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

Thank you, Senator Fawcett, and yes, I can. This is a pivotal time for Australian industry and, in particular, Australian manufacturing. The Turnbull government has the policies to help workers in transition and to assist our manufacturers to seek lucrative markets both here domestically and overseas. For example, the government is ensuring that those affected by the closure of Holden continue to receive assistance as they transfer into new industries. Our focus is on the industries of the future. This is underpinned by our $238 million Industry Growth Centres initiative, focusing on industries where Australia has a demonstrated competitive advantage to create new jobs.

We are also supporting businesses' transition, through our $155 million growth fund, following the closure of the automotive manufacturers, and we have extended this assistance with a further $100 million in this year's budget. We are also supporting businesses through our $400 million Entrepreneurs' Program, which gives them the advice and support they need to improve their competitiveness and productivity and to seek growth opportunities. We've commenced a $90 billion naval shipbuilding program. We also have a half-a-billion-dollar upgrade of the Osborne shipbuilding facility in South Australia. This will employ 600 people at its peak. We are building an $8.4 billion inland rail line, which will bring our regional producers and communities closer to markets. The government's support for manufacturing industry is a landmark investment in our nation, our industries and our communities.