Katy Gallagher (ACT, Australian Labor Party, Minister for the Public Service) Share this | Hansard source

I thank, again, Senator O'Neill for that excellent question. Under those opposite our economy wasn't delivering like Australians needed it to. The IMF praised the government's policy that tackles skill shortages and boosts workforce participation, including key outcomes of the Jobs and Skills Summit. Our budget delivered quality investments in the capacity of the Australian economy and the capabilities of the Australian people. This includes our fee-free TAFE, more university places, delivering cheaper child care for 1.26 million families and expanding paid parental leave to 26 weeks for working parents. The IMF's independent assessment confirms that, despite a difficult international outlook and significant economic and budget challenges here at home, Australians should be optimistic about the longer term future of our economy and our country.