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| Senate estimates continues after fiery question time – politics live | |
| (35 minutes later) | |
| 5.07pm AEST08:07 | |
| In the hot seat. | |
| 4.58pm AEST07:58 | |
| Estimates hear that prime minister and cabinet has bought more than $31,000 in photographic equipment since the beginning of last year. | |
| Penny Wong wants to know whether any of the material generated with the department’s equipment has been used for the private purposes of the Liberal party. PM&C is not aware if it has. | |
| Wong: Is it permissable for taxpayer funded equipment to be used for party political purposes? | |
| Deputy secretary Elizabeth Kelly says: No. | |
| Mathias Cormann says under the previous government, the department has spent more than $563,000 on commercial photographic services. | |
| 4.50pm AEST07:50 | |
| Albanese opposes Plibersek's binding vote on same sex marriage | |
| Daniel Hurst | |
| Labor frontbencher Anthony Albanese has given a speech in the Federation Chamber backing a fresh push for same-sex marriage to be legalised in Australia, after Ireland’s successful referendum last Friday. | |
| The first of his two messages was that it was time to join countries such as UK, Canada and New Zealand “which have recognised that people should be allowed to marry the person that they love”. | |
| Albanese’s second message was that members of all parties should be granted a free vote - cutting across fellow Left faction figure Tanya Plibersek’s push for July’s national conference to bind Labor MPs to support same-sex marriage. | |
| Whilst I have strong views in support of marriage equality, I respect those who hold a different view. You cannot promote diversity and tolerance whilst not showing tolerance for those who disagree with you. I have argued consistently that the Coalition needs to allow a conscience vote on this issue. It is inconsistent to argue something different within the Labor party.” | |
| Albanese said he also had a pragmatic reason to argue for a conscience vote across the parliament: | |
| It is my judgement that there are now majorities in favour of marriage equality in both the house of representatives and the senate. There is therefore no argument to delay this reform. Let’s get this done. | |
| 4.40pm AEST07:40 | |
| Penny Wong wants to know from PM&C: | |
| If it was such a routine event, why did Stephen Brady offer his resignation? | |
| Elizabeth Kelly says her information from PM&C and Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade was that Brady’s resignation was neither offered nor tendered. | |
| Wong is incredulous but Mathias Cormann offers: | |
| Just because something is asserted in a newspaper, doesn’t mean its true. | |
| 4.29pm AEST07:29 | 4.29pm AEST07:29 |
| Meanwhile, over in the house of reps, the government is abolishing the National Water Commission, an an independent science body overseeing water management. | Meanwhile, over in the house of reps, the government is abolishing the National Water Commission, an an independent science body overseeing water management. |
| Updated at 4.30pm AEST | Updated at 4.30pm AEST |
| 4.25pm AEST07:25 | 4.25pm AEST07:25 |
| Penny Wong is pushing committee chair Cory Bernardi to discover details from PM&C about where the instruction came from that Brady’s partner should wait in the car. | Penny Wong is pushing committee chair Cory Bernardi to discover details from PM&C about where the instruction came from that Brady’s partner should wait in the car. |
| I have done my best to indulge some intemperance from you, says Bernardi. | I have done my best to indulge some intemperance from you, says Bernardi. |
| Wong wants to know if there was any contact between the plane and the protocol officer. | Wong wants to know if there was any contact between the plane and the protocol officer. |
| Pip Spence confirms there was none. | Pip Spence confirms there was none. |
| Wong wants to know whether Spence was involved in drafting a statement given to the Daily Telegraph story on May 7 referring to the “dummy spitting ambassador”. Spence and deputy secretary Elizabeth Kelly saw the statement, which they characterised as simply a statement of protocol. They say the statement was provided to the journalist through the media team. | Wong wants to know whether Spence was involved in drafting a statement given to the Daily Telegraph story on May 7 referring to the “dummy spitting ambassador”. Spence and deputy secretary Elizabeth Kelly saw the statement, which they characterised as simply a statement of protocol. They say the statement was provided to the journalist through the media team. |
| Cormann says the same protocol advice would have been given to any other ambassador. No biggie. | Cormann says the same protocol advice would have been given to any other ambassador. No biggie. |
| Pip Spence says it was a totally routine matter. | Pip Spence says it was a totally routine matter. |
| 4.06pm AEST07:06 | 4.06pm AEST07:06 |
| Pip Spence, of Prime Minister and Cabinet (PM&C) tells Penny Wong that ambassador Stephen Brady was advised that because Margie Abbott was not travelling with prime minister, Brady’s partner Peter Stephens was not required according to protocol. | Pip Spence, of Prime Minister and Cabinet (PM&C) tells Penny Wong that ambassador Stephen Brady was advised that because Margie Abbott was not travelling with prime minister, Brady’s partner Peter Stephens was not required according to protocol. |
| The person who conveyed the message to Brady was a ceremonial officer. Brady raised his concerns and the matter was resolved “on the ground”. | The person who conveyed the message to Brady was a ceremonial officer. Brady raised his concerns and the matter was resolved “on the ground”. |
| 4.00pm AEST07:00 | 4.00pm AEST07:00 |
| Back to estimates and Stephen Brady, the ambassador to France mentioned earlier. | Back to estimates and Stephen Brady, the ambassador to France mentioned earlier. |
| Cormann to Wong: | Cormann to Wong: |
| It does you no credit chosing to perpetuate a slur...which you know to be inaccurate. | It does you no credit chosing to perpetuate a slur...which you know to be inaccurate. |
| There is nothing here. | There is nothing here. |
| 3.58pm AEST06:58 | 3.58pm AEST06:58 |
| This man is not a dentist. He is a Labor frontbencher. | This man is not a dentist. He is a Labor frontbencher. |
| 3.48pm AEST06:48 | 3.48pm AEST06:48 |
| While we have a lull in estimates, you may not have caught up with Lenore Taylor’s story on Gillian Triggs. | While we have a lull in estimates, you may not have caught up with Lenore Taylor’s story on Gillian Triggs. |
| Gillian Triggs, the president of the Human Rights Commission, has told the Australian federal police she does not want to make a complaint or pursue an allegation that a job offer made to her on behalf of the attorney general, George Brandis, was an inducement constituting “corrupt and unlawful conduct”. | Gillian Triggs, the president of the Human Rights Commission, has told the Australian federal police she does not want to make a complaint or pursue an allegation that a job offer made to her on behalf of the attorney general, George Brandis, was an inducement constituting “corrupt and unlawful conduct”. |
| 3.35pm AEST06:35 | 3.35pm AEST06:35 |
| Now Wong is onto the matter of Stephen Brady, the Australian ambassador to France, who offered his resignation after refusing instructions to leave his gay partner behind in an official meet and greet. | Now Wong is onto the matter of Stephen Brady, the Australian ambassador to France, who offered his resignation after refusing instructions to leave his gay partner behind in an official meet and greet. |
| Brady was reportedly told by the prime minister’s travelling party that his long-term partner, Peter Stephens, should not be at the airport for Abbott’s arrival at Le Bourget airport in Paris on Anzac Day. | Brady was reportedly told by the prime minister’s travelling party that his long-term partner, Peter Stephens, should not be at the airport for Abbott’s arrival at Le Bourget airport in Paris on Anzac Day. |
| The resignation was not accepted and Abbott says he was not even aware the event. At the time Abbott said: | The resignation was not accepted and Abbott says he was not even aware the event. At the time Abbott said: |
| My understanding is that there was some issue at the level of junior officials and I don’t concern myself with these things. | My understanding is that there was some issue at the level of junior officials and I don’t concern myself with these things. |
| Cormann jumps ahead and anticipates Wong’s question. Estimates chair Cory Bernardi shuts down Wong and questions move to government senator Bridget McKenzie. | Cormann jumps ahead and anticipates Wong’s question. Estimates chair Cory Bernardi shuts down Wong and questions move to government senator Bridget McKenzie. |
| Move on. Nothing to see here. | Move on. Nothing to see here. |
| 3.26pm AEST06:26 | 3.26pm AEST06:26 |
| Penny Wong is drilling down into the PM&C staff regarding the logistics of the prime minister’s visit to Europe for the ANZAC trip. | Penny Wong is drilling down into the PM&C staff regarding the logistics of the prime minister’s visit to Europe for the ANZAC trip. |
| She is questioning Lynette Woods, first assistant secretary of the international division, is responsible for policy in PM&C. | She is questioning Lynette Woods, first assistant secretary of the international division, is responsible for policy in PM&C. |
| Wong wants to know which staff accompanied Abbott on the trip, primarily his chief of staff Peta Credlin. | Wong wants to know which staff accompanied Abbott on the trip, primarily his chief of staff Peta Credlin. |
| PM&C official Margot McCarthy says they need to consult with the PM’s office before providing travel info regarding the staff. | PM&C official Margot McCarthy says they need to consult with the PM’s office before providing travel info regarding the staff. |
| Everyone is prepared to talk about Peta Credlin to the papers but here why not here? says Wong. | Everyone is prepared to talk about Peta Credlin to the papers but here why not here? says Wong. |
| Cormann asks you might be happy to personalise things. | Cormann asks you might be happy to personalise things. |
| Talk to Mr Hockey about that, says Wong. | Talk to Mr Hockey about that, says Wong. |
| Wong wants to know from Woods, who was on the PM’s plane, or whether she remembers who was on the plane. Wong protests that Credlin is paid by taxpayers and her trip was paid for by taxpayers. | Wong wants to know from Woods, who was on the PM’s plane, or whether she remembers who was on the plane. Wong protests that Credlin is paid by taxpayers and her trip was paid for by taxpayers. |
| Cormann covers for Woods, taking the question instead. | Cormann covers for Woods, taking the question instead. |
| Wong wants to know what countries Abbott visited. | Wong wants to know what countries Abbott visited. |
| Woods says Turkey and France. | Woods says Turkey and France. |
| Wong wants forensic detail on the time he flew into France, which airport, who flew ahead. | Wong wants forensic detail on the time he flew into France, which airport, who flew ahead. |
| Where is she going? | Where is she going? |
| 3.15pm AEST06:15 | 3.15pm AEST06:15 |
| Joanne Ryan, Labor MP for Lalor and Graham Perrett, Labor MP for Moreton were thrown out. And that a wrap for QT. | Joanne Ryan, Labor MP for Lalor and Graham Perrett, Labor MP for Moreton were thrown out. And that a wrap for QT. |
| Back to estimates. | Back to estimates. |
| 3.12pm AEST06:12 | 3.12pm AEST06:12 |
| There is a question on cuts to foreign aid to Joe Hockey and finally a question on infrastructure to assistant infrastructure minister Jamie Briggs. | There is a question on cuts to foreign aid to Joe Hockey and finally a question on infrastructure to assistant infrastructure minister Jamie Briggs. |
| 3.06pm AEST06:06 | 3.06pm AEST06:06 |
| Bill Shorten asks Abbott about a relatively small number of Australian children who live with a condition called inborn errors of metabolism, including PKU (phenylketonuria). It’s a rare genetic condition that requires medically prescribed food. Will the PM reconsider his budget cut of more than $250 a month that goes to each of these 900 families? | Bill Shorten asks Abbott about a relatively small number of Australian children who live with a condition called inborn errors of metabolism, including PKU (phenylketonuria). It’s a rare genetic condition that requires medically prescribed food. Will the PM reconsider his budget cut of more than $250 a month that goes to each of these 900 families? |
| Tony Abbott says foods for people managing protein metabolic disorder are now more readily available and much cheaper than when the program began, as are medications for the conditions through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. | Tony Abbott says foods for people managing protein metabolic disorder are now more readily available and much cheaper than when the program began, as are medications for the conditions through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. |
| Updated at 3.08pm AEST | Updated at 3.08pm AEST |
| 2.58pm AEST05:58 | 2.58pm AEST05:58 |
| Bowen to Hockey: I refer to the PM’s own budget papers which show the cost to the budget of superannuation tax concessions outstripping the cost of the aged pension in just four years. Given most of these concessions go to high income earners, how is this either fair or sustainable? | Bowen to Hockey: I refer to the PM’s own budget papers which show the cost to the budget of superannuation tax concessions outstripping the cost of the aged pension in just four years. Given most of these concessions go to high income earners, how is this either fair or sustainable? |
| Hockey gives a slightly different formula, revolving around lesser returns on investments. | Hockey gives a slightly different formula, revolving around lesser returns on investments. |
| People want stability and certainty around the rules governing superannuation. He wants to have it both ways. But for the last election he said there will be stability and certainty for five years and now for the second time he was proposing changes within that 5 year time frame. And the fact is Australian superannuants are now facing lower economic returns, lower returns on investment than they would have expected some time ago because of lower global interest rates as a contributor. | People want stability and certainty around the rules governing superannuation. He wants to have it both ways. But for the last election he said there will be stability and certainty for five years and now for the second time he was proposing changes within that 5 year time frame. And the fact is Australian superannuants are now facing lower economic returns, lower returns on investment than they would have expected some time ago because of lower global interest rates as a contributor. |
| 2.53pm AEST05:53 | 2.53pm AEST05:53 |
| Resisting the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune. | Resisting the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune. |
| 2.52pm AEST05:52 | 2.52pm AEST05:52 |
| A beautiful friendship. | A beautiful friendship. |
| 2.51pm AEST05:51 | 2.51pm AEST05:51 |
| Chris Bowen asks Tony Abbott: I refer to the fact that the government’s petrol tax hike raises $19bn over the next decade. Why does the PM think that improving the budget bottom line by $14bn over 10 years is a tax grab (Labor’s superannuation policy), but raising $19bn in new taxes from lower middle income earners is fair. Is the PM aware that $19bn is a bigger number than $14bn? | Chris Bowen asks Tony Abbott: I refer to the fact that the government’s petrol tax hike raises $19bn over the next decade. Why does the PM think that improving the budget bottom line by $14bn over 10 years is a tax grab (Labor’s superannuation policy), but raising $19bn in new taxes from lower middle income earners is fair. Is the PM aware that $19bn is a bigger number than $14bn? |
| Abbott does not answer the difference between the two examples but reaffirms the fuel indexation. | Abbott does not answer the difference between the two examples but reaffirms the fuel indexation. |
| We think that it should be indexed. We think that it should be indexed when fuel excise was introduced by the Hawke Government. | We think that it should be indexed. We think that it should be indexed when fuel excise was introduced by the Hawke Government. |
| 2.47pm AEST05:47 | 2.47pm AEST05:47 |
| Julie Bishop is asked what measures the government is taking to stop young women and girls from being radicalised. | Julie Bishop is asked what measures the government is taking to stop young women and girls from being radicalised. |
| Members would be aware of the disturbing reports of a Sydney mother who it’s claimed has abandoned her two children to live under the brutal regime of Daesh and I’m deeply pessimistic about the fate of this apparently troubled young woman but I’m thankful she left her children in the safety of Australia and didn’t put them in mortal danger as others have done. | Members would be aware of the disturbing reports of a Sydney mother who it’s claimed has abandoned her two children to live under the brutal regime of Daesh and I’m deeply pessimistic about the fate of this apparently troubled young woman but I’m thankful she left her children in the safety of Australia and didn’t put them in mortal danger as others have done. |
| Bishop is talking about the $40m combating violent extremism. | Bishop is talking about the $40m combating violent extremism. |
| We estimate that about 30 to 40 Australian women are actively engaged in or supporting the terrorists in Syria and Iraq. It seems that Daesh has taken atrocities against women to a new level of violence. The UN special representative on sexual violence in conflict has recently returned from Syria and Iraq. She cited appalling cases including a 20-year-old girl who was burned alive because she refused to perform an extreme sexual act. Another who was traded by Daesh fighters over 20 times. | We estimate that about 30 to 40 Australian women are actively engaged in or supporting the terrorists in Syria and Iraq. It seems that Daesh has taken atrocities against women to a new level of violence. The UN special representative on sexual violence in conflict has recently returned from Syria and Iraq. She cited appalling cases including a 20-year-old girl who was burned alive because she refused to perform an extreme sexual act. Another who was traded by Daesh fighters over 20 times. |
| 2.42pm AEST05:42 | 2.42pm AEST05:42 |
| Pardon, Madam Speaker? | Pardon, Madam Speaker? |
| 2.41pm AEST05:41 | 2.41pm AEST05:41 |
| Shorten to Abbott: Two weeks ago the PM said,and I quote, “There will be no changes to super.” But last night in a discussion about changes to superannuation the Treasurer said, “I don’t subscribe to never ever.” So PM, who is really always right, the PM or the treasurer? | Shorten to Abbott: Two weeks ago the PM said,and I quote, “There will be no changes to super.” But last night in a discussion about changes to superannuation the Treasurer said, “I don’t subscribe to never ever.” So PM, who is really always right, the PM or the treasurer? |
| Abbott: | Abbott: |
| We said before the last election that there would be no adverse changes to superannuation in this term of parliament and we have absolutely kept that commitment. I have said, and let me repeat it to the parliament, that we have no plans, no plans whatsoever for any future changes to superannuation. | We said before the last election that there would be no adverse changes to superannuation in this term of parliament and we have absolutely kept that commitment. I have said, and let me repeat it to the parliament, that we have no plans, no plans whatsoever for any future changes to superannuation. |
| 2.39pm AEST05:39 | 2.39pm AEST05:39 |
| Labor MP Terri Butler has been sent from the chamber. | Labor MP Terri Butler has been sent from the chamber. |
| 2.38pm AEST05:38 | 2.38pm AEST05:38 |
| And another thing... | And another thing... |
| 2.37pm AEST05:37 | 2.37pm AEST05:37 |
| Out! | Out! |
| 2.34pm AEST05:34 | 2.34pm AEST05:34 |
| Mark Dreyfus gets 94a-ed....again #QT @GuardianAus @gabriellechan #politicslive http://t.co/NFjTdk2BVc pic.twitter.com/iYx8y47lCC | Mark Dreyfus gets 94a-ed....again #QT @GuardianAus @gabriellechan #politicslive http://t.co/NFjTdk2BVc pic.twitter.com/iYx8y47lCC |
| 2.33pm AEST05:33 | 2.33pm AEST05:33 |
| Barnaby Joyce is talking on small business and drought measures and “the people on the land”. | Barnaby Joyce is talking on small business and drought measures and “the people on the land”. |
| Then Chris Bowen asks: | Then Chris Bowen asks: |
| Yesterday during question time the treasurer said we have absolutely no plans to change super. Last night when asked about superannuation, the treasurer said we’ve got to look at the future of the entire retirement income system and I don’t subscribe to never ever. Who’s right? The Treasurer after lunch or the Treasurer after dinner? | Yesterday during question time the treasurer said we have absolutely no plans to change super. Last night when asked about superannuation, the treasurer said we’ve got to look at the future of the entire retirement income system and I don’t subscribe to never ever. Who’s right? The Treasurer after lunch or the Treasurer after dinner? |
| The treasurer is always right, says Hockey. | The treasurer is always right, says Hockey. |
| We are not going to change the rules on superannuation. | We are not going to change the rules on superannuation. |
| 2.29pm AEST05:29 | 2.29pm AEST05:29 |
| A question from Cathy McGowan (Indi) approving of the government plans on decentralisation and asking Barnaby Joyce to outline why it is so important. | A question from Cathy McGowan (Indi) approving of the government plans on decentralisation and asking Barnaby Joyce to outline why it is so important. |
| I am not entirely clear what the answer was. | I am not entirely clear what the answer was. |
| Labor asks about paid parental leave. Will the Treasurer now remove these references from his budget and abandon his entire plan to cut paid parental leave for new mums? | Labor asks about paid parental leave. Will the Treasurer now remove these references from his budget and abandon his entire plan to cut paid parental leave for new mums? |
| If they are being paid the same or more by their employer then they cannot access the Government scheme and in particular, for public servants, who do access a taxpayer-funded scheme, who do access a taxpayer-funded scheme, they should not be able to also access a separate scheme through Centrelink. | If they are being paid the same or more by their employer then they cannot access the Government scheme and in particular, for public servants, who do access a taxpayer-funded scheme, who do access a taxpayer-funded scheme, they should not be able to also access a separate scheme through Centrelink. |
| By the way, Essential has just released a poll and found the following: | By the way, Essential has just released a poll and found the following: |
| 56% approve and 27% disapprove of the government’s proposal that women who can access employer-sponsored paid parental leave schemes will lose all or part of their taxpayer-funded PPL. | 56% approve and 27% disapprove of the government’s proposal that women who can access employer-sponsored paid parental leave schemes will lose all or part of their taxpayer-funded PPL. |
| Those most likely to approve were Liberal/National voters (73%), men (60%) and those aged 55+ (71%). Those aged under 35 were split 42% approve/38% disapprove. | Those most likely to approve were Liberal/National voters (73%), men (60%) and those aged 55+ (71%). Those aged under 35 were split 42% approve/38% disapprove. |
| 2.20pm AEST05:20 | 2.20pm AEST05:20 |
| Labor to Abbott: Has the PM told the Member for Capricornia that around 8,000 working families in her electorate will be worse off because of the budget? | Labor to Abbott: Has the PM told the Member for Capricornia that around 8,000 working families in her electorate will be worse off because of the budget? |
| Abbott: | Abbott: |
| I would never mislead the member for Capricornia. | I would never mislead the member for Capricornia. |
| 2.18pm AEST05:18 | 2.18pm AEST05:18 |
| Jenny Macklin asks a question, Tony Burke tries a tricky manoeuvre and the Speaker rules the whole question out of order. In the melee, Labor frontbencher Mark Dreyfus was thrown out. | Jenny Macklin asks a question, Tony Burke tries a tricky manoeuvre and the Speaker rules the whole question out of order. In the melee, Labor frontbencher Mark Dreyfus was thrown out. |
| Onto a government small business question with Bruce. | Onto a government small business question with Bruce. |
| Billson. | Billson. |
| 2.13pm AEST05:13 | 2.13pm AEST05:13 |
| Joe Hockey gets a government question on northern Australia. He takes the opportunity to have a dig at Labor over the upcoming Sarah Ferguson ABC series The Killing Season on the Labor leadership woes. | Joe Hockey gets a government question on northern Australia. He takes the opportunity to have a dig at Labor over the upcoming Sarah Ferguson ABC series The Killing Season on the Labor leadership woes. |
| Shorten says across the table, | Shorten says across the table, |
| are you going to name staff members again today Joe? | are you going to name staff members again today Joe? |
| 2.11pm AEST05:11 | 2.11pm AEST05:11 |
| Labor to Tony Abbott on Natsem modelling: (government benches crack up). | Labor to Tony Abbott on Natsem modelling: (government benches crack up). |
| Independent Natsem modelling shows a typical family will be more than $6,000a year worse off because of the PM’s budget. Does the PM deny that families will be worse off because of his budget cuts? | Independent Natsem modelling shows a typical family will be more than $6,000a year worse off because of the PM’s budget. Does the PM deny that families will be worse off because of his budget cuts? |
| Abbott says everyone benefits and then moves to the Natsem modelling, “which has been used and abused”. | Abbott says everyone benefits and then moves to the Natsem modelling, “which has been used and abused”. |
| As we suspected the Natsem analysis fails to take into account anyof the benefits involved in moving from welfare to work. So it’s a static analysis. It doesn’t take into account the benefits of moving from welfare to work. But there’s more. That’s point number 1. Point number 2, the modelling does not actually model this year’s budget. It does not model this year’s budget...most significantly the analysis includes measures that the Labor Party actually supports. | As we suspected the Natsem analysis fails to take into account anyof the benefits involved in moving from welfare to work. So it’s a static analysis. It doesn’t take into account the benefits of moving from welfare to work. But there’s more. That’s point number 1. Point number 2, the modelling does not actually model this year’s budget. It does not model this year’s budget...most significantly the analysis includes measures that the Labor Party actually supports. |
| The modelling was presented as modelling the surviving measures of the 2014 budget as well as the 2015 budget. | The modelling was presented as modelling the surviving measures of the 2014 budget as well as the 2015 budget. |
| 2.06pm AEST05:06 | 2.06pm AEST05:06 |
| Government question on small business measures. | Government question on small business measures. |
| 2.03pm AEST05:03 | 2.03pm AEST05:03 |
| Shorten asks if the prime minister will take GST off sanitary products in return for extending the GST on Netflix and downloads. (Which has already happened.) | Shorten asks if the prime minister will take GST off sanitary products in return for extending the GST on Netflix and downloads. (Which has already happened.) |
| Abbott says changes to the GST are a matter for the states but if governments had their time over again, they may do things differently. | Abbott says changes to the GST are a matter for the states but if governments had their time over again, they may do things differently. |
| That sounds like a No. | That sounds like a No. |
| 2.00pm AEST05:00 | 2.00pm AEST05:00 |
| Question time now. Phew. | Question time now. Phew. |
| 1.59pm AEST04:59 | 1.59pm AEST04:59 |
| It’s only accelerating here. The head of the immigration department Michael Pezzullo has told estimates there is no mechanism for counting dual citizens in Australia. So we won’t even know how effective the measure will be. | It’s only accelerating here. The head of the immigration department Michael Pezzullo has told estimates there is no mechanism for counting dual citizens in Australia. So we won’t even know how effective the measure will be. |
| It certainly is the case that we don’t hold data on people who are dual citizens...Not all active claims for citizenship available through descent are known to us, are known to the Australian government or to my department. | It certainly is the case that we don’t hold data on people who are dual citizens...Not all active claims for citizenship available through descent are known to us, are known to the Australian government or to my department. |
| Kim Carr: You also indicated that you are not aware of Australian citizens who are citizens of other countries. Is that right? | Kim Carr: You also indicated that you are not aware of Australian citizens who are citizens of other countries. Is that right? |
| Yes, the answer is yes, because in some cases citizenship has not been enlivened. In other cases it has not been sought, in any event it is not a matter that we will be seized of. | Yes, the answer is yes, because in some cases citizenship has not been enlivened. In other cases it has not been sought, in any event it is not a matter that we will be seized of. |
| 1.57pm AEST04:57 | 1.57pm AEST04:57 |
| Question time coming up but Peter Hartcher and James Massola have a story on cabinet division over the citizenship moves. Specifically, | Question time coming up but Peter Hartcher and James Massola have a story on cabinet division over the citizenship moves. Specifically, |
| You can read it here. | You can read it here. |
| 1.50pm AEST04:50 | 1.50pm AEST04:50 |
| The Natsem report, FYI. | The Natsem report, FYI. |
| 1.49pm AEST04:49 | 1.49pm AEST04:49 |
| Lunch time political wrap | Lunch time political wrap |
| In the interests of brevity, here are the main bits: | In the interests of brevity, here are the main bits: |
| 1.42pm AEST04:42 | 1.42pm AEST04:42 |
| Talking tough. | Talking tough. |
| 1.38pm AEST04:38 | 1.38pm AEST04:38 |
| The hoary old multiculturalism chestnut. Tony Abbott was asked about the negative view amongst some government members on the concept of multiculturalism. | The hoary old multiculturalism chestnut. Tony Abbott was asked about the negative view amongst some government members on the concept of multiculturalism. |
| This was his answer. | This was his answer. |
| I know that over the years various elements of multiculturalism have been criticised by a whole range of people. If you go back far enough, someone like Stephen Fitzgerald was critical of some aspects, as it was then practiced. I think we pretty well got it right, if I may say so, in the time of the Howard government. We are very content to see people become Australian in their own way, and at their own pace. But we are absolutely determined to ensure that everyone who is here in Australia certainly - certainly everyone who has taken the citizenship pledge, understands that you’ve got to obey the law and there are some ordinary values, of human decency, which we expect you to live by. | I know that over the years various elements of multiculturalism have been criticised by a whole range of people. If you go back far enough, someone like Stephen Fitzgerald was critical of some aspects, as it was then practiced. I think we pretty well got it right, if I may say so, in the time of the Howard government. We are very content to see people become Australian in their own way, and at their own pace. But we are absolutely determined to ensure that everyone who is here in Australia certainly - certainly everyone who has taken the citizenship pledge, understands that you’ve got to obey the law and there are some ordinary values, of human decency, which we expect you to live by. |
| 1.34pm AEST04:34 | 1.34pm AEST04:34 |
| Now to budget. | Now to budget. |
| Tony Abbott gives a softer form of words on GST re sanitary items. That is, “it’s the responsibility of the states”. | Tony Abbott gives a softer form of words on GST re sanitary items. That is, “it’s the responsibility of the states”. |
| He again underlines on superannuation: | He again underlines on superannuation: |
| 1.32pm AEST04:32 | 1.32pm AEST04:32 |
| Tony Abbott confirms there are no changes as yet regarding second generation Australians who are entitled to dual citizenship (as in the UK) but that will form part of the discussion paper. | Tony Abbott confirms there are no changes as yet regarding second generation Australians who are entitled to dual citizenship (as in the UK) but that will form part of the discussion paper. |
| 1.29pm AEST04:29 | 1.29pm AEST04:29 |
| On the nature of evidentiary requirements, here is Peter Dutton. | On the nature of evidentiary requirements, here is Peter Dutton. |
| The difficulty, of course, is that if somebody is off fighting in Syria, they maybe involved in a terrorist act there, they may as we are learning from the death cult over there involving themselves in rape or blowing up buildings, other treacherous acts, it is very difficult, of course, to gather sufficient evidence to satisfy an Australian court beyond reasonable doubt that that person committed that offence in that part of the world. Now, right now, I rely on security assessments from ASIO in relation to people who come to our country and if there is an adverse security assessment, I make a judgment about whether or not that person can be released into the community. | The difficulty, of course, is that if somebody is off fighting in Syria, they maybe involved in a terrorist act there, they may as we are learning from the death cult over there involving themselves in rape or blowing up buildings, other treacherous acts, it is very difficult, of course, to gather sufficient evidence to satisfy an Australian court beyond reasonable doubt that that person committed that offence in that part of the world. Now, right now, I rely on security assessments from ASIO in relation to people who come to our country and if there is an adverse security assessment, I make a judgment about whether or not that person can be released into the community. |
| Citizenship for dual nationals will be stripped at the minister’s discretion. | Citizenship for dual nationals will be stripped at the minister’s discretion. |
| 1.26pm AEST04:26 | 1.26pm AEST04:26 |
| Abbott is asked whether there was any cabinet division on the issue, regarding Australian citizens. | Abbott is asked whether there was any cabinet division on the issue, regarding Australian citizens. |
| He says he wants to have the discussion and keep Australia safe. | He says he wants to have the discussion and keep Australia safe. |
| Abbott confirms there is a form of judicial appeal against a decision to strip citizenship. It starts in the Administrative Appeals Tribunal. | Abbott confirms there is a form of judicial appeal against a decision to strip citizenship. It starts in the Administrative Appeals Tribunal. |
| 1.24pm AEST04:24 | 1.24pm AEST04:24 |
| Australian columnist, Peter Van Onselen has this to say: | Australian columnist, Peter Van Onselen has this to say: |
| PM presser about to announce a NSW religious right senator as new frontbencher responsible for improving relations with the Muslim community | PM presser about to announce a NSW religious right senator as new frontbencher responsible for improving relations with the Muslim community |
| 1.23pm AEST04:23 | 1.23pm AEST04:23 |
| Tony Abbott says if foreign fighters are not dual citizens: | Tony Abbott says if foreign fighters are not dual citizens: |
| They should suffer the full severity of the law, if they get back alive. | They should suffer the full severity of the law, if they get back alive. |
| That is, at this stage, the government has not announced any changes for those without dual citizenship. | That is, at this stage, the government has not announced any changes for those without dual citizenship. |
| 1.20pm AEST04:20 | 1.20pm AEST04:20 |
| No mention of the evidence test yet. #justsaying | No mention of the evidence test yet. #justsaying |
| 1.20pm AEST04:20 | 1.20pm AEST04:20 |
| Tony Abbott says of the 100 or so Australians fighting overseas, 40-50% are dual nationals. He knows 30 or more have been killed. | Tony Abbott says of the 100 or so Australians fighting overseas, 40-50% are dual nationals. He knows 30 or more have been killed. |
| Under the legislation that we intend to introduce in the next few weeks, if the minister is satisfied of this, he may, subject ultimately to judicial review, strip the Australian citizenship from those individuals and obviously they will then no longer have an entitlement to return to Australia. | Under the legislation that we intend to introduce in the next few weeks, if the minister is satisfied of this, he may, subject ultimately to judicial review, strip the Australian citizenship from those individuals and obviously they will then no longer have an entitlement to return to Australia. |
| 1.18pm AEST04:18 | 1.18pm AEST04:18 |
| Philip Ruddock notes Australia has the third largest number of overseas born people of any country in the world. | Philip Ruddock notes Australia has the third largest number of overseas born people of any country in the world. |
| We offer people respect for their race, their country of origin, their religion, their cultures, but we do have expectations that all who make a commitment to this nation and its future, will observe the laws of Australia. There is nothing new in that. It’s been part of the national agenda for a multicultural Australia over a long period of time. | We offer people respect for their race, their country of origin, their religion, their cultures, but we do have expectations that all who make a commitment to this nation and its future, will observe the laws of Australia. There is nothing new in that. It’s been part of the national agenda for a multicultural Australia over a long period of time. |
| 1.17pm AEST04:17 | 1.17pm AEST04:17 |
| Concetta Fierravanti-Wells: | Concetta Fierravanti-Wells: |
| I have lived the journey of migration. Citizenship is a very important step in a migrant’s journey, and so it’s very appropriate that today we have a conversation about citizenship. | I have lived the journey of migration. Citizenship is a very important step in a migrant’s journey, and so it’s very appropriate that today we have a conversation about citizenship. |
| 1.16pm AEST04:16 | 1.16pm AEST04:16 |
| Immigration minister Peter Dutton said they looked closely at the UK model. | Immigration minister Peter Dutton said they looked closely at the UK model. |
| If we start with the overriding and most important principle, and that is that somebody can’t be rendered stateless, the minister has the discretion, if somebody has engaged in activities that may constitute an offence in our case under the criminal code relating to certain sections, if that is the case, they are a dual citizen, they are not going to be rendered stateless, we can revoke their Australian citizenship. | If we start with the overriding and most important principle, and that is that somebody can’t be rendered stateless, the minister has the discretion, if somebody has engaged in activities that may constitute an offence in our case under the criminal code relating to certain sections, if that is the case, they are a dual citizen, they are not going to be rendered stateless, we can revoke their Australian citizenship. |
| 1.12pm AEST04:12 | 1.12pm AEST04:12 |
| Ruddock and Fierravanti-Wells to work on citizenship pledge | Ruddock and Fierravanti-Wells to work on citizenship pledge |
| Philip Ruddock will “lead the national conversation” on citizenship and specifically the pledge, with Concetta Fierravanti-Wells. | Philip Ruddock will “lead the national conversation” on citizenship and specifically the pledge, with Concetta Fierravanti-Wells. |
| This is all about combating terrorism. We had an excellent discussion in the party room this morning...Everyone who spoke supported the government’s intentions in this matters. | This is all about combating terrorism. We had an excellent discussion in the party room this morning...Everyone who spoke supported the government’s intentions in this matters. |
| 1.09pm AEST04:09 | 1.09pm AEST04:09 |
| The decision to strip dual citizenship will be subject to judicial review. | The decision to strip dual citizenship will be subject to judicial review. |
| 1.08pm AEST04:08 | 1.08pm AEST04:08 |
| Dual citizenship measure announced | Dual citizenship measure announced |
| Tony Abbott confirms he will strip dual citizens involved in terrorism of their Australian citizenship. | Tony Abbott confirms he will strip dual citizens involved in terrorism of their Australian citizenship. |
| 1.04pm AEST04:04 | 1.04pm AEST04:04 |
| A politician must always be en pointe. | A politician must always be en pointe. |
| 12.53pm AEST03:53 | 12.53pm AEST03:53 |
| As we await Tony Abbott’s joint press conference, I note the government is planning a new citizenship pledge of allegiance. The Tele reports the draft pledge will be put out for public consultation, which sounds like it could be a very polarising debate. | As we await Tony Abbott’s joint press conference, I note the government is planning a new citizenship pledge of allegiance. The Tele reports the draft pledge will be put out for public consultation, which sounds like it could be a very polarising debate. |
| Submissions to #politicslive welcome. | Submissions to #politicslive welcome. |
| 12.45pm AEST03:45 | 12.45pm AEST03:45 |
| Prime ministerial press conference coming up at 1pm. | Prime ministerial press conference coming up at 1pm. |
| 12.43pm AEST03:43 | 12.43pm AEST03:43 |
| Shalailah Medhora | Shalailah Medhora |
| Citizenship issues are coming up later this afternoon at senate estimates. In the meantime, Muslim community leaders have urged the government to consult more with the people it hopes to recruit in anti-radicalisation measures. | Citizenship issues are coming up later this afternoon at senate estimates. In the meantime, Muslim community leaders have urged the government to consult more with the people it hopes to recruit in anti-radicalisation measures. |
| Lydia Shelly from the Muslim Legal Network told ABC Radio that the government’s consultations with the community so far have been “appalling” and “chaotic”. | Lydia Shelly from the Muslim Legal Network told ABC Radio that the government’s consultations with the community so far have been “appalling” and “chaotic”. |
| She thinks anti-radicalisation programs which focus solely on Muslim groups won’t work. | She thinks anti-radicalisation programs which focus solely on Muslim groups won’t work. |
| Joe Caputo, head of the Federation of Ethnic Communities Council of Australia said the government needs to be “more realistic” in the way it funds the existing Countering Violent Extremism program, saying the money allotted to individual groups is “a pittance”. | Joe Caputo, head of the Federation of Ethnic Communities Council of Australia said the government needs to be “more realistic” in the way it funds the existing Countering Violent Extremism program, saying the money allotted to individual groups is “a pittance”. |
| The amount given is very small. It’s chicken feed compared with what we’re spending [overall] on counter-terrorism. | The amount given is very small. It’s chicken feed compared with what we’re spending [overall] on counter-terrorism. |
| 12.18pm AEST03:18 | 12.18pm AEST03:18 |
| Stop the tax and the question that sparked it. | Stop the tax and the question that sparked it. |
| #ICYMI @JoeHockey responds to a question regarding tax reform on tampons & other sanitary products #QandA http://t.co/QJIK4VrsBl | #ICYMI @JoeHockey responds to a question regarding tax reform on tampons & other sanitary products #QandA http://t.co/QJIK4VrsBl |
| Labor agrees. As do the Greens. Sounds like consensus. | Labor agrees. As do the Greens. Sounds like consensus. |
| 12.07pm AEST03:07 | 12.07pm AEST03:07 |
| Labor caucus is on this morning, as is the coalition party room meetings. | Labor caucus is on this morning, as is the coalition party room meetings. |
| A Labor member also raised the plight of the Rohingya asylum seekers and potential resettlement. | A Labor member also raised the plight of the Rohingya asylum seekers and potential resettlement. |
| Immigration shadow Richard Marles told caucus: | Immigration shadow Richard Marles told caucus: |
| Resettlement is a question for another day. The immediate issue is averting the humanitarian crisis. Resettlement should be done on advice from the UNHCR with a regional approach.” | Resettlement is a question for another day. The immediate issue is averting the humanitarian crisis. Resettlement should be done on advice from the UNHCR with a regional approach.” |
| Which sounds like another dead bat. | Which sounds like another dead bat. |
| Also in caucus, Shorten talked about “jobs, families and the future”. | Also in caucus, Shorten talked about “jobs, families and the future”. |
| Which sounds dangerous close to a three word slogan. | Which sounds dangerous close to a three word slogan. |
| Two Labor members reported they were overwhelmed by responses to part pension changes in the budget, which reduced access for wealthier pensioners. | Two Labor members reported they were overwhelmed by responses to part pension changes in the budget, which reduced access for wealthier pensioners. |
| Jenny Macklin told the meeting Labor is still working through the detail of Coalition’s budget measure. | Jenny Macklin told the meeting Labor is still working through the detail of Coalition’s budget measure. |
| Which sounds like Labor could support it. | Which sounds like Labor could support it. |
| Three members asked about the case of animal welfare for Australian live cattle in Vietnam. | Three members asked about the case of animal welfare for Australian live cattle in Vietnam. |
| Joel Fitzgibbon told members additional monitoring resources have not been provided as the trade to Vietnam has increased recently. His answer was there could be quarterly reports to parliament about animal welfare. | Joel Fitzgibbon told members additional monitoring resources have not been provided as the trade to Vietnam has increased recently. His answer was there could be quarterly reports to parliament about animal welfare. |
| One member also raised the government’s decision to name Shorten press secretary Ryan Liddell yesterday over the Natsem report in question time. Those with me yesterday will know that Liddell was named by Joe Hockey as the author of the Natsem briefing notes distributed to the media. Which makes sense as he is a press sec. The issue was the full Natsem report was not distributed. | One member also raised the government’s decision to name Shorten press secretary Ryan Liddell yesterday over the Natsem report in question time. Those with me yesterday will know that Liddell was named by Joe Hockey as the author of the Natsem briefing notes distributed to the media. Which makes sense as he is a press sec. The issue was the full Natsem report was not distributed. |
| Anyway, the Labor member said given the restraint shown by Labor on Tony Abbott’s chief of staff Peta Credlin, isn’t it a bit rich? | Anyway, the Labor member said given the restraint shown by Labor on Tony Abbott’s chief of staff Peta Credlin, isn’t it a bit rich? |
| Manager of opposition business Tony Burke said existing convention was important and we should continue to uphold it even if they don’t. | Manager of opposition business Tony Burke said existing convention was important and we should continue to uphold it even if they don’t. |
| It should be said though that Credlin is regularly photographed in the parliamentary chamber and mentioned in the media. | It should be said though that Credlin is regularly photographed in the parliamentary chamber and mentioned in the media. |
| Updated at 1.05pm AEST | Updated at 1.05pm AEST |
| 11.52am AEST02:52 | 11.52am AEST02:52 |
| Labor backs tampon tax | Labor backs tampon tax |
| From caucus, shadow treasurer Chris Bowen, has backed the removal of the GST on sanitary products. He told caucus this morning: | From caucus, shadow treasurer Chris Bowen, has backed the removal of the GST on sanitary products. He told caucus this morning: |
| “We are agreeing with Joe Hockey and supportive if the government has a way of fixing this with the state treasurers. | “We are agreeing with Joe Hockey and supportive if the government has a way of fixing this with the state treasurers. |
| 11.36am AEST02:36 | 11.36am AEST02:36 |
| Labor’s Stephen Conroy is pressing Mathias Cormann the former defence minister’s chief of staff Sean Costello, who has subsequently moved to DCNS, the French submarine builder. | Labor’s Stephen Conroy is pressing Mathias Cormann the former defence minister’s chief of staff Sean Costello, who has subsequently moved to DCNS, the French submarine builder. |
| Conroy says Costello, as chief of staff, was “directly involved” in working on the government’s tender process for the submarines before he left in January 2015. Now Costello is chief executive of DCNS, one of the three companies invited to tender for the subs. Conroy’s contention is that Costello knows the ins and outs of the government tender, given he was involved and therefore it could constitute a conflict of interest. | Conroy says Costello, as chief of staff, was “directly involved” in working on the government’s tender process for the submarines before he left in January 2015. Now Costello is chief executive of DCNS, one of the three companies invited to tender for the subs. Conroy’s contention is that Costello knows the ins and outs of the government tender, given he was involved and therefore it could constitute a conflict of interest. |
| Cormann counters that Labor wrote the lobbyist rules and Costello’s position does not fall under the definition of a lobbyist. | Cormann counters that Labor wrote the lobbyist rules and Costello’s position does not fall under the definition of a lobbyist. |
| 11.05am AEST02:05 | 11.05am AEST02:05 |
| Labor senator Penny Wong is onto the budget process in estimates. She wants to know when budget planning began, given comments by the treasury secretary John Fraser in the Fin Review. | Labor senator Penny Wong is onto the budget process in estimates. She wants to know when budget planning began, given comments by the treasury secretary John Fraser in the Fin Review. |
| In a wide-ranging speech after four months in the job, Mr Fraser also said he planned to begin preparations for the 2016 budget sooner than this year’s because it “shouldn’t be something that we start to think of seriously in February”. | In a wide-ranging speech after four months in the job, Mr Fraser also said he planned to begin preparations for the 2016 budget sooner than this year’s because it “shouldn’t be something that we start to think of seriously in February”. |
| PMC official Rebecca Cross says it began last year and Mathias Cormann says the government “started to think about it very seriously in the second half of last year”. | PMC official Rebecca Cross says it began last year and Mathias Cormann says the government “started to think about it very seriously in the second half of last year”. |
| At which point Wong asks when he decided to become the “biggest spending finance minister”. This goes to an on-going battle between Cormann on former finance minister Wong as to who is the biggest spender. | At which point Wong asks when he decided to become the “biggest spending finance minister”. This goes to an on-going battle between Cormann on former finance minister Wong as to who is the biggest spender. |
| 10.58am AEST01:58 | 10.58am AEST01:58 |
| Behind a press conference. Sarah Hanson-Young by Mike Bowers. | Behind a press conference. Sarah Hanson-Young by Mike Bowers. |
| 10.54am AEST01:54 | 10.54am AEST01:54 |
| Jacqui Lambie learning the dark arts of senate estimates. | Jacqui Lambie learning the dark arts of senate estimates. |
| 10.41am AEST01:41 | 10.41am AEST01:41 |
| Double dipping is not appropriate. Hmm... | Double dipping is not appropriate. Hmm... |
| 10.37am AEST01:37 | 10.37am AEST01:37 |
| Senator Jacqui Lambie wants to know if crossbench senators can see the interim report regarding the Royal Commission into trade unions. She is concerned with the one volume of the royal commission’s interim report which has been kept confidential because it deals with serious threats to witnesses which it says amount to “grave threats to the power and authority of the Australian state”. | Senator Jacqui Lambie wants to know if crossbench senators can see the interim report regarding the Royal Commission into trade unions. She is concerned with the one volume of the royal commission’s interim report which has been kept confidential because it deals with serious threats to witnesses which it says amount to “grave threats to the power and authority of the Australian state”. |
| Lambie suggests crossbenchers could see it “behind closed doors” and sign a confidentially agreement as had happened in the past. Deputy secretary in PM&C Elizabeth Kelly said she could not make the judgement as she had not seen the report herself. | Lambie suggests crossbenchers could see it “behind closed doors” and sign a confidentially agreement as had happened in the past. Deputy secretary in PM&C Elizabeth Kelly said she could not make the judgement as she had not seen the report herself. |
| 10.20am AEST01:20 | 10.20am AEST01:20 |
| Although I am a regular Q&A watcher, I had to turn off last night for lack of reception. I am not entirely sure whether it was due to technical issues in my post-blog bat cave or a wider problem but I could not muster the will to persist. | Although I am a regular Q&A watcher, I had to turn off last night for lack of reception. I am not entirely sure whether it was due to technical issues in my post-blog bat cave or a wider problem but I could not muster the will to persist. |
| Therefore I am late to the tampon tax debate, which revolves around GST on tampons, which are considered a luxury item. Hockey was asked if he thought sanitary products were an essential health good for half the population. | Therefore I am late to the tampon tax debate, which revolves around GST on tampons, which are considered a luxury item. Hockey was asked if he thought sanitary products were an essential health good for half the population. |
| Do I think sanitary products are essential? I think so, I think so. | Do I think sanitary products are essential? I think so, I think so. |
| Q: Do you think the GST charge on sanitary products should be removed? | Q: Do you think the GST charge on sanitary products should be removed? |
| It probably should, yes, the answer’s yes. | It probably should, yes, the answer’s yes. |
| Hockey congratulated the campaigner Subeta Vimalarajah for raising the issue and he committed to discuss it with the states at the Coag love-in/retreat in July. (He needs the states to agree to changes on the GST.) | Hockey congratulated the campaigner Subeta Vimalarajah for raising the issue and he committed to discuss it with the states at the Coag love-in/retreat in July. (He needs the states to agree to changes on the GST.) |
| 10.04am AEST01:04 | 10.04am AEST01:04 |
| Senator Cory Bernardi is chairing the finance and public administration estimates committee. It may not sound exciting but finance minister Mathias Cormann is in the chair defending the government’s backflip on paid parental leave. Penny Wong and new Labor senator (former ACT chief) Katy Gallagher are questioning. | Senator Cory Bernardi is chairing the finance and public administration estimates committee. It may not sound exciting but finance minister Mathias Cormann is in the chair defending the government’s backflip on paid parental leave. Penny Wong and new Labor senator (former ACT chief) Katy Gallagher are questioning. |
| Cormann is going through the reasons for overturning the policy - that there was widespread opposition in the parliament to the Abbott signature scheme. (Among the government’s own backbench as well as Labor.) He explained the government’s judgement was that it was not appropriate for the taxpayer to fund women for government PPL if they have it from their employer. | Cormann is going through the reasons for overturning the policy - that there was widespread opposition in the parliament to the Abbott signature scheme. (Among the government’s own backbench as well as Labor.) He explained the government’s judgement was that it was not appropriate for the taxpayer to fund women for government PPL if they have it from their employer. |
| DOUBLE DIPPERS! | DOUBLE DIPPERS! |
| He dead bats questions on the language of rorts. | He dead bats questions on the language of rorts. |
| Updated at 11.13am AEST | Updated at 11.13am AEST |
| 9.53am AEST00:53 | 9.53am AEST00:53 |
| Thanks to James. | Thanks to James. |
| I understand Ruddock's role will be separate to Fieverranti-Wells - ping @gabriellechan | I understand Ruddock's role will be separate to Fieverranti-Wells - ping @gabriellechan |
| 9.45am AEST00:45 | 9.45am AEST00:45 |
| The whole reaching out to the Muslim community is a great idea. The problem is that the government’s language in this debate has been inflammatory. The message the communities keep getting is that they are feared and not to be trusted, making the conditions ripe for radicalisation . | The whole reaching out to the Muslim community is a great idea. The problem is that the government’s language in this debate has been inflammatory. The message the communities keep getting is that they are feared and not to be trusted, making the conditions ripe for radicalisation . |
| There is no doubt it is a tricky line the government is walking, particularly after the Martin Place siege. | There is no doubt it is a tricky line the government is walking, particularly after the Martin Place siege. |
| But Islamic leaders have been warning for the past two years that more needed to be done on community programs and de-radicalisation and the combating violent extremism program was poorly funded to begin with and then slow to roll out. | But Islamic leaders have been warning for the past two years that more needed to be done on community programs and de-radicalisation and the combating violent extremism program was poorly funded to begin with and then slow to roll out. |
| Just before he retired last year, the former head of Asio David Irvine said: | Just before he retired last year, the former head of Asio David Irvine said: |
| I can say this on behalf of the whole Australian government, and I suspect all state governments as well, the message is we are not fighting Islam. | I can say this on behalf of the whole Australian government, and I suspect all state governments as well, the message is we are not fighting Islam. |
| And Tony Abbott has said similar things. But at the same time, we have the Team Australia rhetoric, with Abbott the self-declared captain. | And Tony Abbott has said similar things. But at the same time, we have the Team Australia rhetoric, with Abbott the self-declared captain. |
| Then in February, the prime minister called on immigrants to Australia to “be as tolerant of others as we are of them” and called on Muslim leaders to proclaim Islam as a religion of peace “more often, and mean it”. | Then in February, the prime minister called on immigrants to Australia to “be as tolerant of others as we are of them” and called on Muslim leaders to proclaim Islam as a religion of peace “more often, and mean it”. |
| And the rhetoric keeps ramping up. | And the rhetoric keeps ramping up. |
| There was “spot the Jihadi” on the weekend, revealing federal plans for teachers and students to be taught how to spot potential jihadis in schools and including lessons in the school curriculum. | There was “spot the Jihadi” on the weekend, revealing federal plans for teachers and students to be taught how to spot potential jihadis in schools and including lessons in the school curriculum. |
| Labor’s Jason Clare, whose western Sydney electorate has a high Muslim population, said this morning that police officers find the government’s rhetoric is making their job more difficult. | Labor’s Jason Clare, whose western Sydney electorate has a high Muslim population, said this morning that police officers find the government’s rhetoric is making their job more difficult. |
| Connie can’t fix that, only the prime minister can fix that. | Connie can’t fix that, only the prime minister can fix that. |
| 9.20am AEST00:20 | 9.20am AEST00:20 |
| Concetta or Philip Ruddock? Two roles. One role? | Concetta or Philip Ruddock? Two roles. One role? |
| Father of the house @philipruddockmp will be given a new role in community consultation about citizenship @SkyNewsAust | Father of the house @philipruddockmp will be given a new role in community consultation about citizenship @SkyNewsAust |
| So justice minister Michael Keenan has a new role. And counter terrorism coordinator Greg Moriarty. | So justice minister Michael Keenan has a new role. And counter terrorism coordinator Greg Moriarty. |
| At this rate there will be a sizeable national security faction. | At this rate there will be a sizeable national security faction. |
| Updated at 9.52am AEST | Updated at 9.52am AEST |
| 9.05am AEST00:05 | 9.05am AEST00:05 |
| Attorney general George Brandis is the carrier of the message this morning. | Attorney general George Brandis is the carrier of the message this morning. |
| He has been on Sky News and at the senate doors, discussing the government plans for a conversation with the Muslim community regarding the citizenship laws. Kieran Gilbert asks him about plans to follow the UK model and remove Australian citizenship, even when they don’t have guaranteed citizenship with another country. | He has been on Sky News and at the senate doors, discussing the government plans for a conversation with the Muslim community regarding the citizenship laws. Kieran Gilbert asks him about plans to follow the UK model and remove Australian citizenship, even when they don’t have guaranteed citizenship with another country. |
| We are not going to render anyone stateless. Nobody has proposed that. Everything we do will be compliant with the rule of law and proper rule of law principles. Heavens above, in the next fortnight we are celebrating the 800th anniversary of the Magna Carta. | We are not going to render anyone stateless. Nobody has proposed that. Everything we do will be compliant with the rule of law and proper rule of law principles. Heavens above, in the next fortnight we are celebrating the 800th anniversary of the Magna Carta. |
| Brandis is asked about the proposed frontbench role to reach out to the Muslim community. | Brandis is asked about the proposed frontbench role to reach out to the Muslim community. |
| The government does intend to lead a conversation with the Australian community about what are the rights and obligations that are attached to citizenship and what are the consequences for people who do things that are basically a violation of their obligation and loyalty to Australia. | The government does intend to lead a conversation with the Australian community about what are the rights and obligations that are attached to citizenship and what are the consequences for people who do things that are basically a violation of their obligation and loyalty to Australia. |
| Here is one take from a young Australian Muslim, Fahim Khondaker, who organised a Walk Together community cohesion event in Brisbane. | Here is one take from a young Australian Muslim, Fahim Khondaker, who organised a Walk Together community cohesion event in Brisbane. |
| @gabriellechan it's because they love us more. | @gabriellechan it's because they love us more. |
| 8.39am AEST23:39 | 8.39am AEST23:39 |
| Another door opens on superannuation | Another door opens on superannuation |
| The government has been keen to make superannuation an issue after Labor unveiled their policy to wind back generous concessions for high income earners, which would raise $14bn in revenue over 10 years. | The government has been keen to make superannuation an issue after Labor unveiled their policy to wind back generous concessions for high income earners, which would raise $14bn in revenue over 10 years. |
| Abbott was asked about it in question time yesterday and he maintained his opposition to any changes. Joe Hockey, however, was a little more open last night on Q&A. | Abbott was asked about it in question time yesterday and he maintained his opposition to any changes. Joe Hockey, however, was a little more open last night on Q&A. |
| Our view is, in the current environment, given you have got very low returns on superannuation, it is not the time to introduce new taxes on superannuation, it is not the time to change the rules for superannuants. We want to give stability and certainty. That is a stark contrast with our political opponents who want to impose a new tax on super. | Our view is, in the current environment, given you have got very low returns on superannuation, it is not the time to introduce new taxes on superannuation, it is not the time to change the rules for superannuants. We want to give stability and certainty. That is a stark contrast with our political opponents who want to impose a new tax on super. |
| Semantics? | Semantics? |
| 8.09am AEST23:09 | 8.09am AEST23:09 |
| Double shot morning politics | Double shot morning politics |
| Good morning drivers, | Good morning drivers, |
| It’s all about national security again today and you can reasonably expect it will continue in this vein for the next two weeks that parliament sits. This morning’s News announce-able is a frontbench role – coming within days – to combat Islamic radicalisation. It would appear from the entrails that the Coalition have cottoned on to the fact that the Muslim community feel a tad cranky and marginalised. So there are lots of television shots around of Concetta Fierravanti-Wells, who is a parliamentary secretary and is the go-to woman in the government on multicultural affairs. It might be a sign. It might not be. | It’s all about national security again today and you can reasonably expect it will continue in this vein for the next two weeks that parliament sits. This morning’s News announce-able is a frontbench role – coming within days – to combat Islamic radicalisation. It would appear from the entrails that the Coalition have cottoned on to the fact that the Muslim community feel a tad cranky and marginalised. So there are lots of television shots around of Concetta Fierravanti-Wells, who is a parliamentary secretary and is the go-to woman in the government on multicultural affairs. It might be a sign. It might not be. |
| In the meantime, we are still waiting for the details on the new citizenship laws. No one is actually providing any facts but it is reported on ABC radio that the laws are expected today. Like they were yesterday. The latest iteration is that the government wants to strip dual nationals of their Australian citizenship and is also looking for a way to deal with the citizenship of those without dual passports. Without leaving them stateless. But it sounds like it leaves them stateless. Luckily, my better self, Katharine Murphy, analysed these issues last week. | In the meantime, we are still waiting for the details on the new citizenship laws. No one is actually providing any facts but it is reported on ABC radio that the laws are expected today. Like they were yesterday. The latest iteration is that the government wants to strip dual nationals of their Australian citizenship and is also looking for a way to deal with the citizenship of those without dual passports. Without leaving them stateless. But it sounds like it leaves them stateless. Luckily, my better self, Katharine Murphy, analysed these issues last week. |
| The other moving part this morning is the budget. Remember that? The social services minister, Scott Morrison, has opened the door – just a crack – on Senate negotiations. David Crowe at the Oz reports that he will consider lifting the age of children at which the family tax benefit B cuts out. The government plan last year was when the youngest child turns six, instead of the current age of 16. The Senate knocked it back. Morrison is talking 10-12 now. Who said he was the hard man of the Abbott government? | The other moving part this morning is the budget. Remember that? The social services minister, Scott Morrison, has opened the door – just a crack – on Senate negotiations. David Crowe at the Oz reports that he will consider lifting the age of children at which the family tax benefit B cuts out. The government plan last year was when the youngest child turns six, instead of the current age of 16. The Senate knocked it back. Morrison is talking 10-12 now. Who said he was the hard man of the Abbott government? |
| We are turning over the ignition on this frosty morning in Canberra and the engine is warming up slowly. Stick with me @gabriellechan and @mpbowers. It’s Tuesday! | We are turning over the ignition on this frosty morning in Canberra and the engine is warming up slowly. Stick with me @gabriellechan and @mpbowers. It’s Tuesday! |
| Updated at 8.27am AEST | Updated at 8.27am AEST |