) Share this | Hansard source

I thank Senator Sterle for his second supplementary question. The Borthwick review has recommended a Productivity Commission study into state and territory interactions with our fisheries, and I will consult with the Assistant Treasurer on that proposal. It is important that we do look through how we can encourage the states and territories to manage the differing systems that we have.

Senators would be aware that some states do have a poor track record when it comes to supporting our fisheries. In Queensland, Premier Newman's government actually defunded is contribution to fisheries research and development, pulling out $1.2 million in forgone research and development activities—a shame for a government, but it does sound familiar. Just like the secret list from the IPA, Mr Tony Abbott has a blueprint to follow: say nothing before the election, then bring Premier Newman style cuts to bear.