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

Nothing could be further from the truth. The work that is being done by the workforce in relation to Collins class submarine sustainment is very important, and the workforce is doing a great job. There is a process underway, which is a matter of public record, of assessing the optimal future configuration of the submarine sustainment effort in the context of our transition from Collins class submarines to Attack class submarines, but that will be a decision made in the national interest. Clearly, Senator Patrick has moved his motion knowing that no decision has been made. He knows that a decision will be made based on an assessment of the national interest. He knows that these decisions will not be made by a Senate motion. That is why the government has moved this amendment, which the Senate has supported unanimously, which recognises the demonstrated skills and expertise of the existing Collins class submarine sustainment workforce and, of course, a number of other matters. (Time expired)