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

As I've already indicated, we are dealing with the impact on our economy of the drought, which is quite devastating across large parts of Australia; we are dealing with the impact of floods; and, indeed, we are dealing with significant global economic headwinds. Let me say it again very slowly: you went to the last election promising to increase taxes by $387 billion. What do you think that would have done to the economy, to wages, to jobs, to job security? It would have hit the economy. It would have absolutely harmed the economy. It would have harmed working Australians.

Our plan is designed to ensure that Australians today and into the future have the best possible opportunity to get ahead. I would refer you to the RBA governor, who made very clear that he expects gradual strengthening in the economy on the back of lower interest rates, lower taxes, strong investment in infrastructure and a pick-up in the resources sector— (Time expired)