Labor 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 MoreThe bushfires that have been raging in Queensland and New South Wales demonstrate the importance of increased disaster mitigation and recovery funding. Can I join the Leader of the Opposition, the Prime Minister and others to express my gratitude to our emergency services personnel and volunteers who have bravely fought dangerous fires...
Read MoreLabor will be opposing the Migration Amendment (Strengthening the Character Test) Bill 2019. It is unnecessary and ill considered and would carry with it concerning consequences if enacted into law. I would like to say that these consequences would be unintended ones...
Read MoreI would like to thank the Assistant Treasurer for his contribution to this debate but I will not mislead the House, unlike his contributions on Labor's voting record. I'd ask him to have a look at the Hansard and perhaps come back to the principal chamber of the House...
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