Anne Ruston (SA, Liberal Party, Minister for Families and Social Services) Share this | Hansard source

I thank Senator McDonald for her really important question around the risks that are facing northern Australia. Firstly, I can say that we are absolutely committed, as a government, to delivering for northern Australia, and that means economic infrastructure and delivering on economic opportunities for northern Australia. In fact, as of 30 October, the NAIF had made 23 investment decisions: 10 projects in Queensland, six projects in Western Australia and eight projects in the Northern Territory. These projects represent $6.6 billion worth of economic benefits supporting 7,800 jobs. However, the NAIF is being weighed down by the lengthy approval time taken by the ALP governments in Queensland, Western Australia and the Northern Territory. The time it takes for decisions to be made to enable these projects to progress is totally unacceptable. More infrastructure means more jobs, and I would recommend that those opposite lobby their colleagues in those governments to get out of the way. (Time expired)