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

There is nothing wrong with the government seeking to recover outstanding debts where there have been overpayments. That is something that has happened under governments of both political persuasions, and, indeed, the previous Labor government was considering the automation of this process. Mr Shorten was advocating in favour of the automation of this process. That is a matter of public record. These arrangements have to be put in place in a way that is consistent with applicable laws, and that is what we will ensure will happen.