Don Farrell (SA, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Trade and Tourism) Share this | Hansard source

This is the second question from a Tasmanian senator today, and I know you've got a great interest in this area, Senator Polley. The Albanese government has a simple message for international investors: we are open for business. Today's release of the Why Australia report highlights this fact. Our strong economy, talented workforce, renewable energy resources and open trade and investment policies make Australia one of the best places to do business in the world.

Australia's reputation as an open, stable and globally connected economy makes us a leading destination for innovative start-ups, research organisations and global investors. Investors are fuelling our growing technology sector, which is valued at over $167 billion—the third largest contributing sector to our GDP. Our supportive innovation ecosystems help spawn incredible innovations like Google Maps, wi-fi, the black box flight recorder and, of course, the terrific cochlear implant. And our growing skilled workforce means Australia is in an ideal place for international companies to expand their operations, but our government wants to go even further. We have an ambitious plan to become a renewable energy superpower and a nation that makes things again. These plans will help attract even more international investment here to Australia.

More high-quality international investments mean more, and higher paying, jobs here in Australia, with more jobs in the industries of the future and in regional Australia. Unlike the previous government, Australian jobs are a top priority for the Albanese Labor government. I call on all of those opposite to support our legislation to strengthen the safeguard mechanism. (Time expired)