Fatima Payman (WA, Independent) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

This week in this chamber, Senator McDonald raised the pressing issue of falling iron ore prices and the massive impact on Australian finances. For decades, Western Australia has been the engine room of this nation's economy, with iron ore at the very heart of our prosperity. It's one of the reasons we've been able to invest in our schools, our hospitals and more infrastructure. As the iron ore price falls, we must confront the challenges ahead. However, let us be clear: this does not mean we are powerless. Western Australia has weathered many storms with resilience, determination and grit. Western Australia has always done the heavy lifting, and it's time that the wise men and women from the east acknowledged the contribution we make—not just in words, but in actions.

In these difficult times, I call on the government to address the unfair tax system that sees billions of dollars pouring from Western Australia into other parts of the country, with the majority of our hard-earned money finding its way into the coffers of the east. Why are Western Australians being discriminated against? Let's not forget that, when the east goes to bed, Western Australians are still digging, drilling and shipping, because someone needs to pay the bills here. Western Australia has fought for years to secure its fair share of the GST. In these challenging times, I call on the government and the wise men and women of the east to guarantee that you will not dip into our rightful share. The people of Western Australia deserve better. It's time we received our fair share.