Mitch Fifield (Victoria, Liberal Party, Manager of Government Business in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

I thank Senator Bilyk for that question. Senator Bilyk asks about the Australian World Orchestra. It is true that the government has committed funding of $2.42 million over four years to the Australian World Orchestra to support its operational costs and program delivery from 2015-16 to 2018-19. I think we would all agree that that was an extremely good use of funds. It is a terrific program, and I know that Senator Brandis was delighted to be able to find the resources to support that particular opportunity for that organisation. I note that those opposite are doing what they often do—that is, seeking to pull staff into matters. My understanding is that he was formerly a board member of the Australian World Orchestra, but that that role ceased before he took the position with the Attorney—and then arts minister—as is entirely appropriate. So my response in summary would be that there is nothing to see here.