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

The one thing I can absolutely assure you of, Senator Canavan, is that this government, the government of which you and I are members, remains absolutely committed to supporting the resources sector in this country. That's why, in the 2020-21 budget, the Morrison-McCormack government invested $125 million to extend the Exploring for the Future program for another four years. And there was $52.9 million for the Gas-fired Recovery package. This investment is absolutely crucial for Australia's economy, especially now that our internal borders are starting to open up. These measures attract investment, they deliver jobs and they secure a reliable, low-cost energy pipeline for manufacturers, industries and households.

Senator Canavan, I know that you've been a very vocal supporter of the expansion of the New Acland mine in the Darling Downs. It was really disappointing that we've been waiting several years for its approval by the Queensland government. Investing in mining is a great opportunity for this country.