Murray Watt (Queensland, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry) Share this | Hansard source

I understand why the opposition is embarrassed every time their refusal to close those loopholes is pointed out. I'm sure you'd agree that nobody is missing out more than those who are having their wages stolen. Currently, if a worker steals from an employer, it's a crime—as it should be—but if an employer deliberately steals from their worker, in most places in Australia it is not a crime. That is backward, ridiculous logic that is being endorsed by the coalition in their refusal to help us pass this legislation. There's never a good time for a pay rise if you're a coalition senator; there is if you're a Labor senator. (Time expired)