Michaelia Cash (WA, Liberal Party, Minister for Women) Share this | Hansard source

I think there is a body of evidence in Australia that would suggest that penalty rates were put in place some time ago when the work situation in Australia was fundamentally different. In fact, the Productivity Commission itself has recommended that the Fair Work Commission take into consideration a wider body of evidence when it is setting penalty rates. What we will never resile from on this side of the chamber is having a good debate, allowing the Australian people to put their views. If that means there are some small business people out there who cannot open on a Sunday because their wages bill exceeds their takings bill, maybe we should listen to them. If there are people out there who cannot open on a Sunday but who say, 'I could open on a Sunday if …', maybe we should listen, but it does not change our position. Penalty rates are set by the Fair Work Commission. (Time expired)