Helen Polley (Tasmania, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise to speak on the Future Made in Australia (Production Tax Credits and Other Measures) Bill 2024 because I wasn't able to earlier this week.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Minister Ed Husic we have produced a visionary plan that underscores the significance of revitalising and strengthening our domestic manufacturing sector and, under Minister Chris Bowen, of creating a renewable energy sector that all Australians can prosper under.

Manufacturing has long been the backbone of economies worldwide, and Australia is no exception. It's the country that was built on the sheep's back. However, over the past few decades, and particularly under the previous Liberal government, we have seen manufacturing leaving Australian shores, leading to increased reliance on imports. This shift has not only affected our economic stability but also compromised our self-sufficiency and national security. The Future Made in Australia policy aims to reverse this trend by fostering a robust and competitive manufacturing industry that can meet the needs of present and future generations.

One of the key pillars of this policy is job creation. Local manufacturing is a powerful engine for employment, offering diverse opportunities across various skill levels. By investing in manufacturing, we can generate thousands of quality jobs, from research and development to production and logistics. These jobs are not only pathways to economic stability for individuals and families; they also contribute to the broader economic health of our communities.

Moreover, the policy emphasises the importance of innovation and advanced manufacturing technologies. In an era of rapid technological change, it's imperative that our manufacturing sector evolves to remain competitive on the global stage. The Albanese Labor government is committed to supporting research and development in cutting-edge fields such as renewable energy, biotechnology and advanced materials. By fostering a culture of innovation, we can ensure that Australian made products are synonymous with quality, reliability and technological prowess. But we know that those opposite allowed the running down of manufacturing in this country.

I want to mention a few of the great local manufacturers in my home state of Tasmania, in particular those in northern Tasmania, including ACL Bearing Company, Waverley Mills, Rio Tinto's Bell Bay Aluminium and Definium Technologies. They are all leading local manufacturers which are key to the production, prosperity and stronger economy of the Tasmanian community. We have been, and will continue to be, at the forefront. For instance, the Waverley woollen mill can actually track the wool from the farms to production and through to blankets and other products, making Tasmania very important not only from a manufacturing point of view but as a destination for our tourists. These are companies worth supporting.

I would also like to acknowledge and give a shout-out to the amazing historic women's health package that was announced on Sunday, which is in stark contrast to Mr Dutton's no plan for Australia. There's an historic $573 million for collective health reforms, including the first PBS listings for new oral contraceptive pills, more choice and lower cost. There's more Medicare support for women experiencing menopause, with the first PBS listing of new menopause hormone therapies in over 20 years. This is more support for endometriosis and pelvic pain clinics treating more conditions.

Labor backs women and women's health. Mr Dutton was voted the worst ever health minister, not by people on this side—although we agreed—but by the Australian Medical Association. Do you want to trust Mr Dutton with your health? I know Australian women have waited too long for a package like this, and they won't trust him either. (Time expired)