Mathias Cormann (WA, Liberal Party, Vice-President of the Executive Council) Share this | Hansard source

What I would like to say—again on behalf of the government—is that of course we are very grateful for the way in which he has engaged with the government, helping us to secure passage of legislation that was important in advancing the national interest.

I would add that the government is particularly grateful for Senator Leyonhjelm's support for our ambitious trade agenda, which has, of course, helped us strengthen our economy and create more jobs. In fact, by opening new markets for Australian exporters, our trade plan has helped create more than 200,000 jobs in trade related sectors. The dividend of these efforts includes the record $22.2 billion trade surplus in 2018, which has been secured under our government—the biggest-ever trade surplus for a calendar year.

2018 was also the first calendar year since 1972 where every month was in surplus. That is the first time in 46 years. It is notable that Senator Leyonhjelm supported the TPP-11, which was— (Time expired)