Like many members of parliament and senators, this week I joined in two very, very significant celebrations. It's also significant that these celebrations were held in this place, Australia's parliament. I refer of course to the 550th anniversary of the birth of the Guru Nanak and the celebration of the beginning of Diwali.
Read MoreI'm pleased to make a contribution to this debate on the address-in-reply. I was here for much of the contribution of the member for Hughes, and let me say this: there is no more urgent task facing Australia's government than to take action on climate change. There is no more urgent change...
Read MoreTime is running out to stop the Morrison government from privatising Australia's visa system. Later this month, the Morrison government will decide who will run our visa processing system. Will it be the Australian government, accountable to the Australian people through this place, the Australian parliament?
Read MoreLabor will be supporting the passage of this bill. I am disappointed, of course, that the government has not had regard to the second reading amendment nor to the contributions of Labor members in the course of this debate, which has been an important debate on an important issue.
Read MoreI rise to speak on the New Skilled Regional Visas (Consequential Amendments) Bill 2019. I note that the Morrison government claims that the aim of this legislation, and matters already dealt with, is to change the geographic make-up of visa holders by increasing the number of people settling outside of major cities in regional Australia.
Read MoreBefore I address my question to the Minister for Home Affairs, I acknowledge the contribution of the member for Herbert and associate myself with all of his remarks. There are many things that he and I disagree on and maybe some of them will be flushed out over the next hour or so...
Read More