$400 million for the Tasmanian Roads Package including $60 million for the Bass Highway and $10 million for the Murchison Highway; and
$461 million for the Bridgewater Bridge replacement.
We have also strengthened digital and communications infrastructure, with the NBN now rolled out to over 99% of Tasmanians, and an investment in 47 mobile blackspot base stations.
We have expanded the Tasmanian Freight Equalisation Scheme,
provided tax relief to hard-working Tasmanians, ensured Tasmania gets its fair share of GST,
and provided a direct link between Tasmania and the world with the $38 million international runway at Hobart Airport.
Regional and rural Tasmania have also been supported with $60 million to expand the Tranche II irrigation projects, protecting market access with $20 million to tackle fruit fly, new free trade agreements opening up new market opportunities for Tasmanian produce, and a range of regional economic development projects like Devonport’s Living City project and upgrades to the NBN on the West Coast.
A stronger economy has allowed us to guarantee the services Tasmanians rely on and support the Tasmanian way of life.
Our strong economic and budget management means we have been able to deliver:Record funding for Tasmanian public hospitals, with funding having increased by 44.5 per cent from $294 million in 2012-13 under Labor to $425 million in 2019-20.
Cheaper medicines for Tasmanians, with more than 2,000 new medicine listings on the PBS since we were elected in 2013, including life-saving drugs for cancer.
More funding for Tasmanian schools, with a total of $6.5 billion from 2019 to 2029, equivalent to growth of 60.6 per cent per student.
Childcare reforms which have cut out-of-pocket costs for parents within the first six months, including by 10.7 per cent in Hobart.
Major commitment to aged care including $21.6 billion for aged care in 2019-20 across Australia, an increase of more than 50 per cent since 2013 14, including funding for an additional 10,000 home care packages, and a Royal Commission into the sector.
We have also prioritised creating a safer Tasmania, including investments under the Safer Communities Fund for CCTV cameras, security lighting, alarm systems for community spaces and other infrastructure.
The Liberal National government has also maintained strong borders – we stopped the boats, stopped the deaths at sea, removed children from detention, and cancelled the visas of thousands of criminals across the country, including 15 in Tasmania.
Our Plan
Record funding for infrastructure
A strong Tasmanian economy with more jobs depends on ongoing investment in infrastructure to ease congestion in cities, unlock the potential regional centres, ensure Tasmanians get to their destinations quickly and safely, and help businesses efficiently transport goods and products.
In the 2019-20 Budget, the Morrison Government locked in a further $313 million investment over the next decade for land transport infrastructure in Tasmania, bringing our total investment to over $2.7 billion.
New projects include:An additional $68 million investment in the Tasmanian Freight Rail Revitalisation Program, bringing our total investment to over $187 million.
This means greater efficiencies and lower prices for businesses that use freight rail.
It is good news for Tasmanians as more freight on rail means fewer heavy vehicles on roads.
That saves taxpayers in avoided road maintenance and means fewer road accidents.
$210 million for projects from the Roads of Strategic Importance initiative, including:$130 million for the Hobart to Sorrell Corridor
$80 million for a range of road upgrades, including Birralee Main Road, Murchison Highway, Old Surrey Road and Massey Green Drive, and Strahan Road
$35 million for projects from the Urban Congestion Fund, including:$25 million for a Hobart congestion package
$10 million for Tasman Highway Intelligent Transport Solutions
The Morrison Government is also committing $100 million for Tasmanian Irrigation Tranche III, fully funded by the National Water Infrastructure Development Fund.
We will ensure Tasmania gets its fair share of our $2.2 billion Local and State Road Safety Package, which includes additional funding of $1.1 billion for the Roads to Recovery Program; $550 million for the Black Spots Program; $275 million for the Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program; and $275 million for bridges renewal funding.
This brings total commitments to these programs from 2013-14 to $13.1 billion.
Strengthening the Tasmanian health system
The Morrison Government’s Tasmanian Health Plan will protect lives, improve lives and save lives.
It builds on the 44.5 per cent increase in funding we have provided for Tasmanian public hospitals, a $730 million investment in the Mersey Community Hospital, record levels of bulk billing and more than 2,000 new medicines subsidised through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme including $1.4 billion for cancer medicines in the past year.
Funding for Tasmanian public hospitals will increase from $425 million to $525 million a year under a new hospitals agreement.
We will also deliver a $91.9 million Tasmanian Health Plan to strengthen Tasmania’s health system, providing affordable and accessible health services for more Tasmanians, where and when they need them.
The plan includes:Reducing elective surgery wait times and improving hospital and health services and infrastructure, including upgrading the birthing suite at Launceston General Hospital ($35.1 million)
More frontline mental health services, including a new adult mental health centre in Launceston, a headspace centre in Devonport and a satellite service in Burnie, and a residential eating disorder clinic in Hobart ($24.4 million)
Helping Tasmanians in their fight against cancer with a second linear accelerator machine at the North West Centre at Burnie ($4.4 million)
A new bulk-billed MRI service at Devonport to give patients access to Medicare subsidised scans for cancer, as well as strokes and other conditions ($4.7 million)
Improving access to breast cancer diagnosis services with two additional diagnostic mammography units in Hobart and Launceston ($3 million)
Boosting new medical research, including in a University of Tasmania/ Menzies Institute Multiple Sclerosis flagship program, and preventative health research at University of Tasmania ($12.4 million)
Improved alcohol and drug support, including a new 10 bed rehabilitation facility in the greater Burnie region and an eight bed service in Circular Head ($7.4 million)
Supporting the Tasmanian Primary Health Network to engage experts such as physiotherapists and personal trainers to run the innovative ‘Strength2Strength’ program in North West Tasmania ($500,000).
The Morrison Government will also make a further $25.6 million investment in improving healthcare in north and north-western Tasmania, including the following grants:$10 million to redevelop and extend the existing Kings Meadows Community Health Centre into a contemporary community health centre to meet increased demand, including for renal and oral health.
$10 million for improvements to the Acute Care facility at North West Regional Hospital.
$1 million for the Queenstown Allied Health and Aged facility.
$4.5 million for a perinatal infant mental health service at Launceston General Hospital and North West Regional Hospital.
$100,000 for two mobile unit health buses supported by Rotary Tasmania and the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
Supporting Tasmania’s Battery of the Nation
The Coalition will support Tasmania’s Battery of the Nation plan with a $56 million investment to accelerate the delivery of the Marinus Link - a second interconnector with the mainland.
The interconnector will deliver more affordable and reliable electricity for households and businesses and would have prevented the blackouts we saw in southern states this summer.
The Marinus Link will unlock new generation and storage in Tasmania, helping lower prices and increase reliability in the National Electricity Market.
The Marinus Link and Battery of the Nation will create 3,800 direct and indirect jobs during construction
deliver a $7 billion economic stimulus, predominantly to north-western Tasmania.
This investment is on top of our initial investment of $20 million to support the development of prefeasibility studies for the Marinus Link and Battery of the Nation.
To support the rollout of this package, the Government will also invest $17 million in an Energising Tasmania skills initiative.
This will provide fee-free training in priority areas such as project management, civil construction, electro-technology and engineering skills to ensure Tasmania can train a workforce to build up its pumped hydro capabilities and support the energy infrastructure of the future.
Tackling high youth unemployment in north-west Tasmania
North-west Tasmania will benefit from the Morrison Government’s $525 million national skills package, including our $58 million investment in Industry Training Hubs and scholarships to skill young Australians for jobs of the future.
Burnie is one of ten locations of elevated youth unemployment across Australia that have been selected to host an Industry Training Hub, which will strengthen partnerships between local schools, employers and industries, and ensure that vocational education programs are tailored to meet local workforce needs and skills demands.
While Tasmania’s unemployment rate has fallen since 2013, youth unemployment in the Burnie region at 15.8 per cent remains well above the national average of 11.5 per cent.
Under the scholarship program, young people aged 15-24 in training hub areas will be eligible to apply for a scholarship to undertake an eligible VET Approved Program of Study.
Across the nation, four hundred scholarships, valued at up to $17,500 each, will be made available from Certificate III to Advanced Diploma level.
Growing Tasmania’s world-class primary industries
Tasmania’s traditional sectors of agriculture, forestry and fisheries have always been a strong part of the state’s economy.
These sectors have consistently delivered jobs
and economic growth for the state,
and our free trade deals are providing new opportunities to expand into overseas markets.
A re-elected Morrison Government will continue to support these traditional industries to grow even more jobs, with plans that will:Increase Tasmania’s agricultural industry and exports through a $100 million investment in phase one of Tasmanian Irrigation Tranche 3, building on our commitment of $60 million for Tranche 2.
This will be fully funded from the National Water Infrastructure Development Fund.
Expand the offshore aquaculture industry with a $70 million investment in the Blue Economy Cooperative Research Centre.
Deliver a new forestry hub in northern and north-western Tasmania as part of our $12.5 million investment in nine hubs across the country.
The Morrison Government will open up even more markets for Tasmanian producers by implementing signed free trade agreements with Peru, Indonesia and Hong Kong, as well as by concluding free trade agreements with the European Union, regional markets via the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership and the four nation Pacific Alliance (Mexico, Chile, Peru and Colombia).
Tasmanian Defence Innovation and Design Precinct
A re elected Morrison Government will invest $30 million in phase one of the Tasmanian Defence Innovation and Design precinct at the University of Tasmania’s Australian Maritime College (AMC) in Launceston.
The new Precinct will help drive defence-related research and development and innovation projects, creating a world-class research precinct and highly-skilled jobs in Launceston.
It is estimated the Precinct will ultimately result in over 150 additional jobs in the region each year, with up to 58 additional jobs in the region during the construction program.
The Precinct will help the Morrison Government deliver on its massive $200 billion investment in defence capability over the next decade and its $90 billion national Naval Shipbuilding Plan.
By supporting Phase 1 of the Research and Design Precinct, a re-elected Morrison Government will be supporting high value testing and evaluation needs for the Royal Australian Navy;
increasing opportunities for greater collaboration between Defence, academia and industry to deliver cutting-edge defence capability;
and build the AMC’s ability to support the National Shipbuilding College as it builds the workforce of the future to deliver on our national Naval Shipbuilding Plan.
Only the Coalition can be trusted to deliver on its Defence commitments.
Labor’s record when it comes to Defence is one of over $18 billion in cuts and slashing the Defence budget to its lowest level since 1938 as a proportion of GDP.
Supporting tourism and jobs in Freycinet
The Liberal National Government has a strong track record of supporting Tasmania’s tourism industry, with visitor numbers at a record 1.3 million people.
Freycinet National Park is one of the fastest growing and most popular tourism destinations in Tasmania.
Visitation to Freycinet and Coles Bay has increased at an average of 14 per cent per annum over the past five years.
As a ‘must see’ tourist attraction, Freycinet and Coles Bay continue to help drive tourism within the East Coast Tasmania region, where domestic and international tourists spent 1.6 million nights and $185 million in the year ending September 2018.
While domestic visitor numbers to the area are strong, international visitors have more than doubled in the past five years.
The Morrison Government will commit $7.2 million to the Freycinet National park for tourism infrastructure upgrades as part of the Government’s $50 million National Tourism Icons Package:$5.7 million towards a new visitor gateway, including a transit hub with new road access and car parking, shelter and information centre
$650,000 for an Aboriginal education program and Discovery Ranger Program
$450,000 for a new Wineglass Bay lookout
$400,000 for a foreshore walkway
This builds on other investments we have made in Tasmanian tourism, including the $30 million investment in the Cradle Mountain Cableway, and $1.5 million for a major art installation in Tasmania’s south as part of MONA’s Dark Mofo festival.
Lower taxes for hard-working Tasmanians
The Morrison Government is lowering taxes for hard-working Australians as part of our plan to deliver a stronger economy
and record job creation.
Our tax system must be fair for all Australians.
Our Personal Income Tax Plan delivers lower taxes for Tasmanians, ensuring they keep more of what they earn.
The enhanced plan will result in a better tax system, with greater reward for effort while ensuring top earners pay their fair share.
Around 210,000 lower and middle income earners in Tasmania will receive relief of up to $1,080 after they lodge their 2018-19 tax return.
That’s up to $2,160 for dual income families.
These benefits are then locked in for subsequent years.
In 2024-25, the Government will reduce the 32.5 per cent tax rate to 30 per cent, improving incentives for working Australians and increasing the reward for effort.
As a result of this plan, around 94 per cent of Australian taxpayers are projected to face a marginal tax rate of 30 per cent or less in 2024-25.
The Government’s strong fiscal management means that it can deliver surpluses while also easing the cost of living pressure on hard-working Australians.
Supporting small and family businesses
Small and family businesses are at the centre of our economic plan for Australia.
They are the engine room of our economy, with Tasmania’s 60,000 small and medium sized businesses employing around 146,000 Tasmanian workers.
A re-elected Morrison Government will implement a range of measures to reduce costs and make life easier for Tasmania’s small and family businesses.
We are reducing taxes on small businesses – the business tax rate has been reduced from 30 per cent to 27.5 per cent and will fall further to 25 per cent in 2021-22.
Unincorporated Tasmanian small businesses will have access to the Government’s increase to the unincorporated tax discount.
As part of the 2019-20 Budget, we delivered an increase to the instant asset write-off threshold to $30,000 until 30 June 2020.
We are also expanding access to the instant asset write-off to include medium-sized businesses by increasing the annual turnover threshold from $10 million to $50 million.
These changes provide a much needed boost to agricultural, manufacturing, tourism and other small and medium sized businesses in Tasmania.
Small and family businesses in Tasmania can trust the Morrison Government to support them with other announced measures, including streamlining red tape and simplifying tax reporting;
increasing access to finance with the $2 billion Australian Business Securitisation Fund;
and ensuring they get paid on time by government and big business.
Safer and more secure Tasmanian communities
Safe communities are a key part of the Tasmanian way of life.
Thanks to the strong commitment to safety and security of the federal and state Coalition governments, crime in Tasmania is falling, with total offences down by 5 per cent in 2017-18, including stolen motor vehicles down by 21 per cent, and sexual assaults down by 26 per cent.
We are committed to continue working with the Hodgman Government to support the safety and security of communities in Tasmania.
A re-elected Coalition will deliver a comprehensive suite of actions to keep all Tasmanians safe.
In addition to maintaining strong borders and continuing to cancel visas of people who commit crimes, Tasmania will benefit from our national plans to:Deliver a comprehensive drug strategy to address the supply, demand and harm caused by illicit drugs with a five-year investment of $337 million.
This includes $152 million to strengthen law enforcement efforts to disrupt and reduce the supply of illicit drugs including by targeting the threat posed by outlaw motorcycle gangs.
Support local councils and community organisations to undertake crime prevention activities as well as protect schools, religious institutions and other sites from religious and racial intolerance through CCTV cameras, security lighting, alarm systems and other infrastructure.
This will be delivered through a further $58.2 million investment in the Safer Communities Fund.
Take action against domestic violence, with the largest ever Commonwealth investment of $328 million for prevention and frontline services to support the Fourth Action Plan of the National Plan to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children
Deliver a comprehensive plan to improve online safety, including funding a $10 million Online Safety Grants program to deliver practical online safety education and training projects, continue giving parents practical resources to protect their kids online through the e-safety Commissioner, and establishing an Online Safety Charter to set out expectations of social media companies.
Implementing the City Deals
The Coalition will work with the Hodgman Government to implement our transformative City Deals.
The existing City Deal for Launceston is a five year plan to make Launceston one of Australia’s most liveable and economically vibrant regional cities, with increasing incomes and decreasing levels of disadvantage.
The City Deal delivers:Relocation of the University of Tasmania main campus from Newnham to Inveresk near the city centre.
$95 million to improve the health of the Tamar Estuary.
$19.4 million to support Launceston’s City Heart project, which will rejuvenate the historic CBD.
Under our $1.43 billion City Deal for Hobart, we will tackle congestion bottlenecks, boosting tourism and making the airport a true international gateway,
driving scientific investment
and creating an extra 720 jobs.
It includes $82.3 million for upgraded border services including immigration, customs and biosecurity at Hobart International Airport.
Realising the full potential of Macquarie Point as a major scientific, tourism and cultural hub.
$30 million to boost the supply of affordable community housing
An extra $25 million for congestion busting projects on top of the existing $461 million investment in the Bridgewater Bridge replacement
Tasmania as an Antarctic Gateway
The Morrison Government is committed to ensuring Australia remains a leader in Antarctica and cementing Tasmania as the premier gateway and scientific research hub for East Antarctica.
The Antarctic sector employs more than 830 people in Tasmania, and it is continuing to expand.
We will invest $450 million over the next 10 years to upgrade Australia’s Antarctic research station network and supporting infrastructure – effectively tripling the investment in Antarctic infrastructure to support our science.
This will bring our investment in Antarctica to a record level of over $2.8 billion including:$1.9 billion towards a new icebreaker.
$210 million over 10 years for additional funding for our Antarctic operations.
$107 million over 11 years for Antarctic research initiatives.
$50 million for a new research station on Macquarie Island.
$45 million over 10 years for overland traverse capabilities.
The Choice
There is a lot at stake at this election.
And there is a clear choice.
A choice between a Government that is delivering a strong economy or a Labor Party that would weaken our economy.
A choice between a Government that is fixing the budget or a Labor Party that can’t manage money.
A choice between a Government that is easing the pressure on families by lowering taxes or a Labor Party that will put more strain on households by imposing $387 billion in new taxes on workers, retirees and small business.
A choice between a Government that can afford to pay for better infrastructure
and services or a Labor Party that would max out Australia’s credit card.
A choice between a Government that has secured our borders and is keeping Australians safe or a Labor Party that has learned nothing from its border security failures.
Tasmania cannot afford to go back to the bad days of Labor, when there were fewer jobs, less opportunities and choice
and more people on welfare.
Labor can’t manage money and they can’t manage the economy.
When Labor can’t manage money, they come after yours.
Labor’s plans will increase the pressure on Tasmanian households:Labor’s retiree tax will punish Tasmanians who have worked hard and saved for retirement by abolishing tax refunds on share dividends.
In Tasmania, this will affect around 20,500 individuals who have direct shareholdings and many more invested through self-managed super funds.
On average individuals with direct holdings lose almost $2,300 a year and self-managed super funds lose $12,000 a year.
Labor’s housing and investment taxes will end negative gearing as we know it, and increase capital gains tax by 50%.
If you own your own home it will be worth less and if you rent you will pay more.
Labor will deliver higher personal income tax by reversing the Government’s legislated income tax plan and the enhancements we announced in the 2019-20 budget.
Our Plan will ensure 94% of taxpayers will pay no more than 30 cents in the dollar.
It means Labor would leave over 126,000 Tasmanians worse off.
Labor’s Family Business Tax will impose a minimum tax rate of 30% on the 5,000 Tasmanian small businesses structured through discretionary trusts.
This is the same rate imposed on large multinational companies.
On top of this, modelling by BAEconomic’s Managing Director, Dr Brian Fisher, shows Labor’s plans for a 45% emissions reduction target and 50% Renewable Energy Target will:cost the economy $472 billion,
slash more than 336,000 jobs,
cut the average wage by over $9,000, and
increase wholesale electricity prices by 58%.
This is a cost that Tasmanian businesses and families can’t afford.
The modelling forecasts that Labor’s plan would result in an up to 8.6 per cent contraction in Australia’s $3 billion fishing sector.
In Tasmania, which accounts for nearly one-third of national output, that would represent a blow to state output of more than $80 million.
Labor also plans to return to their failed Tasmanian Forestry Agreement, which was a sham deal that committed to more forest lock ups and was going to destroy our forest products industries.
In contrast, the Coalition has a plan for lower taxes so that you can keep more of the money that you earn.
We have a fully costed $3.5 billion Climate Solutions Plan that will ensure we meet and beat our international targets without wrecking the economy,
and a comprehensive plan to bring down energy prices.
There will only be one outcome for Tasmania under Labor – a weaker economy,
fewer jobs
and higher taxes.
If Labor can’t be trusted to run the economy and manage the budget, they can’t be trusted to invest in the services Tasmanians rely on, including health, education and aged care.
Cost
The Coalition will invest an additional $25.6 million in healthcare for north and north-west Tasmania.
Our Plan for Strengthening Australia's World-Class Health System
Key Points
The Morrison Government’s Long-Term National Health Plan is providing Australians with access to quality medical care, record hospital funding, affordable life-saving medicines and breakthrough research for new drugs and treatments.
Our goal is to make our health system even stronger and to ensure it is the best in the world.
By keeping our economy strong we will ensure the essential health services that Australians rely on, such as Medicare and the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).
Medicare funding is at record levels.
Almost nine out of 10 Australians who visit the doctor have no out of pocket costs with GP bulk billing rates at a record 86 per cent, up from 82 per cent under Labor.
We are keeping the cost of health care down by increasing funding for diagnostic services such as MRIs and PET scans to detect breast cancer.
In partnership with GPs, we will improve options for more flexible care to meet the needs of patients and to keep them healthy and out of hospital with a $1.6 billion package to strengthen primary care.
Australians have access to the latest medicines through the PBS – with reduced costs on more than 2,000 new and amended medicines listings since 2013, thanks to an investment of $10.6 billion.
These medicines are saving and changing lives.
Record funding will be provided for public hospitals with an additional $31 billion from 2020-21 to 2024-25 to employ more nurses, doctors and specialists, delivering – in partnership with the states and territories – more surgeries and medical services.
With one in five Australians affected by a mental health disorder, we are expanding support services particularly for young people.
We are working to address the nation’s suicide rate with the largest youth suicide prevention plan in Australia’s history focused on expanding headspace, Indigenous youth suicide prevention and supporting children and their parents.
Australians living in rural and regional Australia have greater access to services including through new regional cancer centres, expanded telehealth services, regional clinical trial centres and increased opportunities for Australia’s rural and regional health workforce.
Our 10-year medical research plan through the $20 billion Medical Research Future Fund backs our local scientists and ensures we can quickly take life-saving discoveries from the laboratory to the hospital.
When Labor was last in Government, their budget mismanagement denied patients affordable access to life changing medicines.
Hospital funding and bulk billing rates were lower under Labor. And Labor won’t commit to the Private Health Insurance rebate.
If you can’t manage the budget, you can’t invest in essential health services.
Introduction
A stronger economy means the Morrison Government can guarantee the essential services that Australians rely on.
Our Long-Term National Health Plan is based on four key pillars: Medicare and medicines, hospitals, mental health and medical research.
Over the next four years, we will invest a further $6 billion in Medicare.
Under the Morrison Government, almost nine out of 10 Australians who visit the doctor have no out of pocket costs with GP bulk billing rates at a record 86 per cent, up from 82 per cent under Labor.
We will deliver a $1.6 billion package to strengthen Australia’s world-class primary care system, helping GPs provide better care and keep people healthy and out of hospital.
For the first time we are making Medicare available for MRI and PET scans for breast cancer with an investment of $32.6 million to benefit 15,000 patients during their diagnosis and pre-surgery planning.
This is in addition to the $198.6 million funding for diagnostic imaging to reduce the costs of vital scans and x-rays, plus a further $375 million expansion of more than 50 MRI licences around the country.
All up, our investment in diagnostic imaging totals more than $606 million and benefits all patients requiring diagnostic services.
Since coming to Government, the Liberal Nationals Government has invested $10.6 billion to add over 2,000 new medicines listings to the Pharmaceutical Benefit Scheme (PBS).
We are subsidising breakthrough medicines such as Spinraza for spinal muscular atrophy, Orkambi for cystic fibrosis and new immunotherapy drugs for cancer.
These are medicines that change and save lives.
We are bringing new cancer treatments to Australia such as the revolutionary CAR-T cell treatment for cancer, which has the potential to provide a cure for blood cancers.
Ensuring a strong economy has enabled the Morrison Government to deliver record funding for public hospital services.
Funding has increased by 60 per cent to a record $21 billion in 2018-19.
When Labor left office in 2013, public hospital funding was $13 billion.
The Morrison Government is prioritising support for mental health services with funding exceeding $4.8 billion in 2018-19.
This includes a $375 million expansion of headspace services and new residential centres for treating eating disorders.
We will trial eight new adult mental health centres as an alternative to Emergency Departments.
And we are supporting farmers and regional communities affected by natural disasters to ensure they get the support they need through increased mental health services including telehealth services.
We will invest $70.2 million to establish new residential eating disorders treatment facilities nationally.
This builds on the $110 million announced in December 2018 to create the first specific, comprehensive Medicare items so that people affected by eating disorders can access up to 40 psychological services and 20 dietetic services.
Importantly our $503.1 million Youth Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan is the largest suicide prevention plan in Australia’s history and focuses on expanding the headspace network, Indigenous suicide prevention and early childhood and parenting.
We are supporting Australians who have diabetes.
Having delivered our commitment to provide continuous glucose monitoring for children at risk, we’re expanding the program to over 37,000 pregnant women and concession card holders over the age of 21.
We will invest a further $1 billion to provide core dental services for children and enable families to claim up to $1,000 in benefits under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule.
The Morrison Government is also expanding the National Immunisation Program to cover whooping cough vaccines for pregnant women and adolescents with a vaccine protecting against meningococcal strains ACWY.
We are also investing $12 million over the next three years to extend the reach of the childhood immunisation education campaign to encourage vaccinations which save lives and protect children from serious diseases.
Investment in medical research is critical to the release of new medicines, medical devices and disease treatments.
We will invest $6 billion to develop these new treatments and potential cures in collaboration with Australia’s health and medical research sector.
Genomics is being prioritised to develop personalised treatments for cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, ageing and dementia and mental health.
This includes $614 million for clinical trials for rare cancers, rare diseases and unmet needs.
The Morrison Government is implementing the most comprehensive rural health package in decades, which will improve access to doctors, nurses and other health care services for all Australians, especially those in the regions.
We believe that people living in rural and regional Australia deserve the same access to high-quality healthcare services as those living in capital cities.
That is why we are investing $550 million for the Stronger Rural Health Strategy, which delivers 3,000 additional doctors and more than 3,000 additional nurses and allied health professionals in rural general practice over the next decade.
In addition we will invest $100 million to establish the Rural and Regional Clinical Trials Infrastructure Program.
Our Plan
Guaranteeing Medicare
We have established the Medicare Guarantee Fund, which is guaranteeing the ongoing funding of the Medicare Benefits Schedule and the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme with $36.6 billion in 2019-20.
We will increase Medicare spending by $6 billion from $24.7 billion in 2018-19 to $30.7 billion in 2022-23 – far exceeding the $19.5 billion allocated by the former Labor Government in 2013.
We have removed Labor’s Medicare Freeze with the re-indexation of Medicare and diagnostic imaging, totaling $2.4 billion from 2017-18 to 2022-23.
Record GP Bulk Billing
Under the Morrison Government, almost nine out of 10 Australians who visit the doctor have no out of pocket costs with the GP bulk billing rates at a record 86 per cent, up from 82 per cent under Labor.
Over 133 million free GP services were delivered in 2017-18 – an increase of 5.7 million from 2016-17 and 27.3 million more than Labor managed in their last year.
Supporting our GPs to provide better care
The Morrison Government will deliver a $1.6 billion package to strengthen Australia’s world-class primary care system, supporting Australia’s doctors and specialists to deliver better care for patients.
A new $448.5 million funding and service model will support GPs to provide enhanced care to patients, many of whom will have chronic and complex conditions.
This will allow Australians aged 70 and over to enter into a new type of agreement with their general practice to receive more personalised, consistent and coordinated care.
GPs and others in their practice will be able to provide consultations, referrals, scripts and test results by email, phone, FaceTime or Skype – making it easier and more convenient for patients, including those in rural, regional and remote areas.
Doctors will be supported by a $201.5 million boost to the Practice Incentives Program Quality Improvement Initiative including funding to treat aged care residents.
More Affordable Medicines
Under the Liberal National Government, more than 2,000 new or amended medicines listings have been added to the PBS since 2013.
That’s an average of one new or amended medicine listing a day, worth a total of over $10.6 billion, including $1.4 billion for cancer medicines in the past year.
Unlike Labor’s track record we have a commitment to list all medicines on the PBS after a positive recommendation from the medical experts.
The PBS is an uncapped scheme and we have provisioned $40 billion for these life-changing medicines on the PBS over the next four years.
Many of these drugs cost thousands of dollars, but are now available through your local pharmacy for $6.50 (concessional) or $40.30 (general patients) per script.
These life saving and life changing medicines include:Opdivo and Yervoy® for the treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma, which would otherwise cost patients $254,200 per treatment course without subsidy.
Ibrance® and Kisqali® for advanced and metastatic breast cancer are now available, which would otherwise cost up to $70,000 per year without subsidy.
Venclexta® in combination with Rituximab for the treatment of adult patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, which would otherwise cost $165,000 per treatment course without subsidy.
Tagrisso® for non-small cell lung cancer which would otherwise cost $88,000 per treatment course without subsidy.
Spinraza® a life-changing medicine which treats the devastating illness Spinal Muscular Atrophy is now available on the PBS, which would otherwise cost more than $367,850 per year without subsidy.
Orkambi® for cystic fibrosis, which would otherwise cost $250,000 without subsidy.
Through community pharmacies we will continue to support quality use of medicines programs such as dose administration aids and medicines checks.
LOWERING THE PBS SAFETY NET
A re-elected Morrison Government will also invest $308 million to further cut the cost of life changing prescription medicines for over 1.4 million Australians who require multiple medicines.
From 1 January 2020 the Safety Net threshold to receive free or cheaper medicines through the PBS will be lowered by 12 scripts for concession card holders and the equivalent of 2 scripts for non-concession card holders.
This change will mean that people will take less time to reach their safety net threshold saving them up to $80 per year and providing them earlier access to free medicines or medicines at a reduced co-payment.
This will be of particular benefit to families who require multiple medicines per month and pensioners and individuals with multiple chronic conditions such as heart disease, high cholesterol, arthritis, asthma and diabetes.
Greater Access to Life-saving Diagnosis, Scans and Tests
We will significantly expand access to MRI scans covered by Medicare which will help keep the cost of health care down for families, and boost the fight against cancer and other serious conditions.
We will invest $375 million in more than 50 Medicare-eligible MRI licences across the country.
We will invest $32.6 million to provide Medicare funded MRI and PET scans supporting the 15,000 Australians diagnosed with breast cancer each year.
The Morrison Government has also announced an extra $198.6 million investment in diagnostic imaging to reduce the cost of these services for patients by re-indexing more than 90 percent of services – including ultrasounds and x-rays.
This will lead to lower costs when patients see their radiologists, obstetricians and cardiologists.
It is the first time in 20 years that a government has increased funding for these essential services – once again, Labor failed to act to reduce these costs for patients.
We are providing record funding for Medicare funded blood tests by investing $2.95 billion for approximately 145 million pathology services last year alone, an 8.5% increase.
This is an increase of $572 million since we were first elected and this investment in services will continue to grow to over $3.4 billion in 2021-22.
This has led to record bulk billing rates for out of hospital Medicare pathology services – 99.3% in 2017-18.
We are paving the way for the future of diagnosis with a $500 million Genomics Mission focused on how we improve access to genetic tests that will enable more individually targeted cancer treatment.
Simpler and More Affordable Private Health Insurance
For the 13 million Australians who rely on private health insurance, we have introduced reforms to make it more affordable and easier.
These include: •Four easy-to-understand levels of cover to make it easier to compare insurance policies.
•Discounts for Australians under 30 of up to 10 per cent.
•Greater access for mental health services.
•Greater travel and accommodation benefits for regional and rural Australians.
These reforms have resulted in the lowest average premium change in 18 years.
The Morrison Government will guarantee the private health insurance rebate.
Labor’s plan for private health insurance will remove the rebate from low-cost policies and force over 65,000 Australian families to pay up to 16 per cent more for their health cover.
Record Hospital Investment
Ensuring a strong economy has enabled the Morrison Government to deliver record funding for public hospital services.
Funding has increased by 60 per cent to a record $21 billion in 2018-19.
When Labor left office in 2013, public hospital funding was $13 billion.
Under the Morrison Government funding for hospitals will continue to grow.
Under a new national hospitals agreement with the states and territories, the Morrison Government has committed an additional $31 billion in public hospital funding from 2020-21 to 2024-25, taking overall funding during this period to over $131 billion.
The Morrison Government will continue to increase funding for every hospital in every community and every state and territory across Australia, with full details available at the Department of Health Funding Facts website, health.gov.au.
Patients in every state and territory will also have access to improved health and hospital services under our landmark $1.3 billion Commonwealth Health and Hospitals Program (CHHP).
Funded projects include:$100 million for Australia’s first Comprehensive Children’s Cancer Centre at the Sydney Children’s Hospital in Randwick;
$30 million for a new state-wide brain and spinal rehabilitation unit at the revamped Repat Health Precinct in South Australia;
$80 million for a Centre of Excellence in Cellular Immunotherapy at Melbourne’s world-leading Peter McCallum Cancer Centre;
A $25 million redevelopment of the Peel Health Campus in Western Australia and cancer treatment, elective surgery and outreach specialist services for Tasmania.
We will also invest $65 million for a 16-bed inpatient cystic fibrosis unit at the Westmead Hospital, which will integrate admission services with ambulatory care and research.
This will be Australia’s first dedicated cystic fibrosis specialist unit which will provide specialised treatment with state-of-the-art equipment, with consulting, research and diagnostic facilities all under one roof.
Medical Research Delivering Breakthrough Medicines
Investment in medical research is critical to delivering new life-saving treatments.
The Morrison Government's $20 billion Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) is supporting our local scientists to turn their medical discoveries into clinical trials and revolutionary treatments.
Under the MRFF, we are committed to a new 10-year $5 billion investment strategy underpinned by four key themes: patients, researchers, translation and missions.
This includes doubling the funding for rare cancers research;
unprecedented investment in medical discoveries;
more than doubling the funding for research fellowships and record funding for research infrastructure.
Our medical research missions tackle major health challenges and support future medical advances:The $125 million Australian Brain Cancer Mission aims to double the survival rates and improve the quality of life for patients with brain cancer over the next ten years.
The $500 million Genomics Health Futures Mission aims to transform the lives of more than 200,000 Australians through research into better testing, diagnosis and treatment with precision medicine.
The $185 million Dementia, Ageing and Aged Care Research Mission will improve the quality of life of older people, enhance workforce capability and improve quality of care.
The $220 million Cardiovascular Mission will improve health outcomes through prevention strategies, earlier detection and improved outcomes for patients suffering a heart attack or stroke.
The $160 million Indigenous Health Research Fund will support practical, innovative research into the best approaches to prevention, early intervention, and treatment of health conditions of greatest concern to Indigenous communities including $35 million for rheumatic heart disease.
The $150 million Stem Cell Therapies Mission will advance stem cell research that could potentially grow kidneys, repair damaged spinal cords and cure dementia.
The $50 million Traumatic Brain Injury Mission will enable nationally co-ordinated medical research to improve the recovery of patients with a traumatic brain injury and identify the most effective care and treatments.
The $125 million, 10 year Million Minds Mental Health Research Mission will assist up to one million people affected by mental illness.
Developing new drugs, devices and medical technologies takes time and requires long-term investment.
Our 10-year investment strategy and Health and Medical Research Industry Growth Plan will give researchers and industry certainty and direction.
The plan will create jobs, support opportunities for co-investing and reaffirm Australia’s reputation as a global research powerhouse.
Funding includes the development of a drug discovery centre to fast track new medicines so that our researchers can work in Australia rather than overseas.
Clinical trials for rare cancers, rare diseases and unmet needs will be a particular focus with an investment of $614 million.
Mental Health
One in five Australians experience a common mental health disorder each year and to address this we have made mental health a key pillar of our national health system.
We are spending $4.8 billion on mental health this financial year alone.
Our Primary Health Networks are receiving $1.45 billion to enable them to deliver ongoing and community-tailored mental health services.
This investment will boost crucial services such as headspace, local psychology consultations, suicide prevention activities, and community mental health nursing.
The Morrison Government is determined to reduce the rate of suicide, especially among young Australians.
We are tackling this national crisis through our $503 million Youth Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan.
We will ensure young Australians and their families get help where and when they need by investing an additional $375 million to fund an extra 30 headspaces.
headspace provides youth-friendly services for the challenges facing young Australians across physical health, alcohol and other drug use, vocational support and mental health.
We have established the Million Minds Mission, providing $125 million through the Medical Research Future Fund for mental health research with the aim of bringing new treatments to an additional one million people, and ensuring our mental health system offers the best services possible.
We will invest $70.2 million to establish new residential eating disorders treatment facilities nationally.
This builds on the $110 million announced in December 2018 to create the first specific, comprehensive Medicare items so that people affected by eating disorders can access up to 40 psychological services and 20 dietetic services.
To strengthen Indigenous youth suicide prevention, we will invest $34.1 million, including support for Indigenous leadership that delivers culturally appropriate, trauma-informed care as well as services that recognise the value of community, cultural artistic traditions and protective social factors.
Our support includes $19.6 million for measures to prevent Indigenous youth suicide, particularly in the Kimberley.
We will invest $11.8 million in a range of initiatives to help parents recognise when their children are struggling, improve mental health skills training in schools, enhance peer support networks and boost counselling support services for young people.
We are also investing $15 million to create a new national information system.
This will ensure communities and services can respond quickly to particular areas affected by a high incidence of suicide and self-harm.
Our support builds on $110 million to continue the Early Psychosis Youth Services program at selected headspace centres to provide specialist clinical services for young people at the early stages of severe mental illness.
We will deliver a $98.6 million mental health program in schools and a range of early intervention and prevention initiatives to provide young Australians with the tools and support they need to maintain the best possible mental health and wellbeing.
The Morrison Government is also working to ensure the mental health system is comprehensive and provides coordinated, holistic care.
We are providing $114.5 million to trial eight new adult mental health centres to provide walk-in treatment and advice as a much needed alternative to hospital emergency departments.
Regional communities will also have greater access to mental health services through new Medicare rebates for telehealth support.
We are providing $43.9 million for a new perinatal mental health program to support those affected by perinatal mental illness during or after pregnancy, or grieving after the death of an infant.
To ensure that all Australian workers can maintain mental health and get early support if needed, we are investing $11.5 million in a new National Mental Health Workplace Initiative.
This will support workers and businesses – from sole traders to multinationals – to create supportive and healthy workplaces.
Supporting Australians through Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment
Australians are fortunate to have access to a world-class health system where every Australian cancer patient is able to receive the highest quality of care.
Each year 140,000 Australians receive a life changing cancer diagnosis.
A strong economy enables the Morrison Government to invest in record support for public hospitals, access to precision diagnosis and lifesaving cancer treatment for free as well as breakthrough medicines and new revolutionary medical research.
We are investing more than $6 billion on cancer services each year and over $2.3 billion on PBS listed cancer medicines last year alone, one in every five dollars spent on the PBS.
We will dramatically expand access to MRI scans covered by Medicare through a $375 million investment and 99 per cent of out of hospital Medicare pathology services are free.
This will help keep the cost of health care down for families, and boost the fight against cancer and other serious conditions.
We are also providing access to ground-breaking treatments such as the CAR-T therapy Kymriah® for certain blood cancers through the public health system.
This treatment has shown immense promise and could be a cure for some patients and will be extended to other conditions over the coming years.
To further support Australians with cancer we will invest significantly in cancer fighting infrastructure:$80 million to establish the Peter MacCallum centre of excellence in cellular immunotherapy and CAR-T therapy.
$100 million for a Comprehensive Children’s Cancer Centre in Sydney.
$614 million over 10 years under the MRFF for rare cancer and rare diseases clinical trials - to use revolutionary medical science to find cures for patients.
Over $180 million per year in ground-breaking cancer research funding through the NHMRC.
$32.6 million for free breast MRI and PET scans which will benefit thousands of patients per year.
Australia has one of the most effective programs to beat cancer through vaccinations and early detection:We have introduced a new vaccination which will protect against 90 per cent of HPV-related cervical cancer.
We have extended free mammograms for women between the age of 50 and 74 through BreastScreen.
We have expanded the bowel cancer screening program so that, by the end of 2019, all Australians aged 50-74 will receive a screening test kit.
To encourage them to take the test, $10 million will be spent on a new awareness raising campaign.
We have extended support for prostate cancer nurses and through the McGrath Foundation breast cancer nurses to support Australian patients in most need including those in rural and regional areas.
We will invest $20 million in an anti-smoking campaign.
Preventative Health – Immunisation
Record levels of Australian children are now fully immunised, with more parents getting the message to protect their kids with life-saving vaccines.
Our No Jab, No Pay policy has been a success with around 210,000 extra children vaccinated and is backed by a further $12 million for a new immunisation information and education campaign.
To protect new-born babies, the whooping cough vaccine has been made available for pregnant women through an investment of $39.5 million.
We have expanded access to the meningococcal vaccine providing protection against the ACWY strains through an investment of $52 million.
Preventative Health – Domestic Violence
Family and domestic violence has a profound impact on women and children’s health and wellbeing, families and communities and society.
The Morrison Government has zero tolerance for violence against women and has committed over $840 million since 2013 to reduce and prevent family, domestic and sexual violence.
As part of this a ‘Recognise, Respond, Refer’ pilot, already underway in Brisbane, will receive a $7.5 million boost to be extended across five Primary Health Network regions to train GPs and their staff to recognise and manage family violence.
A further $2.1 million training initiative will further improve the domestic violence response of GPs and primary care workers nationally.
Support for Patients with Diabetes
The Morrison Government is committed to working towards the broad prevention of diabetes in the Australian community – through research, medicines and by providing access to continuous glucose monitoring devices.
We have expanded free access to glucose monitoring devices for pregnant women, children and more adults with type 1 diabetes, saving Australians up to $7,000 a year.
Our investment over the next four years will ensure that free glucose monitoring devices are available to over 37,000 eligible Australians with type 1 diabetes.
We will also invest $54.5 million for research that will give new hope and support for Australian children and adults living with type 1 diabetes.
Preventative Health – Blood Borne Virus and Sexually Transmitted Infections
A Morrison Government will invest $45.4 million to support the implementation of the next National Blood Borne Virus (BBV) and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) Strategies (2018-2022).
This investment has been acknowledged as the greatest increase in funding to prevent, diagnose and treat STIs and BBVs in at least two decades.
We are able to provide record support for strategies and initiatives that are improving our collective efforts to prevent and address the impact of BBVs and STIs.
This funding will support:national awareness and prevention strategies to reduce the impact of BBVs, such as HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C, and STIs, with a specific focus on syphilis, gonorrhoea and chlamydia.
projects that improve diagnosis and treatment options
health professional and community education
targeted assistance to diverse and vulnerable populations including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and culturally and linguistically diverse people.
We have also provided $8 million to establish a taskforce to combat Human T-cell Lymphotropic Virus-1 (HTLV-1) and other emerging communicable diseases in remote communities.
Drug Treatment and Prevention
To tackle drugs such as ice, the Morrison Government has committed more than $720 million over four years to reduce the impact of drug and alcohol misuse, with more than $544 million dedicated for treatment services.
We will continue to invest $450 million in the National Ice Action Strategy (NIAS) to help local communities, including funding for over 240 Local Drug Action Teams.
We have also delivered an extra 471 local drug and alcohol services since 2016 based on community need.
We are investing $22.3 million to support more alcohol and other drug treatment and support services in remote, rural and regional areas; an additional 65 specialist service providers will operate after-hours and on weekends in under-serviced areas.
In addition, funding of $4.3 million will provide local support for families, communities and regions struggling with the impacts of illicit drug use.
We will also invest $7.2 million establishing a take-home naloxone program to help prevent deaths associated with opioids and other drugs.
Dental
The Morrison Government will invest $1 billion over three years to support eligible Australian children to continue to access core dental services and families to claim up to $1,000 in benefits under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule.
This is on top of the adult program, in which an extra $100 million has been invested to ensure low-income households, including pensioners, can receive affordable public dental care.
It means an extra 180,000 services will be delivered at little or no cost to patients.
The extension of the National Partnership Agreement on dental health with the states and territories will deliver Australian Government funding of $350.3 million from January 2017 to 30 June 2020.
Women's and Men’s Health
The Morrison Government recently launched the Women's and Men’s Health Strategies for 2020-2030.
Our Women’s Health Strategy provides a $52 million investment in better women’s health with a significant focus on ovarian cancer and endometriosis.
We will invest $20 million in research to improve the survival rates for women with ovarian cancer and an additional $10 million to support women with endometriosis.
The new funding for endometriosis will raise awareness and support research to improve the treatment and understanding of this often misunderstood and crippling condition.
This additional investment brings the total funding for endometriosis under the Morrison Government to almost $15 million.
We have also provided over $27 million in new funding for more McGrath Foundation Nurses for breast cancer, particulary to support patients in rural and regional areas.
In addition we are investing $32.6 million so breast cancer patients have life-saving MRI and PET scans covered under Medicare, saving patients up to $1,500 per scan.
We will also provide $43.9 million to support the mental health of expectant and new parents through a Perinatal Mental Health and Wellbeing Program.
This will improve the services available to better support families affected by perinatal mental illness, or grieving after the death of a child.
Our Men’s Health Strategy provides more than $19 million to improve the health outcomes of all men and boys in Australia, particularly those battling cancer, mental health issues and loneliness.
We are increasing funding to support 62 prostate cancer nurses.
We are also providing the Men’s Sheds movement with over $11 million over 4 years to support their important work in local communities.
The Morrison Government is also providing $3.8 million for research to investigate the causes and prevention of male infertility which is estimated to affect one in six couples.
Indigenous Health
The Morrison Government will continue to make progress towards Closing the Gap in health outcomes between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians and non-Indigenous Australians.
Funding of $4.1 billion over the next four years will improve access to health care through the Indigenous Australians Health Program.
We are working on ending avoidable blindness and deafness and improving renal health and access to dialysis.
A $160 million Indigenous Health Research Fund will deliver rapid solutions to some of the biggest preventable health challenges.
$35 million has been committed to research and develop a vaccine for rheumatic heart disease, which could save thousands of lives.
We are focused also on increasing the Indigenous health workforce, so more people from local communities can provide health services.
Tragically, the suicide rate in Aboriginal and Torres Straits Islander communities remains significantly higher than in the non-Indigenous population.
We are addressing the high rate of youth suicide through our Youth Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan, which includes $34.1 million for Indigenous suicide prevention and mental health initiatives.
Specifically $4.2 million has also been provided for the Young Indigenous Ambassadors, Yarn Safe Campaign, and a fast-tracked roll-out of the Be You program in the Kimberley.
In addition we will invest $12.5 million from the Million Minds Mission for research on the best approaches to prevent Indigenous suicide.
Landmark Rural Health Strategy
The Morrison Government is implementing the most comprehensive rural health package in decades, which will improve access to doctors, nurses and other health care services for all Australians, especially those in the regions.
We believe that people living in rural and regional Australia deserve the same access to high-quality healthcare services as those living in capital cities.
That is why we will invest $550 million for the Stronger Rural Health Strategy, which delivers 3,000 additional doctors and more than 3,000 additional nurses and allied health professionals in rural general practice over the next decade.
The Strategy also includes $84.1 million in additional funding for the Royal Flying Doctor Service to provide dental care, mental health services and emergency aeromedical services to rural and remote communities.
It also includes $94.5 million for a new Murray Darling Medical Schools Network which aims to increase the number of medical students training in rural areas, and increase the number of students who then go on to practice in regional and rural Australia.
An additional $26.6 million will accommodate longer transition arrangements for the changes to rural bulk billing incentives and the Workforce Incentive Program.
We will invest $62.2 million over five years from 2018-19 to implement a National Rural Generalist Pathway.
This program will train specialised rural doctors to provide health services tailored to the needs of rural and remote communities and follows the expert advice of Australia’s first National Rural Health Commissioner.
Under the Morrison Government rural and remote patients are gaining additional access to general consultations through an extension of telehealth services with an investment of $33.5 million.
We are investing $12 million to expand the Heart of Australia mobile cardiology and health services in rural Queensland.
This funding will support the ongoing service delivery of their two mobile specialist clinics and establish a third service for Northern Queensland and the Cape York Peninsula, bringing the total number of communities serviced by Heart of Australia across Queensland from 16 to 25.
We are investing $18 million to develop a world-class rural health and medical research facility in Orange NSW that will support the needs of rural communities throughout Australia.
The Institute for Regional, Rural and Remote Health and Medical Research will focus on addressing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health inequity, supporting ageing and aged care, improving child health, promoting consumer-driven rural health research, building clinical research capacity and improving health service delivery.
The Morrison Government will invest $100 million to establish the Rural and Regional Clinical Trials Infrastructure Program.
Access and participation in clinical trials can be limited for doctors and patients in rural, regional and remote areas of Australia.
The $100 million investment from the Medical Research Future Fund National Critical Infrastructure initiative will establish state of the art physical infrastructure and equipment to provide patients with hope and access to advanced treatment options regardless of where they live.
This will also boost rural, regional and remote economies with direct industry investment in jobs.
We will also establish new regional cancer centres and drug and alcohol treatment facilities in regional communities such as Mount Gambier, Townsville, Batemans Bay, North West Tasmania, Grafton and Gladstone.
We will also provide additional mental health services and support for people affected by recent natural disasters.
People living in Northern and Western Queensland impacted by the recent floods, those affected by the fires in Tasmania and drought affected farmers in the Gippsland region will receive access to additional mental health support including through telehealth with an investment of $26.9 million.
This complements work already under way in drought affected areas under the Government’s $21.9 million Empowering our Communities Program.
These services will be delivered by local Primary Health Networks.
The Cost
The Coalition’s plan for strengthening Australia’s world class health system will not place additional costs on the Budget.
As at the 2019-20 Budget we have invested over $339 billion in the health system over the forward estimates.
Our Plan to Back Our Multicultural Communities
Key Points
The Morrison Government is working to keep our economy strong, keep Australians safe and keep Australians together.
Australia is the most successful multicultural society in the world and our Government is working to ensure we remain a strong, prosperous and united society.
Our plan for Australia will: 1.Create 1.25 million more jobs over the next five years.
2.Maintain budget surpluses and pay down debt.
3.Deliver tax relief for families and small businesses.
4.Keep Australians safe and our borders secure and
5.Guarantee increased funding for schools, hospitals, medicines and roads that you and your family rely on, already at record levels.
All without increasing taxes.
The Morrison Government will continue to celebrate our nation’s unique multicultural heritage while strengthening our economy,
maintaining social cohesion and securing our future.
Our plan will:Reward hard work and the enterprise of migrant families and businesses.
Deliver better government services to people from culturally diverse backgrounds.
Build social cohesion with practical measures that help new migrants and people from culturally diverse backgrounds to engage in the workforce and the community.
Open up new opportunities for migrants in regional Australia.
Maintain programs to assist migrants and multicultural communities to prosper and succeed in Australia.
A re-elected Morrison Government will invest an additional $5 million in a dedicated Accelerator Support Program to assist first generation migrants looking to develop a start-up business.
New grants will support those organisations best placed to deliver targeted business education,
incubation and mentoring to people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds.
A re-elected Morrison Government will invest $10 million to create a dedicated network of Aged Care System Navigators to assist people from CALD backgrounds and their families in navigating the aged care system.
The Navigators will assist these families to understand options and make the right decisions when it comes to finding alternative accommodation options, securing residential care or Home Care Packages, understanding the financial implications and completing the paperwork.
Our Plan
Australia is the most successful multicultural society in the world, uniting a multitude of cultures, beliefs and traditions.
Twenty-nine per cent of Australians were born overseas, while half of our population were either born overseas or have a parent born overseas.
Our migrant heritage is an enduring source of strength, prosperity and cultural vibrancy.
Coalition Governments have contributed to our multicultural success over many decades.
The Morrison Government will continue to celebrate our multicultural achievement while preserving our economic strength,
social cohesion
and security.
We believe in equal opportunity in a fair and compassionate society irrespective of someone’s race, religion or ethnic background.
We will defend Australia’s democratic freedoms and its longstanding commitment to tolerance and the rule of law.
A re-elected Morrison Government will ensure Australia remains a cohesive and prosperous society where those who have a go get a fair go.
Rewarding hard work and the enterprise of migrant families and businesses
Our plan for lower taxes will reduce taxes on low- and middle-income earners by up to $1,080 for single earners or up to $2,160 for dual income families.
We are also reducing tax thresholds further, and reducing the 32.5 per cent tax rate to 30 percent as part of the largest tax reform in a generation.
Under our plan, 94 per cent of taxpayers are projected to face a marginal tax rate of 30 per cent or less in 2024-25.
We are delivering lower taxes for small, medium and family businesses so business owners can reinvest in their business
and create more jobs.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics estimates that one in three owners of small businesses were born overseas.
Migrant businesses employ more than 1.4 million Australians and make a huge contribution to our economy.
Our plan for small business will enable migrant businesses to expand
and create even more jobs.
Our tax plan benefits around 3.3 million small, medium and family businesses and their 7 million employees.
We have already lowered the tax rate from 30 per cent to 27.5 per cent and this will be cut further to 25 per cent by 2021-22.
We are also helping small, medium-sized and family businesses invest and grow through increasing the instant asset write-off from $25,000 to $30,000, with around 3.4 million small and medium businesses employing some 7.7 million workers now eligible.
Our other initiatives to back small business include better access to finance, red tape relief, helping small business cash flow by ensuring they get paid on time and supporting our small businesses to go digital.
As part of our big plan for small business, a re-elected Morrison Government will invest an additional $5 million in a dedicated Accelerator Support Program to assist first generation migrants looking to develop a start-up business.
New grants will support those organisations best placed to deliver targeted business education, incubation and mentoring to people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds.
Delivering better government services for people from culturally diverse backgrounds
The Morrison Government is working to ensure government programs and services are accessible to all eligible Australians and deliver fair outcomes for them regardless of their cultural and linguistic backgrounds.
We have guaranteed increased funding for schools, hospitals and medicines – commitments that benefit all Australians.
Nothing could be more important to keeping Australians together than universal access to world-class health care.
The Morrison Government’s plan for a stronger economy means we can continue to make record investments in Medicare, hospitals, new medicines and medical research.
We are supporting communities affected by specific health and medical needs including $3.9 million for tailored mental health support for Australians from multicultural backgrounds.
Our multicultural communities recognise the value of a good education and the opportunities it unlocks.
The Morrison Government’s strong commitment to choice means parents from CALD backgrounds have more options when it comes to giving their children the best possible start to life aligned with their values and beliefs.
We are delivering record funding for students attending state government, independent and Catholic schools, as well as early learning and child care.
Our investment of an extra $37.6 billion in schools over the next decade will ensure funding per student increases, on average, by around 62 per cent through to 2029.
We are keeping all Australians safe through new investments such as our Safer Communities Fund and our plan to reduce violence against women and children.
As part of our $328 million plan to tackle domestic violence we are improving accessibility to 1800RESPECT for people from vulnerable and diverse cohorts, including from CALD backgrounds, to ensure they have access to high quality and culturally appropriate counselling and support.
We recognise that migrant communities can face particular challenges in understanding the full range of government services and the options presented.
An area like aged care is a good example.
We know that people from CALD backgrounds are less likely to utilise residential aged care services due to language barriers faced in accessing and engaging with services.
A 2018 review of the aged care system found people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds faced greater challenges than the rest of the population when navigating the referral to services and in rating aspects of the aged care services received.
In February 2019, the Morrison Government released Australia’s first Aged Care Diversity Action Plan to support older CALD Australians to overcome barriers they may face in accessing aged care services.
A re-elected Morrison Government will invest $10 million to create a dedicated network of Aged Care System Navigators to assist people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and their families to get the services they need.
The network will comprise on-line and mobile information hubs, community hubs and one-on-one support from specialist workers and volunteers to streamline and simplify aged care service access.
These navigators will assist senior Australians and their families from CALD backgrounds to get the best outcomes from the aged care system.
They will assist older Australians and their families in understanding options and making the right decisions when it comes to:Finding alternative accommodation options
Securing residential care or Home Care Packages
Understanding the financial implications
Completing the paperwork.
Building social cohesion and community engagement
The Morrison Government is working with diverse communities to ensure Australia remains a safe and socially cohesive nation where people have a strong sense of identity, participate in our economy and are committed to Australian values.
Our plan to keep Australians together includes practical programs that build social cohesion by connecting diverse communities to Australian society and to the workforce.
Settlement programs support migrants to become self-reliant and active members of the Australian community.
For example, humanitarian migrants and other eligible migrants receive early, tailored and intensive settlement support in the first five years of their arrival in Australia.
Government settlement services assist these migrants with employment, education and training, housing, health, legal and services.
As well as increasing support for migrants to become established and integrated in their communities, we are acting across a broad front to reduce the factors that lead to social isolation.
We are supporting grassroots initiatives that foster belonging and break down barriers to social and economic participation.
With a $71 million investment over four years, we are:Expanding programs to help new arrivals settle and integrate into Australia through the National Community Hubs Program and a new round of Fostering Integration Grants.
Building interfaith and intercultural understanding in classrooms, cultural institutions and through community-driven programs.
Helping young people identify, understand and counter online hate.
Funding sporting initiatives based on the unique role sport plays in promoting social inclusion.
Providing $10 million to establish the Community Language Schools Multicultural Grants Program to provide new funding to help young Australians learn another language and connect people to new cultures.
Opening up new opportunities for migrants in regional Australia
The Morrison Government will maintain a responsible and generous migration program as part of our comprehensive population strategy.
Our plan will ease the pressure on the big capital cities while supporting the growth of those smaller cities and regions that want more people.
Australia’s migration arrangements, which focus on young, skilled migrants, have contributed enormously to our economic prosperity.
Without migration, growth in Australia’s workforce would slow dramatically and, in the longer term, would even shrink.
While permanent migration, and particularly skilled migration, has contributed to Australia’s economic success, temporary migration has also made a large contribution to our economy.
In 2017-18, for example, international students in Australia added $32.4 billion to the economy and tourism $21.6 billion, making these our third and fifth largest export industries.
The focus of the migration program will remain firmly on attracting skilled migrants to our shores who will help alleviate the impact of the ageing of Australia’s population,
fill labour and skills shortages,
and add to our diverse society.
Our strategy enhances the migration program’s focus on skills, with the number of Employer Sponsored skilled visas increasing from 35,528 grants in 2017-18 to 39,000 places in 2019-20.
Opportunities will, of course, remain for family and humanitarian migration.
There is no change to the Family stream of the program, with 47,732 places available in 2019-20.
Migration flows have tended to concentrate in our three largest cities.
At the same time, many communities in regional Australia are keen to attract a higher share of our migration intake, with an estimated 60,000 job vacancies in regional Australia today.
By encouraging them to settle and study in regional areas, the Morrison Government is opening up new horizons and opportunities for migrants in regional Australia.
Under our integrated population strategy, we will introduce two new provisional visas to encourage more migrants to settle and remain in regional areas.
These visas will enable skilled migrants to settle in and contribute to regional communities with a pathway to permanent residency at the end of a three year period.
We will set aside 23,000 places for these visas in 2019-20 – up from 8,534 visa grants in 2017-18 for people required to live in regional Australia.
The changes will mean more migrants will stay in regional Australia easing the pressure off our congested cities.
Under the two new regional categories, visas will be priority processed.
Employers who want to nominate migrants for positions in their businesses where Australia are not available will have access to a larger pool of occupations compared to those located in our major cities.
To attract Australian and international students to study in regional centres, we will also provide $93.7 million over four years from 2019-20 for scholarships for domestic and international students under a new Destination Australia program.
Changes will also be made to provide an additional one year Temporary Graduate visa for international students who have completed their studies at a regional campus of a university to ensure they can continue to live and work in regional Australia for longer.
We will also maintain programs to assist migrants and multicultural communities to prosper and succeed in Australia.
The Morrison Government provides a settlement framework to help new migrants integrate into Australian life that is widely considered best practice.
New arrivals, particularly through Australia's refugee and humanitarian program, benefit from specialised support,
including help learning English and gaining necessary education or employment skills.
The Morrison Government takes a pragmatic and responsive approach to elements of the migration program.
For example, we have implemented tailored aged care labour agreements to support migrant communities.
These changes allow aged care providers to hire overseas workers with specialised skills that will support older Australians from multicultural backgrounds.
We have has also made changes to support Australia’s religious communities through the minister of religion labour agreement making it easier for religious institutions to sponsor overseas workers, where Australians are not available.
The Coalition Government has delivered on its commitment to introduce a family reunion visa, with sponsorship applications for the new Temporary Sponsored Parent Visa now open to migrant families wanting their parents to come to Australia for up to 10 years.
The Choice
The Morrison Government has a plan to keep our economy strong, keep Australians safe and keep Australians together.
Labor has a plan for hundreds of billions of dollars in higher taxes.
This would slow the economy,
deny hardworking Australians tax relief and weigh down small businesses looking to invest
and create jobs.
A successful migration program depends on public confidence.
Labor has a failed record on immigration.
Public confidence in our immigration system nose-dived as Labor lost control of our borders.
It was left to the Coalition to take the difficult but necessary decisions to regain control of our borders and restore the integrity of our migration program.
Labor mismanaged and misused the 457 Visa program.
It was left to the Coalition to end the mismanagement and put in place a new temporary skill shortage visa that strengthens the integrity and quality of the employer-sponsored skilled migration program.
COST
The Coalition will invest an additional $15 million to assist migrants and multicultural communities
Our Plan to Back Small Business
Key Points
Small businesses are the beating heart of the Australian economy.
When small businesses are healthy, all Australians are better off.
It means more jobs,
more choice, better living standards
and more vibrant and connected communities.
When you work hard, build your business and invest in your community, you are having a go.
And you will get a go under the Morrison Government.
That’s why we are backing small business owners to invest,
employ more workers
and grow their business.
We will grow small businesses by expanding their access to finance.
We will make it easier for them to employ even more Australians.
We will lower taxes for small, medium and family businesses.
We will ensure they have the skills they need for today and tomorrow.
We will ensure they get a fair go and are paid on time
We will lift the red tape and paperwork burden.
We will build modern transport infrastructure.
We will build modern transport infrastructure.
We will give small business access to billions of global customers.
We will ensure they have affordable, reliable and sustainable energy.
We will help them seize the opportunities of the digital economy.
We will support their mental health and wellbeing.
We will support tens of thousands of Australian women through our female entrepreneurs programs and help kick-start migrant businesses through the accelerator support program.
A re-elected Morrison Government will:Support the creation of another quarter of a million small businesses over the next five years.
Invest $100 million to establish the Australian Business Growth Fund to enhance equity financing to small businesses, complementing the Australian Business Securitisation Fund.
By keeping the economy strong,
the Morrison Government is providing the settings and opportunity for business to do what it does best.
On the other hand, Labor do not believe in enterprise and aspiration.
In opposition, Labor voted many times for higher taxes for small business.
If elected, Labor will raise taxes on family businesses,
condone union thuggery,
impose unsustainable costs on small business through rigid workplace policies
and hit small businesses hardest with their reckless emissions reduction plan.
Our Plan
Backing small businesses is and always will be at the centre of the Morrison Government’s plan for a stronger economy.
Small and medium businesses make up over half of our economy and employ two-thirds of our workforce.
They donate their time, money, goods and services to build their local community.
Acknowledging the important role small business plays in our economy and community we have developed a comprehensive plan to back small and family businesses across Australia.
The Morrison Government’s plan is making it easier for aspiring Australians to start a small business and or existing small businesses to expand.
Since our election in 2013, the Liberal Nationals Government has revitalised the small business sector.
More than 230,000 new small businesses have opened their doors,
creating hundreds of thousands of new jobs.
We are committed to small business creation
– because when small businesses are created jobs are created.
That is why a re-elected Morrison Government will support the creation of another quarter of a million small businesses over the next five years.
Growing small businesses by expanding their access to finance
The Morrison Government will significantly enhance access to funds for small business across Australia.
We understand that small businesses find it difficult to obtain finance other than on a secured basis.
And that small businesses that have already obtained secured finance but wish to continue to grow also find it difficult.
With access to finance a critical issue, the new $2 billion Australian Business Securitisation Fund will start on July 1 this year.
This fund increases small business access to competitive finance by providing more funding for small banks and non-bank lenders.
We also know that access to debt financing is not the only constraint to small business growth.
Many small and family businesses find it difficult to attract passive equity investment to enable them to grow without taking on additional debt or giving up control of their business.
A re-elected Morrison Government will establish the Australian Business Growth Fund by providing $100 million in funding and partnering with financial institutions to enhance equity financing to small businesses.
The Fund will aim to expand to $1 billion as it matures.
Both of these Funds are in addition to the reforms that took effect last year which allow businesses to raise capital through crowdfunding.
The Australian Business Growth Fund
A re-elected Morrison Government will establish the Australian Business Growth Fund by providing $100 million in funding.
Partnering with financial institutions the aim is for the Growth Fund to expand to $1 billion as it matures.
It is expected to back 30-50 businesses each year with annual turnovers between $2 million and $50 million.
The Growth Fund will significantly enhance small and family businesses’ ability to access funding, filling a gap in the market that is preventing them from reaching their full potential.
Many small and family businesses find it difficult to attract passive equity investment to enable them to grow without taking on additional debt or giving up control of their business.
The Reserve Bank of Australia has acknowledged that “it’s not the absence of entrepreneurial spirit, it’s the absence of entrepreneurial finance that’s been the main factor holding that part [small business] of the economy back”.
The Growth Fund will provide patient long-term capital, enabling small businesses to grow while the owners retain control of their business.
The Growth Fund is modelled on similar vehicles in the UK and Canada.
Since 2011, the UK equivalent has invested $2.7 billion into small businesses in a range of sectors across the economy.
It will operate commercially and independent of Government.
An independent board and management team will run the Growth Fund.
Investment decisions will be made by professional managers independent of Government and performance will be assessed on a fully commercial basis according to private sector funding models.
Small businesses that receive equity funding will also be provided with mentoring, coaching and access to a talent pool of expert staff to maximise the benefits of the patient capital investment.
The Small Business Ombudsman has also called on Government to ”fast-track the establishment of the Australian Business Growth Fund to address this long-term funding gap.”
COSBOA have also provided their support for the fund: “All in all, the ABSF and the ABGF are outstanding responses to the decade long challenges of SME financing in Australia.
Once implemented, they will enable small business owners to invest in growth with consequent benefits for Australia’s future economic prosperity and employment growth.”
Lowering taxes for small, medium and family businesses
Lower taxes mean more money to reinvest into the business
and create more jobs for Australians.
The Morrison Government has already provided lower taxes to around 3.4 million small, medium and family businesses employing over 7 million workers.
We have fast-tracked small and medium businesses moving to a lower corporate tax rate: reducing the rate from 30 per cent to 27.5 per cent.
It will be cut further to 25 per cent by 2021-22 – five years earlier than previously planned.
Fast-tracking these lower taxes will benefit around 970,000 small and medium companies that employ over 5 million workers.
We will ensure that unincorporated small businesses receive comparable treatment through an increase in their small business discount.
This will benefit around 2.4 million businesses employing 1.9 million workers.
Incentivising investment
The Morrison Government is helping small and medium businesses invest and grow through increasing and expanding the instant asset write-off.
It has been increased from $25,000 to $30,000 and can be used every time an asset under that amount is bought: be it a new fridge or grill for a café, new plumber’s tools or a new van for a courier.
The incentive has been expanded to medium businesses with a turnover up to $50 million.
This will benefit an extra 22,000 businesses employing around 1.7 million workers.
All up, around 3.4 million small and medium businesses employing around 7.7 million workers are eligible.
Providing the skills needed for today and tomorrow
The Morrison Government is committed to delivering a vocational education and training system that will deliver the skilled workers
needed by Australia’s small businesses to help them grow and prosper.
The $525 million Delivering Skills for Today and Tomorrow package will strengthen the VET system
and provide small business with support to take on more apprentices in areas of skills shortage.
The package includes up to 80,000 new apprenticeships in industries with skills shortages through a doubling of employer incentive payments to $8,000.
The new apprentices – including bakers, bricklayers, plasterers, hairdressers, plumbers and carpenters – will also receive a $2,000 incentive payment.
Levelling the playing field and ensuring a fair go
The Morrison Government has put in place a range of initiatives to ensure small business gets a fair go when dealing with larger businesses and the financial sector.
These include:Reforms to competition policy (Section 46) to prevent big businesses abusing their market power.
New unfair contract legislation to protect small business.
Free, fast and binding dispute resolution under the new Australian Financial Complaints Authority.
Stronger enforcement to combat illegal phoenixing activities.
An advocacy voice in the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman.
We are also ensuring easier, cheaper and quicker resolution of Australian Tax Office disputes.
Ensuring small businesses get paid on time
The Morrison Government is ensuring small businesses get paid on time.
We are setting the example, with 97 per cent of Commonwealth agency bills under $1 million paid within 30 days. From July 2019 this will reduce to 20 days.
Large businesses tendering for government contracts will be required to match our 20-day policy.
We are ensuring small businesses are not used as a bank by requiring large businesses with a turnover of over $100 million and government agencies to publish their payment information.
Lifting the red tape and paperwork burden
The Morrison Government wants small business people to spend more time growing their businesses and less time dealing with paperwork and red tape.
To make life easier, the Business Activity Statement has been simplified for 2.7 million small businesses, ASIC financial reporting thresholds have been doubled (reducing the burden on 2,200 companies) and the regulatory framework for employee share schemes has been simplified.
The Government has also provided $300 million to the states and territories to help them reduce their red tape on small business.
Investing in modern transport infrastructure
The Morrison Government is investing a record $100 billion in transport infrastructure to reduce congestion, keep our roads safe, connect people to jobs and deliver our goods to market.
Small business productivity will be bolstered with owners and their employees getting to work faster and more efficient supply chains sending products to customers more quickly.
Boosting our small business exporters
The Morrison Government wants our small businesses to capitalise on billions of global customers.
We have delivered trade agreements with China, Japan and Korea.
We have signed the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations and agreements with Indonesia, Peru and Hong Kong.
Australian exporters will also benefit from the Trans-Pacific Partnership between 11 major regional economies worth $13.8 trillion.
We are boosting our Export Market Development Grants scheme by $60 million so small businesses can harness further international opportunities.
And we have invested $20 million in Small and Medium Enterprise Export Hubs to help small businesses work together to access export markets and global supply chains.
Lowering energy costs
The Morrison Government is committed to lowering power prices while keeping the lights on.
We are providing $50 million in grants to eligible businesses and community organisations, helping them to save energy by either installing new equipment or by reviewing and improving their energy management – all contributing to lower power bills.
Eligible small businesses will be able to claim grants of up to $20,000 with high energy using businesses up to $25,000.
We are also delivering tailored advice to help small businesses find the best energy deal and identify opportunities for them to use energy more efficiently through the Business Energy Advice program.
Seizing the opportunities of the digital economy
The digital economy presents opportunities and challenges for small business.
Through the Small Business Digital Champions project, the Morrison Government is helping small businesses to learn the skills and build confidence to embrace digital opportunities.
Through the Empowering Business to Go Digital program, we are providing up to $3 million in matched funding to support the establishment of an NGO to build and enhance small business digital capacity.
We’re supporting online safety with the $10 million Small Business Cyber Security program.
Eligible small businesses can apply for grants of up to $2,100 for cyber security safety checks.
Supporting mental health and wellbeing
We understand the stresses involved in operating a small business – the responsibility for your family’s prosperity, the income and welfare of your employees and just staying on top of everything.
The Morrison Government is committed to improving access to mental health services for small business by partnering with grassroots organisation Everymind to deliver evidence-based prevention and intervention.
We have also provided $11.5 million for the National Mental Health workplace initiative to assist businesses to create healthy workplaces.
Harnessing the entrepreneurship of Australian women
The Morrison Government is determined to increase the number of female business leaders.
We are supporting 55,000 young women to become entrepreneurs through the Future Female Entrepreneurs Program, boosting digital skills and entrepreneurship and providing mentorship to the businesswomen of the future.
The Boosting Female Founders fund also provides access to early stage capital and entrepreneurial support to launch businesses of high-growth potential.
Harnessing the entrepreneurship of migrants
The Morrison Government understands the contribution of small business owners who were born overseas - with 1 in 3 owners born overseas according to the ABS.
To support more migrant businesses, a re-elected Morrison Government will invest an additional $5 million into the Accelerator Support program to assist migrants to start their own business.
This will deliver business education, incubation and mentoring to people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
The Choice
The choice at this election is clear.
Labor do not believe in enterprise and aspiration.
In opposition, Labor voted repeatedly for higher taxes on small business.
If elected, Labor will raise taxes on family businesses,
condone union thuggery,
impose unsustainable costs on small business through rigid workplace relations policies and hit small businesses hardest with their emissions reduction plan.
Labor’s reckless policies will hit small business directly and hardest as they will also feel the flow-on effects of a weaker economy.
Labor’s plan for higher taxes
The Morrison Government has a clear plan to lower taxes for small business.
In contrast, Labor has a plan to impose $387 billion of higher taxes – each and every one of which are bad for business.
A Shorten Labor government would be the highest taxing government in Australia’s history.
Labor’s plan for higher taxes will cost Australian small businesses twice.
First, they will be directly hit as the cost of doing business increases.
Second, a Shorten Labor Government will weaken our economy and make it a harder environment for small business to operate in.
Within a decade, Labor’s tax hit will equate to an extra yearly household tax bill of $5,400.
That is $5,400 less to spend at local businesses and $5,400 less going back into the community.
Labor’s $27 billion family business tax is the most destructive of all the taxes on small business.
Bill Shorten wants small family businesses taxed at the same rate as large multinational companies – 300,000 small family businesses that use trusts for asset protection, estate planning and cash flow.
Labor’s collapse of the skills sector
The Morrison Government has a clear plan to revitalise the skills sector, supporting employers with a range of incentives that will be streamlined to make them easier to navigate.
Labor cannot be trusted when it comes to VET and skills.
Labor’s failed VET FEE HELP scheme left thousands of students with debts and no qualifications.
From 2011-13 Labor cut employer incentives to businesses employing apprentices a total of nine times at a cost of $1.2 billion.
While Bill Shorten was Employment Minister, the number of apprentices and trainees collapsed by 22 per cent or 110,000 – the biggest annual decline ever.
The previous Labor Government cut funding for skills and failed to commit funding to the National Partnership Agreement with the states.
Labor’s plan is to redirect funding away from private training organisations where the majority of VET students study, jeopardising student outcomes and putting jobs at risk.
Labor’s failure to protect small business and promote competition
The Liberal National Government fought hard to legislate reforms to competition policy (Section 46) to prevent big business abusing their market power.
Labor did not support a level playing field and opposed these reforms, preferring to back big businesses and big unions over the interests of small business and consumers.
Bill Shorten wanted to leave the ACCC powerless when it came to protecting small business.
Labor’s plan to reduce market access and re-write existing trade deals
The Morrison Government has delivered free trade agreements (FTAs) that have brought direct benefits to many small businesses.
Labor did not start and finish one free trade agreement when last in government.
Their new policy platform will make it even more difficult for a Shorten Labor Government to secure an FTA.
Labor has committed to renegotiating the existing trade agreements that Australian small and family businesses rely on.
A Labor Government would throw thousands of these businesses into an uncertain trading environment by opening the agreements for renegotiation.
And Labor has not released any details of which markets and tariff arrangements they’re prepared to negotiate away.
The needs of Australian exporters to access new markets will be traded off for union demands to reopen all existing agreements – placing small businesses at risk and trashing Australia’s reputation for honouring agreements.
Labor also ripped $100 million out of the Export Market Development Grants scheme which directly backs small businesses to capitalise on international opportunities.
Labor’s plan to increase energy costs
The Morrison Government has a clear plan to reduce power prices for small and family businesses, while Labor has a clear plan to increase energy costs.
During the last Labor Government, power prices doubled and went up each and every year.
Labor’s reckless emissions targets will drive up power prices once again,
cost jobs and reduce wages.
By 2030, Labor’s emissions policies will lower the average full-time wage by $9,000 in real terms, reduce the number of jobs by 336,000
and increase wholesale electricity prices by 58 per cent.
Labor’s car tax will increase the cost of vehicles by over $4,800 and mandate electric vehicles for half of all new car sales.
Seventeen of the top 20 vehicles sold in Australia don't have models which meet Labor’s new carbon standard.
Tradies and small businesses which need larger vehicles will be hardest hit by these disastrous new policies.
Cost
The Coalition is providing a $100 million equity investment to the Australian Business Growth Fund to help Australian small businesses grow.
Our Plan for the Northern Territory
Key Points
A safe, secure and prosperous Northern Territory depends on a strong and growing economy.
A strong economy allows us to deliver lower taxes for hard working Territorians, and to guarantee the high quality essential services the NT relies upon.
The NT needs strong economic leadership now more than ever.
While the rest of Australia is growing, the NT economy and finances have weakened after two years of mismanagement by the Gunner Labor Government.
The Morrison Government has provided $500 million in GST top-up funding to the NT.
This much needed cash injection is critical to delivering services for Territorians given the Gunner Government's mismanagement of the budget.
The Gunner Government’s poor record provides a taste of what the NT can expect if Labor is elected federally.
Only the Morrison Government will support the economic development of the NT,
its Indigenous communities and northern Australia more broadly.
Our record includes backing major infrastructure projects,
awarding Indigenous owned businesses more Commonwealth contracts,
lowering taxes for small businesses,
and opening up new industry,
A re-elected Morrison Government will work to build a stronger NT economy, allowing us to guarantee and improve essential services.
We will:Invest $20 billion over 20 years in Defence infrastructure and facilities providing opportunities for small to medium sized NT businesses to secure long term work
Invest in new infrastructure to grow the NT economy and improve road safety, including an additional $622 million for land transport infrastructure over the next decade, bringing our total investment to $2.4 billion.
Open up the Beetaloo Basin for gas exploration and development, delivering more jobs for the NT
and more reliable and affordable gas supply for Australia.
Boost tourism
and jobs by investing up to $216 million to upgrade Kakadu National Park and remediate Jabiru.
Tackling high youth unemployment with an industry training hub in Alice Springs.
Deliver Territorians the largest personal income tax relief since the Howard Government, with tax relief of up to $1,080 for single income families earning up to $126,000.
For a dual income family that’s up to $2,160 in families’ pockets.
Back small and family businesses, with lower taxes and an increase in the instant asset tax write-off to $30,000 now expanded to medium-sized businesses.
Continue to increase funding for NT healthcare, with a $95.4 million NT Health Plan to strengthen the health system
Deliver safer and more secure NT communities including investing in crime prevention like CCTV cameras and security systems.
Support economic development, education and services in Indigenous communities including a new $40 million Indigenous tourism initiative, and introducing a target of 3 per cent of the value of Commonwealth contracts to be awarded to Indigenous businesses within a decade.
Continue to roll-out the Darwin City Deal and Barkly Regional Deal.
Support NT veterans and their families with a Veterans’ Wellbeing Centre and veterans employment programs.
The NT can’t afford Labor governments at both the Territory and federal levels.
Labor’s plans to impose billions of dollars of taxes and a 45 per cent emissions target will put Territory households under pressure
and jobs at risk.
Labor’s economic and budget mismanagement means the essential services the NT relies on – hospitals, schools and better roads – will be put at risk.
Our Record
The Coalition has demonstrated it will back the NT and make the right decisions to strengthen the economy,
deliver jobs
and guarantee essential services.
We have made significant investments in transport infrastructure to drive economic growth and improve safety.
We have committed over $1.5 billion to Northern Australia from the Roads of Strategic Importance Initiative, and committed $2.4 billion to projects in the NT since 2013.
This includes:$180 million to upgrade the Central Arnhem Road to a two lane sealed road.
$111 million towards the NT component of our $330 million to seal and widen sections of the Outback Way.
$100 million to upgrade the Buntine Highway to a two lane sealed road.
$77 million for the NT Roads package which will upgrade other key roads like Port Keats Road, Roper Highway and Santa Teresa Road.
Improvements to major roads in Darwin, including $70 million for the Tiger Brennan Drive duplication project and $29.5 million for the Garramilla (formerly Barneson) Boulevard.
$30 million for the Barkly Stock Route and Tablelands Highway under the Beef Roads Program.
Record funding for NT public hospitals, with funding more than doubling from $152 million in 2012-13 under Labor, to $306 million in 2019-20, and $15 million for a new PET scanner and cyclotron to improve cancer services.
Cheaper medicines with more than 2,000 new medicine listings on the PBS since we were elected in 2013, including life-saving drugs for cancers.
More funding for NT schools, with a total of $4.6 billion from 2018 to 2029, equivalent to a per student funding increase of 43.6 per cent.
More affordable child care with out-of-pocket costs for parents falling by 6.4 per cent in Darwin over the first six months of Coalition reforms.
More support for remote housing, with $550 million over five years
$21.6 billion for aged care in 2019-20 across Australia, including funding for an additional 10,000 home care packages nationally, and a Royal Commission into the sector.
We have also rolled out the NBN to over 99% of the NT,
backed Darwin as a centre for tropical medicine,
invested $4.8 million in the Darwin International Airport Freight and Training Hub, supported CSIRO to identify new areas for water and agricultural development and delivered over $500 million in GST top-up funding to the NT.
Indigenous economic development has been a priority.
We have delivered an Indigenous Business Sector Strategy and set targets for government contracts which have lifted the number of Indigenous businesses winning Commonwealth contracts from 30 in 2012-13 to over 1400 today, including over 280 in the NT alone.
More Indigenous organisations than ever before are delivering services on behalf of the Commonwealth and are employing more local people who are closer to the communities they serve.
Our strong economic and budget management means we have been able to deliver:Record funding for NT public hospitals, with funding more than doubling from $152 million in 2012-13 under Labor, to $306 million in 2019-20, and $15 million for a new PET scanner and cyclotron to improve cancer services.
Cheaper medicines with more than 2,000 new medicine listings on the PBS since we were elected in 2013, including life-saving drugs for cancers.
More funding for NT schools, with a total of $4.6 billion from 2018 to 2029, equivalent to a per student funding increase of 43.6 per cent.
More affordable child care with out-of-pocket costs for parents falling by 6.4 per cent in Darwin over the first six months of Coalition reforms.
More support for remote housing, with $550 million over five years
$21.6 billion for aged care in 2019-20 across Australia, including funding for an additional 10,000 home care packages nationally, and a Royal Commission into the sector.
A strong economy has allowed us to invest safety in the Territory.
The Government has maintained strong borders – we stopped the boats, stopped the deaths at sea, removed children from immigration detention, and have cancelled the visas of thousands of criminals across the country, including 58 in the NT.
Through the NT Remote Aboriginal Investment National Partnership, the Commonwealth is providing over $975 million over the period 2015-2022, including supporting the health and safety of individuals, children and families.
Around $3 million has also been invested under the Safer Communities Fund for crime prevention in NT communities, including CCTV cameras, improved lighting and other infrastructure.
Our Plan
Investing in NT Defence infrastructure and facilities
The NT is strategically important to the defence of our nation and protection of our borders, which is why we will invest $20 billion in Defence infrastructure and facilities in the NT over the period from 2016 to 2036.
Defence spending under the Morrison Government will increase to around 10 per cent of the Territory’s Gross State Product in coming years.
This funding will go towards:upgrades to Larrakeyah Barracks and HMAS Coonawarra to support the future maritime force, including larger offshore patrol vessels
upgrades to RAAF Bases Darwin and Tindal to accommodate the new F-35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters
facilities, infrastructure and airfield works at RAAF Base Tindal to support P8-A Poseidon aircraft and MQ-4C Triton unmanned aircraft
the construction of a Norther Explosive Ordnance storage facility
purpose-built facilities at the Delamere Air Weapons Range to support training on the EA-18G Growler electronic attack aircraft
upgrades to the Bradshaw Field Training Area and Robertson Barracks.
The Morrison Government will ensure this investment offers businesses and tradies in the NT opportunities to secure additional long-term work and create more jobs by introducing a Local Industry Capability Plan requirement for all significant Defence infrastructure projects, following our successful pilot projects.
All tenderers for construction services valued at $7.5 million or more will be required to develop a Local Industry Capability Plan, outlining how local industry has been engaged, and the work it will undertake.
This means we will roll out Local Industry Capability Plans for Stage 6 of the RAAF Base Tindal Redevelopment and RAAF Base Tindal Airfields Works projects, both commencing in early 2020.
The construction of a new health centre at Larrakeyah Barracks and the refurbishment of the existing health care centre at Robertson Barracks will result in around 90 per cent of the workforce coming from the Darwin region and will create up to 55 sub-contract packages, with a total value of $10.4 million.
Indigenous businesses will also benefit including through the NT component of the Land Force Mortar Replacement projects.
In addition to these infrastructure investments, the Coalition’s acquisition of new and enhanced platforms, like our larger Arafura class Offshore Patrol Vessels, and the F 35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter,
also offer Territorian businesses opportunities to secure capability sustainment work.
Existing sustainment work on the current Armidale class patrol boats alone has planned expenditure of $116 million across northern Australia in 2019-20.
Our expanded international engagement also means more visiting defence forces.
This creates a boon for local Territory businesses who support those visits.
The US Force Posture Initiatives, particularly the Marine Force Rotation – Darwin, creates opportunities for local businesses to support the visiting US forces.
Record funding for transport infrastructure
A stronger NT economy starts with investing more in infrastructure to unlock economic potential and ensure Territorians get to their destinations quickly and safely.
In the 2019-20 Budget, we locked in a further $622 million over the next decade for land transport infrastructure in the NT, bringing our total investment to $2.2 billion.
New projects include:$492 million for projects from the Roads of Strategic Importance initiative, including:
$162 million for the Alice Springs to Darwin corridor
$160 million for the Alice Springs to Halls Creek (WA) corridor
$70 million for the NT component of our $270 million investment in the Tennant Creek to Townsville corridor upgrade.
$60 million for the Adelaide River to Wadeye corridor upgrade.
$40 million for the NT component of our $110 million investment in the Newman to Katherine corridor upgrade.
$70 million for Kakadu National Park road upgrades
$60 million for Tiwi Island road upgrades
We will also ensure the NT gets its fair share of our $2.2 billion National Road Safety Package, which includes additional funding of $1.1 billion for the Roads to Recovery Program; $550 million for the Black Spots Program; $275 million for the Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program; and $275 million for bridges renewal funding.
The NT will also benefit from our new $220 million Stronger Regional Digital Connectivity Package, building on the 32 mobile blackspot base stations we have funded in the NT to date.
Opening up the Beetaloo Basin
The Beetaloo Basin is one of the most prospective new gas reserves in Australia.
It is a potential game-changer for the Australian gas market and the NT economy, with the NT’s independent inquiry finding that even small-scale developments in the Beetaloo could create more than 6,500 full-time jobs.
The Morrison Government is investing $8.4 million to accelerate gas supplies from the NT to the east coast market.
This will support the opening of the Beetaloo Sub-basin for exploration and development, and improve the transparency, competiveness and long-term security of gas supply in Australia.
The funding will go towards environmental baseline work, a feasibility study on gas exploration areas, and an Aboriginal economic strategy to support the development of the Beetaloo.
With the Inpex project construction phase winding down, development of the Beetaloo Basin has the potential to provide more Territory jobs,
more Territory royalties,
and more funding for Territory services.
Securing tourism and jobs in Kakadu
Kakadu is one of Australia’s most important environmental and heritage assets.
It is a tourism icon and home to 60,000 years of living Indigenous culture.
The Morrison Government will invest up to $216 million to upgrade the World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park and help the township of Jabiru transition to a tourism-based economy.
This funding will restore the Territory’s place as one of Australia’s leading natural tourism locations, attracting more tourists from around Australia and the world, and boosting the Territory economy.
The funding will be front-loaded, with around $150 million (close to 70 per cent) to be delivered by 2022-23. //|The initiative includes:
Up to $70 million to upgrade roads to improve access to the park.
$51 million for tourism infrastructure and attractions, including upgrades to camp grounds, walking tracks and viewing platforms, improved signage, mobile and WiFi services.
Up to $60 million to support a world-class, Indigenous-led World Heritage Kakadu Visitor Centre in Jabiru.
$35 million to support remediation of Jabiru
Tackling high youth unemployment
The NT will benefit from the Morrison Government’s $525 million national skills package, including our $58 million investment in Industry Training Hubs and scholarships to skill young Australians for jobs of the future.
Alice Springs is one of ten locations of elevated youth unemployment across Australia that have been selected to host an Industry Training Hub, which will strengthen partnerships between local schools, employers and industries, and ensure that vocational education programs are tailored to meet local workforce needs and skills demands.
Youth unemployment in the Alice Springs region at 12.1 per cent is higher than the national average of 11.5 per cent.
Under the scholarship program, young people in training hub areas will be eligible to apply for a scholarship to undertake an eligible VET Approved Program of Study.
Across the nation, four hundred scholarships, valued at up to $17,500 each, will be made available from Certificate III to Advanced Diploma level.
Strengthening the NT health system
The Morrison Government’s health plan for the NT will improve lives, protect lives and save lives.
It builds on the record funding we have provided for NT public hospitals, record levels of bulk billing, $15 million for the new PET scanner and cyclotron, and more than 2000 new medicine listings subsidised through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.
Funding for NT public hospitals will triple from $152 million in 2012-13 under Labor to $467 million in 2024-25 (with $306 million in 2019-20) under a new hospitals agreement. We will also deliver a $95.4 million NT Health Plan to strengthen the NT’s health system, providing affordable and accessible health services for more Territorians, where and when they need them.
The Plan will deliver more doctors, more services and more critical health infrastructure, including:$25.7 million for the Alice Springs Hospital Ambulatory Centre
$18.7 million to extend the Remote Area Health Corps
$14 million for a new adult mental health centre in Darwin Hospital
$9 million for an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander diabetic foot complication program
$8.5 million for an enhanced capacity for testing and treating syphilis program
$7.5 million for a new MRI licence at the Darwin Hospital
$4.5 million to address urgent gaps in knowledge to address HTLV1 virus in Central Australian communities
$3.275 million for a staff accommodation block in Tennant Creek
$2.3 million for Katherine Hospital Consulting Rooms
$1.2 million for Red Dust to support young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with mental health issues in the NT to access the care that is right for them
$750,000 for point of care pathology testing infrastructure.
$4.1 billion to Indigenous health over the next four years.
$34 million specifically for Indigenous suicide prevention and mental health initiatives
Our $550 million Stronger Rural Health Strategy, which is delivering 3,000 additional doctors and more than 3,000 additional nurses and allied health professionals across Australia, including $84.1 million for the Royal Flying Doctor Service to provide dental care, mental health services and emergency aeromedical services.
Access to new treatment and clinical trials through the $100 million National Rural and Regional Clinical Trial Centre Program.
NT communities will also benefit from a range of other national initiatives including: Lower taxes for hard-working Territorians
The Morrison Government is lowering taxes for hard-working Territorians as part of our plan to deliver a stronger economy
and record job creation.
Our tax system must be fair for all Australians.
Our Personal Income Tax Plan delivers lower taxes for Territorians, ensuring they keep more of what they earn.
The enhanced plan will result in a better tax system, with greater reward for effort while ensuring top earners pay their fair share.
Around 100,000 lower and middle income earners in the NT will receive relief of up to $1,080 after they lodge their 2018-19 tax return.
That’s up to $2,160 for dual income families.
These benefits are then locked in for subsequent years.
A re-elected Morrison Government will also deliver long-term structural reform by lowering the 32.5 per cent tax rate to 30 per cent from 1 July 2024.
As a result of this plan, around 94 per cent of Australian taxpayers are projected to face a marginal tax rate of 30 per cent or less in 2024-25.
The Government’s strong fiscal management means that it can deliver surpluses while also rewarding hard-working Australians and easing cost of living pressures.
Supporting small and family businesses
Small and family businesses are at the centre of the Morrison Government’s economic plan for Australia and the NT.
They are the engine room of our economy, with the NT’s 19,000 small and medium-sized businesses employing around 62,000 workers.
When small businesses are healthy, all Australians are better off.
It means more jobs,
more choice, better living standards
and more vibrant and connected communities.
The Morrison Government knows some small businesses in the NT are going through hard times.
We want small businesses to prosper.
We want them to employ even more Australians.
The Morrison Government is pursuing a number of measures to strengthen small and medium businesses and the national economy.
We are reducing taxes on small businesses – the business tax rate for small and medium-sized companies has been reduced from 30 per cent to 27.5 per cent and will fall further to 25 per cent in 2021-22.
Unincorporated Territorian small businesses will have access to the Government’s increase to the unincorporated tax discount.
We have increased the instant asset write-off threshold to $30,000 until 30 June 2020.
We also expanded access to the instant asset write-off to include medium-sized businesses by increasing the annual turnover threshold from $10 million to $50 million.
These changes provide a much needed boost to agricultural, retail, tourism, hospitality and other small and medium businesses in the NT.
Small and family businesses in the NT can trust the Morrison Government to back them with other announced measures, including streamlining red tape and simplifying tax reporting; increasing access to finance;
and ensuring they get paid on time by government and big business.
Safer and more secure NT communities
Crime in the NT is still too high.
While there have been recent improvements in some areas, like assaults, other areas like property crimes, break-ins and theft have been increasing.
The Morrison Government is committed to support the safety and security of communities in the NT and will deliver a comprehensive suite of actions that will help keep people in the NT safe.
In addition to maintaining strong borders, cancelling visas of people who commit crimes,
and delivering funding for community safety in Indigenous communities, the NT will benefit from our national plans to:
Support local councils and community organisations to undertake crime prevention activities as well as protect schools, religious institutions and other sites from religious and racial intolerance through CCTV cameras, security lighting, alarm systems and other infrastructure.
We will earmark $4 million specifically through the NT under Round Five of the Safer Communities Fund.
Deliver a comprehensive drug strategy to address the supply, demand and harm caused by illicit drugs with a five-year investment of $337 million.
This includes $152 million to strengthen law enforcement efforts to disrupt and reduce the supply of illicit drugs including by targeting the threat posed by outlaw motorcycle gangs
Take action against domestic violence, with the largest ever Commonwealth investment of $328 million for prevention and frontline services to support the Fourth Action Plan of the National Plan to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children
Deliver a comprehensive plan to improve online safety, including funding a $10 million Online Safety Grants program to deliver practical online safety education and training projects, continuing to protect Australians, particularly kids online through our world-first e-safety Commissioner, and establishing an Online Safety Charter to set out expectations of social media companies.
Reducing energy costs
The Morrison Government will reduce energy costs for families and businesses across the NT.
The $50.4 million national Regional and Remote Communities Reliability Fund will support up to 50 off-grid and fringe-of-grid communities and businesses to investigate whether establishing a micro grid is cost-effective and whether existing off-grid capabilities can be upgraded with modern technology.
This will allow communities to improve their local transmission, install community-scale batteries to support existing generation (such as solar), or upgrade existing facilities such as old diesel generators.
Moving some remote customers to off-grid supply could save hundreds of millions of dollars in network costs and reduce bushfire risks, while delivering more reliable and affordable power.
The Morrison Government’s Energy Efficient Communities Program will provide $50 million through more than 2,500 grants to eligible businesses and community organisations across the country, helping them save energy and reduce their power bills by installing new equipment or reviewing and improving their energy management.
Eligible small businesses will be able to claim grants of up to $20,000 and high-energy using businesses up to $25,000.
While keeping the economy strong and returning the 2019-20 Budget to surplus, we are also providing $365 million for Energy Assistance Payments of $75 for singles and $125 for couples to eligible social security payment recipients to help with their next power bill and cost of living expenses.
Closing the gap and supporting Indigenous communities
The Liberal National government’s $5.2 billion Indigenous Advancement Strategy is helping to ensure Indigenous children get an education, assist adults into work, grow the Indigenous business sector and deliver safer and healthier communities.
But while there has been meaningful progress on many fronts, only two of the seven Closing the Gap targets are on track.
That is why a re-elected Morrison Government will follow through on its Closing the Gap refresh.
We have committed to share ownership of, and responsibility for, jointly agreed frameworks, targets and ongoing monitoring of a refreshed Closing the Gap Agenda, with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples at its heart.
This is a major step toward the genuine and mutually respectful formal partnership between governments and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians that will empower individuals and allow communities to thrive.
The Morrison Government will also:Boost Indigenous tourism, with $40 million over four years for tourism planning work with Indigenous communities and individuals interested in pursuing tourism opportunities.
Funding will also be available to support planning and investment at the start-up phase of an Indigenous tourism enterprise.
This will support more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people into work and see the growth of economic opportunities for Indigenous communities.
Support even more Indigenous businesses through government procurement building on our highly successful Indigenous Procurement Policy.
Commencing on 1 July 2019, the Commonwealth will introduce a new three per cent value target for all Commonwealth contracts to be awarded to Indigenous business within the next decade.
Invest $200 million in the Indigenous Youth Education Package to fund additional scholarship placements and give more Indigenous students the support and mentoring they need.
Encourage teachers to work in Very Remote Areas by helping them pay their Higher Education Loans.
For teachers working in a Very Remote Area, their HECS debt will be frozen, meaning they will not have one cent of interest added to their debt whilst they are working in a Very Remote Area.
For teachers who work for four years in a Very Remote Area, their HECS debt will be scrapped.
Continue to roll-out the $12 million a year Connected Beginnings program, which integrates early childhood, maternal and child health and family support services with schools in areas of high need and vulnerability.
Over time, our objective is to reduce the differences between Indigenous and non-Indigenous children when it comes to school readiness and educational outcomes.
Twelve projects are already underway, including in Alice Springs, where engagement with parents at Braitling Primary School is already improving as a result of the program.
Support local and regional decision making, increasing the involvement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians in the development of policies and the delivery of services that benefit Indigenous communities, with $7.3 million provided in the 2019-20 Budget.
City and regional deals
The Morrison Government will implement our transformative city deal for Darwin and the Barkly Regional Deal, delivering more liveable communities.
The $200 million Darwin City Deal, including $100 million from the Morrison Government, is a ten year plan to position Darwin as a vibrant and liveable tropical capital city, supported by a growing population and diverse economy.
The deal will revitalise Darwin’s city centre and support future growth, and includes:The creation of a new education and civic precinct on Cavenagh Street featuring a new Charles Darwin University campus, as well as retail, commercial and community spaces.
Construction of a new art gallery in State Square.
Transformation of public spaces in the CBD to create cooler, greener streetscapes
A new Urban Living Lab led by CSIRO which will test and evaluate improvements in Darwin’s liveability, sustainability and resilience.
A process to redevelop a key piece of Defence-owned land at Stokes Hill.
An 8.8 per cent Indigenous employment target and 3 per cent supplier-use target for City Deal projects, and $2 million to support the Larrakia Development Corporation.
The Barkly Regional Deal is Australia’s first ever Regional Deal, covering Tennant Creek and surrounding areas.
The deal will provide $78.4 million, with $45.4 million from the Commonwealth, to improve the productivity and liveability of the Barkly region, including:$15.9 million to increase housing supply and reduce overcrowding by building a visitor park and student boarding accommodation and entering into a private-public partnership for new social and affordable housing stock.
$15.4 million for the installation and operations of a new weather radar near Tennant Creek.
$10.1 million for economic development to stimulate private sector activity including developing an economic master plan, establishing a business hub and investing in local infrastructure.
$3.9 million to support local community leadership, reactivate sporting leagues, deliver mediation services and invest in community projects in remote areas and homelands.
Supporting veterans and their families in the Territory
The NT is home to over 5,000 defence personnel, many of whom are veterans, as well as many former ADF members who choose to make the Top End their home after their service ends.
As part of the Morrison Government’s plan to provide better services for our veterans, we will provide $5 million to support the establishment, enhancement or redevelopment of a Veterans’ Wellbeing Centre in the Darwin region.
This centre will support co location of veterans’ support services and allow for closer integration and coordinate of government and non-government support, including connections with local health services, community organisations, and advocacy and wellbeing support.
Further, the Morrison Government will support non-profit organisations Solider On and Team Rubicon with grants of $6 million and $3 million respectively to deliver innovative veterans employment programs, including in Darwin, to help veterans find meaningful civilian employment after their ADF service.
This will help veterans and the Top End community, as well as help retain highly-skilled personnel in the region.
The Choice
There is a lot at stake at this election.
And there is a clear choice.
A choice between a Government that is delivering a strong economy or a Labor Party that would weaken our economy.
A choice between a Government that is fixing the budget or a Labor Party that can’t manage money.
A choice between a Government that is easing the pressure on families by lowering taxes or a Labor Party that will put more strain on households by imposing $387 billion in new taxes on workers, retirees and small business.
A choice between a Government that can afford to pay for better infrastructure and services or a Labor Party that would max out Australia’s credit card.
A choice between a Government that has secured our borders and is keeping Australians safe or a Labor Party that has learned nothing from its border security failures.
The NT cannot afford Labor governments at both the federal and state levels.
As the people of the NT know too well, Labor can’t manage money and they can’t manage the economy.
When Labor can’t manage money, they come after yours.
The Gunner Labor Government is cutting $11.2 billion in spending over the decade through a series of austerity measures and went to Canberra seeking an emergency bailout.
This poor record provides a taste of what the NT can expect under a Shorten Labor Government.
Labor plans to hit Australians with $387 billion in big new taxes which will hurt the people of the NT:Labor’s retiree tax will punish older Australians in the NT who have worked hard and saved for retirement by abolishing tax refunds on share dividends.
In the NT, this will affect over 2600 individuals who have direct shareholdings and many more invested through self-managed super funds.
On average individuals with direct holdings lose almost $2,300 a year and self-managed super funds lose $12,000 a year.
Labor’s housing and investment taxes will end negative gearing as we know it, and increase capital gains tax by 50%.
If you own your own home it will be worth less, and if you rent you will pay more.
Labor would impose higher income tax by reversing the Government’s legislated income tax plan and the enhancements we announced in the 2019-20 Budget.
Our Plan will ensure 94% of taxpayers will pay no more than 30 cents in the dollar.
Labor's approach would leave over 71,000 people in the NT worse off.
Labor’s Family Business Tax would impose a minimum tax rate of 30% on the 1200 NT small businesses structured through discretionary trusts.
This is the same rate imposed on large multinational companies.
cost the economy $472 billion,
slash more than 336,000 jobs,
cut the average wage by over $9,000, and
increase wholesale electricity prices by more than 58%.
On top of this, Labor’s emissions targets will:
This is a cost that NT businesses and workers can’t afford.
Labor's car tax will also increase the cost of SUV's and utes by up to $5,000 and reduce choice of vehicles.
Labor also can’t be trusted with supporting NT businesses with long-term defence work.
Labor’s record when last in Government was that they slashed Defence spending.
Defence capability and infrastructure in the NT was particularly a victim of those cuts.
Last time in government, Labor closed down the live export trade.
Under the influence of the Greens, there is a big risk they would do it again.
In contrast, the Coalition has a plan for lower taxes so that you can keep more of the money that you earn.
We also have a fully costed $3.5 billion Climate Solutions Plan that will ensure we meet and beat our international targets without wrecking the economy, and we have a comprehensive plan to bring down energy prices.
There will only be one outcome for the NT under Labor – a weaker economy,
fewer jobs
and higher taxes.
If Labor can’t be trusted to run the economy and manage the budget, they can’t be trusted to invest in services the NT relies on, including health, education and roads.
Cost
The Coalition’s plan for a stronger Northern Territory will not place additional costs on the Budget.
The plan includes over $100 million in previously unannounced measures.
Our Plan to Respect and Support Veterans and their Families
Key Points
Australia is proud of our veterans – the men and women who signed up to the Australian Defence Force, prepared to put their lives on the line for our nation, our values, and our way of life.
We need to do more to respect and recognise our returned servicemen and women, including those who have been involved in the more recent chapters of our military history, such as the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.
If we ask men and women to risk all for our country, then it is beholden on our country to do everything we can for them.
The Liberal Nationals Government has a strong track record of delivering services and support for veterans and their families.
Our Government provides more than $11 billion a year to support around 280,000 veterans and their families, widows and children.
We will build on this record to ensure that their needs continue to be met for decades ahead.
A re-elected Morrison Government will:Ensure veterans and their families are cared for and supported through our record investments in mental health care and counselling for veterans and their families.
This will remain uncapped and demand driven.
Expand access to the DVA Gold Health Treatment Card from 1 July 2019 for members of the SEATO surgical and medical teams who served during the Vietnam War.
Invest $30 million in a network of Veterans’ Wellbeing Centres in partnership with ex-service organisations and state and territory Governments in Townsville, Darwin, Perth, Nowra, Adelaide and Wodonga.
Digitise all Second World War service records, expand the Saluting their Service grants program and work with the PNG Government to commemorate the bonds between Australia and PNG from the Second World War, particularly around the Kokoda Track, as part of the commemoration of the 75th Anniversary of the end of the Second World War.
Ensure veterans find jobs after their service by expanding the Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Program to invest $16.2 million into initiatives run by not-for-profit organisations that are helping veterans transition out of ADF service.
We will support programs run by SoldierOn, Team Rubicon and the RSL.
Exempt TPI veterans from the ‘treatment cycle’ requirement for exercise physiology and physiotherapy allied health services.
Expand access to the Defence Service Homes Insurance Scheme and the Defence Home Ownership Assistance Scheme for veterans after they’ve completed their service.
Recognising and remembering the service and sacrifice of our veterans and their families by rolling out our Australian Veterans’ Card and Lapel Pin as part of the Australian Veterans’ Covenant, ensuring veterans are recognised in our community.
Our Record
Since coming to Government, the Coalition has been implementing our 2013 Four Pillar Plan to support current and future veterans and their families:To recognise the unique nature of military service.
To retain a stand-alone Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA).
To tackle mental health challenges for veterans and their families.
To support veterans through strong advocacy and welfare services.
Our Government introduced fairer indexation for military superannuants, investing $1.4 billion for fairer indexation for the Defence Forces Retirement Benefits and Defence Force Retirement and Death Benefits schemes.
We’ve introduced free mental health care for anyone who has a single day of ADF service.
We’ve provided $16.1 million over four years to introduce a payment to help vulnerable veterans who are waiting on the outcome of a mental health claim.
We are delivering $2.1 million over four years for an annual health assessment for ex-serving ADF members for the first five years post-discharge.
We passed legislation to grant the DVA Gold Health Treatment Card from 1 July 2019 to members of the SEATO surgical and medical teams who served during the Vietnam War, finally recognising their brave service after nearly 50 years.
We commissioned a world first trial into the use of assistance dogs to support veterans with PTSD and ongoing financial support for the purchase of assistance dogs for veterans upon recommendation by a medical specialist.
Our Government has provided $6.7 million to develop the SoldierOn Fussell House facility, which will provide accommodation support to families of veterans accessing treatment at Concord Hospital.
We’ve helped families of veterans by extending eligibility for counselling services delivered through Open Arms to families and children of those who have served including partners and ex-partners.
We’ve provided more than $9.7 million to Kookaburra Kids to help them support children with a parent serving in the ADF or a veteran parent affected by mental illness.
The Liberal National Government has committed nearly $500 million to fund the biggest reform of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) in its 100-year history.
This will ensure the DVA meets the needs of veterans and their families for the next century.
We’ve developed the Australian Defence Veteran Covenant, in partnership with the ex-service community, to recognise the unique nature of military service and acknowledge and honour the service and sacrifice of our veterans.
As a lasting legacy to the Centenary of ANZAC, we’ve invested nearly $100 million in the award-winning Sir John Monash Centre in France and delivered the successful Centenary of Anzac commemorations.
Our Government committed $498 million over the next nine years to redevelop the Australian War Memorial.
This important project will allow the Memorial to display more of their collection and proudly tell the stories from recent years in Afghanistan, Iraq, the Solomon Islands and East Timor.
And we’ve introduced the Prime Minister’s Veterans Employment Program to promote the valuable skills and capabilities that the veteran community can bring to civilian employment.
Our Plan
A re-elected Morrison Government will continue to put veterans and their families first.
Our plan is focused on three key themes: improving veterans care and support, helping veterans live their best lives by finding jobs after their service and recognising and respecting the service and sacrifice of our veterans and their families.
Improving veterans care and support
The Morrison Government recognises the importance of access to exercise physiology and physiotherapy allied health services for Totally and Permanently Incapacitated (TPI) veterans whose conditions are often chronic and long-term.
The Morrison Government will invest $17 million to exempt TPI veterans from the new ‘Treatment Cycle’ requirements that are due to commence on 1 July 2019.
TPI veterans will continue to be able to access exercise physiology and physiotherapy allied health services under existing arrangements, which is an annual GP referral or an ongoing referral for chronic conditions.
To provide better service to our veterans, we are committing $30 million to the development of a network of Veterans’ Wellbeing Centres in partnership with ex-service organisations and state governments.
These centres will support co-location of veterans’ support services and allow for closer integration and coordination of government and non-government support, including connections with local health services, community organisations and advocacy and wellbeing support.
Where possible, investment in these centres will be focussed on enhancing or redeveloping existing facilities to meet the needs of veterans and their families.
The Centres will be established across Australia in areas with significant numbers of veterans and transitioning members by the relevant state government or ex-service organisation.
There will be:$5 million to support The Oasis Townsville.
$5 million to support the RSL WA to construct a new Veteran Central facility in Perth.
$5 million to support the creation of a veterans’ wellbeing centre at the revitalised Repat Hospital at Daw Park in Adelaide.
$15 million ($5 million each) to support the establishment, enhancement or redevelopment of centres in the Darwin, Nowra and Wodonga regions.
We will provide an additional $4 million to Open Arms – Veterans and Families Counselling to collaborate with the Returned and Services League to deliver a national program of mental health training to volunteers to recognise people at risk and offer intervention and support.
This measure will cost $6.2 million over four years.
We will provide $2.1 million to deliver a national program of comprehensive health checks to identify service-related illness, disease and injury associated with anti-malarial medication.
And we will extend the trial of provisional access to medical treatment by one year while the trail evaluation is being completed.
This provides access to DVA-funded treatment for common health conditions while claims are being processed, ensuring faster access to treatment and reducing the risk of further deterioration.
Helping veterans live their best lives and find jobs
We will provide $16.2 million over four years to support non-profit organisations to deliver tailored, innovative support to help veterans find meaningful civilian employment.
Initial grants have been approved for:Soldier On to deliver veteran employment services and education in Albury/Wodonga, Bendigo, Darwin, Launceston, Newcastle, Port Macquarie, Wagga Wagga and Western Sydney – $6 million.
Team Rubicon to establish its unique veterans’ employment program, which focuses on the developing the skillset and qualifications of veterans through volunteer disaster response, in Perth, Darwin, Adelaide, Canberra-Queanbeyan, Lismore, Hobart, Penrith and Gosford – $3 million.
State Branches of the Returned and Services League to deliver state based employment programs for veterans – $6 million.
Recognising and respecting service and sacrifice
The Morrison Government will implement the Australian Defence Veterans Covenant that has been developed in partnership with the ex-service community and commits to enshrining it in legislation.
To help the wider Australian community and businesses to recognise and support our veterans we will roll out our Australian Veterans’ Card and Lapel Pin.
Australian businesses will have the opportunity to offer holders of the Australian Veterans’ Card special discounts or offers, helping to recognise the service of veterans and lower their cost of living.
75th Anniversary of the End of the Second World War
Almost one million Australians served in the armed forces during the Second World War.
Of those on active service, over 27,000 were killed in action or died, over 23,000 were wounded and over 30,000 were taken prisoner of war.
Mainland Australia came under attack for the first time with hundreds killed – air raids on Darwin, Broome and across Northern Australia; midget submarine attacks on Sydney Harbour and the loss of the hospital ship Centaur off Brisbane without warning on 14 May 1943, in which over 260 people were lost.
The Morrison Government believes that it is important to appropriately commemorate the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War next year, so that we can remember and understand the service and sacrifice of those who came before us.
To do this, we will:Provide $10 million to the National Archives of Australia to finally digitise all 1,062,000 Second World War service records that are yet to be digitised (around 80 per cent) to enable all Australians to discover the as yet untold stories of their relatives and how they defended our nation during times of war.
The digitised records will be freely available to all Australians wherever they live and will provide a comprehensive and authoritative source of information for students, journalists, authors, academics and families interested in knowing about the service of those who came before us.
Expand the well-known Saluting their Service Grants program by providing an additional $10 million to enable local communities to honour the service and sacrifice of our veterans, with a particular focus on commemorating service in the Second World War and beyond.
We will also increase the maximum amount available for community grants from $4,000 to $10,000 to ensure that local communities can appropriately commemorate this important anniversary.
Invest up to $10 million to work with the PNG Government and local landowners on projects to commemorate the bonds between Australia and Papua New Guinea from the Second World War, particularly around the Kokoda Track.
This could include investing in the World War Two/Kokoda collection at the PNG National Museum and Gallery;
upgrading the national World War Two memorial at Ela Beach;
building a new interpretive centre at Owers’ Corner at the head of the Kokoda Track;
funding for tourism related activities to support Kokoda Track communities, such as training and development of wildlife guides
and helping NGOs to strengthen the quality of health and education services for communities along the Kokoda Track.
Invest $154,000 to undertake Stage 2 of the successful ANZAC 360 app, which will focus on key Second World War Two battles and campaigns in South East Asia, including the Burma-Thailand railway (Hellfire Pass), the Sandakan-Ranau death march and Papua New Guinea campaigns including Kokoda.
The app will use virtual reality and 360 degree drone technology.
Invest $400,000 to undertake scoping studies to develop a new interpretive facility at or near the Bomona Commonwealth War Cemetery in Port Moresby and replace the ageing interpretive facility at Sandakan Memorial Park in Malaysia.
And we will provide funding of $500,000 to undertake a scoping study for a new memorial at Lemnos, to commemorate the service and sacrifice of Australians in Greece in World War One.
The Choice
The Liberal National Government has delivered record new investment in services and support for the veteran community over successive budgets to help make up for years of under-investment by Labor.
The Labor Party failed to implement fairer indexation for military superannuants while in Government, despite their 2007 election commitment to do so.
Our $1.4 billion investment in fairer indexation ensures veterans can access a fair income after their service to our nation.
After years of under-investment and neglect by Labor, our Government has invested in the most significant reform program for the Department of Veterans’ Affairs in 100 years, ensuring that it can deliver support to veterans and process claims more quickly.
These investments are only possible because our Government has ensured we have a strong economy – and all without raising taxes.
We know that more needs to be done to ensure we are constantly meeting the expectations of our veterans and the wider community.
We are therefore firmly committed to supporting those men and women who have been prepared to join the proud ranks of Australian Defence Force and to honour and recognise their service and sacrifice.
Cost
The Coalition will invest an additional $77 million to support veterans and their families.
Our Plan for Delivering High Quality Skills and Vocational Education
Key Points
The Morrison Government will create 1.25 million jobs over the next five years, including 250,000 new jobs for young Australians.
A world-class, modern and flexible vocational education and training (VET) system is crucial to meeting this goal.
We need to ensure:Australians develop the skills to succeed in a changing labour market.
Businesses have access to the skilled workforce they need to grow and prosper.
The Morrison Government’s plan for a stronger economy will:Create another 1.25 million jobs over the next five years, including 250,000 new jobs for young Australians.
Deliver the largest personal income tax relief in a decade, with tax relief of up to $1,080 for single income families earning up to $126,000.
For a dual income family that’s up to $2,160 back in families’ pockets in a few weeks’ time.
Ensure Australians have the skills they need through a new $585 million skills package with more than 80,000 new apprenticeships.
This includes doubling the number of new apprentices supported through the Australian Apprentice Wage Subsidy trial, with further investment of around $60 million.
Establish 10 Industry Training Hubs to better connect local industry and schools in areas of high youth unemployment.
Expand the Youth Jobs PaTH Program to pilot up to 10 industry-led job pathway programs to better target the training and internship experiences of young people.
Expand the successful Transition to Work service to allow young people aged 22 to 24 years to also voluntarily access pre-employment services that help prepare them for work.
Transform our employment services system to help Australians who need extra support to get a job.
Strengthen small and medium businesses by lowering business tax, improving access to finance and equity, ensuring small business is paid on time by big business and government, and increasing and expanding access to the instant asset write-off.
Better connect people to jobs, their homes and their communities, and allow businesses to connect to domestic and global export markets through a $100 billion infrastructure plan.
Ensure the Government lives within its means with disciplined fiscal management without increasing taxes.
We believe that learning through a vocational education is just as valuable as a university degree.
That’s why we are transforming the way we deliver skills, support employers and fund training.
We are creating hundreds of thousands of new apprenticeships and trainee places to guarantee a pipeline of Australian tradies and skilled workers.
Our plan will ensure that VET is responsive and flexible to meet changes in the way we work and the demand for new skills.
Labor’s track record shows they cannot be trusted with VET.
Their failed VET FEE-HELP policy was a lightning rod for dodgy providers who ripped off young Australian students, saddling them with debt and no qualification to show for it.
The Liberal National Government has restored the integrity of Australia’s VET system.
Our Plan
With a modern economy that is changing the way we work, there is a growing demand for new skills and occupations.
The Morrison Government is committed to ensuring our VET system is responsive, so students and employers reap the benefits.
We commissioned former New Zealand Minister for Tertiary Education, Skills and Employment the Hon Steven Joyce to review how Australia’s VET system can better deliver for Australian job-seekers and employers.
The Review suggested immediate steps and a longer-term roadmap.
The Morrison Government will build on our existing support to the VET sector by implementing a $585 million package to:Reduce the shortfall of skilled workers in key occupations and create up to 80,000 new apprentices by introducing a Skill Shortages payment of $4,000 for eligible employers and $2,000 for apprentices.
Further expand the successful rural wage subsidy to support employers in rural and regional Australia to take on even more apprentices.
Streamline incentives for employers of apprentices and trainees and update the skills need list to ensure it responds to labour market demand.
Address youth unemployment in regional Australia and create better connections between school students, employers and the VET sector by establishing 10 industry training hubs.
Support more young Australians to gain a VET qualification through the Commonwealth Scholarship Program for Young Australians.
Raise the profile of the VET sector and improve the career advice given to students and others transitioning to a new career by establishing a National Careers Institute and appointing a National Careers Ambassador.
Support high impact programs that create innovative partnerships between schools, tertiary providers and employers through new competitive grants.
Increase support for those with low levels of education to identify and address language, literacy, numeracy and digital skills deficits, including in remote Indigenous communities.
Give students ownership over their education records and support the lifelong learning of Australian workers by expanding the Unique Student Identifier and creating a centralised digital Tertiary Learning Repository.
Promote a nationwide approach to skills development, enhance research and analysis of future skills needs and give industry a greater role in designing training courses (by establishing a National Skills Commission and Skills Organisations across the country, starting with the growth areas of human services and digital technology (including cyber security).
Support thousands of young Tasmanians to gain new skills to boost the state’s renewable electricity generation sector and bring the Battery of the Nation plan to life.
Expand the Australian Apprentice Wage Subsidy
The Morrison Government is determined to ensure that young Australians in rural and regional areas have the opportunity to secure an apprenticeship,
while ensuring that regional small businesses have access to the skilled workforce they need to grow and prosper.
From 1 January 2019, a new trial wage subsidy program began to support eligible new Australian apprentices located in regional areas facing skill shortages.
The trial has enabled businesses in rural and regional areas to take on around 1,600 more apprentice plumbers, mechanics, electricians, painters and hairdressers than they would otherwise have been able to do.
Under the subsidy, eligible employers are able to receive payments based on the apprentice’s relevant award wage rates.
Subsidies are provided at 75 per cent of the apprentice’s award wage in the first year, followed with 50 per cent in the second year and 25 per cent in the third year.
The Coalition is committed to growing regional communities and businesses and to giving young Australians more opportunities to train for a rewarding career in the regions.
That is why a re-elected Morrison Government will expand the current successful trial program and double its size from 1 July 2019, providing additional support for young Australians and small businesses across rural and regional Australia.
Skill Shortage payment
Apprenticeships provide a pipeline for skills, particularly trade skills that are essential to keeping our economy strong.
From 1 July 2019, the Morrison Government will introduce a new apprenticeship incentive to create up to 80,000 additional apprentices in Australia’s top 10 areas of skills shortage.
Eligible apprentices will receive $1,000 after 12 months of their apprenticeship and $1,000 more upon completion.
Eligible employers will receive $2,000 after 12 months of the apprenticeship, and $2,000 more upon completion.
Support for employers and apprentices in occupations of skill shortage will boost the supply of skilled workers and help businesses grow.
This new incentive will be in addition to existing incentives.
Streamline incentives for employers of apprentices and trainees – and modernise skills
The Morrison Government will establish a new streamlined system of incentives underpinned by a priority occupations list that employers can navigate easily, ensuring that current skills needs are targeted.
To boost the economy, our apprenticeships system must be able to quickly adapt to emerging skills areas such as information technology and cyber security.
The skills needs list will be updated regularly in response to changing labour market demand.
10 Industry Training Hubs
The Morrison Government will establish 10 industry Training Hubs to address the challenge of high youth unemployment in regional areas.
The Hubs will create better connections between local industry and schools to improve outcomes for students, employers and the VET sector.
They will be an on-the-ground presence where new approaches are needed to help students transition from school to training and work.
The Hubs will facilitate additional education for trainers as well as career advice and mentoring for young people with a specific focus on traditional in-demand trades.
A career facilitator will form partnerships between industries in sectors of local skills shortages and those providing advice and education to students.
Commonwealth Scholarship Program for Young Australians
The Morrison Government will establish a Commonwealth Scholarships Program for Young Australians to help more young people enter the vocational education and training sector and gain the skills they need for a successful and rewarding career.
Four hundred Commonwealth Scholarships will be available to students in regions surrounding the pilot industry training hubs to provide a comprehensive pathway for young job-seekers in those regions.
Successful students will receive scholarship funding up to $17,500, depending on scholarship length and the type of study or training, for a maximum period of three years.
Priority will be given to eligible applicants in the following cohorts:individuals who have exited from the Australian Defence Force (ADF) in the previous 2 years (the age criteria will not be applicable for ADF applicants)
Indigenous young Australians
young Australians with a disability, and
young Australians from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
A National Skills Commission and Skills Organisations
In line with recommendations of the Joyce Review, the Morrison Government will establish a National Skills Commission to build a nationwide approach to skills development that serves students, industry and drives long-term VET reform.
The Commission will undertake research and analysis of future skills needs and investigate the efficient and fair price of qualifications.
The Commission will also play a role in promoting apprenticeships, including by collaborating with industry to assess and respond to workforce needs.
Linked to the Commission, new Skills Organisations will be piloted in areas of future jobs growth.
The Organisations will provide industry-based advice and develop industry partnerships to trial new ways to develop VET qualifications.
The initial pilots will be in the growth areas of human services, digital technologies and cyber security.
National Careers Institute and National Careers Ambassador
The Morrison Government will establish a National Careers Institute to transform the delivery of career advice for Australians across the life of their education, training and employment.
This will be supported by a National Careers Ambassador who will have strong relationships with key stakeholders and raise the profile of VET.
The institute will address a current gap in quality careers information to support the transition from school to further study or training.
As the expectations of employers evolve, young people and others transitioning through multiple careers and jobs need to know what to study to match their ambitions to the demand for skills.
Innovative partnerships between schools, tertiary providers and employers
The Morrison Government will establish a competitive grants program to support high impact programs that build innovative partnerships between schools, tertiary providers and employers.
This will enable employers to play an active support role in developing the skills they need for the jobs of the future.
Grants of up to $350,000 will be available for eligible partnerships.
The National Careers Institute will administer the program.
New national program to address language, literacy, numeracy and digital (LLND) skills deficits
The Morrison Government will establish a new national program and a series of pilots to address low language, literacy, numeracy and digital literacy skills among employed and recently unemployed Australians.
One in five Australians have poor literacy and numeracy, robbing them of the fundamental skills for employment or career progression.
This program will help participants engage with further training and job opportunities.
Foundational skill levels are an even greater concern in remote Indigenous communities.
Pilot programs will be undertaken in four locations to address the needs of adults in these communities with LLND skills deficits.
The pilots will be co-designed with local Indigenous community members.
Support lifelong learning
The Liberal National Government will expand the Unique Student Identifier to all tertiary students, giving more power to students to track their education.
The Government will also create a Tertiary Learning Repository to allow higher education providers to record an individual’s education and training records.
These measures provide a necessary down-payment for developing a more flexible system of learning across a worker’s lifetime.
Energising Tasmania
With the Energising Tasmania initiative, the Morrison Government is providing additional support to Tasmanians to train in areas of priority skills.
We will partner with the Tasmanian Government to provide fee-free training, ensuring Tasmania can build a skilled workforce to power its pumped hydro capabilities, energy infrastructure and Battery of the Nation project.
This proposal will:Provide support to fund the gap between the existing state subsidy and the total course cost for training in priority skills.
Provide up to $1000 per person to cover other costs associated with training, such as books and materials, and student amenity fees, opening up training to those least able to pay.
Supporting skills in the regions
The Morrison Government is committed to supporting small businesses
and jobseekers in rural and regional areas and we understand that providing a skilled workforce will strengthen local economies and communities.
Our skills plan contains several measures targeted to address skills shortages and elevated youth unemployment in rural and regional Australia.
We will expand the Australian Apprentice Wage Subsidy Trial by allowing more small businesses and apprentices in rural and regional areas to benefit.
We will establish 10 Industry Training Hubs in regional areas to forge better connections between local schools and businesses, ensuring that training courses are designed to tackle the specific skills needs of the regions and help reduce youth unemployment.
We will make 400 VET scholarships available to young Australians in regional areas.
We will establish four pilot programs in remote Indigenous communities to improve foundational language, literacy, numeracy and digital skills in those regions.
We will increase the lifetime loan limit available to aviation students studying at a VET Student Loans approved provider to $150,000, up from $104,440.
This will help to cover the cost of training for the licences and ratings issued by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority.
This change has also been extended to those who study at higher education providers.
We will invest $15 million to build a new Royal Flying Doctor Service Aeromedical Training Centre in Bundaberg.
The Morrison Government is delivering a comprehensive pathway for young Australians in rural and regional communities to take them from their education into training and work.
The Choice
Labor cannot be trusted when it comes to VET and skills.
Labor’s failed VET FEE-HELP scheme left thousands of students with debts and no qualification – and caused significant reputational damage to the sector.
The Liberal National Government has cleaned up Labor’s VET FEE-HELP mess.
We are supporting affected students and restoring integrity to the system.
Between 2011 and 2013, Labor cut employer incentives to businesses employing apprentices a total of nine times (at a cost of $1.2 billion).
While Bill Shorten was Employment Minister, the number of apprentices and trainees in training collapsed by 22 per cent or 110,000 – the biggest annual decline ever.
By contrast, the Morrison Government is supporting employers with a range of incentives that will be streamlined to make them easier to navigate.
Labor and their union mates have consistently opposed the successful trial of the Australian Apprentice Wage Subsidy program, describing it as "shameful" and rewarding employers with a hand out (Buzzfeed, 2 November 2018).
Labor’s opposition to this program demonstrates their lack of interest in supporting young Australians and small businesses in rural and regional Australia.
Cost
The Coalition will invest around $60 million to support additional apprentices being employed through an expansion of the Australian Apprentice Wage Subsidy trial.
Our Plan for Central Queensland
Key Points
The Morrison Government is committed to working with the communities of Central Queensland to build a strong economy,
open up new job opportunities
and support the essential services Central Queenslanders rely on.
Supporting the economy of Central Queensland means backing small and family businesses
and standing up for traditional industries like resources,
agriculture,
manufacturing and tourism.
Only the Morrison Government will back these industries
and the thousands of jobs they support.
A re-elected Morrison Government will build a stronger economy
for all of Central Queensland,
allowing us to guarantee and improve essential services.
We will:Invest in new infrastructure to grow the Central Queensland economy and improve road safety, including the Rockhampton Ring Road and Gladstone Port Access Road extension.
Support new resource development in Queensland,
having completed Commonwealth environment approvals required to start the Adani Carmichael project, with conditions to ensure protection of the environment.
Create a first-class conference facility by investing up to $20 million in the Keppel Bay Sailing Club Convention and Sporting Hub.
Support Central Queensland farmers including helping farmers through the drought and developing new opportunities for beef and other sectors.
Invest in water infrastructure to expand agriculture, including the Urannah Dam, Rookwood Weir and Mogoa Mackenzie Water Supply Scheme.
Back small and family businesses, with lower taxes and an increase in the instant asset tax write-off to $30,000 now expanded to medium-sized businesses.
Improve Energy affordability for families and businesses with a $10 million investment into the business case for new affordable energy supplies in Central Queensland and new Energy Assistance Payments for social security recipients.
Deliver Central Queenslanders the largest personal income tax relief since the Howard Government, with tax relief of up to $1,080 for single income families earning up to $126,000.
For a dual income family that’s up to $2,160 in families’ pockets.
Boost funding for Central Queensland healthcare, with new funding for cancer services, new treatments, preventative health and mental health.
Invest in Defence infrastructure
and facilities providing opportunities for small to medium sized business to secure long-term work.
Protect the Reef by continuing our Great Barrier Reef Partnership Program.
Keep communities safe by maintaining strong borders,
increasing funding for Safer Communities, and implementing comprehensive plans to address drugs, domestic violence and online safety.
The Morrison Government believes that, working together, we can create a stronger Central Queensland, but this could all be put at risk with a return to Labor.
Under Labor, the Central Queensland economy will be sent backwards with its plans to impose billions of dollars in new taxes,
a 45 per cent emissions target
and its attacks on mining and agriculture.
Major industries in Central Queensland would be faced with a 45 per cent emissions target and higher energy costs.
These are costs borne by industries and passed on to households and small businesses in higher costs – higher electricity costs, higher gas costs, refrigerant prices and waste charges.
Labor’s car tax would also push up the cost of SUVs and utes by up to $5,000.
Labor will also hit Queensland farmers with more environmental regulation.
Labor’s economic and budget mismanagement means the services Central Queenslanders rely on, like health, education and roads, would also be put at risk.
Our Record
Central Queensland has been a major focus of the Liberal Nationals Government since we were first elected in 2013.
To deliver a stronger Central Queensland economy we have invested significantly in infrastructure, including:$10 billion package of improvements to the Bruce Highway with projects including the $800 million Rockhampton Ring Road, over $677 million for stages of the Mackay Ring Road and $96.8 million Rockhampton Northern Access Upgrade.
$166 million for the Walkerston Bypass west of Mackay.
$120 million for the Walkerston Bypass west of Mackay.
$60 million to duplicate the Capricorn Highway between Rockhampton and Gracemere and $15 million for overtaking lanes along the highway.
$20 million for the Rockhampton Road Network under our Beef Roads program.
$20 million for Philip Street in Gladstone.
We have also strengthened digital and communications infrastructure.
The NBN has been rolled out to more than 78 per cent of Queensland we’ve invested in over 200 mobile blackspot base stations state-wide, including almost 50 in Central Queensland.
Our Government is prioritising regional economic development.
We have delivered an Indigenous Business Sector Strategy and set targets for government contracts which have lifted the number of Indigenous businesses winning Commonwealth contracts from 30 in 2012-13 to over 1400 today.
We stood up for the sugar industry by introducing a mandatory code of conduct
and are taking strong action in the WTO against unfair international subsidies.
We have also invested in important local projects:$25 million for the construction of the South Rockhampton Flood Levee.
$10 million to upgrade Central Queensland University’s Gladstone marina site.
$5.8 million for the Tropical Pines fruit processing facility.
$5 million for the Signature Onfarm beef processing facility.
We recognise the critical contribution of the resources sector to Central Queensland’s future and have completed Commonwealth environment approvals required to start the construction of the Adani Carmichael project, with conditions to ensure protection of the environment.
Strengthening the economy has allowed us to guarantee the services Central Queenslanders rely on.
Our strong economic and Budget management means we’ve been able to deliver:Record funding for Queensland public hospitals – increasing by 84 per cent from $2.7 billion in 2012-13 under Labor to $4.9 billion in 2019-20 under the Liberal Nationals Government's National Health Reform Agreement.
Cheaper medicines for Queenslanders with more than 2,000 new medicine listings on the PBS since we were elected in 2013, including life-saving drugs for cancer.
More funding for Queensland schools with a total of $65.1 billion from 2019 to 2029 – equal to growth of over 74 per cent.
Child care reforms which have cut out-of-pocket costs for parents within the first nine months by around 8.9 per cent.
Major commitment to aged care with $21.6 billion in 2019-20 across Australia, including funding for an additional 10,000 home care packages and a Royal Commission into the sector.
We’ve also prioritised creating a safer Central Queensland including investments under the Safer Communities Fund for CCTV cameras, security lighting, alarm systems for community spaces and other infrastructure.
The Liberal National Government has maintained strong borders: we stopped the boats, stopped the deaths at sea, removed children from detention and have cancelled the visas of thousands of criminals, over 1,100 in Queensland.
Our Plan
Record funding for roads
A stronger Central Queensland economy starts with investing more in infrastructure to unlock economic potential, ensure quicker and safer travel and help businesses efficiently transport products.
As part of the 2019-20 Budget, we have locked in a further $4 billion over the next decade for land transport infrastructure in Queensland, bringing our total investment to over $25 billion.
Projects that will benefit Central Queensland include:$800 million for the Rockhampton Ring Road as part of our $10 billion of upgrades to the Bruce Highway.
$100 million for the Gladstone Port Access Road extension, addressing safety concerns around the port and improving freight productivity and access.
Further projects under the Roads of Strategic Importance initiative, including:
$254 million for the Mt Isa to Rockhampton corridor, including
$64 million for the Yeppoon Road duplication.
$100 million for the Townsville to Roma corridor.
A re-elected Morrison Government will also invest up to $20 million to replace the John Peterson Bridge over the Boyne River.
We will also ensure Central Queensland gets its fair share of our $2.2 billion National Road Safety Package, which includes additional funding of $1.1 billion for the Roads to Recovery Program; $550 million for the Black Spots Program; $275 million for the Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program and $275 million for bridges renewal funding.
A first-class conference facility for the Capricorn Coast
A re-elected Morrison Government will invest up to $20 million to deliver the Keppel Bay Sailing Club Convention and Sporting Hub.
The project involves the redevelopment of the existing Keppel Bay Sailing Club sites to create a new conference facility, retail spaces and other infrastructure.
This project is a game-changer for the Capricorn Coast.
It will host thousands of guests,
create local jobs
and inject millions of dollars into the local economy.
More visitors to the region means more heads on beds, more customers in local cafes, restaurants and boutiques and more money back in the pockets of local business people.
Supporting Central Queensland farmers
Central Queensland farmers hit by drought are being supported through the $6.3 billion we are providing to help farmers and rural communities in need now and strengthen their preparedness and resilience for the future.
This includes the new Future Drought Fund which will grow to $5 billion and provide $100 million each year to help farmers and regional communities to prepare for, and respond to, the impacts of drought.
The Morrison Government has actively pursued trade and market access opportunities for the region’s farmers.
We have successfully negotiated 8 new trade agreements including with our major export markets of China, Japan and Korea.
As a result, beef exports to these markets have increased by up to 34.5% to a total value of $4.3 billion in 2017-18.
We are investing in important projects to grow the local agricultural industry and create more jobs, including:A $6 million co-investment with Meat and Livestock Australia for priority research into pasture dieback in Central Queensland.
Dieback is a serious issue for graziers and the $11.5 billion beef industry.
The project will focus on the insect mealybug (believed to be the culprit) and build the knowledge necessary to eventually stop it and the spread of dieback.
$3.9 million to support the delivery of Beef Australia 2021, Australia’s largest and internationally renowned beef industry exposition held in Rockhampton every three years.
The event attracts visitors from around Australia and the world and facilitates new trade and export opportunities.
Up to an additional $2.5 million for the Isis Central Sugar Mill’s proposed Wallaville cane railway project to help secure thousands of extra tonnes of cane and open up more cane production across the region, on top of our initial $2.5 million investment in the project.
Investing in water infrastructure
The Morrison Government is delivering priority water infrastructure projects that will drive economic growth and support local communities in Central Queensland.
Earlier this year we increased the Water Infrastructure Development Fund by more than $500 million, bringing our investment to fast-track water infrastructure to over $1.3 billion.
The benefits for Central Queensland include:$176 million for Rookwood Weir to expand irrigated agriculture in the Lower Fitzroy and deliver an estimated 2,100 jobs.
$10 million for pre-construction works and a business case for the Urannah Dam.
Up to $3.01 million for the Nogoa Mackenzie Water Supply Scheme.
The Liberal National Government will continue to support water infrastructure development in Central Queensland and elsewhere to expand our agricultural industry and secure water supplies for local communities.
Supporting small and family businesses
Small and family businesses are central to the Morrison Government’s economic plan for Central Queensland.
They are the engine room of our economy, with Central Queensland’s 48,000 small and medium businesses employing thousands of workers.
When small businesses are healthy, all Australians are better off.
It means more jobs,
more choice, better living standards
and more vibrant and connected communities.
The Morrison Government wants small businesses to prosper.
We want them to employ even more Australians.
So we are lowering taxes – the business tax rate for small and medium-sized companies has been reduced from 30 per cent to 27.5 per cent and will fall further to 25 per cent in 2021-22.
Unincorporated Queensland small businesses are receiving help to get ahead with the Government’s increase in the unincorporated tax discount.
As part of the 2019-20 Budget, we delivered an increase to the instant asset write-off threshold to $30,000 until 30 June 2020.
We also expanded access to include medium-sized businesses by increasing the annual turnover threshold from $10 million to $50 million.
These changes delivered a much-needed boost to agricultural, tourism, retail, hospitality and other small and medium-sized businesses in Central Queensland.
Small and family businesses in Central Queensland can trust the Morrison Government to back them with other announced measures, including streamlining red tape and simplifying tax reporting; helping them to expand by increasing access to finance with the $2 billion Australian Business Securitisation Fund and ensuring they get paid on time by government and big business.
Lower taxes for hard-working Queenslanders
The Morrison Government is lowering taxes for hard-working Queenslanders as part of our plan to deliver a stronger economy
and even more record job creation.
Our tax system must be fair for all Australians.
Our Personal Income Tax Plan delivers lower taxes for Central Queenslanders, ensuring they keep more of what they earn.
The enhanced plan will result in a better tax system, with greater reward for effort while ensuring top earners pay their fair share.
Around 170,000 lower and middle income earners in Central Queensland will receive relief of up to $1,080 after they lodge their 2018-19 tax return.
That’s up to $2,160 for dual income families.
These benefits are then locked in for subsequent years.
A re-elected Morrison Government will also deliver long-term structural reform by lowering the 32.5 per cent tax rate to 30 per cent from 1 July 2024.
As a result, around 94 per cent of Australian taxpayers will benefit from a marginal tax rate of 30 per cent or less in 2024-25.
Our Government’s strong fiscal management means that we can deliver surpluses while also rewarding hard-working Australians and easing cost of living pressures.
Strengthening the Central Queensland health system
The Morrison Government’s health plan for Queensland will protect, improve and save lives.
It builds on the record funding we have provided for Queensland public hospitals, with an 95.6 per cent increase in funding since 2012-13, record levels of bulk billing and more than 2000 new medicines listings subsidised through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.
Funding for Queensland public hospitals will increase from $2.7 billion in 2012-13 to $4.9 billion in 2018-19 and is on track to increase to $6.8 billion under a new hospitals agreement.
Our new hospitals agreement will deliver an additional $7 billion to Queensland Hospitals over five years.
Our Health Plan for Central Queensland strengthens the health system by providing affordable and accessible health services, including:Greater hospital and health services and infrastructure, including:
$7 million for a new multi-level car park
$0.52 million for Ozcare drug and alcohol services
$0.14 million for Breaking the Barrier pilot study with the Central Queensland Multicultural Association
More cancer services with $92.5 million for new MRIs across Queensland, including at Central Queensland Radiology Gladstone.
Better mental health support, with $15.4 million to support seven new headspace services across Queensland including in Sarina, and Emerald.
More funding for preventative health, with $12 million for the Heart of Australia to support and expand mobile cardiology and other services for rural Queenslanders.
Our $550 million Stronger Rural Health Strategy – delivering 3,000 extra doctors and more than 3,000 extra nurses and allied health professionals across Australia and in Central Queensland, including $84.1 million for the Royal Flying Doctor Service to provide dental care, mental health services and emergency aeromedical services.
Medical research – access to new treatment and clinical trials through the $100 million National Rural and Regional Clinical Trial Centre Program, with sites to be implemented that will improve access to new treatments for people including in Central Queensland.
Supporting affordable and reliable energy
The Morrison Government is committed to lower power prices while keeping the lights on.
We understand rising power prices are hurting Australian families struggling with the cost of living
and preventing small businesses from employing more people and expanding.
The Morrison Government has announced a $10 million program to address supply and affordability issues in North and Central Queensland, and support large energy users such as aluminum smelters, cement producers, and irrigators battling excessively high energy prices.
Industries such as these, which play a vital role in Queensland’s economy, have struggled to obtain long term competitively priced electricity contracts.
We are also investing:$50.4 million to help regional communities invest in new micro-grids.
The Regional and Remote Communities Reliability Fund will support up to 50 off-grid and fringe-of-grid communities: investigating whether establishing a micro-grid is cost-effective and if technology can upgrade existing off-grid capabilities.
$50 million in the Energy Efficient Communities Program for more than 2,500 grants to eligible businesses and community organisations across Australia including community groups in central Queensland.
In Central Queensland, we are supporting community groups with grants of up to $12,500 each to invest in solar and battery systems to reduce energy costs.
$365 million for Energy Assistance Payments of $75 for singles and $125 for couples to four million eligible social security payment recipients – to help with their next power bill and cost of living expenses.
As recommended by the ACCC, our Underwriting New Generation Investments program will also lower prices, increase competition and boost reliability.
In Central Queensland, the majority of generation and networks are controlled by the Queensland State Labor Government, which has failed to address affordability concerns in Queensland, while announcing a record $1.65 billion for the state’s coffers thanks to government-owned generators/retailers.
Labor's reckless 45% emissions target and 50% renewable energy target will push up wholesale electricity prices by 58% and deliver greater profits to Queensland Government owned electricity generators and networks.
Investing in Defence infrastructure and facilities
Central Queensland is home to one of the most important Defence training areas in the nation – the 453,700 hectare Shoalwater Bay Training Area, which has been in use since 1965.
As part of the Coalition Government’s 2016 Defence White Paper, around $190 million was allocated for infrastructure upgrades and other projects over the decade to 2026.
Under the Coalition’s Local Industry Capability Plan pilot, 80 per cent of the sub-contracts for the Shoalwater Bay Remediation Project have been awarded to local businesses in the Rockhampton and Livingstone regions.
Further, under the Australia-Singapore Military Training Initiative (ASMTI) Facilities Project, work is commencing by the end of 2019 on a five-year $800 million project to deliver enhanced military training areas at Shoalwater Bay.
Under the Coalition’s Local Industry Capability Plan, over 80 per cent of the work arising from this project will be sourced from the Central Queensland region, ensuring local businesses can take advantage of this important initiative.
The ASMTI is a key achievement of the Coalition Government as part of our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Singapore.
It will see $2.25 billion invested in Central and North Queensland, with a strong focus on local industry participation, both as part of infrastructure works as well as ongoing support to the Australian Defence Force and Singaporean Defence Force utilising the training areas,
bringing jobs, skills and economic activity to the region.
skills
and economic activity to the region.
Protecting the Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is not only a natural wonder
– it’s a huge economic driver, particularly in Central Queensland.
The Reef contributes 64,000 jobs
and $6.4 billion in economic value every year.
We will continue to roll out the $443.3 million Great Barrier Reef Partnership Program as part of our more than $1.2 billion Reef investment.
This funding is supporting proven reef protection activities such as improving water quality, crown-of-thorns starfish control, community action and scientific research and development to find new ways of restoring and protecting the Reef.
Safer and more secure Queensland communities
The Morrison Government is committed to supporting the safety and security of Central Queensland communities.
We will deliver a comprehensive suite of national actions that will help keep people in Central Queensland safe.
As well as maintaining strong borders and cancelling visas of criminals,
Central Queensland will benefit from our national plans to:Support local councils and community organisations in crime prevention activities (as well as protect schools, religious institutions and other sites from religious and racial intolerance) with CCTV cameras, security lighting, alarm systems and other infrastructure. This will be delivered through a further $58.2 million investment in the Safer Communities Fund.
Deliver a comprehensive drug strategy to address the supply, demand and harm caused by illicit drugs with a five-year $337 million investment.
This includes $152 million to strengthen law enforcement to disrupt and reduce the supply of illicit drugs – including targeting outlaw motorcycle gangs.
Take action against domestic violence, with a record investment of $328 million for prevention and frontline services to support the Fourth Action Plan of the National Plan to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children.
Deliver a comprehensive plan to improve online safety, including funding a $10 million Online Safety Grants program to deliver practical online safety education and training projects; continuing to protect kids online through our world-first e-safety Commissioner and establishing an Online Safety Charter to set expectations for social media companies.
The Choice
There is a lot at stake at this election.
And there is a clear choice.
A choice between a Government that is delivering a strong economy or a Labor Party that would weaken our economy.
A choice between a Government that is fixing the Budget or a Labor Party that can’t manage money.
A choice between a Government that is easing the pressure on families by lowering taxes or a Labor Party that will put more strain on households by imposing $387 billion in new taxes on workers, retirees and small business.
A choice between a Government that can afford to pay for better infrastructure and services
or a Labor Party that would max out Australia’s credit card.
A choice between a Government that has secured our borders and is keeping Australians safe or a Labor Party that has learned nothing from its border security failures.
Central Queensland cannot afford Labor governments at both the federal and state levels.
Labor can’t manage money and they can’t manage the economy.
When Labor can’t manage money, they come after yours.
In 2017-18 the Queensland Labor Government cut activity funding by $8.7 million for the Central Queensland Health Service and $1.7 million form the Mackay Health Service.
This is what happens when you can’t manage money, and it provides a taste of what Central Queensland can expect under a Shorten Labor Government.
Labor plans to hit Australians with $387 billion in big new taxes which will hurt Central Queenslanders:Labor’s retiree tax will punish older Australians who have worked hard and saved for retirement by abolishing tax refunds on share dividends.
In Central Queensland, this will affect over 15,000 individuals who have direct shareholdings and many more invested through self-managed super funds.
On average individuals with direct holdings will lose almost $2,300 a year and self-managed super funds will lose $12,000 a year.
Labor’s housing and investment taxes will end negative gearing as we know it, and increase capital gains tax by 50 per cent.
If you own your own home it will be worth less, and if you rent you will pay more.
Labor would impose higher income tax by reversing the Government’s legislated income tax plan and the enhancements we announced in the 2019-20 Budget.
Our plan will ensure 94 per cent of taxpayers will pay no more than 30 cents in the dollar.
This would leave over 130,000 people in Central Queensland worse off.
Labor’s Family Business Tax would impose a minimum tax rate of 30 per cent on the 6,000 small businesses in Central Queensland structured through discretionary trusts. This is the same rate imposed on large multinational companies.
On top of this, Labor’s reckless emissions targets will:Cost the economy $472 billion.
Slash more than 336,000 jobs.
Cut the average wage by over $9,000.
Increase wholesale electricity prices by more than 58%.
Labor’s car tax will also increase the cost of SUVs and utes by up to $5,000 and reduce choice of vehicles.
Central Queensland will be particularly hard hit with higher electricity and gas prices, higher costs of refrigeration and higher transport costs.
There are costs that Central Queensland businesses and workers can’t afford.
Labor’s reckless carbon hit list targeting 250 firms will have a disproportionate impact on Central Queensland, adding substantial costs on organisations which employ thousands of workers.
Firms at risk include beef processing, alumina refineries, aluminium smelters, coal producers, LNG plants, sugar refiners and chemical plants.
Labor also can’t be trusted with supporting Central Queensland industries like mining and agriculture, with a massive new Environmental Protection Authority planned in Canberra.
By contrast, the Morrison Government has a plan for lower taxes so that you can keep more of the money you earn.
We have a comprehensive plan to bring down electricity prices by increasing competition in Central Queensland projects to underwrite generation and develop micro-grid energy solutions.
There will be only one outcome for Central Queensland under Labor – a weaker economy, fewer jobs and higher taxes. Labor can’t be trusted to run the economy and manage the Budget.
fewer jobs
higher taxes.
Labor can’t be trusted to run the economy and manage the Budget.
And they can’t be trusted to invest in services that Central Queenslanders rely on, including health, education and roads.
Cost
The Coalition’s plan for Central Queensland will not place additional costs on the Budget.
Our Plan for Supporting Farmers in Drought
Key Points
No Australian Government can make it rain.
No Australian Government can make it stop raining.
But only the Morrison Government is making it a priority to build resilience against the inevitable droughts and floods that will visit our land.
The Morrison Government has made it a national priority to build support for drought-stricken communities and resilience against future droughts.
The Morrison Government approach has been built on three pillars.
First, we ensured a coordinated approach by appointing a Coordinator-General for Drought, Major General Stephen Day and the Drought Special Envoy Barnaby Joyce.
We convened a Drought Summit and developed a new National Drought Agreement ensuring a united front from Commonwealth and state and territory governments in support of farming businesses, families and communities.
Second, we ensured affected farming families and communities have the support they need.
And we will continue to do so.
Third, we acted to build our nation’s resilience against drought with a landmark Future Drought Fund.
A re-elected Morrison Government will:Invest $3.9 billion in the Future Drought Fund to prepare for future droughts.
The Fund will grow to $5 billion over the next decade and enable investment of $100 million per year in water infrastructure and drought resilience.
Continue to ensure the Farm Household Allowance is fit for purpose, making the $5m farm assets test for Farm Household Allowance permanent.
Create a new restocking and replanting concessional loan through the Regional Investment Corporation
Establish a $7 million Drought Communities Small Business Support Program
Provide extra support by providing $1 million each to an additional 14 local council areas experiencing severe drought through the Drought Communities Program
Labor has no empathy for regional Australia.
Labor does not appreciate the contribution that Australian farmers make to the national economy.
Labor even voted against the landmark Future Drought Fund.
Labor has no plan to support farmers and farm communities affected by drought.
Labor has no plan to strengthen the Australian farm sector’s resilience to drought.
Our Record
The Morrison Government has a plan for drought.
By keeping our economy strong, we are ensuring support for our agricultural industries to combat, recover and prepare for drought.
The Morrison Government understands that agriculture depends on good seasonal conditions and advantageous trade terms.
When our farmers are doing well, our regional economies are doing well.
When our farmers are doing it tough, the Morrison Government has demonstrated its willingness to act to make sure they get the hand up they need.
The effects of the drought in south-eastern Australia are starting to flow through.
Nationally, farm profitability is expected to be lower in 2018-19 than the previous two years, largely due to drought conditions.
The effects of the drought in south-eastern Australia are starting to flow through.
Nationally, farm profitability is expected to be lower in 2018-19 than the previous two years, largely due to drought conditions.
The Morrison Government has made support available for drought-stricken communities.
At the same time, we are prioritising the work required to be resilient against future droughts.
The Morrison Government is investing $6.3 billion in ongoing, immediate and long-term drought support to help farming families and communities in drought.
Our response to the drought has been shaped by the ongoing intelligence gathered on the ground by the Coordinator-General for Drought and the Drought Special Envoy.
Australia’s farmers are in the hands of the weather, and climate change forms part of this.
The Morrison Government has announced a $3.5 billion Climate Solutions Plan, which is among the largest investments by Australia in emissions reduction.
The Climate Solutions Plan will ensure Australia meets our 2030 target.
Support for farmers and their families
Farm Household Allowance (FHA) has helped more than 11,200 farmers and delivered $266.9 million in fortnightly support payments.
FHA is not just a drought measure, it helps all farmers facing financial hardship.
However, many of the farmers that access FHA do so because of drought.
FHA is relatively new, becoming available only four years ago.
During this time, the Liberal Nationals Government has made a number of changes to ensure the Allowance meets the needs of Australian farming families, whether that be putting food on the table, paying household bills or buying school supplies.
In recognition of the ongoing drought conditions, the Morrison Government also provided FHA recipients with a Special Drought Supplement payment.
The supplement was paid in two instalments of $3,600 for singles and $3,000 for each partner for couples.
Through the $30 million Drought Community Support Initiative, charities are providing around 10,000 of our farming families with cash and vouchers to help with daily household expenses.
$5 million has also been provided to the CWA to support their drought charity efforts.
The financial stress of drought brings mental stress.
The Liberal Nationals Government has also invested $29.4 million to expand the Empowering our Community and Connecting Youth Awareness raising Initiative and Telehealth Services.
We are providing $15 million in extra funding to the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal to deliver small-scale grants for not-for-profit community groups.
Support for farm businesses
Farm businesses told us that it is difficult and time consuming to sift through the web of information to find the right support for their particular needs because each program is found on different websites.
To ensure that farmers and communities can find out what support is available and where to get help, the government has funded the National Farmers’ Federation FarmHub.
FarmHub is a single trusted point of access to information and services.
It’s a one-stop-shop covering support and programs from all levels of government, industry groups and not-for-profit organisations.
The Morrison Government has provided an additional $339,000 to the NFF to expand the content of FarmHub.
The additional content will focus on farm risk management approaches, including the development of a Drought Preparedness E-checklist.
Farm businesses are able to access concessional loans through the Regional Investment Corporation.
The Morrison Government provided the RIC with an additional $1 billion to help drought affected farmers.
This funding supports the RIC’s special drought loan, helping farmers prepare for, manage through or recover from drought.
Since 2013, more than 1,600 farm businesses have had loans approved - only eight were approved the last time Labor was in Government.
The Morrison Government has established a $50 million Emergency Water Infrastructure Rebate Scheme.
Farmers can use this funding for on-farm emergency watering points, de-silting of dams and drilling new stock water bores to improve drought resilience.
The Rural Financial Counselling Service has been around for about 30 years.
It provides confidential rural financial counselling to primary producers and fishers experiencing financial difficulties.
The Liberal Nationals Government has provided an additional $5 million to the RFCS bringing our total investment to $77 million. Over 4,000 farming businesses are being assisted by Rural Financial Counsellors.
Building long term resilience to drought means tackling pests and weeds. Weeds alone cost the agriculture sector $4.8 billion a year.
To help farmers and communities manage the impact of wild dogs, pest animals and weeds during drought, the Liberal Nationals Government is providing $15 million in funding for 48 projects across drought ravaged communities.
Our total investment in fighting pests and weeds has reached over $200 million.
Farmers told us they need better weather forecasting to help them plan.
We have responded with $77.2 million in funding for radars to address gaps and $2.7 million to the Bureau of Meteorology for regional climate guides provided.
These initiatives will provide farmers with more information to farmers and giving them the resources to better manage the weather and climate.
The Morrison Government cut red tape to get fodder to farms more quickly.
Heavy vehicle height and width allowances were increased for trucks carrying hay and fodder to drought areas, resulting in up to 54,000 days per year avoided in waiting for permits.
Additionally, the $75 million accelerated fodder storage asset depreciation will provide farmers the option to instantly depreciate their asset, instead of depreciating it over 3 years.
Support for farming communities
When Australian farmers are doing it tough, so do the communities that support and rely on them.
Through the Drought Communities Fund, 96 local governments have access to $1 million each to deliver local infrastructure and drought relief products.
An additional $23.7 million has been provided to fast track capping and tapping free-flowing bores across the Great Artesian Basin to ensure there is water available for generations to come.
$72 million in funding has been made available for projects in drought-affected areas through a special National Water Infrastructure Development Fund Drought Round.
Our Plan
Delivering the Future Drought Fund
No Australian Government can make it rain.
No Australian Government can protect Australia’s farmers from drought.
But the Morrison Government will make an unprecedented investment in drought resilience, preparedness and recovery.
The Government’s $3.9 billion Future Drought Fund - which will grow to $5 billion over time - will deliver $100 million per annum to a range of projects mitigating the impact of drought.
Labor doesn’t support the Future Drought Fund.
Labor doesn’t want to put in place guaranteed funding to help Australian farmers who need to prepare for and respond to drought conditions that are out of their control.
Restocking and Replanting Concessional Loans
In recognition of the impact of prolonged drought on farm capital resources, the Morrison Government will make available a new loan product to drought affected farmers for restocking and replanting purposes.
Drawing on the Regional Investment Corporation (RIC), eligible farmers will be able to borrow up to $200,000 for restocking and replanting.
Loan terms include a two year interest free period, with no interest accrual.
This will assist farm businesses immediately rebuild and restore their future viability following successive years of financial hardship brought about by harsh drought conditions.
The concessional rate of interest and flexible repayment terms over the remainder of the term will help farming families get back on their feet.
Eligible farmers must demonstrate their property is in a 10 per cent rainfall deficient area through Bureau of Meteorology rainfall deficiency mapping over at least a 24 month period and have experience of consistently failed crops or have consistently destocked for two or more years.
Fit for purpose Farm Household Allowance
A re-elected Morrison Government will continue to improve FHA to ensure it is fit for purpose.
Farmers are unlike other recipients of government support.
They have a full-time business to run, livestock to care for, crops to market and properties to maintain.
That’s why FHA has more generous assets tests and other special dispensations.
In 2018 the Liberal National Government temporarily extended the farm assets threshold to $5 million. A re-elected Morrison Government will make this permanent.
This move recognises that farmers have substantial assets but no income to meet daily expenses.
As part of the recent Budget, the Morrison Government made changes to discount or exempt the forced sale of livestock from the FHA income test when the income is invested in a Farm Management Deposit.
Farmers on FHA who are destocking will be able to retain access to income support and make long-term financial plans for their future.
Farmers on FHA who are destocking will be able to retain access to income support and make long-term financial plans for their future.
Financial Counselling for Small Businesses in Drought Affected Communities
When our farmers are doing it tough in a drought, so are the small businesses that support them.
One of the long-standing and most successful services for farmers in hardship is the Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS).
The RFCS supports our farmers to make business decisions, identifying financial and business options, developing action plans and negotiating with lenders.
A re-elected Morrison Government will commit $7 million to establish the RFCS Drought Communities Small Business Support Program.
The Program will be provided free of charge to business owners.
Supporting communities tackling drought
As part of the recent Budget, an additional $15 million has been allocated to 15 more local government areas under the Drought Communities Program.
This brings the total investment to $96 million for 96 local governments suffering drought.
Funding has been used for a wide variety of projects that help farmers and residents.
The Bollon Town Common Fencing Upgrade will renew fences for better management of stock near main roads in the Balonne Shire.
The Unsealed Road Infrastructure Upgrade will install water-filling stations closer to farmers and upgrade cattle grids in the Tamworth Shire.
A re-elected Morrison Government will continue to evaluate drought conditions and provide assistance to those Council areas in most need.
We will provide $1 million to an additional 14 Councils experiencing severer drought conditions.
Councils include:BalranaldBerriganHayRenmark ParingaUnincorporated SALatrobeMilduraYarriambiackFederationCoolamonAdelaide PlainsAlexandriaCopper CoastPort Pirie City and District
This brings our total investment under the Drought Communities Program to $110 million.
The Choice
There is a lot at stake at this election.
And there is a clear choice.
A choice between a Government that is delivering a stronger economy and a Labor Party that would weaken our economy.
A choice between a Government that is fixing the Budget and a Labor Party that can’t manage money.
A choice between a Government whose sound economic management enables it to properly fund drought support and resilience measures and a Labor Party who can’t manage money and therefore can’t deliver essential services.
A choice between a Government that values Australia’s farm sector and a Labor Party that opposed the Future Drought Fund in the Australian Parliament.
A choice between a Government that has increased Farm Household Assistance and a Labor Party that would let the program wither.
A choice between a Government that stands behind farmers in need and a Labor Party that would abandon our farmers and their communities.
No empathy, no plan, no ideas
Labor has no plan to support farmers and farm communities affected by drought.
Labor has no plan to strengthen the Australian farm sector’s resilience to drought.
Labor has never demonstrated any understanding of challenges and
Farmers and their families matter to the Liberals and Nationals.
The Morrison Government stands behind farmers in need.
The Morrison Government is prepared to provide a genuine, long term investment in drought resilience and drought proofing Australia.
Labor has no plan.
Cost
The Coalition will invest an additional $36.4 million to help farmers tackle drought
Our Plan to Showcase Agriculture: Our heritage. Our future.
Key Points
The Morrison Government has a plan to showcase agriculture and bring the city and country closer together.
Our plan for a strong economy is ensuring we can better educate the next generation and the generations to come about where their food and fibre come from.
Agriculture has always played an important role in the success of our nation – it touches all Australians.
It’s a key pillar of the economy.
Our farmers care for our land while feeding and clothing us and tens of millions more in markets abroad.
Hundreds of thousands of Australians work on the land or in related sectors in our regional towns and the major cities.
It’s an advanced and innovative industry with an exciting future.
But many of our kids don’t know or are confused about where their food comes from and we are trying to fix this.
We need to engage current and future generations about the contribution, the promise and the future of farming, show them where our food and fibre come from and encourage more young Australians to study agriculture.
A re-elected Morrison Government will invest $10 million in two new programs to bring our kids and our farms together.
We will fund primary and secondary school student visits to farms and we will establish up to 80 mobile ‘mini farms’ in urban based schools through the iFarm program.
Australia’s regional communities are the hubs supporting our farmers.
Hubs that play an important role in Australia’s economic growth.
The Morrison Government has invested in our regional communities, especially those faced with droughts and, most recently, the extensive flood event in north Queensland.
The Drought Communities Program for example, is delivering infrastructure projects that provide employment, stimulate local community spending use local resources, businesses and suppliers and have a long-lasting benefit to the communities.
More needs to be done to bring regional communities together, to keep them strong and resilient. Agricultural shows are the most authentic and accessible showcases of Australian farming.
These institutions are at the very heart of our regional communities.
They bring farmers and people from the city together.
Agricultural shows are fun, bring communities together and showcase new technology and promote competition with prized livestock.
However, many are struggling with old infrastructure making it hard for shows to go ahead and attract visitors.
A re-elected Morrison Government will establish a new $20 million Regional Agricultural Show Development grant program.
Grants will be available for regional agricultural show societies that run annual shows to upgrade and maintain existing infrastructure and to build new infrastructure.
This investment will help keep our agricultural shows running, help bring communities together and help bridge the divide between country and city.
Our Plan
Regional Australia makes a significant contrition to our national economy.
It has long been the engine room of the economy with around $537 billion (31 per cent) of our annual GDP coming from regional Australia in 2016-17.
When Australia’s regional towns prosper, so does the Australian economy.
But when times are tough, the Morrison Government has demonstrated our commitment to back in regional communities.
A prime example is our Drought Communities Program, which is delivering $1 million each to Councils across the country severely impacted by the drought.
The Program has supported community infrastructure and other drought relief projects.
It’s aimed at providing employment for people whose work opportunities have been impacted by the drought and stimulating local community spending.
The Morrison Government has also provided $30 million in much needed drought support to families through the Drought Community Support Initiative.
This includes up to $2,000 in cash and $1,000 in vouchers, making sure the money is spent in the local community.
After the major flood event in north Queensland the Morrison Government provided 11 of the most impacted Councils $1 million each to help them with the costs of the response and clean-up.
The significant donations made by the public to help farmers tackle drought and natural disasters demonstrate that Australians support the bush and want to make sure that our farmers have a future.
Gone are the days when large numbers of Australians had a close relative working the land.
This is resulting in a lack of understanding about where our food and fibre come from and the career and lifestyle opportunities available in modern farming and our regions.
Agriculture is more than big hats and boots.
It’s a high-tech industry with an exciting future producing the food we eat and the fibre we wear.
A re-elected Morrison Government will help promote that message, especially to our kids.
Taking kids to farms and farms to kids
Studies have found that 75 per cent of primary and secondary school students think that cotton socks are made from animal products.
Sadly, 45 per cent don’t think that bread, bananas and cheese come from farmed product and 40 per cent believe that farming damages the environment.
A re-elected Morrison Government is committed to changing attitudes to farming and addressing the gap in kids' understanding of where our food and fibre come from.
We will invest $5 million over three years to fund primary and secondary school student visits to farms and other primary production worksites.
The funding will be used for state farming bodies to sponsor government, Catholic and independent primary and secondary school visits to teach kids about agricultural production, sustainability practices and farm land stewardship.
City kids will have a hands-on, practical farm experience with the intention of gaining a better understanding of where and how their food and fibre are produced as well as the role and importance of agriculture to Australia’s way of life, regional communities and the economy.
$5 million will also be provided to the iFarm initiative for up to 80 city schools to establish ‘mini farms’: a mobile, living ‘mini farm’ that is fully integrated and computerised as an educational platform to teach students about the use of water, land and energy in food production.
Where they have little room to establish a permanent garden, iFarm is ideal for schools on small footprints, particularly in inner city locations – demonstrating how food is grown through water management, solar energy, soil quality, fertilisers, recycling and waste management.
iFarms replicate large farming practices into a small scale unit.
Showcasing agriculture
Agricultural shows are an integral part of Australian culture.
They play an important part in country life, highlighting the local strengths and bringing communities together.
This is particularly important when our regional communities are tested with extended droughts and one-in-one hundred-year weather events.
Agricultural shows started in the nineteenth century and at their core they still provide unique opportunities to showcase new technologies.
Shows also promote competition with awards for best in class or category for livestock and produce.
Agricultural shows allow people from cities and big regional centres to better understand where their food and fibre come from.
Right across regional Australia our agricultural shows are delivered each year by hardworking volunteers.
Often show societies are faced with ageing infrastructure and expensive repair bills, impacting on the quality of the show and, in some cases, forcing shows to be cancelled.
More can and should be done to support these institutions that are at the very heart of our regional communities.
A re-elected Morrison Government will establish a $20 million Regional Agricultural Show Development Grants Program.
Grants will be available for regional agricultural show societies that run annual shows to upgrade and maintain existing infrastructure and to build new infrastructure.
Regional show ground upgrades support more than agricultural shows.
This vital community infrastructure is often used for other local events, including local farmers markets, that bring communities together.
Promoting the role of farming
The Morrison Government is providing $720,000 to Agricultural Shows Australia (ASA) to utilise and mobilise the agricultural show network to enhance the skills of young people in agriculture and promote the value and role of farmers.
This funding will support the Young Judges and Paraders Program and the Young Farmers Challenge.
ASA will also use this funding to boost education around sustainable agri-food production for schools, shows and community events.
It will see ASA work with organisations like the Primary Industries Education Foundation Australia to deliver better educational material and resources.
This funding will ensure the agricultural shows movement continues to be a strong contributor to our economy, culture and communities and continues to support our young farmers and rural leaders.
Encouraging more Australians to study agriculture
The Morrison Government is providing $220,000 to Primary Industry Education Foundation Australia (PIEFA) to fund a new major study of students' and teachers’ perceptions about food and fibre production, as well as their views on the careers that are available in the agricultural sector.
The outcomes will inform future education and communication initiatives to improve young Australians' connection with agriculture and food and fibre production, and encourage young people to study agriculture.
If Australian agriculture is going to have a strong and sustainable future, we must invest in our most important resources – our people. The funding also allows PIEFA to deliver annual one-day workshops on food and fibre education for Australian school students in each state and territory.
The Morrison Government wants to get more kids excited about the job opportunities and long-term rewarding careers that agriculture offers.
This program is part of the Government’s Plan to strengthen agriculture,
support jobs
and our regional communities
and boost our economy.
The Choice
The Morrison Government appreciates the need to ensure that our children understand and value the contribution of farming.
We are invested in supporting the sector, regional communities and the future of farming.
By contrast, Labor has no empathy for ‘the bush.’
Labor under-estimates the value of the farming sector to the Australian economy.
Cost
The Coalition will invest an additional $30 million to showcase farming and agricultural careers.
Our Plan for Western Sydney
Key Points
The Morrison Government’s strong partnership with the NSW Liberal Nationals Government is supporting a major transformation of Western Sydney.
Our vision is for a new city, supported by a major investment in infrastructure that will better connect the people of Western Sydney to the rest of Australia and the world.
By building the Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport, undertaking congestion-busting road projects and transforming the public transport system, we will make Western Sydney a better place to live, work and play.
Our plan will deliver more high-paid job opportunities,
better transport infrastructure, a sensible and responsible approach to population pressures, and improved local services.
The investment we are making in Western Sydney is already showing results.
Since the Liberal Nationals Government came to power in 2013, the unemployment rate has fallen across Western Sydney.
A re-elected Morrison Government will build an even stronger economy in Western Sydney,
allowing us to guarantee the essential services that local residents need and rely on.
We will:Build the Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport to directly connect Western Sydney to the world by 2026.
Implement the Western Sydney City Deal to create 200,000 new jobs,
boosting the NSW and national economy.
Invest in congestion-busting infrastructure to ensure people in Western Sydney spend less time in traffic, and more time with friends and family.
Manage population growth responsibly, including by reducing permanent migration to ease pressure on roads and services across Sydney.
Back small and family businesses, with lower taxes and an increase to the instant asset write-off to $30,000 now expanded to medium-sized businesses.
Tackle cost of living pressures, including lower taxes for hard-working Western Sydney workers,
a plan for lower energy prices,
Energy Assistance Payments for social security recipients and record bulk billing rates.
Boost funding for Western Sydney healthcare, including for hospital services, cancer infrastructure and mental health.
Deliver safer and more secure Western Sydney communities by maintaining strong borders, continuing to deport criminals,
increasing funding for the Safer Communities Fund, and implementing comprehensive national plans to address drugs, domestic violence and online safety.
Meet our climate commitments and protect the local environment, including funding to clean-up and improve the Hawkesbury and Nepean Rivers.
With the economy growing and major infrastructure projects underway, now is not the time to turn back.
Labor’s plan for billions of dollars of new taxes on retirees, workers, investors and family businesses and reckless emissions reduction targets will stop Western Sydney’s growth in its tracks.
Labor’s economic and budget mismanagement also means the essential services Western Sydney relies on, like health, education and roads, would be put at risk.
Our Record
Around 180,000 jobs have been created in Western Sydney since the Liberal Nationals Government was first elected in 2013.
There are more people in work, fewer people on welfare, and the local economy is thriving.
fewer people on welfare,
and the local economy is thriving.
At the heart of our economic plan for Western Sydney is a multi-billion dollar investment in new infrastructure.
We are rolling out:A $3.6 billion Western Sydney Infrastructure Plan in partnership with the NSW Government to provide better local roads and connections to the new airport, including:
Upgrades to The Northern Road to a minimum of four lanes from Narellan to Jamison Road.
Upgrades to Bringelly Road to a minimum of four lanes between The Northern Road and Camden Valley Way.
Construction of the Werrington Arterial Road by upgrading Kent Road and Gipps Street to four lanes between the Great Western Highway and the M4 Motorway.
Upgrades of the intersection of Ross Street and the Great Western Highway.
$200 million package for local roads.
The Plan will also support the creation of 4000 direct and indirect jobs.
$1.5 billion grant plus a $2 billion concessional loan for WestConnex to link Western Sydney to the city, airport and ports, with up to 52 traffic lights gone, saving commuters approximately 40 minutes.
It will also create 10,000 direct and indirect jobs.
$115 million to upgrade Mulgoa Road and surrounding connections.
We have also provided tax relief to hard-working Western Sydney workers,
finalised the Western Sydney City Deal,
supported the world-class aerotropolis,
invested $15 million in the Western Sydney Housing Package to boost housing supply,
and are supporting local community projects such as $5 million for the Tench Reserve boat ramp
and $7.2 million for the Campbelltown Centre of Sport and Health Excellence
and are investing in women’s change rooms at sporting grounds and community swimming facilities across Australia.
Strengthening the economy has allowed us to guarantee the services Western Sydney relies on.
Our strong economic and budget management means we have been able to deliver:Record funding for NSW public hospitals, with funding having increased by 59 per cent from $4.3 billion in 2012-13 under Labor to $6.8 billion in 2019-20.
Cheaper medicines for Australians, with more than 2,000 new medicine listings on the PBS since we were elected in 2013, including life-saving drugs for cancers.
More funding for NSW schools, with a total of $95.9 billion from 2018 to 2029, equivalent to growth of 84 per cent.
Childcare reforms which have cut out-of-pocket costs for parents within the first nine months, including by 6.4 per cent in Sydney.
Major commitment to aged care including $21.6 billion for aged care in 2019-20 across Australia, an increase of more than 50 per cent since 2013-14, funding for an additional 10,000 home care packages, and a Royal Commission into the sector.
A $150 million Western Parkland City Liveability Program in partnership with the NSW Government and local councils to improve community facilities and urban amenity in Western Sydney.
We have also prioritised creating a safer Western Sydney, including investments under the Safer Communities Fund for CCTV cameras, security lighting, alarm systems for community spaces and other infrastructure.
The Liberal Nationals Government has also maintained strong borders – we stopped the boats, stopped the deaths at sea, removed children from detention, and have cancelled the visas of thousands of criminals across the country, including over 1500 in NSW alone.
Our Plan
Building the Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport
After decades of indecision, it is the Liberal Nationals Government that broke the stalemate over the long-awaited Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport at Badgerys Creek.
The first sod was turned in September last year and construction is underway ahead of the planned opening in 2026.
The airport will establish a new international gateway to the country, secure Sydney’s aviation capacity and connect Western Sydney with the world.
With Sydney’s aviation demand set to double over the next 20 years, the airport will help Sydney to meet this demand,
while also providing a source of jobs
and economic growth for the region.
Tourism will also be boosted,
with the airport providing better accessibility to destinations across Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains.
The airport will generate more than 11,000 jobs throughout the construction period.
Once operational, the airport will support around 28,000 direct and indirect jobs to Western Sydney by 2031.
Congestion busting infrastructure
The Morrison Government understands that Western Sydney families want to spend less time in their cars and more time with their friends and families.
As part of the 2019-20 Budget, we have locked in a further $7.3 billion for infrastructure in NSW over the next decade, bringing our total investment to $33 billion.
We are making a significant investment in Western Sydney to ease congestion, ensure people get to their destinations quickly and safely, and help businesses efficiently transport goods and products around the city:Up to $3.5 billion towards the first stage of the North South Rail Link, from St Marys to the Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport, including $61 million for the Elizabeth Drive Overpass, an essential piece of enabling infrastructure to ensure the new airport is rail ready.
An additional $405 million towards the $1.4 billion construction of a new M12 motorway to provide quality road connectivity to the new airport.
$200 million for a new crossing of the Hawkesbury River, between Richmond and North Richmond to reduce congestion, and improve road flood capacity and immunity.
$95 million to upgrade Horsley Drive in the city’s south-west, including a 2.4km four lane divided road between the M7 Motorway and Cowpasture Road.
Commuter car park upgrades to improve access to public transport including at Kingswood Station ($20 million), St Marys Station ($20 million), Emu Plains Station ($15 million), Campbelltown Station ($15 million), Macarthur Station ($15 million), Revesby Station ($9.5 million), Panania Station ($7.5 million), and Riverwood Station ($9.5 million).
$63.5 million to upgrade Dunheved Road in Penrith, addressing unsafe stretches of the road between Richmond Road and Werrington Road.
$50 million to upgrade Homebush Bay Drive, including investigating options to improve traffic flow at the intersection of Australia Avenue and Underwood Road.
Western Sydney will also get its fair share of our $2.2 billion Local and State Road Safety Package to address much-needed local road maintenance as well as blackspots.
Managing population growth
Over the past decade, Australia’s population increased by 3.8 million people – much of this in Sydney, Melbourne and South-East Queensland.
The Morrison Government recognises that the current rate of growth, and its concentration in major cities, has heightened existing pressures, leading to rising congestion and reduced liveability in places like Western Sydney.
That is why the Morrison Government has delivered Australia’s first serious plan to manage population growth into our future.
This will improve quality of life in Western Sydney, meaning workers spend less time in traffic in their commute to work, and more time at home with friends and family.
As part of the plan, the Government has decided to reduce the permanent migration program ceiling by a cumulative 120,000 places over four years, and to introduce new regional provisional visas to encourage more migrants to settle and remain in regional areas.
We are also providing increased flexibility for States to meet their particular population needs.
Supporting small and family businesses
Small and family businesses are central to the Morrison Government’s economic plan for Australia and for Western Sydney.
They are the engine room of our economy, with around 215,000 small and medium businesses in Western Sydney employing thousands of workers.
When small businesses are healthy, all Australians are better off.
It means more jobs,
more choice, better living standards
and more vibrant and connected communities.
The Morrison Government wants small businesses to prosper.
We want them to employ even more Australians.
So we are lowering taxes – the business tax rate for small and medium-sized companies has been reduced from 30 per cent to 27.5 per cent and will fall further to 25 per cent in 2021-22.
Unincorporated Western Sydney small businesses are also receiving help to get ahead with the Government’s increase in the unincorporated tax discount.
As part of the 2019-20 Budget, we delivered an increase to the instant asset write-off threshold to $30,000 until 30 June 2020.
We also expanded access to include medium-sized businesses by increasing the annual turnover threshold from $10 million to $50 million.
These changes delivered a much-needed boost to retail, hospitality, manufacturing and other small and medium-sized businesses in Western Sydney.
Small and family businesses in Western Sydney can trust the Morrison Government to back them with other announced measures, including streamlining red tape and simplifying tax reporting;
helping them to expand by increasing access to finance with the $2 billion Australian Business Securitisation Fund and the $100 million Small Business Growth Fund;
ensuring they get paid on time by government and big business;
and supporting SME exporters through an additional $60 million for the Export Market Development Grants scheme.
Lower taxes for hard-working Australians
The Morrison Government will support families across Western Sydney by relieving cost of living pressures.
This starts with lowering taxes for hard-working Australians as part of our plan to deliver a stronger economy
and record job creation.
Our tax system must be fair for all Australians, one that provides reward for effort.
Our Personal Income Tax Plan delivers lower taxes for lower and middle income earners, ensuring they keep more of what they earn.
800,000 lower and middle income earners in Western Sydney will receive relief of up to $1080 after they lodge their 2018-19 tax return.
That’s up to $2160 for dual income families.
These benefits are then locked in for subsequent years.
A re-elected Morrison Government will also deliver long-term structural reform by lowering the 32.5 per cent tax rate to 30 per cent from 1 July 2024.
As a result, around 94 per cent of Australian taxpayers will benefit from a marginal tax rate of 30 per cent or less in 2024-25.
The Government’s strong fiscal management means that it can deliver surpluses while also rewarding hard-working Australians.
Lower taxes support consumption growth, help with cost of living pressures
will strengthen the Western Sydney economy.
Reducing power prices for families, small businesses and communities
The Morrison Government will tackle cost of living pressures for families and businesses in Western Sydney through our Fair Deal on Energy, which delivers affordable, reliable 24/7 power to Australian families, businesses and communities.
To reduce power prices and protect consumers, the Morrison Government will take comprehensive action across a range of areas:We have introduced a default market offer to act as a price safety net for those who find pricing and discounts confusing, or who simply don't have time to negotiate.
Households changing to default market offers from standing offer tariffs could save hundreds of dollars in NSW.
Provide $365 million for Energy Assistance Payments of $75 for singles and $125 for couples to four million eligible social security payment recipients – to help with their next power bill and cost of living expenses.
From 1 July 2019, we will permanently get rid of the ‘loyalty tax’ and lock in better deals for 800,000 households and tens of thousands of small businesses.
Crack down on unacceptable behaviour by the big energy companies against pensioners, families and hardship customers.
We have taken action to ban sneaky late payment fees, which can cost a household up to $1000 more.
To cut costs for families we will introduce new standards for appliances including space heaters, and we have created new labels for air conditioners to help inform customers which one will best suit their needs.
Take a big stick to stop the big energy company rip-offs – with our ‘big stick’ legislation based on recommendations from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission.
Changing the National Energy Market rules to protect consumers, including by banning retailers from offering confusing discounts, ensuring vulnerable customers in financial hardship get the help they need, and requiring retailers to accept self-meter reads instead of estimated reads so customers are accurately charged.
These savings build on price cuts of up to 15 per cent secured by the Morrison Government for more than 500,000 families and small businesses from 1 January 2019.
Small businesses and community organisations will also benefit from our energy plans.
A $50 million Energy Efficient Communities Program will provide more than 2,500 grants to eligible businesses and community organisations to help them reduce their power bills by installing new equipment or improving their energy management.
Eligible small businesses will be able to claim grants of up to $20,000, high-energy using businesses up to $25,000 and community groups up to $12,500.
In Western Sydney, a re-elected Morrison Government will provide up to $12,500 for community groups to install solar and battery systems to reduce energy costs.
We have also invested $11.7 million in the Business Energy Advice Program, delivering practical advice to help small businesses get better energy deals and increase energy efficiency.
Strengthening the health system
The Morrison Government’s health plan for Western Sydney will protect lives, improve lives and save lives.
It builds on the record funding we have provided for New South Wales public hospitals, record levels of bulk billing and more than 2,000 new medicines listings subsidised through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) at an investment of $10.6 billion since 2013.
Funding for NSW public hospitals will increase from $4.3 billion in 2012-13 to $6.8 billion in 2019-20 and is on track to increase to $8.8 billion under a new hospitals agreement.
Our new hospitals agreement will deliver an additional $9.2 billion to NSW Hospitals over five years.
Under the Morrison Government, Australians across the country, including in Western Sydney, have affordable access to medicines through the PBS.
The PBS covers over five thousand brands of medicines which without subsidy could cost tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars for patients.
Through the Morrison Government’s subsidy of PBS medicines the cost is reduced on average by 89 per cent.
Recent new PBS listings for lung cancer which were costing patients $88,000 per year, cystic fibrosis $250,000 per year and arthritis $15,000 per year now cost as little as $6.50 per script for concession card holders.
Families want to know that they can access health services when and where they need them.
Medicare funding is at record levels and almost nine out of 10 visits to the GP are bulk billed under the Morrison Government.
Across Australia bulk billing rates are at record levels at 86% up from 82% under the last Labor Government.
Our Health Plan for Western Sydney strengthens the health system by providing affordable and accessible health services, including:Greater hospital and health services and infrastructure including $65 million for Australia’s first dedicated Cystic Fibrosis Specialist Unit at the Westmead Health and Education Precinct.
Guaranteeing Medicare with bulk billing rates in Western Sydney above the national average at 87%.
More cancer services with $17.5 million for new MRIs across Western Sydney including at Penrith, Mt Druitt, Rouse Hill and Bella Vista.
Better mental health support with $20 million in 2018-19 for mental health and suicide prevention services across the Western Sydney Primary Health Network, and a new headspace service in Katoomba.
Simpler and more affordable Private Health Insurance with better access to mental health services, discounts for young people and the lowest premium change in 18 years.
More funding for preventative health with $52 million for expanded access to the meningococcal vaccine providing protection against the ACWY strains for children 12 months of age and teenagers 14 to 19 years of age.
Better access for children’s dental care with $1 billion over three years to support eligible Australian children to continue to access core dental services and families to claim up to $1,000 in benefits under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule.
Better management for type 1 diabetes through expanded free access to glucose monitoring devices for pregnant women, children and more adults with type 1 diabetes, saving Australians up to $7,000 a year.
Medical Research through the $20 billion Medical Research Future Fund backing our local scientists and ensuring we can quickly take life-saving discoveries from the laboratory to the hospital.
Safer and more secure Western Sydney communities
The Morrison Government is committed to keeping Western Sydney communities safe and secure.
We will deliver a comprehensive suite of actions that will help keep people in Western Sydney safe.
As well as maintaining strong borders and cancelling visas of criminals,
Western Sydney will benefit from our national plans to:Support local councils and community organisations in crime prevention activities (as well as protect schools, religious institutions and other sites from religious and racial intolerance) with CCTV cameras, security lighting, alarm systems and other infrastructure.
This will be delivered through a further $58.2 million investment in the Safer Communities Fund.
Deliver a comprehensive drug strategy to address the supply, demand and harm caused by illicit drugs with a five-year $337 million investment.
This includes $152 million to strengthen law enforcement to disrupt and reduce the supply of illicit drugs – including targeting outlaw motorcycle gangs.
Take action against domestic violence, with a record investment of $328 million for prevention and frontline services to support the Fourth Action Plan of the National Plan to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children.
We have also committed up to $480,000 for the Penrith Women’s Health Centre if re-elected.
Deliver a comprehensive plan to improve online safety, including funding a $10 million Online Safety Grants program to deliver practical online safety education and training projects; continuing to protect kids online through our world-first e-safety Commissioner and establishing an Online Safety Charter to set expectations for social media companies.
Meeting our climate commitments and protecting the local environment
Western Sydney has a beautiful natural environment, and the Morrison Government is committed to working with the local community to support practical, on-ground environment protection and restoration.
Our commitment to Western Sydney’s environment includes:Up to $511,000 to revegetate and deal with weeds in the Hawkesbury and Nepean Rivers to both improve the environment and improve amenity for the local community and sports groups.
Supporting local community groups, including landcare groups, scouts groups and sports clubs to improve the local environment through our $22 million Communities Environment Program.
Australia has a proud track record of meeting our international climate commitments and supporting renewable energy.
Climate change is a global issue that requires a global solution.
The Liberal Nationals Government has overachieved on our commitment under the Kyoto Protocol, something few countries have done.
We will reduce emissions by 26-28 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030 and we will do this while growing the economy,
creating jobs,
protecting our environment
and keeping power prices down.
The Morrison Government has a $3.5 billion Climate Solutions Plan – among the largest investments by Australia in emissions reduction.
A new $2 billion Climate Solutions Fund will ensure we meet our 2030 Paris commitments by supporting practical measures such as revegetation of degraded land, reducing waste, savannah burning and improving energy efficiency.
The Morrison Government is also expanding our world-class renewable hydro resources to supply millions of Australians with reliable renewable energy.
Snowy 2.0 will be the world’s second-largest high tech pumped hydro power station and increase generation capacity by 2,000 megawatts – enough power for 500,000 homes during peak demand.
It will provide 175 hours of energy storage – that’s more than 2,700 SA Tesla batteries.
Importantly, Snowy 2.0 will also put downward pressure on wholesale electricity prices.
It will create up to 2,400 jobs in construction and support up to 5,000 direct and indirect jobs across the Snowy Mountains region, providing opportunities for local businesses, improvements in local infrastructure and increased economic activity.
Our strong policies contrast with Labor’s reckless plan to introduce a carbon tax
and hit every family and business with increased grocery, energy and transport costs.
The Choice
There is a lot at stake at this election.
And there is a clear choice.
A choice between a Government that is delivering a strong economy or a Labor Party that would weaken our economy.
A choice between a Government that is fixing the Budget or a Labor Party that can’t manage money.
A Choice between a Government committed to improving the lives of residents of Western Sydney or a Labor Party that takes Western Sydney for granted.
A choice between a Government that is easing the pressure on families by lowering taxes or a Labor Party that will put more strain on households by imposing $387 billion in new taxes on workers, retirees and small business.
A choice between a Government that can afford to pay for better infrastructure and services or a Labor Party that would max out Australia’s credit card.
A choice between a Government that has secured our borders and is keeping Australians safe or a Labor Party that has learned nothing from its border security failures.
Labor can’t manage money and they can’t manage the economy.
When Labor can’t manage money, they come after yours.
Labor plans to hit Australians with $387 billion in big new taxes which will hurt people in Western Sydney:Labor’s retiree tax will punish older Australians who have worked hard and saved for retirement by abolishing tax refunds on share dividends.
In Western Sydney, this will affect over 25,000 individuals who have direct shareholdings and many more invested through self-managed super funds.
On average individuals with direct holdings will lose almost $2,300 a year and self-managed super funds will lose $12,000 a year.
Labor’s housing and investment taxes will end negative gearing as we know it and increase capital gains tax by 50%.
If you own your own home it will be worth less and if you rent you will pay more.
Labor would impose higher income tax by reversing the Government’s legislated income tax plan and the enhancements we announced in the 2019-20 budget.
Labor’s plan would leave over 550,000 people in Western Sydney worse off.
Labor’s Family Business Tax would impose a minimum tax rate of 30% on the 7,900 small businesses in Western Sydney structured through discretionary trusts.
This is the same rate imposed on large multinational companies.
On top of this, Labor’s reckless emissions targets will:cost the economy $472 billion,
slash more than 336,000 jobs,
cut the average wage by over $9,000, and
increase wholesale electricity prices by more than 58%.
Western Sydney will be particularly hard hit with higher electricity and gas prices, higher costs of refrigeration and higher transport costs.
These are costs that Western Sydney workers and businesses can’t afford
Moreover, Labor’s plan to impose punitive new carbon costs on 250 firms nationally will have a disproportionate impact on manufacturing and processing operations located in regional and outer suburban areas, including Western Sydney.
Labor’s plan will add millions of dollars in costs to Western Sydney businesses engaged in beef and dairy processing, the manufacture of building materials and specialty gases.
It will even hit firms and local authorities involved in waste management and operating landfills.
Labor also ignores the supply chain that extends from Western Sydney to the state’s mining operations in the Hunter Valley and the Central West.
Industry data has showed that NSW mining companies spent $5.6 billion in NSW on the purchase of goods and services from 7,135 local businesses in 2017-18.
More than 3000 of these firms were in Sydney including thousands in Western Sydney.
So Labor’s multi-billion hit on NSW mining companies over the next decade will not just be felt in the Hunter Valley and the Central West but in Western Sydney as well.
By contrast the Morrison Government has a plan for lower taxes so that you can keep more of the money you earn.
There will only be one outcome for Western Sydney under Labor – a weaker economy,
fewer jobs
and higher taxes.
Labor can’t be trusted to run the economy and manage the budget.
And they can’t be trusted to invest in the services Western Sydney relies on, including health, education and aged care.
Cost
The Coalition’s plan for Western Sydney will not place additional costs on the Budget.
Our Plan for Stronger Defence and Defence Industries
Key Points
The first role of Government is to keep Australia and Australians safe.
We are investing more than $200 billion in Australia’s defence capability over the next decade – the nation’s biggest peacetime investment in Defence.
By 2020-21, we will have restored investment in Defence to 2 per cent of GDP.
This is in stark contrast to Labor who slashed more than $18 billion from Defence, reducing Defence spending to just 1.56 per cent of GDP – the lowest level since 1938.
To keep Australians safe and secure, we need to keep our economy strong.
The Coalition Government’s strong economic management underpins the investments needed to defend Australia and protect our borders.
Our record rejuvenation of Defence includes building 54 naval vessels in Australia, modernising our Army and introducing a world-leading fifth generation Air Force.
We are maximising involvement and opportunity for Australian industry across Defence programs - from large scale projects with national reach, to local projects and contracts that support our Defence Force day to day.
Our plan is creating tens of thousands of highly-skilled, high-paid jobs throughout the country.
This is securing jobs for generations to come and ensuring the Australian Defence Force is supported by the thriving Australian defence industry they need, when they need it.
A re-elected Morrison Government will continue building Australia’s defence capability by:Maintaining our commitment to increase Defence investment to 2 per cent of GDP by 2020-21, to provide certainty for Defence planning and procurement.
Building an additional three naval vessels in Henderson, Western Australia – two Mine Warfare Support vessels and a hydrographic vessel – adding to the 31 minor war vessels already being built in WA and the 54 naval vessels being built in Australia overall.
This will bring the number of naval vessels the Coalition has committed to build (or already commenced) in Australia to 57.
Built in Australia, by Australian workers, with Australian steel – in stark contrast to Labor, who committed to build no naval vessels in Australia.
Investing $156 million to roll out a package to support further enhancing our cyber resilience and workforce – particularly across the ADF and the Australian Signals Directorate and the Australian Cyber Security Centre, as well as strengthening our broader cyber security resilience and response across small business, older Australians and families.
Continuing with the Attack class submarine project, which Labor say they are putting on ‘pause’ to once again delay and create uncertainty for our Navy and our defence industry.
Supporting our ADF personnel by allowing them the choice to contribute to their ADF Super even after they have transitioned to a new employer.
Our Record
The Coalition has a strong record of investing in and delivering what is needed to keep Australians safe.
Strong economic management has meant we can restore defence spending to 2 per cent of GDP, reversing the significant decline under Labor.
Under Labor, Defence, and thus the safety and security of our nation, was an unacceptable casualty of their inability to manage the economy.
Under Labor, defence funding was gutted by over $18 billion and investment fell to just 1.56% of GDP – the lowest level since 1938.
Under Labor 119 Defence projects were delayed, 43 projects reduced and eight cancelled.
By contrast, the Coalition Government has made over 173 project-related decisions since the release of our 2016 Defence White Paper: we’re getting on with the job of delivering the best equipment and facilities our Defence Force needs.
Australia has one of the finest militaries in the world.
A proud history, equipped with some of the best equipment and training in the world, combine for an envied reputation.
But we live in a region which is increasingly volatile.
Competition for power is growing and the threat of terrorism is clear and present.
To keep Australians safe and secure, we need to keep our economy strong.
For too long, successive Labor Governments have treated Defence like an ATM when it needed to prop up its own poor budget decisions, placing the safety and security of our nation at risk.
Only the Morrison Government can be trusted to keep Australia safe.
To do that, we are: •Continuing to deliver reliable and sustainable Defence funding.
•Continuing to renew our Defence capabilities.
•Contributing to operations at home and around the globe.
•Enhancing support for regional security.
•Building a stronger Navy, Army and Air Force.
•Investing in infrastructure and enablers.
•Building the Australian defence industry.
•Keeping Defence on the cutting edge.
•Enhancing our cyber warfare and security workforce and resilience.
•Supporting Our Defence personnel.
Our Plan
Reliable and sustainable Defence funding
Reliable and sustainable Defence funding gives Australia’s military the confidence to plan ahead and make the investments they need to keep Australia safe.
In turn, Australia’s defence industry can invest and employ more Australians.
The 2019-20 Budget maintains the Morrison Government‘s commitment to provide Defence with stable and sustainable funding growth.
By 2020-21 we will have restored Defence investment to 2 per cent of GDP.
Renewing our Defence capabilities
Under strategies laid out in the 2016 Defence White Paper, the Morrison Government is investing in the capabilities and platforms necessary to meet the challenges of an increasingly complex security environment.
Our fully-funded plan is investing more than $200 billion in Australia’s defence capability over the next 10 years, including the largest regeneration of our Navy since the Second World War.
Built in Australia, by Australians, using Australian steel.
The 10-year Integrated Investment Program laid out Defence’s plans for procurement, giving certainty to industry of the path ahead.
To deliver this ambitious program, the Coalition Government has made over 173 project decisions since the release of the White Paper.
Not only do these decisions get vital equipment into the hands of our service men and women sooner, but they also create opportunities for Australia’s defence industry to invest and grow.
Operations at home and around the globe
The Australian Defence Force is one of the most respected and effective militaries in the world.
Only the Morrison Government can be trusted to continue to invest the resources necessary to keep it that way:
We have given our ADF the power to target terrorists with lethal force (in accordance with international law).
This includes targeting support networks and improvised weapons manufacturers, as well as front-line combatants.
As part of Operation Okra, around 600 ADF personnel have been involved in the fight against Da’esh.
While we have achieved territorial defeat, Da’esh remains a threat to global security.
We’ve increased Australia’s commitment to the NATO-led Operation Resolute Support in Afghanistan (to around 300 personnel) so that Afghanistan does not again become a safe haven for terrorists.
To combat terrorism in our region, ADF training teams are building the capacity of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to combat Islamic State-aligned terrorists.
We are also expanding the ADF’s role in training select state and territory police units to respond to domestic terrorist incidents.
Enhanced support for regional security
The Morrison Government recognises Australia’s security is intertwined with our Pacific neighbours so we are stepping up actions in this vital region.
Our package of security, economic, diplomatic and people-to-people initiatives will take Australia’s engagement to a new level and Defence will play a key part:The Morrison Government has committed to building a large-hulled vessel dedicated to increased ADF engagement with our Pacific partners, especially for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
We are fundamentally changing how the Pacific region identifies and responds to maritime security threats with the 30-year, $2 billion Pacific Maritime Security Program.
This will deliver bigger and more capable Australian-built patrol boats, aerial surveillance, information sharing, and capacity building.
Building a stronger Navy
The Morrison Government is keeping Australians safe with our $90 billion plan to build 57 new vessels – the largest regeneration of the Navy since the Second World War.
This is in stark contrast to Labor, who did not commission any naval vessels from Australian shipyards when they were last in office.
We are doubling our submarine fleet to 12 Attack class submarines, building nine Hunter class frigates and 12 Arafura class offshore patrol vessels to ensure our borders remain secure and our nation safe. We are also building 21 Guardian class pacific patrol boats to help our near-neighbours.
A re-elected Morrison Government commits to building an additional three naval vessels in Henderson, Western Australia – two mine warfare support vessels and a hydrographic vessel.
All 57 vessels will be built in Australia, using Australian workers and Australian steel – creating thousands of jobs for decades to come.
More than 700 Australian businesses have already prequalified to work on the Hunter class frigates.
Around 170 have pre-qualified to work on the Attack class submarine program.
The Morrison Government has committed to building world-class new naval shipyards to construct the vessels and has established the Naval Shipbuilding College to ensure we have the right workers at the right time.
The Morrison Government is continuing our initial investment in 2017 with the University of Tasmania’s Australian Maritime College, by investing a further $30 million to create a Tasmanian Defence Innovation and Design Precinct, helping to deliver the research needed for Australia’s cutting-edge maritime defence capability.
Our commitment to construct two further mine warfare support vessels at the Henderson shipyard precinct in Western Australia is part of our new mine warfare strategy.
We will bring forward the replacement of the Huon-class mine hunters from the 2030s to the mid-2020s, as part of our new Maritime Mine Countermeasures Program (to be known as SEA 1905).
The Morrison Government has allocated over $1 billion in the Defence Integrated Investment Program to deliver the full scope of SEA 1905, including the building of the two mine warfare support vessels and investment in new mine countermeasure (including autonomous) systems.
The build of the three additional vessels will be coordinated with our existing naval shipbuilding programs in Western Australia.
This will ensure the naval shipbuilding workforce in WA continues to grow over the long term.
It’s estimated there will be around 1,000 jobs created to build the Arafura class offshore patrol vessels and 400 jobs to build the Guardian class Pacific patrol boats.
Building a stronger Army
The Morrison Government will keep Australians safe with an unprecedented investment in our Army including:A $5.2 billion project to build over 200 new Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicles in Queensland and creating 1,450 jobs nationwide.
A $15 billion project to replace the Army’s M113 Armoured Personnel Carriers with a fleet of up to 450 modern Infantry Fighting Vehicles.
New weapons including rifles, pistols, grenade launchers and mortars as well as new body armour and night-fighting equipment.
A new protected truck fleet: Australian-built trailers and modules, cranes, excavators, front-end loaders, forklifts and tractors as well as aviation refuelling and fire trucks.
Building a stronger Air Force
The Morrison Government will keep Australians safe with an unprecedented investment in Air Force capability including:More than $17 billion to acquire the world-best F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter. More than 50 Australian companies have shared in more than $1.3 billion in production contracts so far.
The program is expected to support over 5,000 Australian jobs by 2023.
Boosting the security of our borders with the manned P-8A Poseidon and unmanned MQ-4C Triton maritime patrol aircraft.
Infrastructure alone for this project will support over 4,000 Australian jobs.
Enhancing our ability to watch and protect ADF land forces by acquiring the MQ-9 Reaper as Australia’s first armed, remotely-piloted aircraft system.
Australian industry will provide a range of innovative sensor, communication, manufacturing and life-cycle support capabilities, as well as associated infrastructure development.
Investing in infrastructure and enablers
The Morrison Government has committed to the redevelopment and construction of new infrastructure across Defence, ensuring the ADF has the facilities it needs for operations in our region and beyond. This includes:
Over $3 billion for facilities and maintenance hubs to support new capabilities for the Navy, Army and Air Force.
Over $1.8 billion on military base and critical infrastructure renewal for the Navy, Army and Air Force.
More than $25 billion forecast investment (to 2028) to build and maintain defence infrastructure to support new and existing capabilities.
At the same time, the Government is providing $5 billion in additional funding to 2025‐26 to modernise Defence’s information and communications technology.
Building Australia’s defence industry
Our creation of a stronger, more resilient, and internationally competitive defence industry is maximising opportunities for Australian businesses to secure Defence contracts.
Hundreds of thousands of people and more than 3,000 small to medium enterprises are already employed in Australia’s defence industry.
The Morrison Government has launched the 2019 Defence Policy for Industry Participation, providing further opportunities for Australian companies to compete for work and drive the long-term development of Australia’s sovereign defence industry.
This policy builds on the success of the Government’s well-established Australian Industry Capability Program and Local Industry Capability Plan. It also extends the requirement to include opportunities for Australian industry on all Defence procurements of $4 million, and above $7.5 million for construction.
The policy ensures local Australian businesses have more opportunities to benefit from our $200 billion-plus investment in Defence capability over the next decade, ensuring we create Australian jobs and a sovereign Australian defence industry.
The policy ensures local Australian businesses have more opportunities to benefit from our $200 billion-plus investment in Defence capability over the next decade, ensuring we create Australian jobs and a sovereign Australian defence industry.
The policy also supports the Government’s long-term vision for an Australian industry that is positioned to meet Defence’s requirements and generate economic growth and jobs across Australia.
The $230 million Centre for Defence Industry Capability works closely with industry to help it take advantage of the unprecedented opportunities.
This includes the awarding of 80 Capability Improvement Grants to help companies prepare and to be more competitive to do business with Defence.
The first Australian Defence Industrial Capability Plan lays out how we will build the Defence industry Australia needs.
This includes a dedicated annual Sovereign Industrial Capability Priority grants program, providing up to $17 million to Australian small and medium enterprises to assist them to purchase essential equipment, such as enhancing cyber security, providing access to specialist training, or the ability to attain appropriate accreditations and certificates.
The Defence Export Strategy, Defence Export Advocate, $3.8 billion Defence Export Facility and $20 million annually in extra export promotion to help Australian defence industry market its capabilities to our friends and allies overseas for a sustainable Australian defence industry.
Expanding access to Efic, the Export Credit Agency, to enable Australian companies to access a range of specialist finance solutions to expand their business and help them secure export-related contracts in new markets.
Continuing to grow the Global Supply Chain program, giving Australian companies a foot in the door for greater access to global markets through the supply chains of defence prime companies.
Keeping defence on the cutting edge
Ensuring Australia has access to and control of vitally important capabilities to keep the ADF on the cutting edge of new technologies.
The Sovereign Industrial Capability Assessment Framework and the Sovereign Industrial Capability Priorities establish key areas for research and development, which is then backed-up with funding to ensure they are developed in Australia.
The Coalition Government has committed $1.6 billion to ensure our Defence Forces remain at the cutting edge of technology by expanding opportunities for Australia’s innovation and research and development organisations to continue to challenge, expand and grow their knowledge base and skills:The Next Generation Technologies Fund has invested more than $130 million in long-term research programs aligned with Defence priorities, along with over 130 research activities with 24 Australian universities and 15 small and medium enterprises.
The Defence Innovation Hub has received over 820 innovation proposals and awarded more than $109 million in contracts. More than 80 per cent of investments have been with micro, small and medium businesses.
Enhancing our cyber warfare and security workforce and resilience
New and more complex security threats in cyberspace will be an important part of our future security environment.
The cyber threat to Australia is growing.
Cyber attacks are a real and present threat to the ADF’s warfighting ability as well as to the rest of government and Australia’s economy and critical infrastructure.
To counter the growing threat of cyber attack, the Coalition Government has improved our national cyber security capabilities.
Defence’s cyber security capabilities have been strengthened to protect the ADF’s warfighting and information networks.
The Australian Signals Directorate and the Australian Cyber Security Centre are at the forefront of the broader contribution to enhanced national cyber security efforts, which include better coordinated cyber security capabilities and working further with industry and academia to counter the threat of cyber attack.
The Coalition Government’s landmark $230 million Cyber Security Strategy has also been a key catalyst for change across the economy.
We have streamlined our national cyber security structures across the Departments of Defence and Home Affairs, we have invested in strong cyber defences (across government and the rest of the economy), we have spread our global cyber engagement, and we have focussed on growing a cyber-smart nation.
But there is more to do. Cyber crime continues to cost our economy billions of dollars a year, particularly impacting families, small and medium sized businesses and families.
We need to take a proactive approach to ensuring that Australians and Australian businesses can fight back against these criminals.
And we need to grow our cyber and STEM workforce to ensure that we have the right people with the right skills to fill roles across the ADF, Defence, the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD), the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC), defence and other industry and the broader economy.
A re-elected Morrison Government will therefore make a $156 million investment in further enhancing our cyber resilience and workforce – particularly across the ADF and the ASD/ACSC, as well as strengthening our broader cyber security resilience and response across small business, older Australians and families.
This will be a significant further investment in the development of our national cyber security workforce, which will have economy wide flow-on impacts.
We will: Invest $80 million to expand the Australian Defence Force’s and Australian Signals Directorate’s cyber operations and workforce capabilities, by:Accelerating the creation of 230 positions for military cyber operations specialists in the ADF over the next four years, significantly enhancing existing capabilities.
By bringing forward these positions, we will be able to deliver the required number of cyber operations personnel in less than half the time originally forecast.
A targeted recruitment program will be launched to attract interested Australians.
As part of our cyber operations targeted recruitment program, building on our highly successful ADF Gap Year Program to create up to 100 new gap year positions each year that are focussed on cyber and information warfare domains to encourage young Australians, particularly women, to embark on a cyber-related career.
In 2018-19, the ADF Gap Year Program received over 5,500 applications, yet only about 10 per cent of applicants were successful in securing a position.
By building a cyber-warfare focussed cohort, we will encourage, inspire and educate young Australians in the cyber domain – ready to join the ADF in military cyber operations specialist and related roles; to join the Australian Signals Directorate in specialist cyber intelligence related roles; to join defence industry; or undertake further studies in the field.
Establishing a Countering Foreign Cyber Criminals capability within ASD and the ACSC, and drawing on the expertise of the Australian Federal Police, that will use our advanced cyber capabilities to combat the increasingly sophisticated organised cyber crime gangs.
Most cyber crimes and scams against Australians originate overseas.
This makes it difficult for domestic law enforcement authorities to investigate, prosecute, and shut down offenders.
Developing a Counter Foreign Cyber Criminal capability will create a capability to both defend against and fight back against cyber criminals overseas, including scammers, fraudsters and those involved in child exploitation.
Growing the Australian Government’s Cyber Security ‘SPRINT’ Teams, to develop cyber partnerships with owners and operators of critical infrastructure to be ready to respond to any emerging national security threats.
Create a $50 million Cyber Security National Workforce Growth Program, that builds on initiatives set out in our Cyber Security Strategy, and brings together Defence, Home Affairs, law enforcement, other government agencies, defence and wider industry, and academia under the leadership of the National Cyber Security Adviser, to further develop and implement a range of initiatives to grow the available national cyber workforce pool and inspire young Australians and students into cyber related careers.
This will build on the significant efforts we have made as a result of the Cyber Security Strategy and have significant flow-on benefits to industry and the broader economy.
This will include:Scholarships for postgraduate, undergraduate and TAFE studies directly associated with cyber security.
A minimum of 50 per cent of scholarships will be made available to female students.
Support for cyber security challenges and educational activities that are targeted primary school, high school, and tertiary students, inspiring and training them to take up a career in cyber related fields (this includes programs such as CyberTaipan, the Cyber Security Challenge Australia (CySCA), and the Cyber Experience Platform).
Development of specialist cyber security related courses, which directly meet the needs of Defence, government and industry.
Building on Questacon’s Engineering is Elementary pilot program – educating teachers about increasing student interest in engineering and other STEM field in a national rollout of the program, which will train 1,000 primary school teachers from every state and territory around the country.
Evidence suggests that getting primary school aged children interested in STEM subjects from an early age encourages them to into STEM careers over the long term.
This will help drive a STEM-cyber workforce of the future.
Development of work experience placements and government/industry exchanges to help develop the practical skills of our national cyber security workforce.
Supporting Women in Cyber mentoring and coaching programs that help promote a diverse cyber workforce.
Invest $26 million to expand the role of the Australian Cyber Security Centre to help businesses and families address cyber security issues
and helping to support the wider Australian economy.
This includes:Developing a comprehensive online cyber security training program, which focusses on providing practical cyber advice for small businesses, older Australians and Australian families.
This will help them to avoid becoming victims of increasingly sophisticated cyber criminals, especially in relation to online transactions, identity theft and internet banking.
Expanding the ACSC’s 24/7 hotline for reporting cyber security incidents to include a dedicated helpdesk for small and medium sized businesses, older Australians and families.
Evidence suggests that 43 per cent of cyber attacks cost small businesses on average $10,000 per attack and that they have limited knowledge and capacity to protect themselves or recover after a cyber security incident.
The help desk will employ specially trained staff who can provide tailored technical cyber security advice for these groups, including advice that prevents, and responds to, cyber security incidents.
The help desk will provide free advice and support to those recovering from a malicious cyber incident – such as data breaches, scams, fraud and identity theft – to equip them to get back on line.
Working with industry and Home Affairs to develop a voluntary code of practice to improve the security of consumer ‘Internet of Things’ (IoT) devices in Australia.
This will help inform manufacturers of the security features that consumers will expect from their IoT devices, particularly as 5G technology is rolled out.
Auditing the cyber security arrangements of defence industry contractors, particularly those involved in our $90 billion Naval Shipbuilding Plan, to ensure that we protect our cutting edge military capability.
International experience shows that defence industry sub-contractors can often be the weakest link when it comes to cyber security, so it is essential that we ensure appropriate arrangements are in place to secure our more than $200 billion investment in Defence capability over the next decade.
Updating our 2016 Cyber Security Strategy to take account of developments in cyber security over the past three years.
Protecting Australia from cyber threats is one of our greatest defence and national security challenges and only the Morrison Government is delivering the strong economy necessary to invest in our cyber warfare and security capabilities and workforce.
Supporting Australia’s defence personnel
At the heart of Australia’s Defence Forces are the men and women who proudly wear the uniform.
The Morrison Government will continue to support Australia’s former, current and future Defence personnel, by:Implementing significant workforce reform – making it easier for members leaving the ADF to continue to serve our nation in a permanent capacity or in the Reserves, and also return to the full time force.
Ensuring that the transition from the ADF into civilian life is as seamless as possible by providing a full range of support and services, including:Implementing a new needs-based model of transition support, ensuring more members and their families receive the support they need.
Providing enhanced support for Defence families by extending the Job Search Preparation program to include a program designed specifically for partners of transitioning members.
Delivering additional support services through the Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Program and ex-service organisations.
Improving the format of ADF Member and Family Transition Seminars to allow attendees to tailor their experience.
Ensuring that all ADF personnel leaving the military now have an individual transition plan, a record of professional military education and training, unit posting and employment history, and copies of all entitlements and medical records.
Implementing programs to meet the needs of separating personnel at risk of a poor transition, those transitioning with complex medical conditions and partners of members transitioning for medical reasons.
Providing access to ADF Transition Coaches to help ADF personnel develop tailored career plans and provide additional support where required.
Rolling out our new network of Veterans’ Wellbeing Centres nationwide.
Allowing former members to contribute to their ADF Super even after they have transitioned to a new employer, allowing them the option to maintain one super account over working life.
Expanding access to the Defence Home Ownership Assistance Scheme and the Defence Service Homes Insurance Scheme for ex-ADF members.
Continuing to invest in our Non-Liability Health Care program, providing free and immediate treatment for all mental health conditions for current and former ADF members – uncapped and demand driven.
Introducing stronger protections for Reservists when they provide service.
Continuing the ADF Gap Year program for school leavers.
Establishing a Council for Women and Families United by Defence Service to provide a forum for women and families to have a direct voice to the Government on issues that impact ADF families and the unique challenges of women who wear our nation’s uniform.
The Choice
Only the Morrison Government can be trusted to invest the resources necessary to keep Australia safe and continue to strengthen Australia’s Defence Forces.
Under Labor’s weak border protection policies, the boats restarted.
The Navy was diverted from strategic tasks to deal with asylum seeker vessels, placing Australian lives in dangerous and difficult circumstances.
Circumstance that were preventable and which cost thousands of lives and cost billions of dollars.
Now they have announced they will ‘pause’ the project after the Coalition Government got it back on track.
In six years Labor didn’t build one naval vessel in an Australian yard – the shipbuilding ‘Valley of Death’ is indeed ‘Labor’s Valley of Death’.
In 2012-13, Labor slashed the Defence budget by over 10 per cent in real teams, causing Defence investment to fall to 1.56 per cent of GDP – the lowest level since 1938.Overall, Labor cut over $18 billion from the Defence budget while it was in Government.
Under Labor 119 Defence projects were delayed, 43 projects reduced and eight cancelled.
The choice is clear: Labor pays lip service to Defence but then treats it like an ATM when it runs out of money to pay for their unaffordable spending promises and half-baked schemes.
The Morrison Government will increase the Defence budget to 2 per cent of Gross Domestic Product by 2020-21, three years ahead of our original commitment.
To meet our funding commitments and keep Australian’s safe and secure,
we need to keep our economy strong.
The Morrison Government is providing greater certainty for investment.Greater certainty for jobs.And greater certainty for the Australian Defence Force.
Combined, this ensures a stronger Australian defence industry, creating opportunities for Australian defence exports, and laying the foundation for a globally competitive Australian defence industry.
The Morrison Government is providing greater certainty for investment, greater certainty for jobs and greater certainty for the Australian Defence Force.
Cost
The Coalition’s Plan for Stronger Defence and Defence Industry will not place additional costs on the Budget.
Our Plan to Keep Communities Safe
Key Points
Keeping Australians safe is a top priority of the Morrison Government.
We have a clear plan to protect Australian families and their communities from criminals and the menace of illicit drugs, child exploitation and other crimes.
Crime today is more organised and sophisticated than ever before, but its effects continue to reach into the hearts of our communities.
That’s why, under the Coalition’s plan to keep our communities safe, we have been tackling organised criminals, targeting their gangs and going after their money.
We are deporting criminals who commit serious crimes and stopping others who try to come here to break the law.
We are also looking after local communities, using criminals’ ill-gotten gains to pay for practical measures, like CCTV, to prevent crime in your local community.
The Liberal Nationals Government can be trusted to keep communities safe because that’s what we’ve done for the last six years.
And because the Morrison Government is committed to strong economic management we will have the means to invest in community safety and security.
We will continue to keep our communities safe by:strengthening efforts to counter organised crime, illicit drugs and child exploitation by ensuring our laws are up to the task and our police and intelligence agencies have the resources to do the job;
enhancing measures to ensure non-citizens convicted of serious crimes have their visa cancelled and are removed from our communities;
targeting organised criminals peddling drugs and firearms with a commitment of new resources for the highly-successful National Anti-Gangs Squad;
helping families and communities affected by drug addiction with further investments in treatment options, including in regional areas;
working with local communities to keep our streets safe and address local crime with investments in CCTV and other security measures and paid for by the assets of criminals.
Our Record
We are entitled to feel safe in our homes, streets and communities.
Since the Coalition was first elected, our Government has been making the choices needed to ensure Australia is the best place in the world in which to live, work and raise a family.
We have been keeping our country strong so Australians can plan for the future with confidence.
We have repaired our borders, invested in our defence, deported violent criminals, and we have provided our security and intelligence agencies with the powers, resources and technology they need to keep Australians safe.
And by bringing together our law enforcement, immigration and security agencies into the one Home Affairs portfolio, we have strengthened our capabilities and coordination to keep Australians safe, and make it harder for criminals and others to threaten Australia and our way of life.
We have addressed the challenges to our security and safety beyond our shores, on our borders, in our communities and in our homes.
The Morrison Government is protecting Australians in a security environment few imagined 20 years ago.
Crime today is more organised and sophisticated than ever and it’s costing the nation an estimated $47 billion a year.
The personal cost is even greater for families affected by the scourge of illicit drugs or abhorrent child exploitation.
Since 2013, the Liberal Nationals Government has invested in our law enforcement agencies, including a funding commitment to the Australian Federal Police of more than $600 million in the 2019-20 Budget.
We are tackling the supply of ICE through international cooperation, intelligence sharing, better controls on precursor chemicals, and stronger law enforcement.
We have invested in the National Wastewater Drug Monitoring Program and the National Anti-Gangs Squad.
We have cancelled the visas of over 4,400 dangerous criminals, including murderers, rapists, drug dealers, and outlaw motorcycle gang members.
A further 28 dual nationals have had their Australian citizenship revoked, most for vile child sex offences.
And we have funded the initiation of the Australian Centre to Combat Child Exploitation.
There is no place in Australia for those who come here and do us harm.
Tackling crime isn’t just about tougher laws and penalties; it’s also about helping the victims of crime and crime prevention.
We have taken concrete steps to improve community safety, funding practical local crime prevention activities through our Safer Communities fund.
The Coalition launched the National Drug Strategy to help communities with treatment and prevention options for those affected by illicit drugs.
We have invested $450 million to help communities fight the impact of ICE, including funding for over 244 Local Drug Action Teams across Australia, with two-thirds operating outside of major cities.
Local Drug Action Teams help communities to work together to prevent and minimise the harm caused by alcohol and drugs.
We promised to make Australian communities and neighbourhoods safer and we are delivering and we have a plan to do even more.
The safety and security of Australians is paramount.
Our Plan
Protecting our communities from crime
More resources, tougher laws
Australian communities are being targeted by organised crime groups peddling drugs, defrauding individuals and small business, or conducting sickening acts of child abuse and other crimes.
These criminals are sophisticated, using technology, including encryption, to conduct their activities in secret and launder their profits.
A re-elected Morrison Government will give our law enforcement agencies the funding and laws they need to tackle this threat, as we did in the 2019-20 Budget.
We have already changed the law to make it more difficult for criminals to hide from law enforcement using encrypted messaging apps.
We will fund the AFP’s development and modernisation of enhanced technical capabilities to catch criminals in the act.
Through the Government’s financial intelligence agency, AUSTRAC, we will strengthen partnerships with the financial sector to find and seize illicit funds. We will also strengthen Commonwealth fraud investigations capability.
Criminals will face tougher penalties under a re-elected Morrison Government.
We have already sought parliament’s support for mandatory minimum sentences for serious child sex offences; and for firearms trafficking offences.
We will increase maximum penalties for a range of crimes, including child sex offences.
Deporting foreign criminals
We believe there’s no place in Australia for people who come here and break our laws or harm our community.
That’s why we will continue to cancel the visas of dangerous foreign criminals.
We have already cancelled the visas of over 4,400 dangerous criminals, including 200 Outlaw Motor Cycle Gang members and revoked the Australian citizenship of 28 dual national criminals.
Last year alone, over 800 criminals had their visas cancelled, including: 16 for murder; 7 for manslaughter; 55 for domestic violence; 58 for armed robbery; 92 child sex offenders and 135 for assault.
We will continue to revoke the visas of convicted child sex offenders – having already cancelled the visas of more than 300 child sex offenders and stopped hundreds more at the border.
And we will ensure child sex offenders are prevented from travelling overseas under laws we proposed that passed through the Parliament.
Fighting drug crime
Illicit drugs, especially ICE, are an enduring scourge in many Australian communities.
That’s why the Coalition introduced the National Drugs Strategy to stop drug peddlers and help those caught in the vice of addiction.
Criminal gangs traffic illicit drugs and firearms without shame or care for victims.
A re-elected Morrison Government will extend the National Anti-Gangs Squad to combat organised criminals, including bikie and non-traditional emerging gangs, with a $90.6 million investment.
Since we established the Squad in 2014, operations have led to the arrest of more than 1270 offenders, the laying of more than 4,000 charges and the seizure of almost 6,000 illegal firearms and firearms parts, and more than 2.5 tonnes of illicit drugs and precursors.
The Coalition will continue the highly successful effort to keep illegal guns off our streets.
This will include extending the firearms operations of the National Forensics Rapid Lab, which is helping to disrupt and dismantle firearms trafficking networks.
Supporting individuals and families dealing with addiction
A re-elected Morrison Government will be tough on drug criminals, but will help individuals and families trying to deal with addiction and substance abuse.
As part of the Morrison Government broader National Drugs Strategy we are investing over $720 million over four years from 2018-19 in specific health initiatives to reduce the impact of drug and alcohol misuse including through treatment, prevention and research.
We are providing $450 million to help communities fight the impact of ICE through the National Ice Action Strategy.
This has enabled us to fund 244 Local Drug Action Teams and deliver an addition 471 local drug and alcohol services since 2016 based on community need.
We have also listed 15 additional items on Medicare for Addiction Medical Specialists to make it easier for people to get the professional assistance they need to break the ICE habit.
We will also support local communities and families with over 9,400 local sports clubs to expand the national Good Sports program to help them prevent and manage illicit drug issues, such as ICE addiction.
Funding of $4.3 million will also provide local support for families and communities struggling with the impacts of illicit drug misuse, including ICE, through local family drug support services.
The Government is also building on its efforts to reduce prescription opioid overuse and abuse.
The Rural Health Outreach Fund is being expanded to give people better access to pain management specialist services and train providers to improve prescribing habits.
To help prevent deaths associated with opioid addiction and abuse, the Morrison Government will extend funding for a pilot take-home naloxone program for people at risk of overdoses on opioids and other prescription and illicit drugs.
We are providing an additional $2.8 million to extend the take home naloxone pilot to Western Australia, on top of the $7.2 million two year pilot take-home naloxone program announced in the Budget in New South Wales and South Australia.
Naloxone is a drug that can temporarily reverse opioid overdose.
The take-home naloxone pilot aims to reduce barriers currently preventing greater uptake of naloxone amongst people at risk of, or likely to witness, an overdose.
We are also investing significantly in and partnering with local programs across Australia through the Community Health and Hospitals Program, including:$6.5 million for the Choices program in Western Australia to expand access to support for vulnerable and disadvantaged people who have frequent contact with both hospital emergency departments and magistrates courts, and who may have issues with substance abuse.
The program links these individuals, who would previously be discharged to their own residence, with place-based community service providers.
The Choices program will be expanded to the Joondalup Health Campus, St John of God Midland Public Hospital, Armadale Health Service and Peel Health Campus.
$3 million to develop a residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility in Dubbo NSW.
$3 million for new drug and alcohol services through the Limestone Coast in South Australia.
$5.9 million for the Salvation Army to build a 10 bed detox facility in Townsville and fund an additional eight residential rehab beds.
$9 million to establish a new drug and alcohol withdrawal and detox services in Cairns.
The National Alcohol and Other Drugs Hotline will provide the community with local information, support and services and maintain our ICE online community toolkit – Cracks in the ICE.
We are also investing significantly to support the mental health of individuals and families dealing with addiction and abuse.
The Morrison Government is prioritising support for mental health services with overall funding exceeding $4.8 billion per year.
We will deliver a $375 million expansion of headspace services and new residential centres for treating eating disorders.
We will trial eight new adult mental health centres as an alternative to Emergency Departments.
We are determined to reduce the rate of suicide, especially among young Australians.
We are tackling this national crisis through our $503 million Youth Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan.
We will deliver a $98.6 million mental health program in schools and a range of early intervention and prevention initiatives to provide young Australians with the tools and support they need to maintain the best possible mental health and wellbeing.
Helping women and families to prevent and reduce violence against women and children
The Liberal and Nationals Government is leading the development of the Fourth Action Plan of the National Plan to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children, with $328 million for prevention measures and frontline services.
This brings the total invested by our Government to more than $840 million since 2013.
The National Plan aims to connect the important work being done by all Australian governments, community organisations and individuals to reduce violence so that we can work together to ensure each year, less women experience violence and more women and their children live safely.
We are delivering:$68.3 million for prevention strategies to help eradicate domestic and family violence in our homes, workplaces, communities and clubs.
$78.4 million to provide safe places for people impacted by domestic and family violence.
$82.2 million to improve and build on frontline services to keep women and children safe.
$64.0 million for 1800RESPECT, the national sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling service.
$35.0 million in support and prevention strategies for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
These measures build on our strong commitments in recent years to support women and children at risk of violence:
$101.2 million under the Women’s Safety Package to provide a safety net for women and children at high risk of experiencing violence.
$67 million under the Women’s Economic Security Package for measures to support women experiencing family and domestic violence.
$1.5 billion per annum under the National Housing and Homelessness Agreement, including dedicated homelessness funding, which is to be matched by states and territories, and will have a focus on women and children affected by family and domestic violence.
Since 2013, over 7,046 women and children have been granted visas through the Women at Risk program, which supports women at risk of victimisation, harassment or serious abuse because of their gender.
In 2017-18, the highest number of women and dependents were granted a woman at risk visa in our history (2,126 people in total).
A re-elected Morrison Government will increase the Women at Risk Program as a proportion of the Offshore Component of our refugee intake from 14 per cent in 2017-18 to 20 per cent in 2019-20.
Helping keep local communities safe from crime
A re-elected Morrison Government will introduce new measures to prevent crime in our communities.
Our Government has expanded the fourth round of grants to $55 million and provided $35.1 million for a fifth round in the 2019-20 Budget.
Since 2016, we have provided over $130 million and 340 grants under the Safer Communities program for local councils and community organisations to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour.
Safer Communities grants have put CCTV in crime hotspots, strengthened security for schools and supported other crime prevention efforts.
The grants are funded from the proceeds of crime (money and assets that have been seized from criminals) and we established a national unexplained wealth scheme to hit criminals even harder where it hurts most: their hip pockets.
A re-elected Morrison Government will increase round five funding by $20 million in response to community demand for crime prevention measures, such as fixed and mobile CCTV.
Initiatives like CCTV in crime hotspots help create safer communities in a number of ways.
First, they help deter criminals and people undertaking anti-social behaviour if they know they are being monitored and that there is a higher chance of them being identified and prosecuted for their crimes.
Second, they give greater confidence to members of the public using those community spaces, which in turn supports local businesses (such as restaurants and bars, where people feel more confident attending after hours if CCTV is present).
Thirdly, it provides police with a useful investigative tool to identify other criminals who may have incidentally been in the area.
A re-elected Morrison Government will further other measures to prevent crime in our communities. We will, for example, introduce legislation to establish a National Public Register for Child Sex Offenders, ensuring parents and carers are better informed about the location of paedophiles in the community.
These initiatives and the Safer Communities investments are making our streets safer for all of us.
The Choice
By keeping the economy strong and returning the Budget to surplus, the Morrison Government is helping to make our communities safer.
After racking up $240 billion in deficits over six years when last in government, Labor does not have the track record to invest in keeping us safe.
Our Government has prioritised the safety of Australians by boosting funding for security agencies by over $3 billion since 2014.
We have passed unexplained wealth legislation to confiscate even more criminals’ assets and invest the proceeds of crime back into communities to fight crime and treat drug addiction.
Rather than invest in the protection of Australians, the former Labor Government simply raided the accounts of our law enforcement agencies to prop up its Budget bottom line.
Our Government believes in protecting Australian children from exploitation and heinous sexual offences.
By contrast, Labor oppose mandatory minimum sentences for child sex offenders, meaning predators may not even spend a day behind bars.
Labor wants to water down laws that are helping our law enforcement agencies detect paedophiles and terrorists now.
The Liberal National Government cancelled more visas and deported more criminals in 2018 than Labor did in six years of government.
We established the National Anti-Gangs Squad, which has seized almost 6,000 illegal firearms and firearms parts.
Labor won’t even support legislation to increase penalties for the trafficking of illegal firearms.
To better protect Australian communities, the Liberal National Government created the highly-successful and coordinated portfolio of Home Affairs.
Labor has not even appointed a Shadow Minister for Home Affairs.
Only the Morrison Government can be trusted to ensure the safety and security of Australians, their families and communities.
Cost
The Coalition Government will provide an additional $24.1 million to expand our programs to create Safer Communities.
Our Plan to Support People with Disability
Key Points
The Morrison Government is backing Australians with disability, their families and carers.
We proudly support the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), which is transforming the lives of people with disability, their families and carers.
It is important to get it right.
We are committed to providing individual choice and control to people with disability, to create opportunity and so they can achieve their goals.
We understand that people with disability want to play an important role contributing to the social and economic life of our community.
We recognise that it is good for them, their families and the nation.
If people with disability want to work, we will support them to find and keep a job.
Keeping the economy strong is vital.
It is only by building a stronger economy that we can guarantee the essential services that people with disability, their families and their carers rely on and deliver them the jobs they deserve.
A re-elected Morrison Government will:Continue to ensure the NDIS is fully funded by building a stronger economy and keeping the budget in the black.
Rollout new NDIS participant planning pathways – making sure people with disability have a single point of contact with the NDIS, and can choose to be on a longer NDIS plan of up to 3 years if their disability is stable.
Expand the NDIS community connectors program to support and assist hard to reach communities - including Indigenous Australians, culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities and ageing parents of children with disability - to navigate the NDIS and get the services they or their children need.
Introduce a new NDIS Participant Service Guarantee – setting new standards for shorter timeframes for people with disability to get an NDIS plan and to have their plan reviewed, with a particular focus on children, and participants requiring specialist disability accommodation (SDA) and assistive technology.
Commit $45 million to develop a national disability information gateway, including a website and 1800 number, to assist all people with disability and their families to locate and access services in their communities.
Introduce a new 7 per cent employment target for people with disability across the Australian Public Service (APS) by 2025.
Provide $2 million to support people with autism to find and keep a job, including a $1.5 million national expansion of the successful Dandelion Program in partnership with DXC Technology.
Our Record
The Coalition has implemented significant reforms to improve the lives of people with disability, their families and their carers.
We are implementing the National Disability Strategy
Since 2013, the Liberal National Government, in partnership with the states and territories, has released:The National Disability Strategy 2010-2020 Second Implementation Plan – Driving Action 2015-2018.
The Australian Government Plan to Improve Outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People with Disability.
National Disability Strategy 2010-2020 Australian Government Action Plan.
In 2017, also under the second implementation plan, we released the Australian Government Action Plan and the Australian Government Plan to Improve Outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People with Disability (the Indigenous plan).
To support the Indigenous plan, our Government announced funding of $3 million for two targeted projects: a research to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander prisoners and ex-prisoners with disability and a trial on integrated health and education approaches to support students with disability in remote communities.
We have also announced $10.5 million to fund initiatives to help build inclusive communities in the final two years of the current strategy and build the foundation for delivery of a new strategy for beyond 2020.
Consultation on a new strategy for beyond 2020 has now commenced.
We are rolling out the NDIS and making it the best it can be
The NDIS is rolling out in accordance with the agreements signed between the Commonwealth and the States and Territories - area by area, group by group.
The NDIS has grown by more than 900 per cent in less than three years – from about 30,000 participants in 2016 to almost 280,000 today.
More than 85,000 – or almost one in three – are receiving support for the very first time.
The provider market has massively expanded, from around 3,500 to more than 20,200 service providers – an increase of almost 580 per cent over the same period.
NDIS budget funding is growing strongly – from $13.3 billion in 2018-19 to almost $18 billion in 2019-20 and more than $22 billion in 2020-21.
We continue to roll out improvements to better support NDIS participants, their families and carers.
For example, we are implementing a new participant planning pathway, with face-to-face planning (where this is the participant’s preference), a single point of contact, easier to read plans and improved training for NDIS staff.
We are actively promoting longer term plans of up to 3 years for people with disability whose circumstances are stable – reducing red tape for participants and providers who will no longer need to get a plan every 12 months.
The length of a plan will be determined in consultation with the participant, who will still be able to request a plan review at any time if their circumstances change.
We are rolling out a new psychosocial disabilities stream, with specialised planners and closer linkages with mental health services, and we are providing better planning and pricing for NDIS participants with complex support needs.
These improvements will lead to a better NDIS experience and improved long term outcomes for NDIS participants.
We are beginning to see the development of a vibrant and diverse market for Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), helping more Australians with disability to live better lives - with more independence, more privacy and more engagement with the broader community.
There are now 12,350 NDIS participants with SDA in their plan – a 13 per cent increase in the 12 months since December 31 2018 – and the number of registered SDA providers has increased from 802 to 892.
Our significant reforms to SDA will simplify processes for people with disabilities and encourage greater investment in SDA for an estimated 28,000 participants when the NDIS is fully rolled out.
As a result of our reforms, participants, their carers or families will be able to go into the market and find or commission a home that suits their individual needs.
We are providing greater pricing certainty to SDA investors, and will allow properties under construction to be precertified so that investors have more certainty that their property will meet SDA design standards upon completion.
All of these SDA reforms are being supported by a dedicated planning team in the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) and the establishment of an SDA industry reference group to provide input on SDA policy and price settings.
We are making it easier and quicker for NDIS participants to access assistive technologies (AT), such as wheelchairs, magnifying devices or vehicle and home modifications, including:replacement for standard AT items will be quickly assessed without needing a full re-assessment, and will only require one quote for items valued between $1,500 and $15,000;
From April 2019, we have started a pilot of a new approach to improve the quality and timeliness of assessment for participants requiring complex and non-standard AT; and
In June 2019, we will introduce changes making it easier for participants to access refurbished or pre-used AT.
These changes build on earlier improvements to AT processes.
Since May 2018, low cost, low risk AT under $1,500 could be purchased without further assessment, quotes or approvals once approved as reasonable and necessary in a participant’s plan.
This benefited an estimated 45 per cent of participants requiring AT.
Since December 2018, no more than two quotes have been required for AT costing greater than $1,500.
We have committed to a national action plan to reduce the number of younger people living in residential aged care
Our reforms to the NDIS have allowed us to commit to a national action plan to get younger people out of residential aged care. Under our plan we will:Support those already living in aged care aged under 45 to find alternative, age-appropriate housing and supports by 2022, if this is their goal.
Supporting those already living in aged care aged under 65 to find alternative, age-appropriate housing and supports by 2025, if this is their goal.
Halve the number of younger people aged under 65 years entering aged care by 2025.
While appropriate attention will be given to the small number of younger people aged under 45, this will not preclude or prevent our plan from immediately benefitting all people aged under 65 currently living in residential aged care.
We will continue to work beyond 2025 to minimise to the fullest extent possible the number of younger people aged under 65 years entering and living in aged care.
Providing for safe and quality services for NDIS participants
The Morrison Government believes all forms of violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation of people with disability are abhorrent and have no place in society.
We committed $209 million to establish the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission from 1 July 2018.
The NDIS Commission is already up and running in NSW and South Australia, with operations to begin in all other states from July 2019 (except Western Australia, to start in July 2020).
The NDIS Commission is an independent statutory body with strong investigation and regulatory powers.
It can take tough action including banning orders and substantial civil penalties on both providers and workers.
The NDIS Commission is responsible for registering providers, handling complaints, receiving and managing incident notifications, setting quality standards and enforcing a Code of Conduct for NDIS providers and workers.
In partnership with the states and territories, the NDIS Commission will also provide clinical leadership in behaviour support and promote the reduction and elimination of restrictive practices.
It will host a $13.6 million national database of NDIS worker screening clearances from 1 July 2019 – which will provide a way to check that people who are working, or seek to work, in the NDIS do not pose an unacceptable risk of harm to people with disability.
The NDIS Commission is already doing its job, with more than 600 complaints handled in the first six months of operation.
We have also established a Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability – with funding of $527.9 million over five years.
This funding includes more than $100 million to support people with disability participate in the inquiry through the provision of advocacy and counselling support.
What we learn from the Royal Commission will help to inform governments, institutions and the wider community on how to protect people with disability.
We are growing the market for disability services and jobs
The Morrison Government is investing to ensure that NDIS participants have access to the services they need.
We have released the Growing the NDIS Market and Workforce Strategy to support the creation of an additional 90,000 full-time jobs under the NDIS in the next 5 years.
We are providing $45.6 million through the NDIS Jobs and Market Fund to support the growth, capacity and capability of the NDIS provider market and workforce so that it can meet the needs of NDIS participants.
We have established the $33 million Boosting the Local Care Workforce Program and launched the NDIS Demand Map to provide local post code level data to assist NDIS providers with their business planning.
Tailored business advice (up to $20,000) to help providers transition to the NDIS is also available.
We have announced an $850 million injection per year into the NDIS market from 2019-20.
New prices include a minimum increase of almost $11 per hour for therapists and up to a 15.4 percent price increase to the base limit for attendant care and community participation.
By encouraging an increase in services, this will mean NDIS participants can better access the quality and innovative supports that meet their individual needs.
We are taking action to improve employment outcomes for people with disability
Despite their enthusiasm, commitment and good reputation as employees, people with disability too often find it hard to get into the workforce.
About 14 per cent of working age people in Australia have a disability but people with disability comprise only nine per cent of the workforce.
Only 53 per cent of Australians with disability are participating in work compared with 83 per cent of Australians without disability.
The Morrison Government is committed to helping people with disability who have the desire and capacity to work, to find and keep a job.
Our significant reforms to Disability Employment Services (DES) on 1 July 2018 have seen a 27 per cent increase in the number of people with disability voluntarily participating in the DES program.
Our reforms also provide people with disability with greater choice and control over who they receive support from, enabling them to choose someone who best meets their needs. So far, over 9,800 participants have taken this opportunity, no questions asked.
Because of these reforms, we are also seeing greater employment outcomes – 82 per cent of successful job placements are lasting at least 13 weeks, an increase of 24 per cent over previous arrangements.
In November 2018, the Morrison Government also established the NDIS Participant Employment Taskforce, charging it with overcoming barriers to employment for NDIS participants and developing an NDIS Employment Strategy by July 2019.
We are backing the Taskforce with a $19.9 million grant round for projects that boost economic participation for people with disability.
The Morrison Government has already provided $300,000 for the Impact21 pilot program, delivered by not-for-profit e.motion21.
The pilot aims to educate and employ young adults with Down syndrome.
The pilot includes a one-year work readiness program, including partnership with a national employer and a seven-week work placement program.
We are also encouraging employers to hire people with disability through the ‘Employ their Ability’ campaign.
The campaign aims to highlight the benefits of employing people with disability and ensure employers are aware of the government support and programs available to help them.
As part of the ‘Employ their Ability’ campaign, we have also released the Employer Toolkit, an online resource to guide employers through the entire process of employing people with disability.
Our plan to strengthen the Australian economy has already seen 1.3 million jobs created across the economy over the past five years.
We have a plan to keep our economy strong and create 1.25 million more jobs over the next five years.
Our NDIS Participant Employment Taskforce and grants will help ensure that people with disability will have real employment opportunities and share in the benefits of a strong and growing jobs market.
We are supporting students with disability
The Morrison Government will invest almost $29 billion for students with disability from 2018 to 2029.
This record level of funding will grow by 5.1 per cent on average per student with disability each year.
This funding is in addition to the base per student funding amount provided for all students at each school, and in addition to the funding provided by the states and territories.
Our funding also recognises the individual needs of students, and provides real needs-based funding consistently across Australia.
Under the special deals on schools funding Labor signed, funding for students with disability was inconsistent across the states and territories.
Each state had a different definition of disability which meant a student with a disability could be funded in one state but not another.
Under the Coalition’s reforms, the Commonwealth will provide the same level of funding for a student with a disability regardless of the state in which they live, and funding increases with the student’s level of need.
We have invested in advocacy to support people with disability
Since September 2013, the Coalition’s investment in disability advocacy has grown from $19.7 million to $34.4 million in 2018-19, recognising the significant challenges involved for people with disability to understand and access the NDIS.
This recognises the significant challenges involved for people with disability to understand and access the NDIS.
Our Plan
Establishing a national NDIS Community Connectors Program
A re-elected Morrison Government will complete the rollout of the NDIS.
It is estimated that more than 460,000 participants will benefit from the NDIS when it is fully rolled out in 2020.
To finalise the rollout of the NDIS and ensure that hard to reach communities are engaged in the NDIS, a re-elected Morrison Government will commit $20 million to expand the NDIS Community Connectors Program.
The program will assist rural and remote communities (including Indigenous communities), culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities and ageing parents of children with disability to engage and navigate the NDIS.
NDIS Community Connectors would assist hard to reach communities engage with the NDIS and assist them in access, planning and implementation processes.
The role of Community Connectors would be to provide a community based and trusted resource, to actively connect people with disability and their families with the NDIS and NDIS providers.
Community Connectors would assist potential NDIS participants and their families to acquire the evidence required to test their eligibility for the NDIS, assist with the development of culturally appropriate plans, and help link them with providers to implement their plans.
We have also already announced $165 million to continue to support the smooth transition of remaining clients of Commonwealth programs into the NDIS or continuity of support services in 2019-20.
A re-elected Morrison Government will continue our work to deliver an NDIS that benefits people with disability, their families and their carers. This will include:Continued improvements to NDIS planning processes.
Better use of functional assessments to assist in access and planning decisions.
Piloting new approaches to improve the quality and timeliness of assessment for participants requiring complex and non-standard assistive technology.
Removing restrictions that currently prevent some families from living together in SDA.
Implementing the national action plan to reduce the number of younger people entering residential aged care.
Rolling out the new $398 million NDIS Information, Linkages and Capacity Building (ILC) strategy.
Further enhancements to the NDIS myplace portal, website and other ICT.
More improvements to NDIS pricing, including deregulating pricing where appropriate.
Introducing a new NDIS Participant Service Guarantee
With the NDIS transition period nearing an end, it is now also time to set up the NDIS for future success.
A re-elected Morrison Government will therefore introduce a new NDIS Participant Service Guarantee following the practical completion of the NDIS rollout in 2020.
The new NDIS Participant Service Guarantee will set timeframes for participants to receive an access decision (that is, a decision on whether they will be covered by the NDIS); to have their NDIS plan approved; and to have their NDIS plan reviewed, should a participant request a review.
Under the NDIS Act introduced with bipartisan support in 2013, the only requirement placed on the NDIA was to make an access decision within 21 days of receiving all information required to make that decision.
While this was appropriate for the transition phase with all the complexity of rolling out the NDIS to 460,000 people - it is no longer fit for purpose for the NDIS at maturity.
These new service standards will reduce the time taken for people with disability to access the NDIS, and have their plan approved and implemented.
Specific service standards will be enforced for children with disability and participants requiring specialist disability accommodation and assistive technology.
This will ensure that children in need of assistance will be provided with immediate support.
The introduction of the NDIS Participant Service Guarantee will commence on 1 July 2020 following a review of the NDIS Act in the second half of 2019.
A key objective of this review is to streamline NDIS processes and cut red tape for participants and providers.
The NDIS Participant Service Guarantee will be developed and legislated in close consultation with people with disability, their families, carers and supporters, as well as state and territory governments.
The NDIA will be required to report against their performance under the new NDIS Participant Service Guarantee to the COAG Disability Reform Council.
The Commonwealth Ombudsman will be given additional resources of $2 million to allow it to monitor the NDIA’s performance against the Participant Service Guarantee timeframes, and to support NDIS participants pursuing complaints about time frames they have experienced.
Establishing a national disability gateway to support all people with disability
We recognise that the NDIS was never intended to be the only support provided to people with disability, their families or carers.
There are more than 4.3 million Australians with disability, of whom 460,000 are expected to be eligible for the NDIS.
A re-elected Morrison Government will provide $45 million over three years to establish a national disability information gateway for people with disability, their families and their carers.
The gateway will provide people with disability and their families with a one-stop shop to access up-to-date, relevant information, support and referral to assist them in making their own choices about the services and supports they use, and the activities, in which they engage in their communities.
The gateway will consist of a website, including a service finder similar to that available on the My Aged Care and Carer Gateway websites, and a national call centre via a dedicated 1800 number to assist people with disability and their families to locate and access services for themselves or the ones they love.
Establishing a national gateway will improve access to information and services for people with disability and their families, which is currently fragmented and difficult to navigate with services and supports spanning multiple sectors including health, housing, employment, transport and disability services.
For example, the gateway will assist people with disability to find a local advocacy services, a sporting team that meets the needs of their disability, disability related events and disability service providers.
The Gateway will utilise information and resources that will be developed as part of the NDIS Information, Linkages and Capacity Building (ILC) National Information Program.
Further action to improve employment outcomes for people with disability
The Liberal and Nationals Coalition has already created 1.3 million jobs.
We have a plan to keep our economy strong and create 1.25 million more jobs over the next 5 years.
It is only through creating these jobs that people with disability will have real employment opportunities.
A re-elected Morrison Government will continue to support initiatives that boost employment for people with disability.
Introduce a new disability employment target for the APS
A re-elected Morrison Government will lead by example by introducing a new 7 per cent employment target for people with disability across the Australian Public Service (APS) by 2025.
While the APS is a major employer across Australia, there has been a consistent decline in the recorded number of people with disability in the APS workforce, from 6.6 per cent in 1986.1
When Labor was last in Government the recorded employment of people with disability in the APS declined from 3.6 per cent in 2007 to 3.2 per cent in 2013.
Under the Coalition, we have already reversed this trend with the recorded employment of people with disability in the APS increasing back to 3.7 per cent in 2018.2
The work of the National Disability Insurance Agency and Department of Social Services demonstrates the ability to increase the level of employment of people with disability across the public service.
The work of the National Disability Insurance Agency and Department of Social Services demonstrates the ability to increase the level of employment of people with disability across the public service.
While a number of initiatives are currently underway to support greater employment of people with disability in the APS, there is currently no target to drive significant cultural change.
A re-elected Morrison Government would therefore lead by example by implementing a target of 7 per cent recorded employment of people with disability across the APS by 2025.
We will task Departmental Secretaries and Agency heads with reviewing their employment policies and the target will form part of their key performance indicators.
We will also task the APS Commissioner with developing a new APS Disability Employment Strategy for 2019-2025, including a review of current recruitment and assessment processes to ensure they are not creating barriers to employment for people with disability, especially those with an intellectual disability or autism.
A number of state and territory governments have implemented employment targets for people with disability within their public service - Victoria with a target of 6 per cent by 2020, Queensland an 8 per cent target by 2022, and NSW wanting to boost public service disability employment from 2.7 per cent to 5.6 per cent by 2027.
A re-elected Morrison Government would also call on all other state, territory and local governments to set ambitious targets for employing people with disability.
Supporting people with autism into employment
A re-elected Morrison Government will provide $2 million to support people with autism to find and keep a job, including a $1.5 million national expansion of the successful Dandelion Program in partnership with DXC Technology.
The Morrison Government recognises that autism is the highest represented disability in the NDIS at almost 30 per cent, and a growing number of people with autism will be leaving school in the next five to ten years.
These young people will need support to help their transition to the workplace.
Since 2014, DXC Technology has successfully delivered the DXC Dandelion Program, providing long term employment outcomes for approximately 100 people with autism in government and non-government workplaces.
To date, the Dandelion Program has achieved a retention rate of around 92 per cent.
This collaborative partnership will leverage DXC’s extensive experience in building careers for people on the autism spectrum – presenting the opportunity to extend this kind of program to the 164,000 Australians with autism.
As part of the partnership, a range of initiatives will be developed to support potential employers to integrate people with autism into the workforce and to become more disability confident and aware.
A re-elected Morrison Government will invest an additional $500,000 for initiatives to encourage employers to become autism-confident.
This will stimulate the widest possible take up of recruitment processes which are inclusive of people with autism and enable people with autism to work in an environment that accommodates their needs.
The Choice
The NDIS is one of the biggest social policy reforms in Australia’s history.
It is important that we get it right.
Unfortunately, Labor’s implementation of the NDIS was led more by political expediency than policy perfection.
A review of the NDIA’s capabilities released in early 2014 found that “The Agency is like a plane that took off before it had been fully built and is being completed while it is in the air.”
Labor has a dismal track record of implementation ambitious schemes - from home insulation schemes to its promise to ‘end the double drop-off’ which was disgracefully abandoned when a mere 38 of a promised 260 child care centres on school premises nationally had been built
If Labor wins government, it will likely do a poor job of implementing the continued roll out of the NDIS.
By building a strong economy and getting the budget back into balance, we have been able to fill the multibillion dollar funding gap left by the previous Labor Government without increasing taxes.
Cost
The Coalition will invest an additional $22 million for our Plan to Support People with Disability.
Our Plan for a Stronger Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Sector
Key Points
The Morrison Government has a plan to lift Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry to a $100 billion industry by 2030.
The industry has a roadmap to do this – our policies will help get them there.
A $100 billion industry means many more jobs in our regional and rural communities.
Our plan to help the agriculture, fisheries and forestry sector reach its potential is focused on:Tackling barriers to growth and production.
Providing the water needed for growth and drought proofing.
Tackling intergenerational land transfer and encouraging new farmers.
Expanding exports and improving market access.
Getting the balance right for the fisheries and forestry industries.
There are challenges, but we’re addressing these too: pests and weeds, external biosecurity threats, external biosecurity threats, climate impacts,  changeable consumer preferences and international competition on research and development and commercialisation.
A re-elected Morrison Government will:Support farmers to buy their first farm and plan for intergenerational transfer with ‘AgriStarter’ concessional loans through the Regional Investment Corporation.
Establish the National Water Grid, a statutory authority responsible for national strategic planning and management of water policy and infrastructure.
Increase opportunities to sell Australian food and fibre overseas including expanding horticulture through a new 2030 protected horticulture strategy.
Continue to ensure the industry has the skilled workforce in needs through a National Agricultural Workforce Strategy and a new National Agricultural Labour Advisory Committee.
Support farm safety with a new National Farm Safety Education Fund.
Implement a Dairy Mandatory Code of Conduct and support more sophisticated contracting and milk marketing tools to increase price transparency.
Support the battle against pests and weeds in drought affected communities.
Deliver the Murray-Darling Basin Plan in full to give Basin Communities certainty – a triple bottom line approach that recognises the continued importance of agriculture in the Basin.
Deliver increased transparency and accountability in river management.
Commission the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission to undertake a review of southern Basin water markets.
Protect the right to farm with new laws targeting trespass and protecting farmers’ privacy.
Develop a National Fishing Plan built on close consultation with the sector to achieve a shared vision for the industry.
Develop a Commonwealth Fisheries Resource Sharing Framework based on comprehensive surveys and careful analysis.
Support better mental health for commercial fishers through a trial of a mental health trusted advocate network.
Support projects that improve the health of Australia’s marine and estuarine habitats.
Invest in building the capacity of recreational, Indigenous and commercial fisheries representatives.
Support new and upgraded recreational fishing and camping facilities, regional jobs and fishing safety through a new grant program for local councils.
Support the planting of 1 billion new plantation trees by developing special Plantation Development Concessional Loans under the Regional Investment Corporation.
Deliver 20-year rolling Regional Forestry Agreements with relevant states.
Bring forward the establishment of the Regional Forestry Hub in South West Slopes NSW as a pilot Hub.
Develop a farm forestry strategy.
Commission an inquiry into short-term timber supply chain constraints in the national plantation sector through the Standing Committee on Agriculture and Water Resources.
Labor risks it all.
Under Labor, farm production will be hit.
They have already promised to burden farmers with unnecessary and unprecedented new federal environmental regulations and raise the cost of doing business with additional taxes.
Labor's trade policy will make it next to impossible to grow our exports.
They want to meddle with the Free Trade Agreements our government has delivered.
Labor's trade policy will take us backwards.
Under Labor, there will be no growth in the forestry industry.
Not only do they plan to return to their failed Tasmanian Forestry Agreement, there are real concerns that Labor will abolish Regional Forest Agreements altogether and put forestry under the control of their proposed new Environment Protection Agency in Canberra.
Under Labor, Murray-Darling Basin communities will not have certainty.
Our Plan
Tackling barriers to growth and production
Increasing production by combating pests and weeds
Pests and weeds cost Australian farmers and graziers billions of dollars in production losses every year.
The Morrison Government has recognised that tackling the scourge of pests and weeds does not stop during times of drought.
Hardy weeds can dominate pastures and wild dogs can accentuate stock losses.
We have invested $15 million in the Communities Combating Pests and Weed Impacts During Drought Program to deliver 48 on-ground, direct action projects in Queensland, NSW, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania and Western Australia.
With the drought continuing, a re-elected Morrison Government will provide an additional $10 million for a further round of funding under the program.
This will enable farmers and local communities to continue to fight feral pests and invasive weeds and boost agricultural productivity and growth
Labour challenges are impacting growth
The agricultural sector is facing a number of labour force challenges that are impacting growth and the social fabric of rural and regional communities.
Too many of our best and brightest kids leave our rural communities, never returning to practise their skills and professional interests.
Agricultural and STEM graduates are scarce and increasingly mobile, meaning hiring and retaining young talent is difficult.
Regionally based SMEs and large-scale, labour intensive enterprises are finding it increasingly difficult to source high-performing seasonal labour.
The Morrison Government has already introduced a suite of measures to help farmers access the workers they need.
We introduced targeted changes to the Seasonal Worker Program, the Pacific Labour Scheme and the Working Holiday Maker visa programs.
To further ensure a sustainable, highly-skilled workforce, in the 2019-20 Budget the Morrison Government committed $1.9 million to work with the industry to develop a National Agricultural Workforce Strategy.
The strategy will consider the role of agricultural education in meeting Australia’s current and future workforce needs and identify labour gaps across the agriculture, fisheries and aquaculture sectors as well as ways to attract, train and protect the workforce that is needed now and in the future.
To support this work, a re-elected Morrison Government will establish a National Agricultural Labour Advisory Committee.
The Committee will consider and advise the Government on farm labour and agricultural sector workforce challenges.
On the other hand, Labor will put access to workers at risk with prohibitive penalty rates and union domination of industry needs.
Labor will increase the difficulty, complexity and cost of developing appropriate visa types, robbing employers and employees of opportunity.
A fairer go for dairy farmers
The Liberal Nationals Government has stood behind our farmers – ensuring they get a fair price for their produce. In line with the Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper, we invested $11.4 million to boost Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) engagement with the agriculture sector – including the establishment of a new Commissioner dedicated to agriculture.
Dairy is Australia’s third-largest agricultural industry with a value of $4.3 billion in 2017-18 and is the economic mainstay of many rural communities.
Yet dairy farmers around the country have been struggling.
In 2017, the Liberal Nationals Government asked the ACCC to examine the performance and structural problems within the dairy sector.
The Commission found significant power imbalances at each point along the supply chain, with dairy farmers the worst hit.
Farm gate prices for milk are eroding incentives for production and re-investment in an important domestic and export industry.
The ACCC recommended the establishment of a mandatory code of conduct, which, after extensive consultation with farmers and processors, the Morrison Government will activate from 2020 – the 2019-20 Budget provided $8.7 million for implementation. Drafting of regulations to give effect to the code has begun.
Current milk marketing follows a century-old model burdened with hidden pricing, constraints over growers’ sales in favour of local processors and no hedging or options tools.
A re-elected Morrison Government will, through Australian Dairy Farmers, engage the Australian Milk Price Initiative (AMPI) to design new milk pricing and marketing concepts for the dairy sector.
This will give dairy farmers better leverage, more transparency from the supply chain and more choices on how and when they price their milk.
National Farm Safety Education Fund
One in five workplace fatalities happen on the farm.
From January to September 2018, there were 49 reports of on-farm deaths with tractors, utilities, quads and motorbikes most often implicated.
The same period saw 120 non-fatal on-farm injury events, 16 of them involving children under 15.
Quad bikes and motorbikes accounted for around a third of all incidents.
A re-elected Morrison Government will seek to turn these statistics around.
A $3.5 million National Farm Safety Education Fund will be established to support activities that address on-farm safety issues including:Increasing peer-to-peer activities that promote farm safety measures.
Developing and/or updating resources to support on-farm learning and awareness of farm safety.
Campaigns specifically targeted for and to children including farm dam, farm machinery and quad bike safety.
Support for the annual Farm Safety Week.
Farmsafe Australia (which is supported by farm organisation members) is expected to be a major beneficiary of the Fund.
Farmsafe’s mission is to drive efforts to enhance the well-being and productivity of Australian agriculture through improved health and safety awareness and practices.
Providing the water needed for growth and drought proofing
National Water Grid
We need the states to work more closely with the Australian Government to better capture and store water – as well as protect our communities from devastating flood.
A re-elected Morrison Government will establish the National Water Grid – a statutory authority responsible for the strategic planning and project management of water policy and water infrastructure across the nation.
The National Water Grid will:Bring together the world’s best scientists to remove the politics from the allocation, capture and storage of water – ensuring decisions are based on the best available science.
Develop a pipeline of all established and future water infrastructure projects and then identify the missing links.
Use the best science to examine how large-scale water diversion projects could be established to deliver reliable and cost-effective water to farmers and regional communities.
A re-elected Morrison Government will also:Seek agreement from states and territories to co-invest in the project through COAG.
Invest an initial $100 million to better understand water resources and kick-start investigation and delivery of water diversion projects.
Amend the Operating Mandate for the Regional Investment Corporation to allow local Governments and the private sector to access water infrastructure loan funding.
Deliver the Murray-Darling Basin Plan for a healthy river system
The Liberal and Nationals Government is committed to a Basin Plan that delivers certainty to farmers, communities and the environment.
The drought and historic low inflows in Murray Darling Basin rivers over the past twelve months have placed stress on the river and the communities that rely on it.
Communities should expect transparency in river management, water markets and Basin Plan delivery.
A re-elected Morrison Government will:Request the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission to undertake a review of the southern Basin water market and its operation since 2012.
Unlike Labor, we are committed to the social and economic criteria that will govern how the additional 450 GL in water for the environment will be recovered – and the 1500 GL cap on buybacks.
Tackling intergenerational land transfer and encouraging new farmers
Our Government believes in a fair go for farming families.
To realise a $100 billion industry by 2030 we must nurture and foster our next generation of farmers, graziers and agricultural producers.
We know there are many young people crying out to own their own farm but with little to no means to do so.
Most Australians appreciate the challenge faced by young Australians wishing to buy their first home but it is even harder for new and young farmers seeking their first farm.
A productive farming operation that provides a steady income can be priced at millions of dollars.
For young farmers, the level of equity and deposit required is daunting.
Basic stock and equipment is a further cost.
It can become even more complicated when intergenerational transfer is involved, which is increasingly the case with an ageing farmer population.
In Europe, the UK and Canada, governments have acknowledged the problem and found innovative ways to deal with it.
It’s time we did the same.
The Morrison Government has extended the mandate of the Regional Investment Corporation (RIC) to create a new loan product to assist new entrants.
‘AgriStarter’ concessional loans of up to $2 million to new farmers will help them purchase a majority share or total share of a farm.
Many of Australia’s older farmers would like to transfer their farm but haven’t got the capacity to simply gift it to the next generation, or someone else.
The loan means families will be able to discuss succession, plan for the future and new entrants to farming will get the start they need.
Expanding exports and improving market access
Improving and growing export markets is critical for the sector to reach a $100 billion value by 2030.
Australian farmers produce almost 93 percent of our daily domestic food supply.
Each farmer produces enough food to feed 600 people, 150 at home and 450 overseas.
About 70 per cent of what we produce is exported.
Through our trade agenda and the delivery of trade agreements, tariffs are coming down, making our agricultural exports more competitive.
A re-elected Morrison Government will prioritise the conclusion of a free trade agreement with the European Union, the implementation of the India Economic Strategy and the expansion of the Trans Pacific Partnership.
Other market-opening opportunities include a free trade deal with the United Kingdom and a trade agreement with the four-nation Pacific Alliance.
The 2019-20 Budget provided an additional $60 million for Export Market Development Grants to allow small and medium businesses to capitalise on international opportunities.
It provided an additional $29.4 million investment to back Australia’s agricultural export trade.
By contrast, Labor has a poor record delivering trade and market access for our agricultural produce.
Labor will be driven by the unions to reduce trade in betrayal of the sector, workers and jobs.
The alarm bells have already sounded, with the unions – which run the Labor Party – pressuring Bill Shorten to rip up our latest agreement with Indonesia.
$11.4 million to accelerate horticulture market access
Horticulture will strongly contribute to the $100 billion target.
Horticulture exports have doubled in value since 2010-11 and are projected to be valued at $3 billion in 2018-19.
The Gross Value of Production (GVP) of horticulture is estimated at almost $10.7 billion, with around 73,000 employees across the sector in 2017-18.
By 2022-23 the GVP is forecast to be $13.6 billion.
The Morrison Government is investing a further $11.4 million over four years to work on the next tranche of horticulture market priorities.
Market access was recently achieved for walnuts to India and the nut sector has identified significant opportunities in Latin America.
Our investment has also brought phytosanitary pathways to market.
There are now opportunities to diversify markets in Asia, India, the Middle East and Latin America.
Maintaining and improving existing market access is critical.
For example, the transition of Vietnam to a regulated market in 2015 required the development of more than 30 technical submissions for a range of commodities.
$5.1 million to tackle non-tariff measures
Trade agreements are progressively reducing import tariffs and as a result, global agricultural trade has grown.
However, the use of non-tariff measures (NTMs) has also grown and this is impacting on our exports: 245 NTMs cost the red meat industry $3.4 billion a year across 41 markets.
Most NTMs (such as health and safety certification or biosecurity compliance) are justified as they provide assurances, but inefficient and overly-costly requirements can have a profound effect.
The Morrison Government is investing $5.1 million over four years and $2.4 million each subsequent year on a program to help Australian export industries tackle NTMs.
The work will assess the nature and impact of NTMs and develop strategies and commercial approaches for their reduction or removal
$6.8 million to expand the Agricultural Trade and Market Access Cooperation program
The Agricultural Trade and Market Access Cooperation (ATMAC) program has delivered real market access gains for Australian farmers and exporters.
For example, technical collaboration between the Australian Livestock Export Council and China on Bluetongue virus will provide positive outcomes for both countries in the trade of Australian live ruminants and generic material.
The Morrison Government is investing $6.8 million in the ATMAC program for a further four years – to keep our export markets moving.
$6.1 million to extend the Package Assisting Small Exporters program
In 2013, the Liberal Nationals Government established the Package Assisting Small Exporters (PASE), a grant program to improve market access for small exporters.
A $6.1 million investment will extend the program for four years.
With small businesses often finding it difficult to navigate exporting, PASE has funded 54 projects across a number of industries.
For example, the Primal Foods Group created an online portal – Farmgate Exchange – as a single point of contact for grain trade between smaller Australian growers and international buyers.
The portal will help growers to market grain from their own silos directly to buyers around the world, delivering better access and prices.
The Morrison Government will also continue to work with the United States to ensure Australian fishers are meeting the new requirements for importers under the US Marine Mammal Protection Act and are not locked out of the market.
2030 Protected Horticulture Strategy
A re-elected Morrison Government, along with industry and Horticulture Innovation Australia, will progress a 2030 vision for protected horticulture in Australia. Protected cropping (whether high-tech enclosed systems or poly tunnel) is a leading tool to increase food production: reducing risks from temperature extremes, pests and bugs and water availability.
The Liberal Nationals Government has invested $4.3 million in the National Vegetable Protected Cropping Centre, a state-of-the-art greenhouse facility for research, education and training.
We will build on this and provide national leadership to develop a 2030 Protected Horticulture Strategy.
The Strategy will ensure the sustainable expansion of protected cropping in Australia and coordination of industry, governments and other research and development organisations.
Fisheries international engagement
Australia participates in a number of internationally-shared fisheries with migratory stocks like tuna and straddling stocks such as orange roughy.
The Liberal Nationals Government has focused on the sustainability of fisheries we share with other nations, and ensuring ongoing access for our industry.
We actively support Australia’s critical work in Regional Fisheries Management Organisations and other similar international forums.
The Morrison Government is committed to building the capacity of our close neighbours to effectively manage their fisheries and ensure compliance with fisheries management rules.
Capacity building helps ensure these countries protect the sustainability of shared stocks by adequately controlling their catch and combatting Illegal Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing.
Our international collaboration efforts have led to significant reductions in IUU fishing, particularly in the southern ocean with Patagonian toothfish.
A re-elected Morrison Government is committed to ongoing funding for our government agencies at the forefront of international fishing forums.
Getting the balance right for the fisheries and forestry industries
The right planning
Working with commercial, recreational, Indigenous and aquaculture fisheries, the Morrison Government will develop a new sector blueprint.
We will leverage the strong cross-sectoral nature of the first National Fisheries Advisory Council, established in 2018, to develop Australia’s first National Fisheries Plan.
Different jurisdictional approaches to fisheries policy and management are impacting the industry. The plan will develop a strategy for achieving the shared visions of the sector, seeking to harmonise:Resource sharing methodology.
The way Indigenous interests are captured in legislation.
Harvest strategy methodology.
Aquaculture management.
Commonwealth Fisheries Resource Sharing Framework
All fisheries sectors are concerned about ongoing access to resources.
Only the Morrison Government is committed to ensuring fair and equitable sharing of fisheries.
In partnership with the sector we will develop a Commonwealth Fisheries Resource Sharing Framework.
The Framework will outline the rules for sharing resources across the fisheries sectors and between the Commonwealth and other Australian jurisdictions.
To share a resource, you must first know how large it is, how much can be sustainably harvested and the current level of extraction.
For that reason we have invested heavily in stock assessments and catch recording.
Once we have a complete picture, we will move forward with refined stock assessments and formal resource sharing arrangements.
The Morrison Government has also launched a national recreational fishing survey to gather economic and social data: we are working with the states and the Northern Territory to align recreational catch surveys wherever possible.
This data will again inform sustainability and resource sharing assessments.
We will continue the Southern Bluefin Tuna recreational catch survey as a basis for ongoing discussions about sustainable harvesting and resource sharing for this iconic species.
Removing red tape for the fisheries sector
The Liberal Nationals Government has a track record of simplifying cross-jurisdictional fisheries management to increase efficiency.
Most Australian fisheries are managed by the states, the Northern Territory or the Commonwealth – depending on location.
In some cases, management is shared under Offshore Constitutional Settlement (OCS) arrangements.
Our Government has worked hard with the states and the Northern Territory to minimise the regulatory burden under some OCS arrangements, negotiating responsibility back to single jurisdictions where appropriate.
For example, we successfully transitioned the Western Australian Southern Demersal Gillnet and Longline Fishery to single jurisdiction management in 2018.
The Morrison Government is committed to continuing to implement simpler fisheries management.
We will work with Queensland and the Northern Territory to move a number of fisheries away from joint management to single jurisdiction.
Fisheries habitat restoration
A re-elected Morrison Government will work with fishing clubs to restore marine and estuarine habitats through an $8 million investment.
The health of many fisheries and fish stocks depends on the health and proper functioning of our estuaries, which provide critical nursery habitats.
This funding will build on the work being undertaken by OceanWatch.
OceanWatch is working in partnership with the Australian seafood industry, federal and state governments, natural resource managers, private enterprise and local communities on habitat restoration.
Capacity building for fisheries representatives
The Morrison Government is ensuring that all relevant fisheries sectors are included in decision-making through an extension of objectives in the Fisheries Administration Act 1999.
Changes to the Act mean the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) must now ensure the interests of recreational and Indigenous fishers (along with commercial fishers) are considered in fisheries management decisions.
The Liberal Nationals Government also established the National Fishing Advisory Council (NFAC) to ensure each sector is heard in the development and refinement of Commonwealth fisheries policies.
As well, the industry has highlighted the need to ensure representatives are appropriately skilled and knowledgeable.
A re-elected Morrison Government will invest $400,000 in building the representative capacity of the sector by delivering a well-developed understanding of the regulatory, scientific and economic drivers of fisheries management.
The funding will target training for commercial, recreational and Indigenous representatives on relevant Commonwealth and national fisheries advisory bodies and committees.
Mental health support for commercial fishers
The Morrison Government acknowledges recent work of the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation that highlighted the levels of psychological distress among fishers.
Studies have shown a range of factors including chronic job insecurity has led to poor levels of mental health and high rates of suicide among Australian commercial fishers.
A re-elected Morrison Government will invest $600,000 over two years to support a trial of a mental health trusted advocate program for the fisheries sector.
Up to 10 advocates will be established in eight communities across the country.
Advocates will be supported with training in mental health first aid or counselling to assist them in their role.
This will provide soft entry points to mental health services to reduce barriers and stigma.
They will be the linkage between fishers and the wider mental health support network.
Funding is through an extension of the National Suicide Prevention Leadership and Support Program.
Recreational fishing and camping facilities
Around one in five Australians are recreational fishers, enjoying a healthy outdoor leisure activity.
A re-elected Morrison Government will invest $20 million for local councils to improve, maintain or build new boating, marine rescue, fishing and camping facilities.
Through the new Fishing and Camping Program, Australians and overseas tourists will get better and more amenities to explore our vast coastline.
Studies have found a significant economic benefit from recreational fishing for Australia’s fishing towns – coastal, lake and river.
New and improved facilities will encourage tourism, bringing jobs and economic growth.
Fixing old and damaged facilities will also increase safety for our recreational fishers.
Councils will be able to apply for funding for a range of projects including for new or improved boat ramps, marine rescue facilities, toilet blocks and fish cleaning and camping facilities
Plantation Development Concessional Loans
A re-elected Morrison Government will support the delivery of 1 billion new plantation trees through a new concessional loan product under the Regional Investment Corporation (RIC).
The support is expected to encourage foreign and domestic investment in this slow-growing, long-term and sustainable crop at a time when demand is increasing and the domestic resource is stagnating.
Without Government support for the purchase of the land (the largest cost), there will continue to be little increase in Australia’s total plantation estate.
It’s anticipated that a $500 million new capital investment could result in up to 150,000 hectares of new plantations – vital to meeting future demand for forest products.
Loans will be prioritised for new plantation development that delivers a sustainable resource and over time will support the growth of regional economies and communities.
Implementing the $20 million National Forest Industries Plan
Our Government’s new $20 million National Forest Industries Plan is set to turbocharge Australia’s renewable timber and wood fibre industry.
It’s crucial to the industry’s aspirational goal of tripling economic value by 2050.
The Morrison Government will deliver the plan in full.
We will work with industry, governments and communities to deliver pilot Regional Forestry Hubs.
The Hubs will add value to existing and new forest resources.
They will seek new processing opportunities and analyse inefficiencies, limitations or constraints to growth within the forest industries in each region.
The Hubs underway are in South West Western Australia, North/North West Tasmania, North East NSW and the Green Triangle region.
A re-elected Morrison Government will bring forward the establishment of the South West Slopes of NSW Hub as one of the pilots.
After the pilots, we will install Hubs in four more regions: Gippsland in Victoria, Central West NSW, South East Queensland and North Queensland.
We will continue discussions with other regions identified by industry as locations for further Hubs.
These areas have been selected because of their competitive advantages in forestry – including transport and processing infrastructure as well as a skilled forestry workforce.
Importantly, we recognise the opportunity provided to interested Indigenous landholders from unlocking potential timber supply through sustainable harvesting.
We will work with them to deliver a new stream of returns to Indigenous communities.
Farm forestry has the potential to provide additional revenue from timber and carbon storage.
Other benefits include bundling forestry and landscape services, supporting animal husbandry and lowering erosion and water evaporation.
A re-elected Morrison Government will work with industry and farming groups to develop a Farm Forestry Strategy.
The aim is to transform farm forestry as a commercial, timber-supplying enterprise by investigating aggregation tools, data needs, mapping and business models and navigating the challenges of changing land use.
Regional Forestry Agreements
The Morrison Government is backing in our native forestry sector.
The forest products industry (native and plantation) is vital to our regional communities.
Regional Forestry Agreements (RFAs) are the best mechanism for balancing environmental, economic and social demands on our native forests and giving the industry confidence for the future.
Without the RFAs, the native timber industry would effectively shut down with widespread job losses.
Australia’s native forests are sustainably managed – only 0.06 per cent are harvested annually and then regenerated.
Nationally, more than 4 million hectares of forests have been protected since the RFAs were signed.
A re-elected Morrison Government will continue delivering 20-year extensions to RFAs until all are completed.
To bring further confidence to these Agreements, the Morrison Government will publicly report on the management of native forests in the RFA regions every five years.
Maintaining strong laws against illegal logging
On 16 January 2019, the report of the ‘Statutory review of the Illegal Logging Prohibition Act 2012’ was tabled in Parliament.
The review examined the first five years of Australia’s illegal logging laws.
A re-elected Morrison Government will continue its strong stance against illegal logging.
The Forest Industry Advisory Council (FIAC) will consider the findings of the review and will provide advice on any strengthening of the laws while not increasing regulatory burden.
Our Government will act on this advice.
Inquiry into short-term timber supply chain constraints
The Morrison Government supports the industry, but with the long growing time for trees we need to assess any resource access or supply chain constraints in the short term.
A re-elected Morrison Government will ask the Standing Committee on Agriculture and Water Resources to conduct an inquiry into short-term timber supply chain constraints in the national plantation sector.
The Liberal Nationals Government has a strong track record of delivering for agriculture.
Since we came to office the value of total production is up 25 per cent and the value of agricultural exports is up 29 per cent.
We have given farmers the tools to capitalise when times are good – and the help they need when times are tough.
Support through tough times
We have supported our farmers through the toughest of times – drought, floods and market downturns.
Dealing with the drought and preparing for future droughts has been a top priority, with $6.3 billion of support to farmers and rural communities outlined in our Plan for Supporting Farmers in Drought.
The tragedy of the floods in northern Queensland in early 2019 reminded us that Australian farmers are at the mercy of weather.
Hundreds of thousands of livestock were destroyed.
The Morrison Government acted swiftly by developing a $3.3 billion package to support the rebuilding of agriculture in the flood-hit zones.
A new executive agency, the North Queensland Livestock Industry Recovery Agency, was established to deliver the package that includes:$300 million for two grants programs to support restocking/replanting and to rebuild on-farm infrastructure.
$1.75 billion in loans to banks to support interest rate relief for existing and new business loans.
$1 billion of concessional loans through the Regional Investment Corporation for restocking and for debt refinancing.
These measures have helped in the immediate response.
But rebuilding will take months and years and our Government’s support will be there for the long haul.
The North Queensland Livestock Industry Recovery Agency’s long-term plan expected in the coming months will set this out.
Protecting farmers from extreme activists
The Morrison Government is about choice – farmers’ choice to grow and process animals, fish, fruit and vegetables and choice for consumers.
We have taken action to protect Australian farmers’ right to farm animals without fear or intimidation.
Our Government has brought the Aussie Farms website under the Privacy Act, exposing it to potential penalties of more than $400,000 for breaches.
This action means that Aussie Farms is prescribed as an organisation under the Act.
We will legislate to make it an offence to use a carriage service, such as the internet, to disclose personal information to incite trespass on agricultural land where that could cause commercial detriment.
We will pass new laws to ensure that what Aussie Farms is doing is illegal and punishable by up to 12 months jail.
Exemptions will apply for bona-fide journalists and whistle-blowers, where the release of information shows a law being broken such as animal cruelty.
Taking farms to kids and kids to farms
A 2011 study by Primary Industry Education Foundation Australia found that 75 per cent of primary and secondary school students think that cotton socks are made from animal products.
Forty-five per cent don’t think that bread, bananas and cheese come from farmed product and 40 per cent believe that farming damages the environment.
The Morrison Government is committed to changing attitudes to farming and addressing the gap in kids' understanding of food and fibre sources.
We have committed $10 million for two new programs – taking kids to farms and other primary production worksites, and establishing mini-farms in up to 80 city-based schools.
Further details are outlined in the Morrison Government’s Plan to Showcase Agriculture: Our Heritage. Our Future.
Showcasing agriculture
Agricultural shows are an integral part of Australian culture.
They play an important role in country life, highlighting the local strengths and bringing communities together.
This is particularly important when our regional communities are tested with extended droughts and other extreme weather events.
The Morrison Government will establish a $20 million Regional Agricultural Show Development Grants Program.
Grants will be available for regional agricultural show societies that run annual shows to upgrade and maintain existing infrastructure and build new facilities.
Further details are outlined in the Morrison Government’s Plan to Showcase Agriculture: Our Heritage. Our Future.
Opening markets
To grow the agriculture, fisheries and forestry sector we need access to more markets – and better access to existing markets.
Our track record speaks for itself.
Agriculture, fisheries and forestry contributed more than $53 billion in export earnings in 2017-18, up by over $14 billion from 2011/12 when Labor was in office.
In just six years the Liberal Nationals Government has concluded export agreements with China, Japan, Korea, the 10 economies of the Trans-Pacific Partnership, the countries of the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations, as well as Indonesia, Peru and Hong Kong.
Our Free Trade Agreements have delivered.
Australia’s agricultural exports to Korea are growing: for example, orange exports were worth $4.6 million in 2017-18, a 59 per cent increase from $2.9 million in 2016-17.
There have been six rounds of tariff cuts under the Japan Australia Economic Partnership Agreement that came into force on 15 January 2015, with the most recent occurring on 1 April 2019.
And we have doubled our overseas Agriculture Counsellor network to expand our ability to access markets.
The Liberal Nationals Government has achieved 107 key technical market access gains, along with 94 key market improvements since January 2016.
For example, cherries to Vietnam and extending shelf-life for vacuum-packaged Australian beef and sheep meat to the UAE.
Protecting our pest and disease free status
Our pest and disease free status underpins our international reputation and export trade.
The Liberal Nationals Government injected an additional $313 million to build a smarter and stronger biosecurity system to further protect us against unwanted pests, weeds and diseases.
And we strengthened our border protection against pests, weeds and diseases by delivering a new Intergovernmental Agreement on Biosecurity with state and territory governments.
At home, we have invested $208.3 million in a range of initiatives to reduce the impact of established pests, animals and weeds on farmers, land managers, the community and the environment. This has already reduced stock losses from wild dogs and improved ground cover and fodder.
As well, our Government is investing $16.9 million to build a strong and effective fruit fly management system.
This includes $7.8 million to implement a national fruit fly research, development and extension program to modernise Australia’s fruit fly management techniques.
Profiling the importance of bees to agriculture
Pollinating bees are critical to ensuring the plants we grow produce the food we eat and the fibre we wear.
Without bees, two-thirds of Australian agricultural production would be at risk.
The Morrison Government will invest $1.5 million to promote the role of bees and their impact on the entire food chain.
The effort, targeting all aspects of agricultural production, will help protect our pollinators and reducing their decline. AgriFutures Australia will coordinate, working closely with apiarist organisations.
We have also invested $1.65 million in a honey bee genetic improvement program.
This project could create gains of $41 million in honey production over 25 years.
Unlocking investment
We have invested in our farmers by establishing the $4 billion Regional Investment Corporation to provide a range of loan products including:Farm investment loans to improve long-term strength, resilience and profitability, diversify markets, refinance existing debt and to prepare for, manage, or recover from, drought.
Drought loans to prepare farm businesses for drought, manage and recover from the effects of drought or to refinance existing debt.
Water infrastructure loans to accelerate construction of major projects, build sustainable water security and provide affordable water.
Historic investment in water infrastructure
The Liberal Nationals Government is unlocking the potential of regional Australia with a record $3 billion investment in water infrastructure.
We will work with state and territory governments to fast-track projects that will deliver greater water security for rural communities, increase jobs and support new and expanded agriculture.
Since coming to Government, we have co-invested in water infrastructure projects with state and territory governments including:$190 million for the Myalup-Wellington Pipeline in Western Australia.
$176 million to construct Rookwood Weir in Central Queensland.
$45.6 million for the Northern Adelaide Irrigation Scheme in South Australia.
$30 million for the Macalister Irrigation Scheme in North East Victoria.
$25.27 million for the Scottsdale Irrigation Scheme in Tasmania.
We also understand it is not just about large-scale infrastructure projects.
That’s why the Liberal Nationals Government is backing our farmers through the $50 million On-Farm Emergency Water Infrastructure Rebate Scheme.
The scheme is helping livestock producers in drought-affected areas to provide additional watering points and to desilt their dams.
All primary producers are also able to benefit from the Government’s instant depreciation of $25,000 for on-farm water investments.
This will rise to $30,000 for small businesses with a turnover of less than $50 million.
Securing the future of the Great Artesian Basin
We have ensured the long-term future of the Great Artesian Basin – a critical resource for communities in South Australia, New South Wales, Queensland and the Northern Territory – particularly in times of drought.
We have committed $36.9 million over six years to the next phase of the GAB Sustainability Initiative, building on our $8 million funding under the Interim Great Artesian Basin Infrastructure Investment Program.
We have also invested $6.5 million towards ensuring governments have a much better understanding of the Great Artesian Basin, with Geoscience undertaking a Great Artesian Basin Water Balance Assessment.
Delivering for the Murray-Darling Basin and its communities
The Murray-Darling Basin is the largest and most complex river system in Australia and accounts for more than $22 billion worth of food and fibre every year.
The river system and surrounding environment form the heart of Basin communities.
That’s why decisions on the basin must deliver a true triple bottom line with economic, social and environmental outcomes.
We need to ensure that a healthy river system underpins community prosperity well into the future.
We are on track to deliver the Basin Plan – in full without needing to adjust the buyback cap.
We have invested more than $2.5 billion since 2013 to recover 616GL of water and deliver it back to the environment – with $2.25 billion of that through infrastructure modernisation and efficiency improvements and only $29 million in open water buybacks, compared to Labor’s $2.1 billion in buybacks.
We are investing more than $136.2 million to enhance the Murray Darling Basin Authority’s compliance and enforcement capability, implement measures to protect low flows in the Barwon-Darling, improve connectivity between rivers and support fish recovery.
We are investing $40 million to support cultural and economic water for the Basin’s Indigenous communities – creating opportunities for them to secure real economic benefits.
We are investing $25 million to strengthen the economic and social resilience of 15 Basin communities through the Murray Darling Basin Economic Development Program.
We have introduced legislation to ensure an Indigenous member on the Murray Darling Basin Authority.
We have delivered key amendments to the Basin Plan that will deliver environmental benefits at a much lower social and economic cost for Basin communities.
We are investing $5 million in a Basin-wide Native Fish Management and Recovery Strategy. We’ve also provided an additional $3 million to the CSIRO for ecosystem research.
We have announced an independent panel to undertake a broad-ranging assessment of the social and economic conditions in irrigation communities across the Murray-Darling Basin.
Supporting our land stewards
Our Government invested $1.1 billion in the next phase of the National Landcare Program and continued our proud record of delivering long-term benefits to our farmers, communities, the economy and environment.
This funding includes $134 million for Smart Farms and $450 million for Regional Land Partnerships.
Almost 50 local organisations are now benefiting from Regional Land Partnerships funding to deliver on-ground environment and sustainable agriculture projects.
Agriculture Biodiversity Stewardship Program
Farmers and producers care for the land and the natural resources that help them produce clean and green food and fibre for Australians and the world.
To ensure farmers receive due recognition for their efforts, the $30 million Agriculture Biodiversity Stewardship Program will encourage the adoption of improved biodiversity practices.
The focus will be on small and medium farms, using tailored approaches to incentivise change.
The Morrison Government will invest in methodologies, monitoring and evaluation to quantify the benefits to production and biodiversity.
Projects that could be funded include maintaining or enhancing remnant forest, regeneration of gullies or waterways and creating shelter belts.
The Morrison Government will also develop an Agriculture Biodiversity Policy to strengthen agriculture’s role in improving Australia’s biodiversity outcomes.
Australian Farm Biodiversity Certification Scheme
The National Farmers Federation will receive $4 million to develop and trial a biodiversity certification scheme to help biodiversity-friendly farmers achieve a premium for their product.
The aim is for Australian farms to showcase best-practice management of natural resources that is recognised and rewarded by consumers here and abroad.
Helping our farmers adapt to climate change
Climate change poses production risks for the sector and the Government and our primary producers are actively preparing.
The Liberal Nationals Government is supporting our agriculture sector to adapt to climate change through:Rural research and investment to develop understanding, resources and tools to help producers better manage drought and climate impacts.
The Managing Farm Risk Programme to provide better on-farm risk management.
Funding improved seasonal forecasting tools to inform decision-making.
Tax incentives including depreciation arrangements to encourage on-farm investment in preparedness.
Establishing and topping up the now $1 billion National Water Infrastructure Development Fund to secure farmers’ water security.
We are making strategic investments ($853 million so far) through the Clean Energy Finance Corporation to encourage agricultural businesses to reduce energy costs and improve productivity.
The Emissions Reduction Fund is also providing real benefits to landholders through emission reduction activities. Of the 193 million tonnes of abatement under the ERF, 157.4 million tonnes – more than 80 per cent – was contracted to the agriculture and land sectors.
Our $300 million investment in Rural Research and Development Corporations is also helping to improve resilience to climate events, manage soil health and more efficiently manage our water resources.
Strengthening Country of Origin labelling
We supported farmers by delivering on our election commitment to introduce clear and transparent Country of Origin labelling.
Building a world-class rural innovation system
We have committed to building a world-class agricultural innovation system to ensure we continue to produce the best and most sustainable food and fibre.
Together with rural industries, our $800 million a year investment means we can create fantastic jobs and give our kids the best opportunity to live and work in rural and regional Australia.
The Morrison Government has already delivered a major review of Australia’s agricultural innovation system.
It found that we must modernise and be better coordinated to capture value for farmers and the sector.
The report outlines a roadmap to boost the capacity of our research and development system to deliver a more competitive, prosperous and sustainable agricultural industry.
We have invested $2.9 million in national leadership to drive the change required to ensure a more coordinated, collaborative and commercially-focused approach to meeting agtech innovation needs.
This includes making best use of our annual $300 million investment in research and development.
Additionally, $2 million has been invested in a one-stop shop for agricultural research and development through an online collaboration hub – ensuring we better broker and connect domestic and international agtech investment into outcomes for farmers.
Creating jobs
The Liberal Nationals Government has also supported decentralisation of a number of agricultural agencies because we believe country people have as much right to public service jobs as their city cousins.
We have created jobs in Armidale and Orange and are committed to regional offices of the Murray Darling Basin Authority including Murray Bridge, Mildura, Griffith, Wodonga and Goondiwindi.
Delivering a stronger and sustainable fisheries sector
Our Government manages Australia’s fisheries carefully and sustainably.
Australia’s seafood industry is valued at more than $3.2 billion and supports more than 25,000 families.
The industry plays an important role in securing Australia’s food base, employment, economic activity and generating valuable export income.
For the fifth year in a row, no fish stocks solely managed by the Australian Government are considered to be overfished.
This is testament to our strong, robust and science-based approach to fisheries.
In 2013, we promised to review, improve and implement Marine Plans in Commonwealth-managed waters, in close consultation with marine industries, the community and scientists – and we have delivered.
On 1 July 2018, five new management plans (covering 44 Australian Marine Parks) across the North, North-west, South-west, Temperate East and Coral Sea marine regions came into effect.
Covering more than 2.8 million sq km, the Marine Parks will deliver the strong protection and sustainability that benefits all Australians.
They encompass 36 per cent of our oceans, well above the United Nations benchmark of 10 per cent – and we’ve done this in a balanced way that minimises impacts on commercial and recreational fishers.
To enable our fishing community to transition to these new arrangements, our Government has developed the $35 million Fisheries Assistance and User Engagement Package.
Our updated Commonwealth Fisheries Harvest Strategy Policy and Commonwealth Fisheries Bycatch Policy reflects our constant striving to improve sustainability.
It maximises the economic viability of the commercial fleet, recognises the interests of recreational and Indigenous users and ensures Australian seafood is available for future generations.
We also recognise the contribution and potential of the aquaculture sector. In 2017, the Liberal Nationals Government released Australia’s National Aquaculture Strategy with the aim of doubling the 2017 industry value to $2 billion a year by 2027.
The Morrison Government remains committed to supporting the states and the Northern Territory to achieve this goal.
In 2018 the Liberal Nationals Government formed Australia’s first National Fisheries Advisory Council (NFAC).
The Council provides the Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources with information and advice on fisheries issues, proposed legislation and policies.
The Morrison Government is ensuring the long-term sustainability of the Southern Bluefin Tuna stock.
We are supporting the Tuna Champion program, which aims to improve stewardship, fish handling and responsible fishing practices in the Southern Bluefin Tuna recreational sector.
This will lead to reduced wastage, increased catch and release rates (with greater post-release survival rates) and more engagement in future recreational harvest surveys.
We also understand our inland waterways are highly valued and enjoyed by recreational anglers.
Recreational fishing groups play an active role in restocking and rehabilitating inland rivers, streams and lakes.
The tragic fish deaths that occurred at Menindee and the lower Darling in December 2018 have been widely felt – from recreational fishers to communities along the Murray-Darling Basin river system.
We’ve responded with a range of measures addressing the findings of the independent report into the deaths, including:$5 million for the development of a Basin-wide Native Fish Management and Recovery Strategy.
Extending the Native Fish Demonstration Reach program to the lower Darling.
Committing an extra $3 million into Basin-wide monitoring and evaluation to maintain vigilance on the health of native fish stocks and the system as a whole.
A Strong, Innovative and Sustainable Forestry Sector
A long-term forestry plan is important because growing trees is a long-term business.
The Morrison Government understands the need for a balanced approach to forestry.
And our $20 million National Forest Industries Plan: Growing a Better Australia – A Billion Trees for Jobs and Growth delivers this.
One billion new plantation trees over a decade will create 18,000 new jobs
and help meet a quadrupling in global demand for timber by 2050.
This is on top of the around 52,000 Australians already employed in the sector and the tens of thousands more indirect jobs.
To achieve 1 billion new plantation trees, we need to plant the right trees at the right scale and in the right places.
Our Government has already announced a $12.5 million investment in the Regional Forestry Hubs and research and development elements of our plan, which will help meet our target.
The Hubs bring key players together from strategic forestry areas to look at that region’s unique strengths, opportunities and barriers to growth.
To boost innovation, research and product development, in collaboration with governments and industry, we are also delivering centres of National Institute of Forest Products Innovation in South Australia and Tasmania, with at least two more to come.
The Morrison Government, in partnership with Forestry and Wood Products Australia, has committed $200,000 for two forestry education activities: a new National University Challenge for innovative uses of wood residues or timber products (prizes total up to $100,000) and the development of a virtual reality tool.
The VR tool will bolster forestry education in nine secondary schools, highlighting the renewable cycle of forests.
Regional Forestry Agreements (RFAs) are the best mechanism for balancing environmental, economic and social demands on our native forests, as well as giving the industry confidence for the future.
The Liberal Nationals Government has also delivered on its commitment to 20-year rolling RFA agreements.
We have renewed and extended the Tasmanian, NSW and Western Australian RFAs, with a short extension to the Victorian RFAs ahead of a longer-term renewal that is being negotiated.
These achievements are no accident.
They are due to our Government’s strong investments in the forestry sector, which we want to see prosper and grow.
The Choice
Only the Morrison Government has a plan for the agriculture, fisheries and forestry sector.
Australia's farmers know they can only rely on the Morrison Government to stand with them in the good times and bad – we have their back.
We know that when our farmers prosper, our regional communities thrive.
Agriculture is just not on Labor’s radar, which signals a return to the bad old days that the sector experienced under previous Labor governments.
When last in office Labor inflicted six long years of neglect and anti-agricultural policies on Australian farmers to appease the Greens.
Between 2007 and 2013, Labor’s agriculture funding was slashed from $3.8 billion to $1.7 billion.
Labor has already promised to burden farmers with unnecessary and unprecedented new federal environmental regulations and increase the cost of doing business through additional taxes.
Labor has no interest in unlocking the potential of our regional communities, securing their water supply, creating jobs and delivering agricultural economic opportunities.
Labor will revert to the lock-up and lock-out approach of its 2012 Marine Park plans.
This poses a significant risk to our fishing industry and the environment, and flies in the face of the overwhelming support for the Morrison Government’s plans from stakeholders, non-government organisations and fishers.
Labor’s plans will also lock out recreational fishers from over a third of marine parks.
Australians have a choice between the Morrison Government that supports the forestry sector as one of the most renewable resources of the 21st century – or a Labor/Greens Government seeking to take us back to the dark days of forest lock-ups.
When last in government, Labor’s policies (backed by the Greens) decimated our forest product industries, especially in Tasmania – led by former Wilderness Society campaigner Tony Burke.
Cost
The Coalition will invest an additional $43.4 million to secure a stronger agriculture, fisheries and forestry sector.
This is on top of the $36.4 million additional funding for drought and $30 million for showcasing agriculture.
Our Plan for a Cleaner Environment
KEY POINTS
The Morrison Government will continue the Liberal Nationals’ strong record of supporting practical and meaningful environmental action that gets results.
Australia’s iconic environment is part of our national identity and we are committed to protecting and preserving it for future generations.
It’s also an important asset that helps us to grow the economy
and create jobs: by drawing tourists to our unique natural attractions, through farmers making their land more sustainable and productive, and by incentivising businesses to develop new clean technology.
The Morrison Government understands that a healthy economy and a healthy environment go hand in hand.
We can invest in our environment because we are keeping our economy strong.
We believe that protecting and restoring the environment is best achieved by working in partnership with the community, Landcare groups, small and large businesses, Indigenous communities, farmers and scientists.
By building these partnerships, we aim to deliver:More recycling and less waste to protect the environment, deliver healthier communities and build our recycling industry.
Cleaner and greener local communities to improve the environments in which Australians live, work and play.
Cleaner oceans, coasts and waterways to protect our marine life, support our industries and ensure future generations can continue to enjoy these natural playgrounds, including the Great Barrier Reef.
Protection of threatened species to ensure our unique plants and animals are preserved.
This will complement the action we are taking through our Climate Solutions Fund to meet our international emissions reduction targets.
Our focus on practical, on-ground action and partnership with the community contrasts with Labor who only have a plan for more bureaucracy and public servants.
Labor can’t be trusted to invest in the environment
when they can’t run the economy and they can’t manage money.
They can’t even cost the impact their emissions plan will have on the economy.
Only the Liberal Nationals Government can protect the environment
while maintaining a strong economy.
OUR RECORD
Liberal Nationals Governments have a long and proud history of protecting and restoring our environment, including saving the Great Barrier Reef from oil drilling, ending whaling in Australia and creating the Natural Heritage Trust.
Since our election in 2013, we have continued this tradition of sensible and practical environmental leadership.
We have put Landcare back in focus with our $1 billion National Landcare Program.
We are on track to meet our target of planting 20 million trees by 2020.
And we have invested over $250 million to support thousands of community-led environmental projects.
The Great Barrier Reef is receiving more funding than ever, with our Government investing over $1.2 billion to improve water quality, control crown of thorns starfish, clean up plastic litter and fund new research into protecting the Reef.
Our investments are being guided by our world-class Reef 2050 Plan which has been endorsed by the World Heritage Committee and praised by the OECD.
We have also put an end to all capital dredge spoil disposal in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.
Australia has the second largest marine park network in the world after the Liberal Nationals protected an additional 2.3 million square kilometres through a new national network of marine reserves – and we’ve done this while minimising impacts on recreational and commercial fishers.
The Liberal Nationals Government has been working hard to protect our threatened plants and animals.
We appointed Australia’s first Threatened Species Commissioner in 2014 and launched the Threatened Species Strategy in 2015.
Since 2014, over $425 million has been mobilised for over 1,300 projects to protect and recover populations of threatened species.
Our new National Waste Policy will create jobs,
protect the health of communities
and reduce environmental impacts by increasing recycling and reducing waste.
We have invested $50 million in a National Food Waste Strategy to halve Australia’s food waste by 2030.
We have established a voluntary scheme for recycling tyres.
We have worked with business to remove plastic microbeads from cosmetic and skin-care products that end up in our waterways and oceans – 94 per cent of these products are now microbead-free.
Through the Natural Heritage Trust, we are providing $47 million to protect our World Heritage sites including the Greater Blue Mountains, the Ningaloo Coast, Shark Bay and the Tasmanian Wilderness area.
We continue to protect the rainforests of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area by investing in the eradication of introduced Yellow Crazy Ants, with a further $9 million committed in the 2019-20 Budget.
Our Australian Heritage Grants Program is providing support to protect our National Heritage listed sites, with up to $21.4 million from 2018-19 to 2021-22, and $5.7 million per annum from 2022-23 onwards.
We are investing a record $830 million for Indigenous Rangers and Indigenous Protected Areas over 10 years through to 2023.
OUR PLAN
More recycling and less waste
Governments, businesses and the community all need to play a part in ensuring we have a healthy recycling sector and less waste and litter.
Australians create around 67 million tonnes of waste each year and we all want to see less waste going to landfill and ending up in our oceans, and more being re-used and recycled.
A re-elected Morrison Government will implement a comprehensive $167 million Australian Recycling Investment plan to increase Australia’s recycling rates, tackle plastic waste and litter, accelerate work on a new battery recycling scheme and continue action to halve food waste by 2030.
Healthy recycling sector: With other countries starting to shut down their markets to Australia’s recyclable materials, there is an opportunity to grow and strengthen Australia’s domestic recycling industry, and support it to lift recycling rates in Australia.
The Morrison government will support a range of measures to do this, including:A new $100 million Australian Recycling Investment Fund through the Clean Energy Finance Corporation to support the manufacturing of lower emissions and energy-efficient recycled content products, such as recycled content plastics and paper/pulp.
$20 million for a new Product Stewardship Investment Fund to accelerate work on new recycling schemes, including for batteries, electrical and electronic products, photovoltaic systems, and plastic oil containers.
Reducing contamination by helping Australians identify what can and can’t be recycled, with up to $2 million to support the Australian Council of Recycling’s ‘Project Yellowsail’ national recycling app.
Working with Planet Ark and the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation with up to $1.6 million to establish a Circular Economy Hub to drive innovation and establish an online marketplace to match buyers and sellers of waste.
Supporting the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation to deliver increased recycling rates for packaging waste, with up to $1.1 million for consumer education.
Continue working to halve food waste by 2030 under our National Food Waste Strategy, with an additional $500,000 to support the delivery of a Fight Food Waste campaign by OzHarvest.
Continue to work with state, territory and local governments on opportunities to get more recycled content into road construction, building on the funding provided to the Australian Road Research Board in the 2019-Budget.
Tackling plastic waste: Plastic litter and debris is a major environmental issue. We need to take action at a local, national and global level. A re-elected Morrison Government will:
Allocate $20 million through a special round of the Cooperative Research Centres Projects (CRC-P) to find new and innovative solutions to plastic recycling and waste, including new ways of incorporating recycled plastics in manufacturing and construction.
Work with our Pacific neighbours to combat marine litter by allocating $16 million towards a Pacific Ocean Litter Project.
Support Conservation Volunteers Australia to undertake community beach and river clean-ups and monitoring across the country (up to $5 million).
Continue the great work of Clean Up Australia and Keep Australia Beautiful to mobilise the community to reduce and clean-up litter (up to $600,000).
Support Clean4Shore to continue their clean-up activities on the NSW Central Coast (up to $300,000).
Environment Restoration Fund
The Morrison Government has committed $100 million in the 2019-20 Budget to a new Environment Restoration Fund to support major environmental projects that deliver lasting conservation benefits.
This is the type of investment that is only made possible through a strong economy and responsible budget management.
The fund will be a vehicle for national leadership on emerging and long-term environmental issues, building on our $1 billion National Landcare Program.
Funding will be provided for a broad range of environmental restoration and protection projects, built around three key priorities:Cleaning up and protecting Australia’s coasts, oceans and waterways.
Protecting threatened and migratory species and their habitats.
Increasing recycling and reducing waste.
Cleaner coasts and waterways
Our coasts and waterways are an important part of Australian life.
They harbour a wide array of wildlife, support our industries and are natural playgrounds for our people.
A re-elected Morrison Government will strategically invest in our key rivers, waterways and coasts through the Environment Restoration Fund to help clean them up and improve water quality.
Key priorities will include:Improving the health of the Yarra River (up to $2 million).
Protecting Victoria’s iconic Surf Coast dune systems (up to $1.5 million)
Restoring Mount Martha North Beach (up to $1.5 million)
Improving the health of the Swan and Canning Rivers in Western Australia (up to $2 million).
Continuing River Torrens recovery in South Australia (up to $2 million).
Restoring waterways in the lower Brisbane River catchment (up to $1.15 million).
Improving the health of Moreton Bay in Queensland (up to $1.2 million).
Improving the health of the Georges River in New South Wales (up to $1 million).
Keeping the Hawkesbury and Nepean Rivers in New South Wales healthy (up to $511,000).
Improving the health of Gosford Coastal Lagoons (up to $300,000).
Protecting the health of Bowling Green Bay in North Queensland (up to $2 million).
The initiative will build on the $9 million we have already provided under Landcare for the River Torrens, Swan and Canning Rivers, Yarra and Tamar Rivers and Tuggerah Lakes, and a $95 million investment in the Tamar River under the Launceston City Deal.
Recovery of threatened species
Australia has some of the most unique and special animals in the world, but a number of them are under threat.
A re-elected Morrison Government will allocate up to $10 million under the Environment Restoration Fund in an important new program to support the creation of safe havens for threatened species.
Safe havens are a priority under the Government’s Threatened Species Strategy.
They are fenced areas where feral predators like feral cats and foxes can be removed and kept out – allowing species like rock wallabies, bilbies, quolls and bandicoots to be reintroduced and thrive.
A scientific review has identified a range of priority sites to fill the gaps in Australia's safe haven network, including the Victorian Alps, Darling Downs, Sturt Stony Desert and Flinders Ranges.
Up to $1.2 million of this funding will also go towards completing the feral-free Wandiyali-Environa Wildlife Sanctuary in NSW.
We will also make targeted investments through the Fund to recover our at-risk species.
This will include up to $6 million for a major koala initiative in northern NSW and south-east Queensland, including funding to enhance koala habitat and support for rescue activities and wildlife hospitals.
It also includes up to $3 million to protect WA's black cockatoos, $1.5 million for Bruny Island's threatened mammals, and $1.5 million for Kangaroo Island's threatened dunnart.
The Morrison Government is committed to Australia playing its part in protecting endangered animals and plants from around the world.
Australia has some of the strictest regulation of international trade of endangered species and we are working internationally to stop illegal wildlife trade.
we are also working to further strengthen regulations within Australia by working with states and territories on banning domestic trade of ivory and rhino horn.
By shutting down the market for these items here in Australia we’ll help to better protect elephants and rhinos in their native habitats.
Cleaner and greener local communities
We understand that local communities are often best placed to implement effective environmental protection and management.
The Morrison Government has committed more than $22 million to give communities new opportunities to protect and care for their local environment.
Through the Communities Environment Program, each Federal electorate will receive up to $150,000 in 2019-20 for community-led projects that deliver real environmental benefits.
The Energy Efficient Communities Program will provide $50 million in grants to businesses and community organisations to help them save energy and lower their power bills.
This includes up to $20,000 for small businesses and $25,000 for high energy-using businesses for equipment upgrades such as new lighting, refrigeration and air conditioning.
Community organisations will also be able to access grants through the $5 million Solar Communities Program, providing up to $12,500 for small-scale solar energy generation and storage projects such as solar PV, solar hot water and batteries.
We will also invest $30 million in a pilot Agriculture Biodiversity Stewardship Fund to provide incentives to farmers to boost biodiversity and reduce emissions.
This will reward farmers who look after biodiversity on their farm and give them more motivation to maintain and enhance bushland, regenerate waterways and plant native trees.
Supporting sustainable development and environmental education
The Morrison Government has committed $50 million in the 2019-20 Budget towards the establishment of new world-leading environment research and education facilities.
We will contribute $25 million towards a National Centre for Coasts, Environment and Climate within the Quarantine station precinct at Port Nepean: supporting Monash University and the University of Melbourne in establishing a facility where Australian and international researchers and students can better understand the pressures of population growth and climate change on temperate coastal ecosystems like Port Phillip Bay.
We will invest $25 million in the development of the $40 million Harry Butler Environmental Education Centre at Murdoch University.
The groundbreaking Centre will promote the positive partnership of economic development and a healthy, sustainable environment.
Climate change and renewables
Australia has a proud track record of meeting our international climate commitments and supporting renewable energy.
Climate change is a global issue that requires a global solution.
The Liberal Nationals Government has overachieved on our commitment under the Kyoto Protocol, something few countries have done.
We will reduce emissions by 26-28 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030 and we will do this while growing the economy,
creating jobs,
protecting our environment
and keeping power prices down.
The Morrison Government has a $3.5 billion Climate Solutions Plan – among the largest investments by Australia in emissions reduction.
A new $2 billion Climate Solutions Fund will ensure we meet our 2030 Paris commitments by supporting practical measures such as revegetation of degraded land, reducing waste, savannah burning and improving energy efficiency.
The Morrison Government is also expanding our world-class renewable hydro resources to supply millions of Australians with reliable renewable energy.
Snowy 2.0 will be the world’s second-largest high tech pumped hydro power station and increase generation capacity by 2,000 megawatts – enough power for 500,000 homes during peak demand.
Importantly, Snowy 2.0 will also put downward pressure on wholesale electricity prices.
Upgrading Kakadu
The Morrison Government has committed up to $216 million to upgrade the World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park and support the township of Jabiru.
The funding will upgrade roads to improve access to the park; upgrade camp grounds, walking tracks and viewing platforms; improve signage, mobile and WiFi services and support an Indigenous-led World Heritage Kakadu Visitor Centre in Jabiru.
Investing in Sydney Harbour’s parks and heritage
The 2019-20 Budget included $21.4 million for infrastructure upgrades for important defence heritage sites around Sydney Harbour.
At Headland Park, we’ll preserve the heritage of key buildings for appropriate educational, community, recreational and commercial uses and construct a public path circuit integrated with the new Sydney Harbour Scenic Walk.
We’ll also contribute to the renewal of the former submarine base Platypus: creating a lasting impact along the Sydney Harbour foreshore by adapting significant heritage buildings for community access.
Conserving Antarctica
The Morrison Government is committed to ensuring Australia remains a leader in Antarctica.
We are strengthening Tasmania as the premier gateway and scientific research hub for East Antarctica.
We are investing $450 million over the next 10 years to upgrade Australia’s Antarctic research station network and infrastructure – effectively tripling the investment in Antarctic infrastructure to support Antarctic science and operations.
This will bring our investment in Antarctica to a record level of around $2.8 billion including:$1.9 billion towards a new icebreaker.
$45 million over 10 years for overland traverse capabilities.
$210 million over 10 years for additional funding for our Antarctic operations.
$107 million over 11 years for Antarctic research initiatives.
$50 million for a new research station on Macquarie Island.
Environmental laws
The Morrison Government supports sustainable development that meets high environmental standards.
It is important that environmental laws provide the high levels of protection expected by the community,
while minimising the regulatory burden on businesses
so they can continue to grow the economy.
The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) was introduced by the Liberal Nationals in 1999 and it remains the cornerstone of Australian environmental regulation.
To ensure the EPBC Act remains best-practice, the Morrison Government will consult widely on an independent statutory review of the Act.
Consultation will begin later this year and include feedback from business groups, environmental organisations, farmers and other land users and the broader community to ensure we strike the right balance with our environmental laws – continuing to protect the environment
while allowing for sustainable development.
Protecting the Rainforest and the Reef
The Morrison Government understands that the Great Barrier Reef and the rainforests of the Wet Tropics are not only natural wonders of the world, they are also a huge driver of the economy, particularly in North Queensland.
The Great Barrier Reef alone contributes 64,000 jobs
and $6.4 billion in economic value every year.
We will continue to roll out our $443.3 million Great Barrier Reef Partnership Program as part of the more than $1.2 billion we are investing in the Reef.
This funding is going towards proven reef protection activities like improving water quality, crown-of-thorns starfish control, community action, and scientific research and development to find new ways of restoring and protecting the Reef.
We also announced as part of the 2019-20 Budget that we will deliver $9 million over the next three years to control Yellow Crazy Ants in the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.
Yellow Crazy Ants are among the world's worst invasive species and their presence threatens endangered species such as the Southern Cassowary, Mahogany Glider, Northern Bettong and stream-dwelling rainforest frogs, as well as posing a major threat to sugar cane growers.
THE CHOICE
By keeping our economy strong, the Liberal Nationals Government can continue investing in our environment.
Australia’s environment cannot be supported under Labor’s economy-wrecking plans.
If you can’t manage the economy and the Budget, then you can’t invest in the environment.
The Morrison Government will support practical and meaningful actions to protect the environment for future generations.
We will do this by working in partnership with the community, Landcare groups, small and large businesses, Indigenous communities, farmers and scientists.
We support balanced environmental laws that ensure good environmental outcomes without burying business in unnecessary red tape.
Labor’s plan for the environment is a plan for more bureaucracy and public servants.
They will establish a large new environmental bureaucracy in Canberra, money that would be better spent on protecting our threatened species and improving our coasts and oceans.
The Liberal Nationals Government has prioritised protecting the Great Barrier Reef.
We are working in partnership with the community, including the biggest single investment in the Reef through a $443 million partnership with the Great Barrier Reef Foundation.
Labor wants to take this money away, They can’t be trusted to protect the Reef: when they were last in government, the World Heritage Committee put the Reef on its in-danger ‘watch list’ and criticised Labor’s handling of dredging proposals along the coast.
The Morrison Government will invest over $22 million to support our community groups, including Landcare groups, scouts groups, sports clubs and councils, to protect and care for the local environment.
This includes protecting native species, improving local waterways and coastal areas, cleaning up waste and litter, and greening local parks and urban areas.
Labor wants to abolish the program and has no plan to support cleaner and greener local communities.
COST
The Coalition’s Plan for a Cleaner Environment will invest an additional $20 million in the Product Stewardship Investment Fund.
Our Plan to Back Australian Tourism and Jobs
KEY POINTS
The Morrison Government is backing in our tourism sector to grow even stronger.
Its contribution to the Australian economy is enormous and growing: attracting $136 billion in spending every year and employing one in 13 workers – many in small and family businesses.
Tourism is particularly important for regional Australia, with 43 cents of every visitor dollar spent in the regions.
Over the last five years, international visitor numbers have grown by 45 per cent while spending by overseas visitors is up 53 per cent.
This compares with a 10 per cent increase in international visitor spending during five years of Labor.
The latest National Visitor Survey shows that visitor spending by Australians has increased by 13 per cent to a record $72.7 billion, including 105.6 million domestic overnight trips.
Under the Liberal National Government nearly 45,000 tourism jobs have been created, more than four times as many as under Labor.
Building even further on this success and growth is a key component of the Morrison Government’s plan to keep the economy strong
and deliver 1.25 million new jobs over the next five years.
A re-elected Morrison Government will:Deliver a Tourism Icons Package to ensure that Australia’s tourism icons, particularly regional icons, remain world-class experiences and continue to attract high-value tourists.
Support tourism infrastructure and operators in the Shipwreck Coast and Great Ocean Road area with a $184 million investment and invest up to $216 million to upgrade Kakadu National Park and support the Jabiru township.
Support the tourism industry in regional Australia by providing dedicated funding in future rounds of the Building Better Regions Fund for tourism-related infrastructure.
Provide a $40 million fund to establish and grow Indigenous tourism as part of the Indigenous Advancement Strategy.
Deliver improved arrival and visa processing systems for international visitors.
Deliver the tourism boost provided by City Deals, including Geelong, Hobart and Adelaide and deliver regional tourism investment in iconic destinations such as Longreach, Margaret River, Cradle Mountain and Kangaroo Island.
Deliver the Beyond 2020 tourism strategy to help Australia’s tourism industry make the most of opportunities provided by fast-growing markets over the next decade.
Continue to support the hundreds of thousands of small and medium-sized businesses in the tourism sector, including 92,373 in regional Australia, through lower taxes, growing the economy and creating jobs.
Continue to support the tourism sector by investing record levels of funding for Tourism Australia over the next four years.
OUR RECORD
Australia’s tourism sector is growing strongly and now accounts for 10 per cent of exports.
International visitor numbers and expenditure are at record levels, and businesses are seizing opportunities to start, expand
and create jobs.
Since we were elected, the number of tourism businesses has increased by 17,881.
This contrasts with Labor’s last term of government, when tourism business numbers fell by 12,614.
Since we came to office, the pipeline for new tourism accommodation rooms has more than doubled.
Supporting small and family tourism businesses
Our Government has focused on supporting tourism that benefits small and family businesses and communities.
Since 2014, we have committed $120 million to support nearly 300 tourism projects nationwide.
This includes over $70 million specifically for tourism projects under Round 3 of the Building Better Regions Fund.
The Coalition promised at least $45million in tourism infrastructure projects and delivered over $70 million of tourism projects.
With 43 cents in every tourism dollar already spent in Regional Australia, the Coalition’s investment in tourism through the Building Better Regions Fund will give a significant boost to the regional tourism industry.
Round 3 of the Building Better Regions Fund will support 13,000 jobs throughout regional Australia, across all projects funded in the round.
International tourism
To increase inbound tourism, an additional six domestic airports have become designated international airports.
Hobart, Newcastle, Avalon, Canberra and Townsville are either already servicing international flights or will be ready to do so in the near future.
Toowoomba’s Wellcamp Airport can receive and despatch freight overseas.
The Liberal National Government has broken decades of indecision and deadlock to launch the Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport at Badgerys Creek.
It will support almost 28,000 direct and indirect jobs by 2031 and connect businesses to national and international markets.
We’re also stepping up tourism from the world’s fastest-growing economies.
Following the signing of an open skies agreement between Australia and China in 2016, more than 160 direct flights between the two nations are contributing to strong growth in visitor numbers.
The Morrison Government is implementing the India Economic Strategy which identifies tourism as a priority sector for growth.
Around 70 million Indians will travel overseas annually by 2035 in a potential windfall of over $9 billion a year for the Australian economy.
Traditional markets like New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Japan and the United States will continue to be strongly targeted in tourism campaigns.
An improved visitor experience
To improve the experience of international tourists, our Government has invested in road and tourism-specific infrastructure at iconic destinations like Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory, the Great Ocean Road and Shipwreck Coast in Victoria and Cradle Mountain in Tasmania.
We’re easing congestion and upgrading safety.
We’re also making the journey to Australia smoother by investing in technology.
For major tourism markets like China and India, around 80 per cent of tourism visa applications are now done on-line, providing 24/7 access and ensuring a shorter timeframe.
We have also expanded the use of longer-term validity visas for key markets including China, Singapore, Indonesia and India.
Indigenous tourism
Since 2013, Indigenous tourism has grown by over 40 per cent and expenditure is up by 8 per cent a year on average.
There has also been a 30 per cent increase in Indigenous businesses as a result of our Government’s policies, including the Indigenous Procurement Policy and the Indigenous Business Sector Strategy.
Working holiday-makers
A factor in Australia’s tourism appeal is the chance for young holiday-makers to work in industries and regions where available labour is scarce.
The Morrison Government has made changes to the Working Holiday Maker visa program to support regional and rural communities by increasing the number of tourists eligible to do seasonal work.
These reforms, effective on 5 November 2018, include the expansion of the regional areas where subclass 462 visa holders can work in agriculture (plant and animal cultivation) to qualify for a second year of stay in Australia.
Previously only those who worked in Northern Australia were eligible.
Other changes will extend the period that certain visa holders can stay and increase the caps and age limits for eligible working holiday-makers.
Case Study – How Working Holiday-Makers support regional communities
Bowen Gumlu Growers Association
The Bowen Gumlu in the Whitsunday area of North Queensland is the largest winter growing region in Australia and exports hundreds of millions of dollars of produce to New Zealand.
The population of Bowen grows to over 3500 people during the peak picking season from May to November.
The majority are employed in picking and packing fruit and vegetables on around 40 local farms.
The Working Holiday Visa scheme has allowed the Bowen horticulture industry to source an accessible and flexible labour pool to meet increasing demand from Australian customers and export markets in Asia and New Zealand.
Without this labour, the growers would be unable to get their product overseas and to the supermarket shelves.
Carl Walker, President of the Bowen Gumlu Growers Association, says: “Without that flexible transient population the region would be seriously impacted economically … the bulk of our farm workers spend the money they earn in the local and Australian tourism industry.”
Supporting jobs and regions with record funding
The Morrison Government will provide $50 million to the Tourism Icons Package to support the development of five iconic tourism projects – creating new jobs
and helping to diversify local economies.
Rottnest Island sustainable visitor infrastructure and museum in Western Australia
We will contribute $12.2 million for sustainable visitor infrastructure, including upgrades of jetties, wharves, piers, roads, walking trails signage and existing lighthouse and railway, as well as $5 million to improve the visitor experience for Rottnest Island Museum including enhanced facilities, curation and interpretation.
Sovereign Hill Museum Enhancement in Victoria
Acknowledging the 50th anniversary of Sovereign Hill next year, we will contribute $10.1 million to help enhance the outdoor museum’s exhibitions and facilities.
This funding will be used to develop a master plan and then deliver phase one, which may include opportunities to redevelop the Gold Museum, upgrade the entrance building, improve signage and enhance the popular ‘digging area’.
Wangetti Trail construction in far north Queensland
We will contribute $8 million to build the next stage of the Wangetti Trail from the Mowbray River through to Palm Cove.
This will help fund trail construction, upgrades to bridges, campsites and associated infrastructure.
Freycinet National Park in Tasmania
We will contribute $7.2 million to the Freycinet National Park’s Visitor Gateway Hub for a new Visitor Centre, as well as an external car park to reduce congestion within the Park.
This funding will also encourage commercial investment outside the Park and encourage more visitors to spend time in the Coles Bay township.
Northern Rivers Rail Trail development in northern New South Wales
We will contribute $7.5 million for Stage 2 of the Rail Trail – from Old Casino Station to Back Creek Bridge at Bentley.
Visitors will be able to walk the trail, ride a bicycle or horse or drive a zero-emissions vehicle such as a mobility scooter, Segway or electric bike.
These tourism icons build on our commitments to other unique destinations in Australia.
The Morrison Government is providing $184 million for the Great Ocean Road and Geelong.
This funding includes investment in the Geelong Convention Centre, as well as the Shipwreck Coast Master Plan and the Great Ocean Road area, providing improved access for tourists and locals.
Our Government is also investing up to $216 million to upgrade Kakadu National Park and support the Jabiru township in the Northern Territory.
For Kakadu National Park, this means upgrades to walking tracks, viewing platforms, signage and mobile and WiFi services.
For Jabiru, the Government is helping to secure the long-term future of the township in co-operation with the Northern Territory Government and is funding an Indigenous-led World Heritage Kakadu Visitor Centre.
The Morrison Government will provide $11.25 million for a new visitor centre at Monarto Zoo Safari Park near Murray Bridge in South Australia.
The centre is the first stage of the Monarto Zoo expansion project.
It’s expected to unlock private investment to develop a range of zoo accommodation facilities including a safari resort and eco-luxe glamping tents.
The Adelaide City Deal will stimulate Adelaide’s cultural economy by investing over $100m in an Aboriginal Art and Cultures Gallery and an International Centre for Tourism, Hospitality and Food Studies at Lot Fourteen.
The investment will also boost tourism by funding key projects such as the Heysens Gallery in Hahndorf, the Mitcham Hills and Glenthorne Trails in southern Adelaide and upgrading Carrick Hill House to include a visitor centre.
The Government will invest $30 million in the Cradle Mountain Cableway as part of the transformation of the Cradle Mountain Gateway Precinct.
The Gateway Precinct will become the prime entrance to the world-renowned heritage national park and wilderness area.
To ensure that the benefits of tourism growth are spread beyond the major cities, the Morrison Government delivered $70 million to regional tourism-related infrastructure projects from the most recent round of Building Better Regions Fund.
The Building Better Regions Fund supports key infrastructure in regional communities.
It ensures the tourism industry can continue the investment to maintain tourist sites and attract new visitors into their region.
This program is supporting communities through projects such as the new Australian Opal Centre in Lightning Ridge and Townsville’s new Castle Hill adventure tourism experience.
The Morrison Government is supporting the Australian music industry through the $22.5 million Live Music Australia Grant program.
This competitive grants program will support small businesses that host live music performances by Australian artists and help expand the touring circuit to regional venues.
More local artists will have the opportunity to develop at home rather than overseas.
The Tourism Regional Infrastructure Investment Attraction Strategy will continue to deliver additional investment and focus on key tourism assets including the Whitsundays, Snowy Mountains, Margaret River and Kangaroo Island.
Regional focus
We will encourage tourists to visit regional destinations through a series of initiatives including greater promotion as part of Tourism Australia’s marketing, better transport infrastructure and the tourism icons package.
This will complement other Morrison Government investment such as the Indigenous Advancement Strategy and our backing of key regional tourism assets like the Great Ocean Road and Kakadu.
The regions will be a key pillar of the Beyond 2020 Tourism Strategy.
Tourism promotion
The Liberal National Government will provide record funding to Tourism Australia, increasing from $142.9 million in 2013-14 to $154 million in 2019-20 and $167 million in 2022-23.
This will enable Tourism Australia to continue to target high-value tourists in major international markets.
It will also ensure the ongoing success of the Business Event Bid Fund which has already attracted $90 million in global conferences to Australian cities and regions.
Our Government will also improve Tourism Australia’s ability to monitor and adjust their marketing approach to directly support communities impacted by natural disasters and unforeseen events.
Beyond 2020 Tourism Strategy
The Morrison Government will finalise and implement the Beyond 2020 tourism strategy to help Australia’s tourism industry make the most of opportunities and challenges over the coming decade.
The strategy charts a 10-year plan for the tourism sector that has been developed by industry in consultation with state and territory governments.
Targets include achieving $152 billion-$195 billion in overnight visitor expenditure by 2025 and $181 billion-$250 billion by 2030.
The Australian economy will reap strong rewards if these goals are reached,
including jobs for an additional 123,000 to 400,000 workers.
Supporting the growing China market
To support the inbound tourist market from China, the Morrison Government will provide $11 million over the next four years to continue the Approved Destination Status (ADS) scheme, which allows Chinese tourists to travel to Australia in guided groups.
Australia’s position as one of the first western destinations to be granted ADS status gave it a strong start in marketing its tourism product to China.
It means Tourism Australia can market directly to China; currently, about 24 per cent of Chinese leisure tourists are ADS tourists.
The Liberal-National Government is also investing $3 million in a new campaign in China to lure more high-spending, independent and repeat travellers to more areas of Australia.
China is Australia’s number one inbound market (currently worth $11.5 billion), having grown 12 per cent in  12 months.
In the year ending December 2018, Australia attracted more than 1.4 million Chinese visitors.
Improving Australia’s tourism visa and arrival systems
The Morrison Government will invest in improving the visitor visa processing and arrival process into Australia by working closely with the tourism industry, domestic agencies and international partners.
We will streamline and automate the visa application process using the very latest and most sophisticated digital technology.
Under the Morrison Government, all tourists to Australia can expect a faster, fully digital and secure visa application process.
We have installed next generation arrival SmartGates in two airports and will progressively roll them out to all major Australian international airports, ensuring a speedier arrival into Australia.
To remain internationally competitive in tourist and visitor visas, we will commission a review to benchmark Australia's visa settings against our major competitors in international tourism, as well as identify areas for improvement.
Better transport infrastructure
The Morrison Government’s comprehensive plan to upgrade Australia’s transport infrastructure will improve international visitor experiences and increase the nation’s capacity to accommodate overseas tourists.
The Morrison Government has committed around $30 billion for major tourism-related infrastructure including airports, roads and rail.
This funding includes $10 billion for Queensland’s Bruce Highway, $400 million to improve the safety and efficiency of the principal link between northern and southern Tasmania and  $330 million for the Outback Way across the Northern Territory, Queensland and Western Australia.
Indigenous tourism
Indigenous Tourism has huge potential to create and develop more Indigenous businesses that can support jobs, especially in remote areas where economic activity is limited.
According to Tourism Australia, 15 per cent (1.3 million people) of international visitors undertake an Indigenous tourism experience.
The Morrison Government has committed $85 million for an Aboriginal Art and Cultures Gallery in Adelaide and, as part of the tourism icons program, we’re also supporting local Indigenous communities and culture with our funding to Freycinet National Park and the Wangetti Trail.
Building on this success, and our Indigenous Entrepreneurs Fund, the Morrison Government will provide a $40 million Indigenous tourism fund as part of the Indigenous Advancement Strategy (IAS).
Each year, $10 million of IAS funding will be focused on increasing the number of Indigenous owned and operated tourism enterprises, particularly in remote areas.
This fund will support new or expanding Indigenous businesses to purchase capital assets like a vehicle, boat or an accommodation facility to help break down typical barriers for Indigenous entrepreneurs.
The funding will also support tourism planning work with Indigenous communities and entrepreneurs who are pursuing tourism opportunities.
It’s a great new complement to Tourism Australia’s Discover Aboriginal Experiences program – and will also help Indigenous businesses participate in other initiatives such as Tourism Australia’s Signature Experiences of Australia program.
Supporting small and family tourism businesses
One in eight Australian businesses are tourism businesses and almost 90 per cent of them have a turnover under $2 million.
These businesses will benefit from the Morrison Government’s tax reforms, including a reduction in the business tax rate to 25 per cent, an increase in the threshold for the instant asset write-off from $25,000 to $30,000 and expansion of its coverage.
The Morrison Government will also ensure small business is paid on time by big business and government and will increase access to finance with a new $2 billion Australian Business Securitisation Fund.
THE CHOICE
Labor dismisses Australia’s vital tourism sector.
Under Labor, funding for Tourism Australia flat-lined, job growth in the sector was slow
and the number of international visitors and their expenditure was weak.
Labor’s plans to impose an additional $387 billion of taxes on the Australian economy would have dire consequences for tourism.
Many small and family tourism businesses will be hit hard.
Labor’s Retiree Tax would reduce the disposable income of over 900,000 Australians while their union-led restrictions on working holiday-makers would hurt the regions.
Labor’s attack on grey nomads
Australians over 65 account for 15 per cent of all domestic overnight travellers – with 15.6 million trips during the year ending September 2018 and spending of $9.8 billion.
Over 65s make 42 million day trips in Australia annually, spending $3.7 billion.
Labor’s devastating Retiree Tax is a $57 billion tax grab that would hit over 1 million Australians.
This includes more than 900,000 Australians with direct shareholdings, 200,000 self-managed super funds and 1,800 super funds.
On average, these retirees would lose almost $2,300 a year – and more than half of them are women. Self-managed super funds would lose $12,000 a year.
Labor claims their Retiree Tax will only slug the wealthy, but the truth is that 84 per cent of Australians who would be affected are on a taxable income of less than $37,000. And 50,000 pensioners in self-managed super funds would also be hit.
Labor restrictions on working holiday-makers will hurt regional Australia
Labor and the ACTU’s plan to abandon the second year working holiday visa would remove over 36,000 Working Holiday visa holders from the economy.
This is yet another union-driven Labor policy that will damage regional businesses and communities.
AUSVEG understands the important contribution of backpacker visitors under the Working Holiday Maker program.
The peak national body supports our changes that are backing in the farming sector and regional economies.
“Backpackers are an established source of labour for Australian farmers, and allowing them to work for longer periods at a single farm will help our growers retain a more stable workforce throughout the year.” AUSVEG CEO James Whiteside
Labor’s taxes are bad for business. First, Labor's new taxes would directly hit small business.
Second, a Shorten Labor Government would be the highest taxing government in Australia’s history.
Our economy would be weakened under Labor, making it a harder for small businesses to get ahead.
COST
The Coalition’s plan to back Australian tourism and jobs will not place additional costs on the Budget.
Our Plan to Keep Australians Safe Online
KEY POINTS
Keeping Australians safe is the Morrison Government’s first priority.
The online world brings with it the ability to connect with people all over the world as never before. But with these opportunities come new threats and challenges.
The Morrison Government is committed to a safer online environment for all Australians, including families and children.
The online world is no longer an optional extra in people’s lives.
The online world should not be an ungoverned space.
The targets of online abuse and bullying should not be forced offline.
Instead, technology platforms, governments and other users must all play a part in making the internet safe.
It is why we have taken action to crack down on online predators as well as giving parents and carers the information and support they need to ensure their children’s safety in the online world.
We understand that Australians expect the laws and standards of behaviour that apply in the physical world should apply equally in the online world.
A re-elected Morrison Government will:Support parents and carers to raise children who are responsible, resilient and respectful online as well as offline, by investing in new ideas to educate children about online safety, developing resources for parents, providing support for victims of cyberbullying, and increasing research.
We will give parents more control over what their children see and do online, including by ensuring that online products marketed to children default to the most restrictive privacy and safety settings.
Protect Australians from predators and abusive and illegal content, by introducing a new Online Safety Act, toughening penalties for online abuse and harassment, and supporting women’s online safety.
Hold social media platforms and other technology firms to account so they put in place protections for their Australian users, including by mandating transparency reports from the major social media platforms, strengthening obligations for faster take-down and blocking of illegal extremist content, and establishing an Online Safety Charter laying out the Government’s expectations, on behalf of families and the community, of digital platforms.
Work with the international community to prevent the internet and online world being weaponised by terrorists, including working through the G20 with technology firms to eliminate the ability of terrorists to use digital platforms to encourage, normalise, recruit, facilitate or commit terrorist and violent acts.
Only the Morrison Government has a comprehensive plan to keep Australians safe in both the physical and online world.
OUR RECORD
The Government has been at the forefront of online safety regulation and has increased its investment in online safety each and every year in response to emerging issues and growing awareness.
We have changed the law to give greater protection to law-abiding citizens and to punish the creeps and crooks that seek to do them harm.
The Morrison Government has provided funding for eSafety in excess of $100 million over four years.
The Government has led the world in online safety.
In 2015 the Coalition established the world’s first Office of the Children’s eSafety Commissioner to help protect Australian children from cyberbullying and to take a national leadership role in online safety for children through education, advice and enforcement.
In 2015 the Coalition legislated the world’s first kids’ cyberbullying material take-down regime, giving the eSafety Commissioner the power to direct social media organisations to take down materials and issue end-user notices to individuals.
Failure to comply with these measures can lead to fines of up to $21,000 for an individual and up to $105,000 for a corporation, per day.
In 2016 the Government legislated to extend the remit of the Office of the eSafety Commissioner to cover all Australians in light of the office’s expanded responsibility.
In 2019 the Government legislated tough new penalties for online platforms that fail to remove abhorrent violent material in a reasonable time, providing protection for Australians, particularly children, from seeing violent crimes online.
National Online Safety Awareness campaign
The Morrison Government launched a National Online Safety Awareness campaign to coincide with the National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence on 15 March 2019.
This campaign is boosting awareness of resources available to young people, parents and teachers to help children stay safe online and to assist those who experience harm online.
The eSafety Office has a range of online and educational tools and resources, as well as reporting mechanisms and support services for victims, to help keep Australian children safe online.
Parents, children and teachers need to know they can go to the Office of the eSafety Commissioner for help if things go wrong online.
You can find more information at esafety.gov.au.
Image Based Abuse legislation
In 2018 the Government passed legislation which gives the eSafety Commissioner additional powers to combat image-based abuse, including revenge porn, by issuing ‘removal notices’ to websites, content hosts and social media providers.
There are civil and criminal penalties, including fines of up to $525,000 for platforms and $105,000 for individuals and jail time of up to seven years for aggravated offence.
The eSafety Commissioner can issue ‘take-down’, ‘service-cessation’ and ‘link-deletion’ notices to remove prohibited content or block access to prohibited services, such as child pornography and content advocating terrorism.
eSafety Women program
Technology facilitated abuse is an emerging issue for women, particularly vulnerable groups and those suffering from family, domestic or sexual violence.
The Coalition Government has funded the eSafety Women program through the Office of the eSafety Commissioner.
This program provides face-to-face workshops and online training for domestic and family violence front line workers, giving them the skills and confidence to better assist women experiencing technology-facilitated abuse.
The eSafety Women website provides a range of resources to empower women to take control and use technology positively to safeguard themselves and their children.
Supporting Parents and Families
A National Approach
The Government will work with states and territories to develop national principles and a consistent approach to combatting criminal cyber-bullying and online harassment.
This work would seek to address inconsistencies between approaches to criminal cyberbullying across Australia and include further work on a ‘right to be forgotten’ for victims of cyberbullying and abuse.
Further investments for research, awareness and grants for NGOs
Through the $17 million ‘Keeping Our Children Safe Online’ package, we are committing additional resources to support parents, teachers and carers of children under 5, funding a new online safety research program, an annual national eSafety survey, a national awareness campaign and the development of the Online Safety Charter.
We will invest $10 million for a new Online Safety Grants Program to enable non-government organisations (NGOs) to deliver practical online safety education and training projects.
Putting parents in control of what children see and do online
Too often games and apps marketed to children present unnecessary risks – such as inappropriate advertising, automatic in-app purchases and allowing personal information to be shared online without parental supervision.
We believe that parents are the best people to decide what their children should be allowed to do online but many apps and games make it too hard to make those decisions.
The Morrison Government will work with technology firms (including social media platforms, app stores and ISPs) so that they:Make devices and services that are marketed to children default to the most restrictive safety and privacy settings at initial use or set up.
Make available to domestic consumers the option of a filtered internet service that, at a minimum, blocks access to sites identified by the eSafety Commissioner.
Ensure that information regarding online safety and parental control settings is available at all points in the supply chain including point-of-purchase, registration, account creation and first use.
We will take legislative action if necessary.
Keeping children safe is a necessity, not an optional extra.
Digital Pen Licence Review
A re-elected Morrison Government will conduct an independent review of programs designed to assess children’s online safety skills – including Digital Licences and other tools.
Equipping our children and young people with the knowledge and practical skills they need to be safe online is critical.
There are a number of organisations doing good work in this space.
The review will look at the existing products available in the market.
It will consider whether the current online safety training and testing tools are effective, and bring forward suggestions for any improvements that might be needed.
The review will also look at what makes a good competency-based program for teaching children these essential online skills – putting digital licences in the context of a suite of tools available to parents and educators.
The review will be finalised in 2019.
Protecting Australians
A new Online Safety Act
The Morrison Government will introduce a new Online Safety Act to consolidate regulatory arrangements and update them in light of changes in the digital environment.
The Briggs Review, tabled in Parliament in February 2019, found that the world-leading initiative of the Office of the eSafety Commissioner has achieved much success since it was established in 2015.
The Briggs Review made five recommendations, including the key proposal for a single, consolidated piece of online safety legislation, and including greater transparency and reporting requirements for industry.
The Government is committed to ensuring the best online safety arrangements and making the legislative framework the world’s best.
Tougher penalties
To send a clear message to criminals and predators that their actions online will not be tolerated, a Morrison Government will toughen penalties for online abuse and harassment.
This will also allow the courts to impose penalties in line with community expectations that online crime should be treated as seriously as offline crime.
We will increase maximum penalties for those using a carriage service to menace, harass or cause offence under section 474.17 of the Criminal Code Act 1995 from three years’ imprisonment to five years' imprisonment.
In the last Parliament we also tried to pass increased penalties for criminal behaviour online.
The Crimes Legislation Amendment (Sexual Crimes Against Children and Community Protection Measures) Bill 2017 stalled in the Senate because the Labor Party opposes mandatory minimum sentences for child sex offences.
A re-elected Morrison Government will re-introduce this Bill which will increase penalties for certain offences including:Increased maximum penalties for a range of child sex offences, including offences that cover ‘grooming’, sexual activity with a child outside Australia, and using a carriage service to transmit indecent communication to a child.
Setting mandatory minimum sentences for certain child sex offences, including:Using a carriage service for child abuse material, engaging in sexual activity with a child using a carriage service and engaging in sexual activity (other than sexual intercourse) with a child overseas.
Establishing new ‘aggravated’ offences and sentencing for the worst categories of crime, including aggravated offences for sexual intercourse or other sexual activity with a child outside Australia and offences involving conduct on 3 or more occasions and 2 or more people.
We will add an offence of providing electronic services to facilitate dealings with child abuse material.
Currently, the Code does not specifically criminalise the provision of electronic services (e.g. websites or chat fora, often hosted on the dark web) to facilitate online dealings with child abuse material.
This amendment will make it an offence for a person to provide an electronic service with the intention that the service will be used for access to child abuse material.
We will add an offence of ‘grooming’ third parties using the post or a carriage service to procure children for sexual activity.
The new offences will criminalise the transmission of communications (using the post or a carriage service) to a third party who is not the child victim, with the intention of making it easier to procure a specific child for sexual activity.
Preventing and Reducing Violence against Women
Preventing and reducing violence against women has been a priority for the Morrison Government.
Research has indicated that 98 per cent of domestic violence workers have stated they have had clients who had experienced technology-facilitated stalking and abuse.
In recognition of this particular issue, the Government will work with the states and territories to ensure that police and other frontline workers are equipped to respond quickly to incidents of online harassment and abuse.
Under the Fourth Action Plan to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children, a Morrison Government will:Invest $1.5 million for the Office of the eSafety Commissioner to provide targeted advice to help women with an intellectual disability and/or communication difficulties to identify and report online abuse, and to enable the safety features on their devices and online accounts.
Research indicates that women with an intellectual disability are more vulnerable to technology-facilitated abuse.
The program will also include training for domestic and family violence frontline workers.
Provide up to $2.5 million for the Office of the eSafety Commissioner to work with and assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women in communities across Australia to identify, report and protect themselves and their children from technology-facilitated abuse.
The program will develop a range of culturally appropriate resources for frontline workers to help them identify, understand and report technology-facilitated abuse, and ultimately empower the women they support to be safe online.
Holding Social Media Platforms and other Technology Companies to Account
If we don’t know the scale of a problem, we can’t address it properly.
A Morrison Government will mandate transparency reports from the major social media platforms on the number and type of response to reports and complaints about illegal abusive and predatory content by their users.
We will align this work with the work already undertaken by the UK Government as part of their Online Harms White Paper process, including their draft transparency reporting template, to ensure a consistent approach across jurisdictions.
This work will build on the Government’s action in the wake of the Christchurch attack to strengthen obligations for faster take-down and blocking of illegal extremist content.
The Morrison Government has created and passed into law two new offences:Making it a criminal offence for social media platforms not to remove abhorrent violent material expeditiously.
A failure to do so would be punishable by fines of up to 10% of the platform's annual turnover or potential prison sentences for executives.
Requiring social media platforms anywhere in the world to notify the AFP if they become aware their service is streaming abhorrent violent conduct that is happening in Australia.
A failure to do this will be punishable by fines of up to $168,000 for an individual or $840,000 for a corporation.
Online Safety Charter
The Morrison Government expects large technology firms and digital platforms to do more to ensure online safety, particularly for children.
While online safety will always be a shared responsibility, some social media and messaging services (among others) fall short of expectations, and are exposing our community to abusive conduct and harmful content.
A draft Online Safety Charter was released in February 2019, seeking public comments and feedback.
A finalised Charter will set out expectations for industry to reduce online harm.
The finalised Charter will inform digital platforms of the Government’s expectations on behalf of the community and, where necessary, will be given legislative backing.
Social Media Platforms Taskforce
A re-elected Morrison Government will continue working with the Taskforce established by the Prime Minister in March 2019 in response to the terrorist attack in Christchurch, livestreamed online by the perpetrator.
The Taskforce has representatives of the social media platforms and internet service providers working with key government agencies to identify and implement practical measures to see offensive, violent and illegal material identified more quickly and taken down faster and with greater transparency.
The key areas of focus are:
Prevention and protection – including detecting, blocking, and instantaneous and faster takedown options for violent terrorist material.
Transparency – improving transparency of the actions taken by platforms and ISPs in relation to violent terrorist material.
Deterrence – enhancing responsibility for the upload and distribution of violent terrorist material by individuals, platforms and ISPs.
The work of the Taskforce will be considered in the development of new mandatory transparency requirements, and the online Safety Charter, to be introduced by a Morrison Government.
Consumer Privacy
A re-elected Morrison Government will develop amendments to the Privacy Act 1988 to protect Australians’ privacy online and ensure that social media companies and online platforms do not misuse personal information they collect, particularly about children.
We will introduce increased penalties for all entities covered by the Privacy Act from the current maximum penalty of $2.1 million for serious or repeated breaches to the greatest of $10 million, three times the value of any benefit obtained through the misuse of information or 10 per cent of a company’s annual domestic turnover.
The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) will be given new infringement notice powers backed by new penalties of up to $63,000 for bodies corporate and $12,600 for individuals for failures to cooperate with efforts to resolve minor breaches.
The Information Commissioner will create a privacy code specifically targeted at social media companies and online platforms.
The code will expand on and strengthen requirements that are already in place to protect individuals’ privacy in the Privacy Act.
We will also require that social media companies stop using or disclosing an individual’s personal information upon request and establish specific rules to protect the personal information of children and other vulnerable groups.
The OAIC will also be able to ensure breaches are addressed through external reviews and/or the requirement that organisations publish notices about specific breaches and ensure that those directly affected are informed.
To the extent that social media and online platforms may already have these additional protections in place, the Government’s reforms will ensure those protections are legally enforceable in Australia under the Privacy Act with penalties for non-compliance.
Digital Platforms Regulation Inquiry
Digital platforms are where many Australians consume their news and current affairs.
They have become primary destinations for many Australians to seek and access a variety of information.
Digital platforms have also become key players in the advertising market, which has had implications for traditional media platforms.
A re-elected Morrison Government will conduct a Senate Committee Inquiry into digital platforms, their role as publishers and the need for further regulation.
This inquiry will include an examination of the provisions of the Criminal Code Amendment (Sharing of Abhorrent Violent Material) Act 2019 to consider whether refinements are necessary.
This will build on the findings and recommendations of the world-leading ACCC Digital Platforms inquiry, which is due to deliver its final report in June.
Working with the International Community
A re-elected Morrison Government will re-double efforts through the G20 to fight exploitation of the internet for terrorist purposes, including by working with the private sector to remove terrorist content. This will put the 2017 Hamburg G20 Leaders’ Statement on Counter-Terrorism into action.
The notion of the law applying equally online and offline was an underlying principle of that statement.
A re-elected Morrison Government will work with G20 Leaders at the June 2019 Osaka Summit to ensure technology firms meet obligations regarding:Prevention and protection: working with and ensuring that industry implements prevention measures, including appropriate filtering, detecting and removing of content by those who encourage, normalise, recruit, facilitate or commit terrorist and violent activities;
Transparency: the public is entitled to know, in detail, what technology firms are doing to monitor illegal and extremist content, how they manage reports of such content, and the number of types of complaints; and
Deterrence: work with G20 Leaders to ensure that there are clear consequences not only for those who carry out such horrific acts, but for those who facilitate them.
Through this initiative the global community of governments and technology firms can work together to keep our communities, particularly our young people, safe.
Cyber Security
In addition to the work we are investing in through the Office of the eSafety Commissioner we will also invest $26 million to expand the role of the Australian Cyber Security Centre to help businesses and families address cyber security issues and help to support the wider Australian economy.
This includes:Developing a comprehensive online cyber security training program, which focusses on providing practical cyber advice for small businesses, older Australians and Australian families.
This will help them to avoid becoming victims of increasingly sophisticated cyber criminals, especially in relation to online transactions, identity theft and internet banking.
Expanding the ACSC’s 24/7 hotline for reporting cyber security incidents to include a dedicated helpdesk for small and medium sized businesses, older Australians and families.
Evidence suggests that 43 per cent of cyber attacks cost small businesses on average $10,000 per attack and that they have limited knowledge and capacity to protect themselves or recover after a cyber security incident.
The help desk will employ specially trained staff who can provide tailored technical cyber security advice for these groups, including advice that prevents, and responds to, cyber security incidents.
The help desk will provide free advice and support to those recovering from a malicious cyber incident – such as data breaches, scams, fraud and identity theft – to equip them to get back on line.
THE CHOICE
Only the Coalition can be trusted to do what is necessary to keep Australians safe online.
We know that online safety requires a whole-of-community approach where resources are made available to parents and carers, to teachers and early childhood educators and to the end users themselves.
We know that industry has the resources and technological capability to address many of the problems found online.
What has been sometimes lacking is the will.
The Labor Party will tell you that they care about online safety too.
But Labor shadow minister Ed Husic has said that the powers that allow security agencies to access encrypted communications of criminals and terrorists are “terrible laws”.
In the last Parliament we also tried to pass increased penalties for criminal behaviour online. The Crimes Legislation Amendment (Sexual Crimes Against Children and Community Protection Measures) Bill 2017 stalled in the Senate because the Labor Party opposes mandatory minimum sentences for child sex offences.
It was the Morrison Government that acted quickly to stop social media platforms being weaponised by terrorists in the wake of the Christchurch attack, passing the Criminal Code Amendment (Sharing of Abhorrent Violent Material) Act 2019, to limit the spread of extremist terrorist material online.
The Morrison Government will continue working to keep Australians safe – online and on the street.
COST
The Morrison Government’s Plan to Keep Australians Safe Online will not place additional costs on the Budget.
Our Plan for a Stronger Manufacturing Sector
KEY POINTS
Our traditional industry sectors have consistently supported the Australian economy,
creating jobs and being a source of livelihood for so many families.
Driving all our industries forward, including traditional sectors like manufacturing, is central to the Morrison Government’s economic plan.
Manufacturing remains a key part of the Australian economy, employing hundreds of thousands of Australians and contributing tens of billions in annual exports.
Due to our strong economic management, manufacturing under the Liberal Nationals has experienced 32 consecutive months of stable or expanding conditions according to the Australian Industry Group.
And the value of Australia’s manufacturing exports has grown by around 23 per cent since 2013, compared to a 13 per cent decline when Labor was last in government.
There is significant potential to grow the sector, with the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre estimating the sector could capture growth of 25 - 35 per cent by 2026.
But our manufacturing sector will only expand if it can compete with the rest of the world.
This means we need to prepare manufacturing for the future and establish the right policies to make Australia an easy environment for manufacturers to invest, export, embrace new technologies and develop high value products.
The Morrison Government will deliver a stronger manufacturing sector by:Growing exports by Australian manufacturers including by delivering more free trade agreements and supporting an Australian Made export campaign to give our manufacturers a bigger edge in overseas markets.
Supporting manufacturers to modernise and grow through a new Manufacturing Modernisation Fund, support for science, technology and commercialisation, and providing new opportunities in areas like space industry.
Delivering reliable and affordable energy to lower production costs with our Fair Deal on Energy, as well as gas market reforms and investments in business energy efficiency.
Ensuring Australia has a world-class skilled workforce that supports smarter manufacturing, including support for up to 80,000 new apprentices.
Providing better access to finance through our Australian Business Securitisation Fund and Australian Business Growth Fund.
Growing our sovereign defence industry and maximising opportunities for Australian involvement in our record $200 billion investment in Defence capability.
Maintaining a strong anti-dumping system to ensure a level playing field for our manufacturing businesses.
By contrast, Labor’s policies will weaken the manufacturing sector by making Australia a place in which it is harder to do business.
Labor wants to punish manufacturing and other traditional industries with their economy-wrecking emissions reduction targets that would drive up energy prices
and reduce manufacturing production.
Under Labor’s plan, scores of Australian firms including food processors and manufacturers of chemicals, building products and consumer goods will be forced to pay billions of dollars buying global carbon credits in order to comply with Labor’s reckless emissions reduction targets.
Labor’s workplace relations policies will put the unions back in charge while its trade policy will give trade unions a veto over our trade negotiations.
It’s a disastrous recipe that will drive Australian manufacturing jobs offshore, just like the last time they were in office when one in eight manufacturing jobs disappeared.
Labor’s past failures on manufacturing tell us they will not only fail to create manufacturing jobs, but Australian taxpayers will be left to pick up the bill.
Only the Morrison Government has a strong plan to continue to grow Australia’s manufacturing sector and other traditional industries.
OUR RECORD
Australian Manufacturing not only has a great history but an exciting future.
It employs hundreds of thousands of Australians, is a major export industry and contributes almost one quarter of our research and development expenditure.
The Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre, an independent industry-led body established by the Liberal Nationals Government in 2015, has identified significant capacity for Australian manufacturing to grow: by reducing production costs, value-adding and accessing new global markets.
We have already taken major action to bolster manufacturing
and secure the jobs that so many Australian families rely on.
Our strong record includes: //Taking Australian manufacturing to the world
To ensure their growth, our manufacturers need to export and reach new markets.
In just five years, the Liberal Nationals Government has embedded Australia with the economic engines of our region.
We have concluded free trade agreements with China, Japan, Korea, the 10 economies of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP-11) and the 10 countries of the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (PACER Plus), as well as Indonesia, Peru and Hong Kong.
This is powering major opportunities, with manufacturing exports growing by around 23 per cent since 2013.
Lower taxes for small and medium businesses
We are reducing taxes so businesses can grow and employ more Australians.
We have fast-tracked tax cuts for around 3.3 million small and medium-sized Australian businesses with a turnover of less than $50 million, enabling them to invest in and invigorate their businesses.
We have also expanded the instant asset write-off to medium sized businesses and increased it to $30,000.
Investing in science, technology and commercialisation
For an even stronger future, Australian manufacturing must embrace advanced technologies to boost productivity and compete internationally.
Through initiatives like the $100 million Advanced Manufacturing Fund, $40 million Innovative Manufacturing CRC, $30 million Rail Manufacturing CRC, Entrepreneurs’ Program and Industry Growth Centres, our Government is supporting world class manufacturing facilities and fast-tracking commercialisation of new ideas in machinery, rail, food and other products.
Supporting the transition of the automotive sector
Due to our strong economic management, Australian manufacturing continues to thrive after the closure of Ford, Toyota and Holden.
Around 80 per cent of their former workers have successfully transitioned.
We have also supported businesses in the automotive supply chain to diversify into new opportunities such as defence industry through our $100 million Advanced Manufacturing Fund and $155 million Growth Fund, with over 70 per cent of these businesses still manufacturing.
OUR PLAN
Growing exports of Australian Made products
Australia’s future manufacturing growth is highly dependent on local businesses gaining access to new global markets and supply chains.
A re-elected Morrison Government will continue to remove trade barriers and increase support for manufacturing exports through a comprehensive range of measures, including:Delivering new trade deals, building on our record of increasing the total trade covered by free trade agreements from around 26 per cent to around 70 per cent.
This includes working to conclude trade negotiations with the European Union, regional markets via the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership and the four-nation Pacific Alliance (Mexico, Chile, Peru and Colombia) and the UK when they are ready to do so.
Supporting an Australian Made export campaign, with up to $5 million over the next four years to push the logo in Australia’s largest trading markets. Funding would support marketing and promotional campaigns to profile the logo as an export brand of Australia, making it even more valuable for manufacturers of food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, clothing and other products.
Funding will be used to support registration of trademarks for the logo in markets like the UK, European Union and Canada.
Providing support for promotional and marketing activities of exporters through the additional $60 million we are providing to the Export Market Development Grants Scheme (EMDG) over the next three years, bringing the total annual spend to $157.9 million.
The EMDG helps current and aspiring small to medium sized exporters to utilise free trade agreements and seek new offshore opportunities for their goods and services.
Rolling out our $20 million SME Export Hubs program to boost the export capability of businesses across the country, including manufacturers.
Continuing to provide export finance solutions for Australian exporters through Efic, as well as connecting Australian businesses with overseas opportunities and facilitating investment through Austrade.
Supporting manufacturing to modernise and grow
Australian businesses have long been world leaders, using cutting-edge technology and business processes.
Australian manufacturers need to continue to invest, innovate and modernise in order to develop new higher-value products, differentiate themselves in the market and prepare for the future, including for industry 4.0.
A re-elected Morrison Government will establish a new Manufacturing Modernisation Fund, with funding of $50 million from Government and at least $110 million from industry.
The Fund will provide grants to small and medium sized manufacturing businesses to modernise, grow and employ more Australians, particularly helping those manufacturers in regional and outer suburban Australia.
The Fund will support manufacturers to become more competitive
and create more jobs by co-funding capital investments that help them scale-up,
invest in new technologies and develop new high-value products.
$20 million would be provided for matched grants of between $50,000 and $100,000 for smaller scale technology and efficiency investments.
$30 million would be provided for larger-scale grants of up to $1 million, with a $3 co-contribution from industry for every $1 from government, to support more transformative investments in technologies and processes.
This builds on our continued investments in science, technology and commercialisation initiatives that provide new opportunities for manufacturing growth and competitiveness.
This includes our investment of $100 million in the Advanced Manufacturing Fund, the creation of the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre, support through the Entrepreneurs Program and $40 million for the Innovative Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre.
It also includes new Cooperative Research Centres initiatives that support our world-leading researchers to collaborate with the manufacturing industry to develop new products and open up new markets:$55 million for the SmartSat CRC to develop new satellite and communications technologies.
$35 million for the Future Food Systems CRC to establish six regional and periurban food hubs around the country aimed at building export capability and value-adding to local produce.
$25 million for the Future Battery Industries CRC to expand production of critical minerals like lithium and develop opportunities for specialist battery manufacturing.
$20 million from the Cooperative Research Centres Projects grants program for industry-led research and development projects focused on developing new solutions to plastic waste and recycling.
Our investment in the Australian Space Agency will also provide new opportunities for manufacturing, with the space industry expected to grow to $12 billion
and create up to another 20,000 jobs by 2030.
Affordable and reliable energy
Secure, reliable and affordable energy is critical to all businesses – none more so than manufacturing.
As an energy-intensive industry, higher power costs would pose a significant risk to production.
The Morrison Government’s Fair Deal on Energy will deliver affordable, reliable 24/7 power.
It includes a price safety net that will help small businesses make empowered and informed decisions about their energy plan, supports reliable power by requiring energy companies to sign contracts guaranteeing enough energy to meet demand and backs investment to improve competition by underwriting new reliable energy generation – including investment in Snowy 2.0 and Battery of the Nation.
We will continue taking strong action to ensure gas prices go down and gas supply goes up.
This includes, through the Australian Domestic Gas Security Mechanism, ensuring there is enough gas for Australia before it is exported.
The Morrison Government will invest to improve the transparency, competitiveness and long-term security of gas supply – with $8.4 million to accelerate gas supplies from the Northern Territory to the east coast with the opening of the Beetaloo Sub-basin for exploration and development.
Small manufacturers can also benefit from our investment in the Energy Efficient Communities Program.
This will provide $50 million in more than 2,500 grants to eligible businesses and community organisations to help them save energy by either installing new equipment or by reviewing and improving their energy management.
Eligible small businesses will be able to claim grants of up to $20,000 and high energy-using businesses up to $25,000.
World-class skilled workforce
A highly-skilled workforce allows us to work smarter and more competitively on the global stage.
That’s why we are backing in vocational education and training (VET) as central to the growth of Australian businesses, particularly manufacturing.
We established the Skilling Australians Fund in 2017 to boost apprenticeships and traineeships across the country, including in manufacturing.
The Morrison Government is also investing $585 million in the VET sector to better equip Australians with the skills they need for today and tomorrow.
We are establishing a new Skills Shortage Payment to boost existing incentives for areas of identified skills needs to support up to 80,000 new apprentices over five years.
We are establishing a National Skills Commission to drive long-term reform of VET.
This will develop a nationwide approach to skills development, serving the needs of both students and industry.
Language, literacy, numeracy and digital skills are the foundation of employment.
To ensure all Australians have the skills they need for work, the Government will provide $62.4 million to establish a national program to deliver foundational skills training.
We will build on Questacon’s Engineering is Elementary pilot program by investing $6.2 million to roll out the program nationally.
This will provide training to 1,000 primary school teachers across all states and territories to give them the confidence and skills to teach engineering to school kids.
Growing our sovereign defence industry capabilities
We are investing over $200 billion over the next decade to modernise the Australian Defence Force and secure our nation.
This includes $90 billion for our continuous naval shipbuilding program, including the construction of the new Attack class submarines.
Our defence industry policies are ensuring local Australian businesses including manufacturers have more opportunities to benefit from this massive investment in Defence capability, ensuring we create Australian jobs
and a sovereign Australian defence industry.
The creation of a stronger, more resilient, and internationally competitive defence industry is maximising opportunities for Australian businesses to secure Defence contracts.
Tens of thousands of people and more than 3,000 small to medium enterprises are already employed in Australia’s defence industry.
The Morrison Government has launched the 2019 Defence Policy for Industry Participation, providing further opportunities for Australian companies to compete for work and drive the long-term development of Australia’s sovereign defence industry.
This policy builds on the success of the Government’s well-established Australian Industry Capability Program and Local Industry Capability Plan.
It also extends the requirement to include opportunities for Australian industry on all Defence procurements of $4 million, and above $7.5 million for construction.
Our $230 million Centre for Defence Industry Capability works closely with industry to help it take advantage of the unprecedented opportunities.
We released the first Australian Defence Industrial Capability Plan, which lays out how we will build the Defence industry Australia needs.
This includes a dedicated annual Sovereign Industrial Capability Priority grants program, providing up to $17 million to Australian small and medium enterprises to assist them to purchase essential equipment, such as enhancing cyber security, providing access to specialist training, or the ability to attain appropriate accreditations and certificates.
The Coalition Government’s Defence Export Strategy, Defence Export Advocate, $3.8 billion Defence Export Facility and $20 million annually in extra export promotion will help Australian defence industry market its capabilities to our friends and allies overseas for a sustainable Australian defence industry.
And we will continue to grow the Global Supply Chain program, giving Australian companies a foot in the door for greater access to global markets through the supply chains of defence prime companies.
Better access to finance
The Morrison Government will make it easier for aspiring and existing small and medium businesses – including manufacturers – to start and expand.
We understand that small businesses find it difficult to obtain finance other than on a secured basis.
And that small businesses that have already obtained secured finance but wish to continue to grow also find it difficult.
With access to finance a critical issue, the new $2 billion Australian Business Securitisation Fund will start on July 1 this year.
This fund increases small business access to competitive finance by providing more funding for small banks and non-bank lenders.
A re-elected Morrison Government will also establish the Australian Business Growth Fund by providing $100 million in funding and partnering with financial institutions to enhance equity financing to businesses with annual turnovers between $2 million and $50 million.
The fund will aim to expand to $1 billion as it matures.
Maintaining a strong anti-dumping regime
The Liberal Nationals Government has taken firm steps to protect Australian industries, particularly manufacturing, from the illegal dumping of cheap overseas products.
This includes:An extra $1.1 million per year for the Anti-Dumping Commission, taking its annual budget to over $12 million.
Improved assistance for small and medium Australian businesses.
Placing a greater onus on overseas businesses to cooperate with investigations.
Improving the anti-dumping merits review process.
Delivering more timely investigations.
The Morrison Government will continue to look for opportunities to strengthen Australia’s anti dumping regime following recent consultations we have undertaken with industry to ensure it delivers a level playing field while supporting business growth, employment and competitiveness.
THE CHOICE
The Morrison Government values our manufacturing industry and understands what is needed for continued growth.
We will work with the sector to support more exports,
reducing energy costs
and support modernisation and the development of new high-value products.
Labor is offering the opposite.
Under Labor’s policies, manufacturing will be hit by higher costs
and more red tape that will drive Australian manufacturing jobs offshore.
Australian manufacturers cannot afford Labor’s economy-wrecking emissions reduction targets which will:Cost the economy $472 billion.
Slash more than 336,000 jobs.
Cut the average wage by over $9,000.
Increase wholesale electricity prices by more than 58%.
Under Labor, Australian manufacturers will face costs that their international competitors do not.
In particular, scores of Australian manufacturers will be among the 250 Australian firms targeted by Labor to reduce their emissions by at least 45 per cent by 2030.
Those firms unable to make these emissions cuts will be forced to spend millions on foreign carbon credits damaging their competitiveness in fiercely contested export markets.
Given that a large share of manufacturing is located in regional Australia, the impact on employment in regional cities and towns will be severe.
Australia’s manufacturers cannot afford Labor’s export-damaging opposition to free trade.
A Shorten Labor Government has said it will give trade unions an effective veto over trade agreements.
Labor’s union MPs are already celebrating Labor’s decision to ‘reject’ trade agreements, including those already signed with Indonesia and Peru.
This will result in sectors like the Australian steel industry missing out on promised tariff cuts.
When Labor was last in government, they did not start and finish a single Free Trade Agreement.
Crucial negotiations with Korea, Japan and China foundered, as trade unions’ riding instructions outweighed the national interest.
Australian manufacturers cannot afford Labor’s regressive industrial relations policies which threaten a return to the industrial unrest of the 1970s.
Labor’s record proves their policies will drive manufacturing jobs offshore.
When Labor entered office in 2007 there were over one million manufacturing jobs. When they got booted out in 2013, the number had fallen to 922 000: 1 in 8 jobs disappeared.
While manufacturing has a bright future under the Morrison Government, Labor’s only plan is to offer taxpayer-funded subsidies to compensate for the damage they will do to the sector.
COST
The Morrison Government’s Plan for a Stronger Manufacturing Sector includes an additional $50 million for the Manufacturing Modernisation Fund and $5 million for the Australian Made campaign.
Source: https://www.liberal.org.au/our-policies
LIBERAL ELECTION POLICIES
Our 2019 election policies announced during the election campaign are as follows:
Our Plan for Youth Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
Key Points
The tragedy of suicide touches far too many Australian families.
Suicide is the leading cause of death of our young people – accounting for one-third of deaths of Australians aged 15-24.
The tragic impacts are even higher in Indigenous communities.
The Morrison Government is leading a change in the way Australians and Australian governments think about suicide prevention.
Recognising that social, financial, legal, family, health and mental health factors may all play their part, we are elevating suicide prevention to a national, whole-of-government priority.
Our $503.1 million Youth Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan is the largest suicide prevention strategy in Australia’s history.
It will ensure that government activities are coordinated, services are delivered to young Australians at risk and support is available for friends and families.
Our Plan focuses on: Strengthening the headspace network,
Indigenous suicide prevention,
Early childhood and parenting support.
We will ensure young Australians and their families get help where and when they need it by investing an additional $375 million to expand and improve the headspace network.
headspace provides youth-friendly services for the challenges facing young Australians: across physical health, alcohol and other drug use, vocational support and mental health.
To strengthen Indigenous youth suicide prevention, we will invest $34.1 million, including support for Indigenous leadership that delivers culturally appropriate, trauma-informed care as well as services that recognise the value of community, cultural artistic traditions and protective social factors.
Our support includes $19.6 million for measures to prevent Indigenous youth suicide, particulary in the Kimberley.
To support Australian parents and their children we will invest $11.8 million in a range of initiatives to help parents recognise when their children are struggling, improve mental health skills training in schools, enhance peer support networks and boost counselling support services for young people.
We are investing $15 million to create a new national information system.
This will ensure communities and services can respond quickly to particular areas affected by a high incidence of suicide and self-harm.
For Australians living in rural and regional areas we are establishing more than 20 new headspace sites in these areas and we are providing new mental health telehealth services funded through the MBS.
Our plan also includes mental health and wellbeing projects, funded through our $1.25 billion Community Health and Hospitals Program to provide vital frontline local mental health services.
We are also delivering $22.5 million in specific youth
and Indigenous health research projects as part of our $125 million ‘Million Minds Mission’ into mental health research.
These investments can only be made because of a strong economy.
Our Record
Health care is a priority for every Australian.
That’s why we have a Long-Term National Health Plan based on four key pillars: Medicare and medicines, hospitals, mental health and medical research.
Our Government was the first to designate mental health as one of the four key pillars of the health care system.
Our Youth Mental Health and Suicide Prevention package builds on the record $4.8 billion that we are spending on mental health this financial year alone – more than half a million dollars every hour of every day.
One in five Australians experience a common mental disorder each year and almost half of us will face some form of mental health problem during our lives.
In prioritising mental health, we’re transforming the health landscape with a determination to keep Australians safe and well.
But it’s a major challenge, demanding a huge level of resources that can only come from good economic management.
The Morrison Government has delivered $1.45 billion to our Primary Health Networks to enable them to deliver ongoing and community-tailored mental health services to Australian families.
This investment will boost crucial services such as headspace, local psychological services, suicide prevention activities and community mental health nursing.
We have also shone a light for the first time on eating disorders, which affect almost one million Australians and have the highest mortality rate of any psychiatric illness.
We have invested $110 million to provide Medicare rebates for the treatment of eating disorders, have funded ED Hope helpline and are establishing residential eating disorder centres across the country.
In 2018, we announced new support including $96 million additional funding for headspace, $96.8 million for the Mental Health in Education Initiative, $106 million for suicide prevention programs, $102.5 million for mental health services for older Australians, and $20.4 million to support the mental health of rural communities through the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
This demonstrates our commitment to early intervention irrespective of health, age or location.
We have established the Million Minds Mission: providing $125 million through the Medical Research Future Fund for mental health research.
The aim is to reach one million people and ensure that our health system continues to provide the best, most up-to-date treatments and interventions.
Our Government has also delivered enhanced suicide prevention services.
We provided an extra $33.8 million to increase the responsiveness of Lifeline’s telephone crisis support service.
Lifeline provides crisis support services to all Australians, including those impacted by natural disasters.
We have invested $37.6 million to expand the Beyond Blue Way Back Support Service aftercare model across Australia to support an estimated 28,000 people over four years.
This service supports Australians during the three months after they have attempted suicide and have been discharged from hospital.
Under the National Suicide Prevention Leadership Support Program, the Morrison Government provided $36 million for a range of projects designed to reduce suicide among at-risk groups and to reduce suicidal behaviour.
This supported organisations such as R U OK?, Mates in Construction and Suicide Prevention Australia.
We are committed to finding better ways to prevent suicide, establishing the National Suicide Prevention Trials in 12 nationwide locations at a cost of $55 million.
We have also created the National Suicide Prevention Research Fund – a $12 million fund supporting and disseminating research on suicide prevention.
The Morrison Government’s Long-Term Health Plan is delivering a world-class health system providing patients with access to quality medical care, record hospital funding, affordable life-saving medicines and breakthrough research.
By keeping our economy strong, Medicare and the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme are guaranteed.
And we can afford to make major investments like our Youth Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan.
Our Plan
headspace
The Morrison Government will enable more young Australians and their families get help where and when they need it with an unprecedented $375 million investment in headspace.
headspace provides youth-friendly services for the challenges facing young Australians.
This includes physical health, alcohol and other drug use, vocational support and mental health services.
We will expand the headspace network by 30 – from the current 115 services to 145 by 2021, at a cost of $111 million.
This will help more young Australians, their families and friends easily access support in their local communities.
More than 20 new sites will be in rural and regional Australia to ensure equitable access for younger Australians living outside our major cities.
These services are complemented by new mental health telehealth services in rural and regional Australia available through Medicare.
We are also investing an extra $152 million in existing services to reduce wait times, improve the quality of care and assure young Australians that help is available when they need it most.
To ensure that headspace is equipped to provide specialist clinical services for young Australians at the early stages of severe mental illness, we are providing $110 million to continue the Early Psychosis Youth Services program at six headspace centres nationally.
Our innovative $2 million investment in the Young Ambassadors for Mental Health project will improve awareness of these services.
Young ambassadors with the lived experience of mental health issues will be in the community, promoting mental health literacy and showing people how to seek help.
In total we are now delivering $120 million for headspace each year.
Indigenous youth suicide prevention
The suicide rate in our Indigenous communities is a tragedy.
We will bring a concerted focus to Indigenous suicide prevention with a $34.1 million investment to help tailor initiatives that make sense for those in need.
We will provide $4.5 million to empower Indigenous leadership in suicide prevention.
Indigenous Suicide Prevention Australia will establish a national plan for culturally-appropriate care, and services that recognise the value of community, trauma-informed care and protective social and emotional factors.
Understanding the value of cultural artistic and healing traditions, our Government will provide $5 million for young Indigenous leaders to participate in place-based cultural programs.
We will also support communities with a $3 million investment in a centre of excellence in childhood wellness in the Illawarra – assisting disadvantaged children and adolescents affected by childhood trauma.
And we are investing $1.2 million for Red Dust to deliver social and emotional wellbeing initiatives in the Northern Territory.
In addition we will provide $19.6 million through the Indigenous Advancement Strategy to prevent Indigenous youth suicide, particularly in the Kimberley, tailored to breaking the cycle of disengagement and mental health issues in Indigenous communities.
Early childhood and parenting support
Early childhood and parenting support, crucial to tackling issues that could exacerbate in later life, will be boosted by $11.8 million.
We will provide $1.5 million for the Raising Children Network at Murdoch Children’s Research Institute to provide tailored, expert guidance to parents – giving them the confidence to recognise when their children are struggling and to know what to do to help.
We want children to have the best start to life – to learn the skills to manage their mental and emotional wellbeing and to know how to seek help when needed.
For this reason, the Morrison Government will invest $2.5 million in the school-based mindfulness program, Smiling Minds, as part of Beyond Blue’s Be You mental health in education initiative.
We will also boost funding to Kids Helpline by $4 million to enhance the 24/7 crisis and ongoing care it provides for children and young people aged 5-25.
We understand that young people may sometimes feel more comfortable seeking help initially from peers.
We are providing $2.9 million to batyr to boost the role of peers in encouraging others to seek help; $0.4 million for the Banksia project to expand their innovative community program and $0.6 million for a trial of peer workers in Beyond Blue’s Way Back suicide aftercare service.
In addition, we have invested in a range of youth health hubs through our $1.25 billion Community Health and Hospitals Program, guaranteeing access to frontline services regardless of where young Australians live.
National coordination
We recognise that the causes of suicide are complex and emerge from a range of social, emotional, environmental and financial factors.
We will appoint a National Youth Suicide Prevention Adviser in the Prime Minister’s portfolio to work across the whole of government to coordinate suicide prevention activities, and to help design services that make a real difference.
We are also investing $15 million in a new nationwide suicide and self-harm monitoring system.
This will provide up-to-date information so communities and services can respond quickly in areas affected by a high incidence of suicide and self-harm.
For the first time, this will allow suicide prevention initiatives to be tailored to specific localities and deployed rapidly to save and protect those at risk.
Mental health research
As part of our Million Minds Mission, we will invest $22.5 million in new health and medical research.
Of this, $12.5 million will support research into how best to bring family, community, culture and country to the centre of mental health services for Indigenous youth.
There will also be $10 million to design better approaches to managing mental health care for young people in crisis and improve digital mental health support.
Supporting all Australians
The Morrison Government’s landmark $503.1 million youth mental health and suicide prevention package complements our $275.5 million adult mental health and community support package.
Together, this $778.6 million mental health and suicide prevention investment will address gaps in the system
and deliver more frontline services for all Australians.
The support builds on our record investment of $4.8 billion this financial year alone in mental health services.
the choice
Investing in youth mental health and suicide prevention is not a choice, it is a must.
The Liberal National Government's track record in delivering a strong economy ensures we can invest in essential services such as youth mental health and suicide prevention services.
Cost
The Coalition's plans for youth mental health and suicide prevention will not place additional costs on the Budget.
Our Plan for More Jobs in a Stronger Economy
Key points
A safe, secure and prosperous Australia depends on a strong and growing economy.
A strong economy delivers more jobs,
improved living standards and better essential services such as child care, education, health and infrastructure.
A strong economy ensures our defence and security agencies have the resources necessary to keep Australians safe.
When the Coalition was elected in 2013, the economy was weak, unemployment was rising and the budget was in a mess.
Today, the Coalition is building a strong economy,
creating jobs
and repairing the budget.
We have created over 1.3 million new jobs.
A record number of young Australians and women are in employment.
Welfare dependency is at thirty-year lows.
We have brought down a surplus budget while delivering the services that the Australian people deserve, all without raising taxes.
Record schools funding, record hospitals funding, more medicines on the PBS and more access to quality healthcare.
Good economic management makes it possible to balance the budget while providing better services and tax relief to hard-working Australian families.
But there is more to do.
The Morrison Government will build an even stronger economy based on individual enterprise and aspiration while looking after Australians who need a helping hand.
In particular, we will:Create another 1.25 million jobs over the next five years,
including 250,000 new jobs for young Australians.
Deliver the largest personal income tax relief in a decade, with tax relief of up to $1,080 for single income families earning up to $126,000.
For a dual income family that’s up to $2,160 back in families’ pockets in a few weeks’ time.
Ensure Australians have the skills they need through a new $525 million skills package with 80,000 new apprenticeships
in addition to record education funding.
Establish 10 training hubs in regional areas to create better connections between local industry and schools to improve outcomes for young Australians.
Expand the Youth Jobs PaTH Program to pilot up to 10 industry-led job pathway programs to better target the training and internship experiences for young people.
Expand the successful Transition to Work service to allow young people aged 22 to 24 years to also voluntarily access pre-employment services that help prepare them for work.
Transform our employment services system to help Australians who need extra support to get a job.
Strengthen small and medium businesses by lowering business tax, improving access to finance, ensuring small business is paid on time by big business and government, and increasing and expanding access to the instant asset write-off.
Better connect people to jobs, their homes and their communities, and allow businesses to connect to domestic and global export markets through a $100 billion infrastructure plan.
Expand export opportunities through market-opening trade deals.
Continue to support farmers by giving them the tools to capitalise when times are good – and the help they need when times are tough.
This includes $6.3 billion in support for drought-affected communities and $3.1 billion to support the rebuilding of agriculture in flood-hit regions.
Ensure the Government lives within its means with disciplined fiscal management without increasing taxes.
An uncertain international economic outlook underlines the need for a sure hand in guiding the economy.
A Labor Government would mean a drastic change in economic direction.
wages and jobs.
Labor has plans that would hurt investment, productivity,
Labor would hit the economy with $387 billion in new taxes on workers, retirees, superannuation, housing and family business.
A Shorten Labor Government would easily be the highest taxing government in the nation’s history.
And when Labor runs out of money they come after yours.
Its reckless 45 per cent emissions reduction target will harm the economy,
cost 336,000 jobs
and reduce wage growth while simply shifting industry and emissions off-shore.
Under Labor, trade deals will stall.
Militant union bosses will use old-style industrial muscle to disrupt workplaces and make unsustainable demands on business that will cost jobs and our economy.
The Australian people have the choice between a Government that is delivering a stronger economy or Bill Shorten’s Labor Party that would weaken the economy.
Our record
When the Coalition came to office, the Australian economy was heading in the wrong direction.
Unemployment was at 5.7 per cent and rising.
The budget position was deteriorating rapidly, with $240 billion in deficits recorded over Labor’s six years in government.
Debt was growing by 33 per cent a year, creating an unsustainable burden on future generations
and costing taxpayers money-for-nothing in growing debt repayments.
The Carbon Tax was increasing the cost of everything.
With weak growth and a deteriorating budget, Labor had abandoned essential services, failing to subsidise life-saving drugs, and denying guaranteed funding for schools and hospitals.
Promises of tax cuts were repeatedly abandoned.
The Liberal National Government has restored the Budget and secured funding for the essential services that Australians rely on.
The economy is stronger.
Taxes are lower.
Funding for schools and hospitals has been guaranteed and life-saving medicines are again being subsidised.
Australian exports are at record levels, boosted by trade deals that have provided Australian exporters with duty-free or preferential access to an extra 1.76 billion consumers in the world’s fastest-growing regions.
Our farmers and rural communities are being supported.
More than 1.3 million jobs have been created and the unemployment rate has fallen to 5 per cent.
Wages growth is starting to increase and the cost of essential services like child care and energy are beginning to fall as a result of the Government’s policies.
Over the last 6 years, the Australian economy has grown faster than virtually all developed economies, weathering the impact of the end of the mining investment boom and, more recently, the headwinds of the drought.
We have fixed the budget mess we inherited from Labor while still cutting taxes.
The Budget delivers a healthy surplus of $7.1 billion in 2019-20, a $55 billion turnaround from the deficit we inherited six years ago.
Our fiscal discipline will ensure these surpluses exceed 1 per cent of GDP as we reach our goal of eliminating Commonwealth net debt by 2030 or sooner.
This means we can end Labor’s legacy of wasteful debt repayments and spend more on essential services
while also keeping taxes low.
Our economic plan is also laying the platform for continued strong growth.
We are delivering lower taxes for hard-working Australians because we want Australians to earn more and keep more of what they earn.
We have brought forward tax relief for small and medium businesses that employ millions of Australians.
Our improved budget position enables us to invest more in the services that Australians rightly expect.
Quality health care, aged care, disability support, child care and schools.
Improved economic security for women.
Record spending on infrastructure.
Less congested roads.
Inland Rail.
And a new Western Sydney Airport and Melbourne Airport Rail Link – breaking deadlocks that had eluded successive governments for decades.
Reforms that strengthen our federation by providing a fairer and more stable approach to the sharing of GST receipts.
Additional resources for our corporate and financial regulators to ensure our businesses do the right thing.
Our Plan
The Morrison Government will build an even stronger and more competitive economy,
with lower taxes
and more jobs.
An ambitious jobs and skills plan
The Morrison Government understands the importance of more and better paying jobs to the living standards of hard-working Australians.
In 2013, we set a target of creating one million new jobs over five years and exceeded it.
Since September 2013, we have created more than 1.3 million new jobs.
The majority of these new jobs are full-time.
More than 100,000 young Australians between the ages of 15 and 24 found jobs last financial year – the largest number in Australia’s history.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, unemployment has fallen to 5 per cent – the equal lowest level in a decade.
The percentage of working age Australians on welfare is at its lowest level for a generation.
Australians are participating in the jobs market at record levels,
including record levels of female participation.
Not only are there more women in work than ever before, the gender pay gap is at its lowest level on record at 14.2 per cent and well below the 17.2 per cent gap when Labor left office.
We know that work offers opportunity.
We are committed to job creation.
That is why a re-elected Morrison Government will create another 1.25 million jobs over the next five years.
We will do this by building a stronger economy and supporting businesses to start and to grow.
The Morrison Government is determined to build on its strong record
and get more young Australians into work.
That is why we pledge that a re-elected Morrison Government will deliver 250,000 new young Australians employment over the next five years.
One in five of our new jobs will be for young Australians.
To ensure Australians have the skills they need to drive a growing economy, the Morrison Government will invest $525 million over five years in the vocational education and training (VET) sector to better equip Australians with the skills they need for today and tomorrow.
The package of measures will include 80,000 new apprenticeships in industries with skills shortages and a doubling of incentive payments to employers (to $8000).
The new apprentices - including bakers, bricklayers, plasterers, hairdressers, plumbers and carpenters - will also receive a $2000 incentive payment.
The Morrison Government will establish 10 industry Training Hubs to address the challenge of high youth unemployment in regional areas.
The Hubs will create better connections between local industry and schools to improve outcomes for students, employers and the VET sector.
They will be an on-the-ground presence where new approaches are needed to help students transition from school to training and work.
The Hubs will facilitate additional education for trainers as well as career advice and mentoring for young people with a specific focus on traditional in-demand trades.
A career facilitator will form partnerships between industries in sectors of local skills shortages and those providing advice and education to students.
This initiative will support Year 11 and 12 students at 10 pilot sites across Australia.
State Location Youth Unemployment Rate NSW Grafton 24.3%               Gosford 13.2%NT Alice Springs 12.1%QLD       Maryborough 19.8%              Townsville 17.7%SA Port Pirie 17.6%TAS Burnie                15.8%VIC Shepparton 16.7%WA Wanneroo 16.4%               Armadale 15.4%AUSTRALIA Armadale 11.5%
The 10 regions selected for the Training Hubs will also be eligible for the Commonwealth Scholarships Program for Young Australians.
This Program will support young Australians to enter the VET sector and gain the skills they need for a successful and rewarding career.
Successful candidates will be eligible for up to $17,500 in funding, varying based on scholarship length and type of study or training, for a maximum period of three years.
Priority will be given to eligible applicants in the following cohorts: individuals who have exited from the Australian Defence Force (ADF) in the previous 2 years (the age criteria will not be applicable for ADF applicants)
individuals who have exited from the Australian Defence Force (ADF) in the previous 2 years (the age criteria will not be applicable for ADF applicants)
Indigenous young Australians
young Australians with a disability, and
young Australians from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
In addition to the broader Skills Package, a re-elected Morrison Government will also build on the success of our employment programs for young people.
By providing access to training, internships and wage subsidies, our targeted Youth Jobs PaTH Program has already helped over 43,000 young Australians into a job.
The Morrison Government will expand this program to pilot up to 10 industry-led job pathway programs to build collaboration between employers and jobseekers and enhance the opportunities for young people in growth industries.
The new programs will commence on 1 January 2020, cost between $50,000 and $2 million each, and be run by group training organisations or employer bodies.
The Morrison Government will also expand access to the successful Transition to Work employment service to young people aged 22 to 24 years.
Until now, the program has been targeted at 15 to 21 year olds, helping over 32,000 young people into a job or training activity.
The expansion of access will assist an extra 2,000 young people annually.
The Morrison Government will also expand access to the successful Transition to Work employment service to young people aged 22 to 24 years.
Until now, the program has been targeted at 15 to 21 year olds, helping over 32,000 young people into a job or training activity.
The expansion of access will assist an extra 2,000 young people annually.
To provide unemployed Australians with the help they need to get back into the workforce as quickly as possible, the Morrison Government is embarking on the biggest overhaul of the employment services system in a generation.
From 1 July 2020, we will pilot a new system which provides more intensive and targeted support to those who most need help;
gives greater flexibility to those who are capable of getting their own job;
and which works better for business by giving them access to the workers they need, when they need them.
Our reforms will ensure that even more Australians can benefit from our strong economy and experience the dignity and choice that employment brings.
The Morrison Government is ensuring the VET training system is flexible and responsive to critical skills shortages as they emerge.
For example, the Morrison Government will increase the lifetime loan limit available to aviation students studying at a VET Student Loans (VSL) approved provider to $150,000, up from $104,440.
This change, which comes into force in January 2020, addresses concerns from industry that the existing combined lifetime loan limit doesn’t adequately cover the cost of training for the licences and ratings issued by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority.
This change has also been extended to those who study at higher education providers.
Boosting regional employment
The Morrison Government knows that for a strong Australia we need strong regions.
And strong regions need strong employment.
Under the Coalition, regional unemployment has fallen from 6 per cent to 5.5 per cent.
The Morrison Government is determined to ensure that young Australians in rural and regional areas have the opportunity to secure an apprenticeship
while ensuring regional small businesses have the skills they need.
That’s why we introduced a new trial wage subsidy program to support eligible new Australian apprentices located in regional areas facing skills shortages to take up opportunities in areas such as plumbing, mechanical, electrical, painting trades and hairdressing.
Under the subsidy, eligible employers will be able to receive payments based on the apprentice’s relevant award wage rates.
Subsidies are provided at 75 per cent of the apprentice’s award wage in the first year, followed with 50 per cent in the second year and 25 per cent in the third year.
The $60 million program commenced on 1 January 2019.
We are also investing in innovative local solutions to employment challenges.
Our $18.4 million Regional Employment Trials program enables local stakeholders to develop regional approaches to assist unemployed people in 10 disadvantaged regions where there are limited job opportunities.
Our Stronger Transitions package provides a targeted package of intensive assistance to retrenched workers to find new jobs and take advantage of labour market opportunities across Australia.
Through partnerships with employers, the plan offers skills and training, employment support, labour mobility and access to small business opportunities.
We will also continue to support Australian farmers with tools to capitalise when times are good – and the help they need when times are tough.
This includes the Future Drought Fund and the Drought Communities Program to help farmers, and local communities that rely on them, prepare for and respond to drought.
The Liberal and Nationals Government will also continue to support farmers, families and communities with extra support to help rebuild agriculture in flood-hit zones, particularly via the North Queensland Livestock Industry Recovery Agency.
Lower taxes
The Morrison Government wants Australians to earn more and to keep more of what they earn.
Lower taxes are a critical part of our plan to deliver a strong economy
and record job creation.
In 2018, the Coalition’s three-part plan delivered $144 billion in personal income tax cuts.
The legislated package had three elements.
To provide immediate relief to address cost of living pressures, protect income earners from bracket creep and to simplify and incentivise the tax system by abolishing an entire tax bracket.
A re-elected Morrison Government will provide an additional $158 billion in tax relief for hard-working Australians.
It represents the largest personal income tax cuts since the Howard Government.
The changes will more than double the low- and middle- income tax offset from 2018-19.
Taxpayers earning up to $126,000 a year – including teachers, tradies and nurses – will receive a tax cut this year.
For a single income family, this will mean tax relief of $1,080 each year and up to $2,160 for families on a dual income.
More than 10 million taxpayers will benefit, with 4.5 million receiving the full amount.
And the relief will flow quickly and be available to Australians after tax returns for the 2018-19 year are submitted in July.
This tax relief will lift household incomes, ease cost of living pressures
and boost spending at local businesses.
A re-elected Morrison Government will also deliver long-term structural reform by lowering the 32.5 per cent tax rate to 30 per cent from 1 July 2024.
This will cover all taxpayers earning between $45,000 and $200,000 and mean that 94 per cent of taxpayers will pay no more than 30 cents in the dollar.
Unlike Labor, a re-elected Morrison Government will place a speed limit on taxes, and ensure that tax as a share of GDP does not rise above the 23.9 per cent cap.
Taxes will always be lower under the Morrison Government.
Backing small and family business
The Morrison Government believes that small and family businesses are the beating heart of Australia’s economy.
When small businesses are healthy, all Australians are better off.
It means more jobs,
more choice, better living standards and more vibrant and connected communities.
The Morrison Government wants small businesses to prosper.
We want them to employ even more Australians.
The Morrison Government is pursuing a number of measures to strengthen small and medium businesses and the national economy.
The Morrison Government will continue to deliver tax relief to small and family businesses.
The company tax rate for small and medium-sized companies with a turnover of less than $50 million has been lowered to 27.5 per cent.
This rate will be lowered further to 25 per cent by 2021-22 as the Government accelerates its plan to deliver lower tax rates.
Similar timing applies to the increases in the unincorporated small business tax discount rate, which will increase to 16 per cent by 2021-22 (up to the cap of $1,000).
The instant asset write-off threshold has been increased from $25,000 to $30,000 and expanded to include medium-sized businesses with annual turnover of less than $50 million.
The initiative will benefit around 3.4 million businesses employing around 7.7 million workers.
The Morrison Government will make it easier for aspiring and existing small businesses to secure finance to start or expand their business.
The $2 billion Australian Business Securitisation Fund will increase access to more competitive finance following analysis that small to medium enterprises did not have access to the finance they need to start or grow their businesses.
The new pool of capital will help address this gap, as smaller banks and non-bank lenders will have access to more capital specifically for the sector.
The Morrison Government will also ensure small business is paid on time, both by government and big business.
Affordable and reliable energy
The Morrison Government’s Energy Plan will deliver affordable, reliable and sustainable energy for Australian households and businesses.
The Morrison Government has given the green light to the Snowy 2.0 project by committing to a $1.4 billion equity injection.
The project will firm up intermittent renewable energy by bringing 2000 megawatts (MW) of new renewable pumped hydro capacity into the system that will provide up to 175 hours of storage which can meet the peak demand of up to 500,000 homes.
The Morrison Government has joined with the Tasmanian Government to accelerate the Battery of the Nation and Marinus Link projects by providing $56 million for the Marinus Link interconnector – a second electricity transmission connection between Tasmania and Victoria.
To ensure a sufficient supply of reliable energy, the Morrison Government is delivering a program to underwrite investment in new reliable generation.
This will support increased competition in the National Electricity Market and help reduce wholesale electricity prices.
The Morrison Government has agreed to a shortlist of 12 projects representing a combined capacity of 3,818 MW equivalent to around 7 per cent of the National Electricity Market.
To reduce electricity costs for households, a re-elected Morrison Government will stop price gouging by energy companies.
This includes banning sneaky late payment penalties, making energy retailers pass on savings in wholesale prices and stopping anti-competitive behaviour.
A price safety net will stop big power companies ripping off loyal customers.
The Morrison Government will also provide relief for electricity consumers through a one-off, income tax exempt payment of $75 for singles and $125 for couples to around 4 million eligible social security payment recipients, assisting with their next power bill and cost of living expenses.
Building modern and productive transport infrastructure
The Morrison Government has a $100 billion, 10 year infrastructure plan to better connect people to jobs, their homes and their communities, and allow businesses to connect to domestic and global export markets.
Since 2013, the Coalition has made commitments to more than 770 major projects, as well as thousands of smaller upgrades across every local government area and region in Australia.
Over 270 major projects have already been completed, with over 160 under construction,
providing over 50,000 direct and indirect jobs.
Investing in infrastructure projects that support the productive capacity of the economy supports growth and supports the Budget.
The Coalition’s reforms to project selection, including assessment by Infrastructure Australia for projects receiving over $100 million, will ensure benefits flow across the economy.
The Morrison Government has developed a rolling 10-year infrastructure pipeline, locking in funding over the medium-term to give greater certainty for state and territory governments to plan for new projects and for industry to invest in business and workforce capacity.
The Coalition will work with state and territory governments - who are responsible for procurement on their road and rail networks - to ensure tendering processes encourage competition.
This will ensure taxpayers get value for money,
while also building the diversity and capability of the Australian construction sector.
Creating more export opportunities through better infrastructure
Quality infrastructure is essential for the nation’s productive capacity and to better connect us to international markets.
The Morrison Government will continue to invest in the transformation of Australia’s transport corridors to open new markets to Australian businesses
and make it easier to move goods from our primary producers and industries to domestic and overseas markets.
As part of the Coalition’s $100 billion 10-year infrastructure plan, significant investments are being made in rail, road and intermodal facilities, such as the Gladstone Port Access Road ($100m), the Shepparton Bypass on the Goulburn Valley Highway ($208m) and Tranche 3 of the Tasmanian Freight Rail Revitalisation Program ($68m).
The signature Roads of Strategic Importance initiative has been increased to $4.5 billion to ensure our key freight roads efficiently connect agricultural and mining regions to ports, airports and other transport hubs, and manufacturers can connect to their market.
The Coalition will continue to deliver the $9.3 billion Inland Rail from Brisbane to Melbourne, a once-in-a-generation infrastructure project connecting regional Australia to national and international markets.
This project – already under construction – will deliver economic and social benefits across the country.
The nature of the freight task is evolving and freight volumes remain on track to double in the 20 years to 2030.
A co-ordinated national approach will drive action in investment, planning and data and technology.
To help position Australia to meet this challenge, the Coalition will finalise a National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy with all tiers of government.
Creating more export opportunities through trade deals
In just six years the Liberal National Government has embedded Australia into the major economic engines of our region.
The Government has concluded export agreements with China, Japan, Korea, the 10 economies of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP-11)1, the 10 countries of the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (PACER Plus)2, as well as Indonesia, Peru and Hong Kong.
Australian exporters now have duty-free or preferential access to 2.8 billion consumers around the world, up more than 1.75 billion since the Coalition came to office.
Australia’s free trade partners account for more than 55 per cent of global GDP, or over $44 trillion.
Our trade deals have created substantial new opportunities for Australian exporters, including our farmers, manufacturers, miners and service providers.
For example, the value of exports of fresh or chilled Australian beef to Japan has increased by 42 per cent to $1.2 billion since the Japan-Australia free trade agreement came into force.
The value of Australian exports of fresh grapes to China has increased more than 9 times to $150 million since the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement came into force.
And there’s more to come.
The Morrison Government’s export agreement with Indonesia, once in force, will provide a major boost for Australian farmers.
Under the agreement, producers of grains, live cattle and meat, dairy and horticulture, and many other products will benefit from lower tariffs and improved access to Indonesian markets.
Australian grain growers will be able to export feed grains into Indonesia tariff free, building on our substantial milling wheat exports.
A re-elected Morrison Government will prioritise the conclusion of a free trade agreement with the European Union, the implementation of the India Economic Strategy and the expansion of the Trans Pacific Partnership.
Other market-opening opportunities include a free trade deal with the United Kingdom as soon as they are ready to do so as well as a trade agreement with the 4 nation Pacific Alliance.
The Morrison Government will also help more Australian businesses to take on the world.
The 2019-20 Budget provided an additional $60 million for Export Market Development Grants to allow small and medium businesses to capitalise on these opportunities.
Ensuring the Government lives within its means
The Morrison Government has restored our nation’s finances.
This turnaround has been achieved by building a strong economy and applying careful fiscal discipline.
Real spending growth is at its lowest level by any government for half a century.
Australia’s budget is back in the black with a surplus of $7.1 billion in 2019-20.
Over the next four years, the budget will deliver $45 billion in surpluses, growing to more than 1 per cent of GDP from 2026-27.
We will reach our goal of eliminating Commonwealth net debt by 2030 or sooner.
This is a critical achievement as the interest bill on Labor’s legacy of debt in just one year was $18 billion – enough to build 500 schools or a world-class hospital in every state and territory.
The Choice
There is a lot at stake at this election.
And there is a clear choice.
A choice between a Government that is delivering a strong economy or a Labor Party that would weaken our economy.
A choice between a Government that is fixing the budget or a Labor Party that can’t manage money.
A choice between a Government that is making life easier for families by lowering taxes or a Labor Party that will put more strain on households by imposing $387 billion in new taxes on workers, retirees, families and small business.
A choice between a Government that can afford to pay for better infrastructure and services or a Labor Party that would max out Australia’s credit card.
A choice between a Government that has secured our borders and is keeping Australians safe or a Labor Party that has learned nothing from its border security failures.
An uncertain international economic outlook underlines the need for a sure hand in guiding the economy.
A Labor Government would mean a drastic change in economic direction.
A Shorten Labor Government would easily be the highest taxing government in the nation’s history.
And when Labor runs out of money they come after yours.
An economic leap in the dark
A Shorten Labor Government will be very different from a re-elected Morrison Government.
Under Labor, personal and business taxes will be higher not lower.
Labor’s track record tells you there will be budget deficits instead of surpluses.
A reckless emissions reduction target instead of a responsible one.
Policy based on envy rather than aspiration.
Union muscle rather than the rule of law.
Mr Shorten will take Australia in a very different direction.
It will be an economic leap in the dark.
Labor’s plan means fewer jobs
In the last 6 years, the Liberal National Government created more than 1.3 million jobs.
In the next 5 years, a re-elected Morrison Government will create another 1.25 million jobs.
It’s a credible promise because the Liberal Nationals have a proven record in job creation.
The opposite is true of Labor.When the last Labor Government was elected in 2007, the jobless rate was 4.4 per cent.
When Labor left office 6 years later, the jobless rate was 5.7 per cent and rising.
And there were 54,700 fewer young people with jobs.
That’s a record of job destruction not creation.
Labor’s key policy proposals will not create new jobs.
Labor’s plan for $387 billion in new taxes will strangle economic growth.
That means fewer jobs not more.
Labor’s reckless 45 per cent emissions reduction plan will kill 336,000 jobs by 2030, according to independent peer-reviewed modelling.
Labor’s plan to give militant unions the power to control workplaces will destroy jobs, especially for young Australians.
Labor will blow the budget
Since 1989-90, Labor Governments have delivered 12 budgets, but not a single surplus.
Like the Rudd/Gillard/Rudd Governments, a Shorten Labor Government will never deliver a surplus budget.
It is a habit Labor cannot break.
Labor regularly and cynically leaves massive deficits for incoming Coalition Governments to fix.
In 1996, the incoming Howard Government inherited an underlying cash deficit (in today’s dollars) of $26 billion or 1.5 per cent of GDP.
3 The Howard Government returned the Budget to surplus.
In 2013-14, Labor left the Coalition Government an underlying cash deficit of $48.5 billion or 3 per cent of GDP.
Like the Howard Government a decade ago, the Coalition has again repaired Labor’s budget mess and this year returns the Budget to surplus.
If given the chance, Labor will squander the surplus again, even with tens of billions in new taxes, as they did before.
We must not reward Labor’s cynicism.
We cannot repeat this cycle again.
We must not give up all the gains we have made.
Labor’s tax assault will weaken essential services
Labor’s $387 billion of higher taxes over the next decade will reduce the capacity of the economy to fund essential services like health, education, infrastructure and national security.
This is equivalent to an extra yearly household tax bill of $5,400 within a decade.
A potential Labor Government would be the highest taxing Australian government on record.
This would be a dangerous experiment on a scale that has never been conducted before.
When taxes rise, economic growth slows.
When growth slows, government revenue falls.
When government revenue falls, budgets slide deeper into deficit.
It becomes harder to provide high quality essential services including health, education, infrastructure and national security.
Business and consumer confidence fall.
Growth slows further.
Deficits deepen.
The cost of servicing the debt grows.
The economic downward spiral accelerates.
A Shorten Government will bow to the iron fist of militant union bosses
The Labor Party has never been more deferential to militant union demands.
Labor would put militant union bosses back in charge.
They have promised a return to lawlessness in the construction industry by abolishing the Australian Building and Construction Commission.
Last time they abolished the construction industry watchdog, days lost to industrial action in the industry increased by 660 per cent.
They would allow a return to bad behaviour by dodgy trade union bosses by abolishing our anti-corruption agency for unions and employer associations, the Registered Organisations Commission.
They would threaten the livelihoods of 35,000 owner truck drivers by promising a return of the union-friendly trucking tribunal that threatened to put them out of business.
And they are a risk to the CFA volunteer firefighters that we protected from a hostile union takeover despite constant opposition from Labor.
Labor would also completely change the rules of industrial relations.
Labor has already promised to impose industry-wide strikes, allow politicians to interfere with pay decisions, tear up enterprise bargaining, give union bosses the upper hand in negotiations, give unions the power to pilfer workers’ entitlements held in accounts they control, exempt union-run industry super funds from tax hikes, impose a union veto on trade agreements and restrict backpacker work visas that help our farming sector.
This alone will hurt jobs
and the economy.
And who knows what other changes former union leader Bill Shorten would make to keep militant union bosses happy.
Labor’s reckless emissions reductions will flatten the economy, jobs and wages
Labor’s reckless 45 per cent emissions reduction target will damage virtually every sector of the Australian economy.
Labor also wants to increase the cost of family SUVs and tradies utes by $5,000 and restrict choice of vehicles with its new car tax.
Economic modelling by respected economist Dr Brian Fisher has found Labor’s 45 per cent target will slash economic growth
, jobs and wage growth.
Over the decade to 2030, there will be a $472 billion hit to the Australian economy,
336,000 jobs will be lost and average yearly full-time wages will shrink by nearly $9000 by 2030.
All sectors, except iron ore, will shrink.
Electricity prices will nearly double under Labor’s target.
The Cost
The Coalition’s Plan for a Stronger Economy
and More Jobs will not place additional costs on the Budget.
Our Plan for Lower Taxes for Small Business
KEY POINTS
Small businesses are the beating heart of the Australian economy.
When small businesses are healthy, all Australians are better off.
It means more jobs,
more choice, better living standards
and more vibrant and connected communities.
When you work hard, build your business and invest in your community you are having a go.
And you will get a go under the Morrison Government.
That’s what the Morrison Government believes in.
That’s why we are backing small business to invest, employ more workers and grow their business.
We will lower taxes for small, medium and family businesses.
We will make it easier for them to employ even more Australians.
We will incentivise their investment in productivity-enhancing equipment.
We will expand their access to finance.
We will ensure they have the skills they need for today and tomorrow.
We will ensure they get a fair go by stopping big business abusing their market power.
We will ensure they are paid on-time by government and larger businesses.
We will lift the red tape and paperwork burden.
We will enable them to get their products to their customers more quickly with modern transport infrastructure.
We will give them access to billions of global consumers with market-opening trade agreements.
We will ensure they have affordable, reliable and sustainable energy.
We will help them seize the opportunities provided by the digital economy.
We will support their mental health and wellbeing so they can support their family, business, employees and local community.
We will support tens of thousands of Australian women through our female entrepreneurs programs.
It is part of our plan for a stronger economy that provides the settings and opportunity for business to do what it does best.
Labor do not believe in enterprise and aspiration.
Labor’s taxes are bad for business.
Small business will get hit twice.
First, Labor's higher taxes would directly hit small business.
Second, a Shorten Labor government would be the highest taxing government in Australia’s history.
That will weaken our economy and make it a harder environment for small business to operate in.
OUR PLAN
The Morrison Government is already delivering lower taxes for small and medium businesses.
Lower taxes mean more money to reinvest back into the business
and create more jobs for Australians.
The Morrison Government has already provided lower taxes to around 3.4 million small, medium and family businesses employing over 7 million workers.
We have fast tracked small and medium businesses moving to a lower corporate tax rate.
The Morrison Government has already lowered the tax rate from 30 per cent to 27.5 per cent.
And this rate will be cut further to 25 per cent by 2021-22 - five years earlier than previously planned.
Fast-tracking these lower taxes will benefit around 970,000 small and medium companies that employ over 5 million workers.
We will ensure that unincorporated small businesses receive comparable treatment through an increase in their small business discount.
This will benefit around 2.4 million businesses employing 1.9 million workers.
The Morrison Government is also helping small and medium businesses invest
And grow through increasing and expanding the instant asset write-off.
It has been increased from $25,000 to $30,000 and it can be used every time an asset under that amount is purchased.
That will enable a café to get a new fridge or grill, a plumber to buy new tools or a courier a new van.
The incentive will also be expanded so medium-sized businesses with a turnover up to $50 million can access it.
This will benefit an extra 22,000 additional businesses employing around 1.7 million workers.
The Morrison Government has set a speed limit on taxes as a share of our economy.
We are ensuring that the economy isn’t burdened with higher and higher taxes.
The personal tax relief we are providing to millions of Australians will help boost spending at local small businesses.
Haylee and Martin own a company, HM Nurseries Pty Ltd, through which they operate several nurseries in Newcastle.
HM Nurseries Pty Ltd has an aggregated turnover of $5.2 million and a taxable income of $150,000 for the 2019-20 income year.
They employ 15 workers.
To continue to expand the business, and offer delivery services to clients, HM Nurseries Pty Ltd purchases two new vans halfway through the financial year.
The vans cost $29,000 each, exclusive of GST.
Under previously announced arrangements, the vans each cost more than the $25,000 threshold for the instant asset write-off in the 2019-20 income year.
This means they would be added to HM Nurseries Pty Ltd’s small business depreciation asset pool and depreciated by 15 per cent.
HM Nurseries Pty Ltd would claim a tax deduction of $8,700 for the depreciation of the vans.
Under the new $30,000 instant asset write-off, HM Nurseries Pty Ltd would instead claim an immediate deduction of $58,000 for the purchase of the two vans in the 2019-20 income year, $49,300 more than under previously announced arrangements.
This will help the business to invest, grow and employ more workers.
The Morrison Government’s changes mean that HM Nurseries Pty Ltd pays less tax, increasing its cash flow by over $13,500.
Mark owns a company, Lat Val Pty Ltd, through which he operates a food manufacturing business in the Latrobe Valley employing 60 staff.
Lat Val Pty Ltd has an aggregated turnover of $25 million and a taxable income of $900,000 for the 2019-20 income year.
Ordinarily Lat Val Pty Ltd would be too large to access the instant asset write-off, but the changes in the 2019 20 Budget mean it can now benefit.
Lat Val Pty Ltd purchases 10 new commercial ovens halfway through the income year, at a cost of $12,000 each, exclusive of GST, to allow Lat Val Pty Ltd to expand its business and improve efficiency.
Under existing tax arrangements, Lat Val Pty Ltd would depreciate the new ovens using an effective life of 15 years.
Choosing to use the diminishing value method, Lat Val Pty Ltd would claim a tax deduction of $800 per oven, a total deduction of $8,000 for the 2019-20 income year.
Under the new $30,000 instant asset write-off, Lat Val Pty Ltd would instead claim an immediate deduction of $120,000 for the purchase of the 10 ovens in the 2019 20 income year, $112,000 more than under existing arrangements.
This will help the business to invest, grow
and employ more workers.
The Morrison Government’s changes mean that Lat Val Pty Ltd pays less tax, increasing its cash flow by $30,800.
THE CHOICE
Labor do not believe in enterprise and aspiration.
Labor's plan for higher taxes will cost Australian small businesses.
Each and every one of Labor’s $387 billion of higher taxes are bad for business.
Not only will small business suffer directly from higher taxes, they will feel the effects of the flow-on impact of a weaker economy.
Within a decade, Labor's tax hit will be the equivalent to an extra yearly household tax bill of $5,400.
That is $5,400 less to spend at local businesses.
That’s $5,400 less going back into the community.
A Shorten Labor government would be the highest taxing government in Australia’s history.
This would weaken our economy and provide fewer opportunities for small business to thrive.
Labor are proposing a dangerous experiment on a scale that has never been conducted before.
Each and every one of Labor’s new taxes will hit small, medium and family businesses across Australia.
Labor’s $230 billion income tax and $6.5 billion deficit levy will limit enterprise and aspiration.
Unincorporated small businesses will be directly hit as their business grows and incomes rise as a result of their hard work.
Small business will feel the effects if legislated tax relief is taken away from millions of Australians, reducing spending at local small businesses.
Labor’s $31 billion housing tax will reduce home values and increase rents.
Small business owners will be directly hit as they often rely on the equity in their homes to secure finance - making access to finance more difficult as the value of their homes reduces.
Small business owners will be directly hit by higher rents.
Small businesses in the construction industry will be hit with the Master Builders Association finding that Labor’s policy would result in up to 42,000 fewer new dwellings, 32,000 fewer full-time jobs and an $11.8 billion drop in building activity.
Labor’s $57 billion retiree tax will destroy the value small business owners have built up in their business.
Small business owners will be directly hit if they receive dividends from their business.
It will destroy the plans of older small business owners who have spent many years building their business,
creating jobs
and investing in their community,
with the plan to use the franking credits from their small business in retirement.
It will hit main street small businesses in communities with large retiree populations, as retirees will no longer be able to afford to go out for the club meal, purchase a coffee and cake or buy some toys for their grandkids.
Labor’s $27 billion family business tax will tax small family businesses at the same rate as large multinational companies.
300,000 small family businesses will be directly hit with a minimum tax rate of 30 per cent.
It will hurt small businesses that are using these trusts for asset protection, estate planning or to manage cash flows.
Labor’s $34 billion in superannuation taxes will punish start-up and micro business owners limiting how they can contribute to their superannuation.
Labor will no longer allow personal superannuation contributions to be deducted where more than 10 per cent of their income is from outside their business - a common occurrence if they are working another job while establishing their business.
800,000 Australians are estimated to benefit from working part time, taking a salary while establishing their business.
Labor’s $2 billion tax return tax will mean an extra cost for many sole trading businesses to comply with Australian tax laws, and because they can no longer afford it will mean they do not get the important advice they need.
Making matters worse the $387 billion tax hike doesn’t take into account Labor’s electricity and car taxes.
Small business will be directly hit as the cost of doing business is pushed up, and the car tax will mean businesses may not be able to purchase the vehicles they need to do the job properly.
The choice is clear.
Small, medium and family businesses will suffer as a result of Labor’s $387 billion plan for higher taxes.
By contrast, the Morrison Government has a proven track record of backing small and medium businesses and a plan for lower taxes for small, medium and family businesses.
COSTS
The Coalition’s plan for lower taxes for small business will not place additional costs on the Budget.
Our Plan to Support Retirees
Key points
Retirees should enjoy choice.
The reward for a lifetime of hard work should always be a long, healthy and dignified retirement.
When you work hard, save and provision for the future, nothing should stand in the way of your freedom and independence.
That’s what the Morrison Government believes.
And that’s why we’re backing retirees to achieve their goals of self-reliance and fulfilment.
We will support retirees’ independence and dignity.
We will ensure their savings are protected.
We will protect and expand access to self-managed super.
We will not undermine the value of their home.
We will not hit them with new taxes on superannuation.
Guaranteed.
We understand that not everybody will face the same circumstances or make the same choices later in life.
Our policies respect these differences: whether you’re a self-funded retiree or a pensioner.
The same cannot be said of Bill Shorten and the Labor Party.
Labor thrives on conflict, including policies to turn retirees against pensioners.
Their devastating Retiree Tax is a $57 billion tax grab that would hit over 1 million Australians.
This includes more than 900,000 Australians with direct shareholdings, 200,000 self-managed super funds and 1,800 super funds.
On average, these retirees would lose almost $2,300 a year – and more than half of them are women.
Self-managed super funds would lose $12,000 a year.
Labor claims their Retiree Tax will only slug the wealthy, but the truth is that 84% of Australians who would be affected are on a taxable income of less than $37,000.
And 50,000 pensioners in self-managed super funds would also be hit.
The Morrison Government believes in choice, freedom and dignity for all Australians who have worked hard.
Labor has no respect for those who have worked hard, paid taxes and planned for an independent retirement.
Our Plan
Our policies are already delivering for retirees and pensioners.
We are backing self-funded retirees and pensioners by: Guaranteeing no new taxes on superannuation.
Improving flexibility of the superannuation system.
From 1 July 2020, Australians aged 65 and 66 will be able to make voluntary superannuation contributions even if they do not meet the current work test requirement to work at least 40 hours over a 30-day period in the year they seek to make contributions.
For example, it means part time workers – such as a 65 year-old who works one day a week and who wouldn’t meet the current work test – can now contribute to superannuation.
Providing wage subsidies and training incentives for mature age workers.
Protecting and expanding access to self-managed super, with a plan to extend the maximum size of self-managed super funds from four to six members – enabling more families to take control of their retirement savings.
Widening choices in later years through an expanded pension loans scheme, giving around 1.8 million Australians the option to boost their income by drawing down on more of the equity in their own home.
Allowing contributions to super from the proceeds of downsizing, up to $300,000 for eligible Australians aged 65 and over.
Continuing to give self-managed super funds the flexibility to borrow on a non-recourse basis to help maximise returns for retirement.
In contrast, Labor has promised to ban this practice.
Stopping Labor’s unfair Retiree Tax.
Currently, most retirees who receive share dividends get a (franking credit) refund on the tax they have already paid via the company in which they invest.
By abolishing tax refunds on dividends, Labor’s Retiree Tax would reach into the pockets of over 1 million Australians, many being retirees and pensioners, taxing them again.
Stopping Labor’s unfair Housing Tax. Labor’s plan to abolish negative gearing as we know it will push down home values.
An independent report found house prices will fall as much as 16 per cent, or around $100,000, on a typical house in Melbourne.
Stopping Labor’s plan for four new superannuation taxes, which would hit around 1 million Australians.
The Choice
There is a lot at stake at this election.
And there is a clear choice.
A choice between a Government that is delivering a strong economy or a Labor Party that would weaken our economy.
A choice between a Government that is fixing the Budget or a Labor Party that can’t manage money.
A Shorten Labor Government would be the highest taxing government in the nation’s history.
When Labor runs out of money they come after yours.
When you take responsibility and save for your own retirement, Labor comes after your money.
Bill Shorten now describes refunding franking credits as a “gift”. (Doorstop, 12 April 2019)
Even though Labor supported this policy as recently as 2017.
Of course, in Australia we have dividend imputation – a great Labor reform – which means that every domestic payer of corporate tax in effect gets it back.
We actually refund our corporate tax to our domestic investors, something which is quite unique around the world and often gets lost in this debate. (Chris Bowen, House Hansard, 11/9/2017)
Bill Shorten and his Shadow Treasurer Chris Bowen want to punish Australians who have worked hard and saved for retirement.
Their arrogant response to those who would lose out from their tax hit?
We don’t care, vote for someone else.
I say to your listener: if you feel very strongly about this, if they feel that this is something that should impact their vote they are of course perfectly entitled to vote against us. (Chris Bowen, radio interview, 30/1/2019)
Australian retirees, including the 50,000 pensioners who will be hit by Labor’s policy, deserve to be treated with respect, not hit by unfair taxes.
Bill Shorten believes retirees are a piggy bank to be raided as part of Labor’s $387 billion tax assault.
By contrast, the Morrison Government has a proven track record of respect for the independence, dignity and choice of older Australians.
We will guarantee and protect retirement savings and superannuation.
Our Plan for Lower Energy Costs for Small Businesses
KEY POINTS
Small businesses are the beating heart of Australia’s economy.
When small businesses are healthy, all Australians are better off.
It means more jobs,
more choice, better living standards
and more vibrant and connected communities.
Australia’s 3.4 million small, medium and family businesses employ over 7 million workers.
We understand power prices are hurting Australian small businesses,
preventing them from employing more people and grasping new opportunities.
The Morrison Government is committed to lower power prices while keeping the lights on.
The Morrison Government is taking strong action to lower power prices to ensure our small, medium and family businesses can continue to grow strongly.
We are already seeing results.
By mid-2019, over one million Australian families and small businesses will benefit from electricity prices falling by up to 15 per cent.
Our Fair Deal on Energy delivers affordable, reliable, 24/7 power to Australian families, businesses and communities:A price safety net to protect loyal customers and help families and small businesses make empowered and informed decisions about their energy plans.
Big stick legislation to stop the big energy company rip-offs and ban sneaky late payment fees.
Supporting reliable power by requiring energy companies to sign contracts guaranteeing enough energy to meet demand.
Underwriting investment in new reliable power generation to improve competition, including Snowy 2.0, Battery of the Nation and a shortlist of reliable generation projects.
The ACCC forecasts that underwriting new generation can reduce wholesale power prices by more than 25%.
A new Energy Efficient Communities Program will provide $50 million through more than 2,500 grants to eligible businesses and community organisations, helping them save energy and reduce their power bills by installing new equipment or reviewing and improving their energy management.
The Morrison Government has a clear plan to reduce power prices for families and businesses.
In contrast, by 2030, Labor’s reckless emissions policies will reduce the average full time wage by $9,000 in real terms, reduce the number of jobs by 336,000
and increase wholesale electricity prices by 58 per cent.
Labor also wants to increase the cost of business SUVs and tradies' utes by $5,000 and restrict choice of vehicles.
OUR RECORD
Since 2013, the Liberal National Government has:Abolished the carbon tax, saving households and small businesses $200 on electricity bills and $70 on gas bills in 2014-15.
Taken action to ban retailers from charging sneaky late payment penalties.
Implemented National Energy Market rules that will protect small businesses:Banning retailers from offering confusing discounts.
Requiring energy retailers to notify customers when their discounts are about to finish or change.
Requiring retailers to accept self-meter reads instead of estimated reads so customers are accurately charged.
Upgraded the Energy Made Easy website to empower customers to get a better deal, and invested $11.7 million in the Business Energy Advice Program, delivering practical advice to help small businesses get better energy deals and increase their energy efficiency.
Reined in the power of the electricity networks, which if Labor had done when last in Government, would have saved consumers more than $6 billion.
Supported the COAG Energy Council’s establishment of Energy Consumers Australia to represent households and SME consumers.
Secured more gas for Australian businesses through the Australian Domestic Gas Security Mechanism.
The Liberal National Government has provide more funding and new powers to enable the ACCC to monitor electricity and gas prices.
We have directed the ACCC to hold an inquiry into prices, profits and margins in the National Electricity Market and committed $31.9 million in additional funding for the ACCC and Australian Energy Regulator.
We have also funded the ACCC to monitor the behaviour and prices of producers, exporters, pipelines and retailers in our gas markets.
Our Plan
Our Fair Deal on Energy delivers affordable, reliable, 24/7 power to Australian families, businesses and communities.
Small Business Energy Efficiency Programs
The Morrison Government’s Energy Efficient Communities Program will provide $50 million through more than 2,500 grants to eligible businesses and community organisations, helping them save energy and reduce their power bills by installing new equipment or reviewing and improving their energy management.
Eligible small businesses will be able to claim grants of up to $20,000 and high-energy using businesses up to $25,000.
Funding will support activities to help businesses and community organisations to save energy through:equipment upgrades that reduce energy consumption
investment in energy monitoring and management systems to better manage energy use
completion of energy systems assessments or feasibility studies to investigate energy efficiency opportunities
Small businesses will also be able to access a $30,000 instant asset write-off to purchase new energy-efficient equipment.
Price Safety Net
From 1 July 2019, we will permanently get rid of the ‘loyalty tax’ and lock in better deals for nearly 800,000 households and small businesses.
The price safety net will protect loyal customers and help small businesses make empowered and informed decisions about their energy plan.
For households or equivalent small businesses, changing to default market offers from standing offer tariffs could save up to $479 in South Australia, $696 in New South Wales and $660 in south-east Queensland.
Advice for Small Business
We have invested $11.7 million in the Business Energy Advice Program, delivering practical advice to help small businesses get better energy deals and increase energy efficiency.
Further information on the practical steps small businesses can take to get better deals, switching energy providers and better managing their energy use is available online at our ‘Powering Forward’ campaign (energy.gov.au).
Delivering Reliable Energy Supplies
The Morrison Government is supporting reliable 24/7 power by requiring energy companies to sign contracts guaranteeing enough energy to meet demand, and underwriting investment in new reliable power generation to improve competition.
Our investments include Snowy 2.0, Battery of the Nation and a shortlist of reliable generation projects.
The ACCC forecasts that underwriting new generation can reduce wholesale power prices by more than 25%.
The Government’s $56 million investment in the Marinus Link – a second interconnector between Tasmania and Victoria will – unlock Tasmania’s world-class renewable hydro resources.
The Battery of the Nation will bring more affordable and reliable electricity to millions of homes and businesses.
The Marinus Link and Battery of the Nation will also create 3,800 direct and indirect jobs during construction
and deliver a $7 billion economic stimulus to north-western Tasmania and regional Victoria.
This is the type of investment which unlocks opportunities for small businesses.
Regional and Remote Small Businesses
The $50.4 million Regional and Remote Communities Reliability Fund will support up to 50 off-grid and fringe-of-grid communities and businesses to investigate whether establishing a micro grid is cost-effective
and whether existing off-grid capabilities can be upgraded with modern technology.
A micro grid is energy infrastructure at the community level, generally in rural and remote areas, including farms, and in the mining sector and Indigenous communities.
Micro grids include generation (often a diesel generator), transmission (the poles and wires) and any storage.
Micro grids can be entirely separate from the grid or connected.
The Morrison Government’s $50.4 million micro grid program will allow communities to improve their local transmission, install community-scale batteries to support existing generation (such as solar), or upgrade existing facilities such as old diesel generators.
Moving some remote customers to off-grid supply could save hundreds of millions of dollars in network costs and reduce bushfire risks, while delivering more reliable and affordable power.
The Choice
Labor do not believe in enterprise and aspiration.
Each and every one of Labor’s $387 billion of higher taxes are bad for business.
A Shorten Labor Government would be the highest taxing Government in Australia’s history – and that’s without taking into account Labor’s electricity and car taxes.
Labor’s plan for higher taxes will cost Australian small business twice.
First, they will be directly hit as the cost of doing business increases.
Second, a Shorten Labor Government will weaken our economy
and make it a harder environment for small business to operate in.
During the last Labor Government, power prices doubled and went up each and every year.
Labor’s reckless emissions targets will drive up power prices once again,
cost jobs and reduce wages.
Labor’s policies will not reduce global emissions as businesses, jobs and wages are forced overseas.
By 2030, Labor’s reckless targets will reduce average full time real wages by $9,000, reduce the number of jobs by 336,000 and
increase wholesale electricity prices by 58 per cent.
Labor’s car tax will increase the costs of vehicles by over $4,800 and mandate EVs for half of all new car sales.
Seventeen of the top 20 vehicles sold in Australia don't have models which meet Labor's new carbon standard.
Tradies and small businesses which require larger vehicles will be hardest hit by these policies.
Cost
The Coalition’s plan for reducing energy costs for small businesses will not place additional costs on the Budget.
Our Plan for Keeping Australians Safe on our Roads
Key Points
The Liberal and Nationals Government has a plan to help make Australians safer on our roads.
Our plan to deliver a strong economy is ensuring we can guarantee the essential services Australians rely on with increased funding for schools, hospitals, medicines and roads.
Our record $100 billion investment in transport infrastructure will reduce congestion, keep our roads safe, connect people to jobs and get our produce to market.
As part of our commitment to road safety, the Morrison Government is making record investments in Australia’s road network, including:$4 billion from 2019-20 under the Urban Congestion Fund to improve traffic safety and flow and increase network efficiency for commuter and freight movements in major urban areas
$4.5 billion under the Roads of Strategic Importance (ROSI) initiative to support the upgrade of key regional road corridors
Improving local roads, including:                       an additional $1.1 billion for the Roads to Recovery Program
an additional $550 million for the Black Spot Program
an additional $275 million for the Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program and
an additional $275 million for the Bridges Renewal Program.
The quality of our roads has a big impact on safety.
So too do risky driving behaviours such as speeding, driving under the influence, driver fatigue and, increasingly, driver distraction such as mobile phone use.
To help with safer driving options and to combat driver fatigue, a re-elected Morrison Government will:Work with state and territory governments, local councils, industry and other road safety stakeholders to develop a nationally consistent approach to new and improved pullover bays with a focus on single lane highways, popular tourist routes and off-network roads.
Invest an additional $8 million in capped grants to help upgrade the 175 existing Driver Reviver locations nation-wide to improve amenity and to support the establishment of new sites.
Invest $4 million in a Road Safety Awareness and Enablers Fund.
Initial priorities will include:$1.2 million over four years to support the Driver Reviver program to improve awareness of sites and for engagement of volunteers.
$1 million over four years to partner with industry to develop and promote programs to better educate caravan, campervan and motorhome drivers on safety awareness.
Invest $16 million to extend the Keys2drive program for a further two years to 2022-23, an initiative that provides a free theory and practical lesson to learner drivers and their supervisors.
Invest up to $1.8 million to support a one-year pilot of the Australian Safety Foundation’s Digital Road Safety Passport for Schools for Year 9 students. The pilot will cover the foundations of road safety – including getting to and from school safely.
Our Plan
The Liberal and Nationals Government is delivering national leadership on road safety through major road investments, improvements to policy collaboration across all governments and road safety stakeholders, and taking practical steps to reduce driving risks.
Better and safer roads
The Morrison Government is making record investments in Australia’s road network through our $100 billion infrastructure investment plan over the next 10 years.
We have committed to more than 770 major projects and more than 24,000 local projects across the nation since coming to government.
We established the $4 billion Urban Congestion Fund to bust congestion, improve traffic safety and flow, and increase network efficiency for commuter and freight movements in major urban areas.
We have also established the $4.5 billion Roads of Strategic Importance (ROSI) initiative to support the upgrade of key regional road corridors which connect agricultural and mining regions to ports, airports and other transport hubs.
Across the nation, ROSI will deliver sealing, flood immunity, strengthening and widening, and pavement rehabilitation works, as well as bridge and culvert upgrades, and road realignments.
As part of the 2019-20 Budget we are improving local roads, committing an extra $2.2 billion for key road initiatives, including: $1.1 billion for the Roads to Recovery Program
The Howard Government established the Roads to Recovery Program in March 2001 and on returning to government in 2013 the Coalition committed to expanding it once the Budget returned to surplus.
We have also made Roads to Recovery an ongoing initiative rather than a terminating program.
This brings total Roads to Recovery funding for local councils to $5 billion over the next ten years.
This funding will help local governments respond to local priorities, providing for thousands of new projects.
$550 million for the Black Spot Program
The Black Spot Program specifically targets road locations where serious crashes have occurred to reduce the risk of further accidents.
The program funds safety measures such as traffic signals, roundabouts, turning lanes, safety barriers and lighting at locations where there is a history of at least three casualty crashes in five years and at other emerging high risk locations.
Over 2,100 projects have been approved since 2013.
These projects are estimated to save around 250 lives and prevent more than 12,500 injury crashes over 10 years.
$275 million for the Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program
The Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program will receive an extra $25 million a year from 2019–20 to deliver safer roads for trucks and more opportunities for drivers to rest.
This program provides funding for rest-stops, parking/decoupling bays, technology trials and other road safety enhancements.
$275 million for the Bridges Renewal Program
The Bridges Renewal Program funds the replacement of bridges to enhance access for local communities and make roads safer. In the 2019–20 Budget, we committed an extra $25 million a year.
This will build on a recent round of the program which upgraded and replaced 126 ageing bridges in rural and regional Australia.
Safer drivers
Governments have an important role in helping motorists make better decisions about the safety of their vehicle and their driving.
With human error contributing to more than 90 per cent of road accidents, we have a massive opportunity to save lives and prevent injuries by ensuring we drive smarter and safer.
Building on our investments in long-running, respected road safety programs, a re-elected Morrison Government will go further by providing $8 million in capped grants to help upgrade the 175 existing Driver Reviver locations nation-wide to improve amenity and provide for new equipment, as well as to support the establishment of new sites.
Grants could be made for a range of purposes, including the maintenance and extension of seating and refreshment facilities.
We will also provide $1.2 million over four years to support delivery of the Driver Reviver program as an initial priority under the $4 million Road Safety Awareness and Enablers Fund established in the 2019-20 Budget.
This will improve awareness of Driver Reviver sites for commuters and support greater participation of volunteers.
Priority activities will include improving community engagement and supporting volunteer training and co-ordination.
In addition to new support for Driver Reviver, the Fund will also provide:$1 million over four years to partner with industry to develop and promote programs to better educate caravan, campervan and motorhome drivers on safety awareness;
$400,000 of seed funding over two years for the Australian College of Road Safety to establish a self-sustaining International Outreach Chapter;
$200,000 over four years for sponsorship of Fatality Free Friday;
$200,000 over four years, with matching funding from state and territory governments, for a Road Worker Safety Campaign;
$200,000 over four years for the annual Australasian Road Safety Conference; and
$25,000 a year to co-sponsor (on rotation with each state and territory) Australia’s launch event of the annual National Road Safety Week.
Supporting young drivers
The Morrison Government is committed to the safety of young drivers.
We have locked in funding of $16 million for Keys2Drive to guarantee delivery of the program over the next four years.
Keys2Drive provides a free theory and practical lesson to learner drivers and their supervisors, and an educational website with supportive resources and information.
The Morrison Government is focused on increasing uptake in regional areas where young drivers in particular are overrepresented in crashes.
As a precursor to Keys2Drive, the Morrison Government will provide up to $1.8 million in additional funding to support a one-year pilot of the Australian Safety Foundation’s Digital Road Safety Passport for Schools for Year 9 students.
Tragically, children continue to die and be seriously injured not just in cars but as pedestrians.
It’s important that they understand the road rules when they are walking home from school, a passenger in a car, and ultimately as a learner driver.
The pilot will trial targeted road safety material in classrooms and online, with a view to rolling out the initiative to all 11-15 year-old students in partnership with the states and territories.
National Leadership
The Morrison Government is taking national leadership on road safety to ensure all governments continue to invest in safe road transport.
We will make road safety a standing item at all meetings of the COAG Transport and Infrastructure Ministerial Council meetings and improve linkages with other COAG Councils with an interest such as health, education and policing.
Our plan is to:Develop the next National Road Safety Strategy, with ambitious and measurable KPIs and strategies focused on reducing road trauma.
Finalise the governance arrangements across the road safety system and agree a comprehensive implementation plan for the recommendations of the 2018 Inquiry into the National Road Safety Strategy.
The the Morrison Government is making additional road safety investments including:$12 million for a Road Safety Innovation Fund;
$6 million for the Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative;
$6.6 million for the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP);
$5.9 million for a new Federal Office of Road Safety to drive reforms, improve coordination and performance reporting, and promote road safety in partnership with the states, territories , local governments and stakeholders; and
$2.6 million for the Australian Road Research Board to assist local governments to assess road asset management and maintenance.
The Liberal and Nationals Government’s plan to keep Australians safe on our roads builds on our record of improving road safety, including:Under our $10 billion Bruce Highway Upgrade Program there has been a 31 per cent reduction in crashes and a 32 per cent reduction in fatalities since 2013
Investments in the Pacific Highway are delivering a safer road for the thousands of motorists who use it every day.
Fatalities have more than halved, down from more than 40 per year prior to the commencement of the upgrade in 1996 to less than 20 in recent years.
Infrastructure to improve heavy vehicle operations across Australia, including to help heavy and passenger vehicles share our road network via the $508 million Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program.
The Choice
The Morrison Government has a comprehensive plan to improve safety on our roads.
upgrading major highways and local roads;
ensuring better vehicles with the latest safety technology are on the road;
providing a suite of driver education initiatives; and
improving and increasing the number of rest areas across the nation to help keep Australian drivers and their families safe.
We have committed record funding of $100 billion for infrastructure across the country to make sure hardworking Australians can spend more time at home with their families.
Importantly, our plan for better infrastructure will be achieved without adding $387 billion of new taxes over the decade.
Because Bill Shorten and Labor can’t manage money, it can’t run strong budgets that result in investment for local roads let alone our major highways.
When last in power, Labor neglected regional road funding with flow-on consequences for road safety.
Instead of working to improve road safety and implement practical measures, Labor plans to reinstate its union-dictated Road Safety Remuneration Tribunal (RSRT), which would once again discriminate against family-owned businesses and bring the trucking industry to its knees.
Our Government will stand up for small business.
We know that joining a union doesn’t make a truck safer,
but it does put up costs and threaten jobs – especially in the regions.
After abolishing the RSRT, the Liberal National Government redirected $15.6 million over four years to the Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiatives program – providing grants for projects that actually improve heavy vehicle safety.
We have increased funding for this program by $6 million in the 2019-20 Budget. Labor would dismantle this program to fund the re-establishment of the RSRT.
Cost
The Morrison Government is investing an additional $9.8 million in road safety to ensure Australians get home safe.
Our Plan for Tasmania
Key Points
Tasmania has become the nation’s turnaround state through the combined efforts of the Morrison and Hodgman governments.
We are creating jobs,
strengthening the health system
and protecting the Tasmanian way of life.
Tasmania’s economy has grown strongly since 2013.
When the Coalition was elected, the Tasmanian economy was weak after six years of federal Labor and a decade and a half of a state Labor-Greens alliance.
Tasmania’s jobless rate was at 8.1 per cent, having peaked at 8.8 per cent.
It is now down to around 6.7 per cent.
The stronger economy is attracting more people to the state, which will only further boost the economy.
There are more people visiting than ever before, with a record 1.3 million visitors in the year ending June 2018.
A re-elected Morrison Government will build an even stronger Tasmanian economy,
allowing us to guarantee and improve essential services.
Major elements of our Plan include:Boosting funding for Tasmanian healthcare, with a $91.9 million Tasmanian Health Plan that addresses health care needs and provides affordable and accessible healthcare for Tasmanians, and an additional $25.6 million for north and north-west Tasmania.
Creating jobs by investing in new infrastructure to grow the Tasmanian economy, bust congestion and improve safety, including an additional $313 million for transport infrastructure over the next decade, bringing our total investment to over $2.7 billion
Supporting Tasmania’s Battery of the Nation, including supporting the Marinus Link second interconnector and investing in skills
Tackling high youth unemployment in north-west Tasmania
Supporting Tasmanian Irrigation Tranche 3 as part of our efforts to grow Tasmania’s world-class primary industries, and establishing a forestry hub for north and north-western Tasmania
Supporting the Tasmanian Defence Innovation and Design Precinct in Launceston at the Australian Maritime College.
Continuing to grow the tourism sector, with funding for Freycinet National Park
Delivering Tasmanian households the largest personal income tax relief since the Howard Government, with tax relief of up to $1,080 for single income families earning up to $126,000.
For a dual income family that’s up to $2,160 back in families’ pockets in a few weeks’ time
Backing small and family businesses, with lower taxes and an increase in the instant asset tax write-off to $30,000 now expanded to medium-sized businesses
Delivering safer Tasmanian communities by maintaining strong borders, increasing funding for the Safer Communities Fund, and implementing comprehensive plans to address drugs, domestic violence and online safety
Implementing the City Deals for Launceston and Hobart
Cementing Tasmania as an Antarctic Gateway with $2.8 billion of investment.
Tasmania’s turnaround has been a major success, but these gains will unravel quickly with the wrong policies.
Labor’s plan for $387 billion of new taxes on retirees, workers, investors and family businesses
and a reckless 45 per cent emissions reduction target threatens to stop Tasmania’s growth trajectory in its tracks.
Labor’s economic and budget mismanagement also means the services Tasmanians rely on, like health, education and aged care, would also be put at risk.
Our Record
There are more Tasmanians in jobs,
fewer Tasmanians on welfare,
and business confidence in Tasmania is high thanks to the strong partnership between the Morrison and Hodgman governments.
Around 17,000 jobs have been created in Tasmania since the Coalition was first elected in 2013.
To deliver an even stronger Tasmanian economy, we have committed over $2.7 billion in transport infrastructure, including:$400 million toward the upgrade of the Midland Highway with almost $120 million for the Breadalbane to Perth and the Perth Link Road;
$400 million for the Tasmanian Roads Package including $60 million for the Bass Highway and $10 million for the Murchison Highway; and
$461 million for the Bridgewater Bridge replacement.
We have also strengthened digital and communications infrastructure, with the NBN now rolled out to over 99% of Tasmanians, and an investment in 47 mobile blackspot base stations.
We have expanded the Tasmanian Freight Equalisation Scheme,
provided tax relief to hard-working Tasmanians, ensured Tasmania gets its fair share of GST,
and provided a direct link between Tasmania and the world with the $38 million international runway at Hobart Airport.
Regional and rural Tasmania have also been supported with $60 million to expand the Tranche II irrigation projects, protecting market access with $20 million to tackle fruit fly, new free trade agreements opening up new market opportunities for Tasmanian produce, and a range of regional economic development projects like Devonport’s Living City project and upgrades to the NBN on the West Coast.
A stronger economy has allowed us to guarantee the services Tasmanians rely on and support the Tasmanian way of life.
Our strong economic and budget management means we have been able to deliver:Record funding for Tasmanian public hospitals, with funding having increased by 44.5 per cent from $294 million in 2012-13 under Labor to $425 million in 2019-20.
Cheaper medicines for Tasmanians, with more than 2,000 new medicine listings on the PBS since we were elected in 2013, including life-saving drugs for cancer.
More funding for Tasmanian schools, with a total of $6.5 billion from 2019 to 2029, equivalent to growth of 60.6 per cent per student.
Childcare reforms which have cut out-of-pocket costs for parents within the first six months, including by 10.7 per cent in Hobart.
Major commitment to aged care including $21.6 billion for aged care in 2019-20 across Australia, an increase of more than 50 per cent since 2013 14, including funding for an additional 10,000 home care packages, and a Royal Commission into the sector.
We have also prioritised creating a safer Tasmania, including investments under the Safer Communities Fund for CCTV cameras, security lighting, alarm systems for community spaces and other infrastructure.
The Liberal National government has also maintained strong borders – we stopped the boats, stopped the deaths at sea, removed children from detention, and cancelled the visas of thousands of criminals across the country, including 15 in Tasmania.
Our Plan
Record funding for infrastructure
A strong Tasmanian economy with more jobs depends on ongoing investment in infrastructure to ease congestion in cities, unlock the potential regional centres, ensure Tasmanians get to their destinations quickly and safely, and help businesses efficiently transport goods and products.
In the 2019-20 Budget, the Morrison Government locked in a further $313 million investment over the next decade for land transport infrastructure in Tasmania, bringing our total investment to over $2.7 billion.
New projects include:An additional $68 million investment in the Tasmanian Freight Rail Revitalisation Program, bringing our total investment to over $187 million.
This means greater efficiencies and lower prices for businesses that use freight rail.
It is good news for Tasmanians as more freight on rail means fewer heavy vehicles on roads.
That saves taxpayers in avoided road maintenance and means fewer road accidents.
$210 million for projects from the Roads of Strategic Importance initiative, including:$130 million for the Hobart to Sorrell Corridor
$80 million for a range of road upgrades, including Birralee Main Road, Murchison Highway, Old Surrey Road and Massey Green Drive, and Strahan Road
$35 million for projects from the Urban Congestion Fund, including:$25 million for a Hobart congestion package
$10 million for Tasman Highway Intelligent Transport Solutions
The Morrison Government is also committing $100 million for Tasmanian Irrigation Tranche III, fully funded by the National Water Infrastructure Development Fund.
We will ensure Tasmania gets its fair share of our $2.2 billion Local and State Road Safety Package, which includes additional funding of $1.1 billion for the Roads to Recovery Program; $550 million for the Black Spots Program; $275 million for the Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program; and $275 million for bridges renewal funding.
This brings total commitments to these programs from 2013-14 to $13.1 billion.
Strengthening the Tasmanian health system
The Morrison Government’s Tasmanian Health Plan will protect lives, improve lives and save lives.
It builds on the 44.5 per cent increase in funding we have provided for Tasmanian public hospitals, a $730 million investment in the Mersey Community Hospital, record levels of bulk billing and more than 2,000 new medicines subsidised through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme including $1.4 billion for cancer medicines in the past year.
Funding for Tasmanian public hospitals will increase from $425 million to $525 million a year under a new hospitals agreement.
We will also deliver a $91.9 million Tasmanian Health Plan to strengthen Tasmania’s health system, providing affordable and accessible health services for more Tasmanians, where and when they need them.
The plan includes:Reducing elective surgery wait times and improving hospital and health services and infrastructure, including upgrading the birthing suite at Launceston General Hospital ($35.1 million)
More frontline mental health services, including a new adult mental health centre in Launceston, a headspace centre in Devonport and a satellite service in Burnie, and a residential eating disorder clinic in Hobart ($24.4 million)
Helping Tasmanians in their fight against cancer with a second linear accelerator machine at the North West Centre at Burnie ($4.4 million)
A new bulk-billed MRI service at Devonport to give patients access to Medicare subsidised scans for cancer, as well as strokes and other conditions ($4.7 million)
Improving access to breast cancer diagnosis services with two additional diagnostic mammography units in Hobart and Launceston ($3 million)
Boosting new medical research, including in a University of Tasmania/ Menzies Institute Multiple Sclerosis flagship program, and preventative health research at University of Tasmania ($12.4 million)
Improved alcohol and drug support, including a new 10 bed rehabilitation facility in the greater Burnie region and an eight bed service in Circular Head ($7.4 million)
Supporting the Tasmanian Primary Health Network to engage experts such as physiotherapists and personal trainers to run the innovative ‘Strength2Strength’ program in North West Tasmania ($500,000).
The Morrison Government will also make a further $25.6 million investment in improving healthcare in north and north-western Tasmania, including the following grants:$10 million to redevelop and extend the existing Kings Meadows Community Health Centre into a contemporary community health centre to meet increased demand, including for renal and oral health.
$10 million for improvements to the Acute Care facility at North West Regional Hospital.
$1 million for the Queenstown Allied Health and Aged facility.
$4.5 million for a perinatal infant mental health service at Launceston General Hospital and North West Regional Hospital.
$100,000 for two mobile unit health buses supported by Rotary Tasmania and the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
Supporting Tasmania’s Battery of the Nation
The Coalition will support Tasmania’s Battery of the Nation plan with a $56 million investment to accelerate the delivery of the Marinus Link - a second interconnector with the mainland.
The interconnector will deliver more affordable and reliable electricity for households and businesses and would have prevented the blackouts we saw in southern states this summer.
The Marinus Link will unlock new generation and storage in Tasmania, helping lower prices and increase reliability in the National Electricity Market.
The Marinus Link and Battery of the Nation will create 3,800 direct and indirect jobs during construction
deliver a $7 billion economic stimulus, predominantly to north-western Tasmania.
This investment is on top of our initial investment of $20 million to support the development of prefeasibility studies for the Marinus Link and Battery of the Nation.
To support the rollout of this package, the Government will also invest $17 million in an Energising Tasmania skills initiative.
This will provide fee-free training in priority areas such as project management, civil construction, electro-technology and engineering skills to ensure Tasmania can train a workforce to build up its pumped hydro capabilities and support the energy infrastructure of the future.
Tackling high youth unemployment in north-west Tasmania
North-west Tasmania will benefit from the Morrison Government’s $525 million national skills package, including our $58 million investment in Industry Training Hubs and scholarships to skill young Australians for jobs of the future.
Burnie is one of ten locations of elevated youth unemployment across Australia that have been selected to host an Industry Training Hub, which will strengthen partnerships between local schools, employers and industries, and ensure that vocational education programs are tailored to meet local workforce needs and skills demands.
While Tasmania’s unemployment rate has fallen since 2013, youth unemployment in the Burnie region at 15.8 per cent remains well above the national average of 11.5 per cent.
Under the scholarship program, young people aged 15-24 in training hub areas will be eligible to apply for a scholarship to undertake an eligible VET Approved Program of Study.
Across the nation, four hundred scholarships, valued at up to $17,500 each, will be made available from Certificate III to Advanced Diploma level.
Growing Tasmania’s world-class primary industries
Tasmania’s traditional sectors of agriculture, forestry and fisheries have always been a strong part of the state’s economy.
These sectors have consistently delivered jobs
and economic growth for the state,
and our free trade deals are providing new opportunities to expand into overseas markets.
A re-elected Morrison Government will continue to support these traditional industries to grow even more jobs, with plans that will:Increase Tasmania’s agricultural industry and exports through a $100 million investment in phase one of Tasmanian Irrigation Tranche 3, building on our commitment of $60 million for Tranche 2.
This will be fully funded from the National Water Infrastructure Development Fund.
Expand the offshore aquaculture industry with a $70 million investment in the Blue Economy Cooperative Research Centre.
Deliver a new forestry hub in northern and north-western Tasmania as part of our $12.5 million investment in nine hubs across the country.
The Morrison Government will open up even more markets for Tasmanian producers by implementing signed free trade agreements with Peru, Indonesia and Hong Kong, as well as by concluding free trade agreements with the European Union, regional markets via the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership and the four nation Pacific Alliance (Mexico, Chile, Peru and Colombia).
Tasmanian Defence Innovation and Design Precinct
A re elected Morrison Government will invest $30 million in phase one of the Tasmanian Defence Innovation and Design precinct at the University of Tasmania’s Australian Maritime College (AMC) in Launceston.
The new Precinct will help drive defence-related research and development and innovation projects, creating a world-class research precinct and highly-skilled jobs in Launceston.
It is estimated the Precinct will ultimately result in over 150 additional jobs in the region each year, with up to 58 additional jobs in the region during the construction program.
The Precinct will help the Morrison Government deliver on its massive $200 billion investment in defence capability over the next decade and its $90 billion national Naval Shipbuilding Plan.
By supporting Phase 1 of the Research and Design Precinct, a re-elected Morrison Government will be supporting high value testing and evaluation needs for the Royal Australian Navy;
increasing opportunities for greater collaboration between Defence, academia and industry to deliver cutting-edge defence capability;
and build the AMC’s ability to support the National Shipbuilding College as it builds the workforce of the future to deliver on our national Naval Shipbuilding Plan.
Only the Coalition can be trusted to deliver on its Defence commitments.
Labor’s record when it comes to Defence is one of over $18 billion in cuts and slashing the Defence budget to its lowest level since 1938 as a proportion of GDP.
Supporting tourism and jobs in Freycinet
The Liberal National Government has a strong track record of supporting Tasmania’s tourism industry, with visitor numbers at a record 1.3 million people.
Freycinet National Park is one of the fastest growing and most popular tourism destinations in Tasmania.
Visitation to Freycinet and Coles Bay has increased at an average of 14 per cent per annum over the past five years.
As a ‘must see’ tourist attraction, Freycinet and Coles Bay continue to help drive tourism within the East Coast Tasmania region, where domestic and international tourists spent 1.6 million nights and $185 million in the year ending September 2018.
While domestic visitor numbers to the area are strong, international visitors have more than doubled in the past five years.
The Morrison Government will commit $7.2 million to the Freycinet National park for tourism infrastructure upgrades as part of the Government’s $50 million National Tourism Icons Package:$5.7 million towards a new visitor gateway, including a transit hub with new road access and car parking, shelter and information centre
$650,000 for an Aboriginal education program and Discovery Ranger Program
$450,000 for a new Wineglass Bay lookout
$400,000 for a foreshore walkway
This builds on other investments we have made in Tasmanian tourism, including the $30 million investment in the Cradle Mountain Cableway, and $1.5 million for a major art installation in Tasmania’s south as part of MONA’s Dark Mofo festival.
Lower taxes for hard-working Tasmanians
The Morrison Government is lowering taxes for hard-working Australians as part of our plan to deliver a stronger economy
and record job creation.
Our tax system must be fair for all Australians.
Our Personal Income Tax Plan delivers lower taxes for Tasmanians, ensuring they keep more of what they earn.
The enhanced plan will result in a better tax system, with greater reward for effort while ensuring top earners pay their fair share.
Around 210,000 lower and middle income earners in Tasmania will receive relief of up to $1,080 after they lodge their 2018-19 tax return.
That’s up to $2,160 for dual income families.
These benefits are then locked in for subsequent years.
In 2024-25, the Government will reduce the 32.5 per cent tax rate to 30 per cent, improving incentives for working Australians and increasing the reward for effort.
As a result of this plan, around 94 per cent of Australian taxpayers are projected to face a marginal tax rate of 30 per cent or less in 2024-25.
The Government’s strong fiscal management means that it can deliver surpluses while also easing the cost of living pressure on hard-working Australians.
Supporting small and family businesses
Small and family businesses are at the centre of our economic plan for Australia.
They are the engine room of our economy, with Tasmania’s 60,000 small and medium sized businesses employing around 146,000 Tasmanian workers.
A re-elected Morrison Government will implement a range of measures to reduce costs and make life easier for Tasmania’s small and family businesses.
We are reducing taxes on small businesses – the business tax rate has been reduced from 30 per cent to 27.5 per cent and will fall further to 25 per cent in 2021-22.
Unincorporated Tasmanian small businesses will have access to the Government’s increase to the unincorporated tax discount.
As part of the 2019-20 Budget, we delivered an increase to the instant asset write-off threshold to $30,000 until 30 June 2020.
We are also expanding access to the instant asset write-off to include medium-sized businesses by increasing the annual turnover threshold from $10 million to $50 million.
These changes provide a much needed boost to agricultural, manufacturing, tourism and other small and medium sized businesses in Tasmania.
Small and family businesses in Tasmania can trust the Morrison Government to support them with other announced measures, including streamlining red tape and simplifying tax reporting;
increasing access to finance with the $2 billion Australian Business Securitisation Fund;
and ensuring they get paid on time by government and big business.
Safer and more secure Tasmanian communities
Safe communities are a key part of the Tasmanian way of life.
Thanks to the strong commitment to safety and security of the federal and state Coalition governments, crime in Tasmania is falling, with total offences down by 5 per cent in 2017-18, including stolen motor vehicles down by 21 per cent, and sexual assaults down by 26 per cent.
We are committed to continue working with the Hodgman Government to support the safety and security of communities in Tasmania.
A re-elected Coalition will deliver a comprehensive suite of actions to keep all Tasmanians safe.
In addition to maintaining strong borders and continuing to cancel visas of people who commit crimes, Tasmania will benefit from our national plans to:Deliver a comprehensive drug strategy to address the supply, demand and harm caused by illicit drugs with a five-year investment of $337 million.
This includes $152 million to strengthen law enforcement efforts to disrupt and reduce the supply of illicit drugs including by targeting the threat posed by outlaw motorcycle gangs.
Support local councils and community organisations to undertake crime prevention activities as well as protect schools, religious institutions and other sites from religious and racial intolerance through CCTV cameras, security lighting, alarm systems and other infrastructure.
This will be delivered through a further $58.2 million investment in the Safer Communities Fund.
Take action against domestic violence, with the largest ever Commonwealth investment of $328 million for prevention and frontline services to support the Fourth Action Plan of the National Plan to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children
Deliver a comprehensive plan to improve online safety, including funding a $10 million Online Safety Grants program to deliver practical online safety education and training projects, continue giving parents practical resources to protect their kids online through the e-safety Commissioner, and establishing an Online Safety Charter to set out expectations of social media companies.
Implementing the City Deals
The Coalition will work with the Hodgman Government to implement our transformative City Deals.
The existing City Deal for Launceston is a five year plan to make Launceston one of Australia’s most liveable and economically vibrant regional cities, with increasing incomes and decreasing levels of disadvantage.
The City Deal delivers:Relocation of the University of Tasmania main campus from Newnham to Inveresk near the city centre.
$95 million to improve the health of the Tamar Estuary.
$19.4 million to support Launceston’s City Heart project, which will rejuvenate the historic CBD.
Under our $1.43 billion City Deal for Hobart, we will tackle congestion bottlenecks, boosting tourism and making the airport a true international gateway,
driving scientific investment
and creating an extra 720 jobs.
It includes $82.3 million for upgraded border services including immigration, customs and biosecurity at Hobart International Airport.
Realising the full potential of Macquarie Point as a major scientific, tourism and cultural hub.
$30 million to boost the supply of affordable community housing
An extra $25 million for congestion busting projects on top of the existing $461 million investment in the Bridgewater Bridge replacement
Tasmania as an Antarctic Gateway
The Morrison Government is committed to ensuring Australia remains a leader in Antarctica and cementing Tasmania as the premier gateway and scientific research hub for East Antarctica.
The Antarctic sector employs more than 830 people in Tasmania, and it is continuing to expand.
We will invest $450 million over the next 10 years to upgrade Australia’s Antarctic research station network and supporting infrastructure – effectively tripling the investment in Antarctic infrastructure to support our science.
This will bring our investment in Antarctica to a record level of over $2.8 billion including:$1.9 billion towards a new icebreaker.
$210 million over 10 years for additional funding for our Antarctic operations.
$107 million over 11 years for Antarctic research initiatives.
$50 million for a new research station on Macquarie Island.
$45 million over 10 years for overland traverse capabilities.
The Choice
There is a lot at stake at this election.
And there is a clear choice.
A choice between a Government that is delivering a strong economy or a Labor Party that would weaken our economy.
A choice between a Government that is fixing the budget or a Labor Party that can’t manage money.
A choice between a Government that is easing the pressure on families by lowering taxes or a Labor Party that will put more strain on households by imposing $387 billion in new taxes on workers, retirees and small business.
A choice between a Government that can afford to pay for better infrastructure
and services or a Labor Party that would max out Australia’s credit card.
A choice between a Government that has secured our borders and is keeping Australians safe or a Labor Party that has learned nothing from its border security failures.
Tasmania cannot afford to go back to the bad days of Labor, when there were fewer jobs, less opportunities and choice
and more people on welfare.
Labor can’t manage money and they can’t manage the economy.
When Labor can’t manage money, they come after yours.
Labor’s plans will increase the pressure on Tasmanian households:Labor’s retiree tax will punish Tasmanians who have worked hard and saved for retirement by abolishing tax refunds on share dividends.
In Tasmania, this will affect around 20,500 individuals who have direct shareholdings and many more invested through self-managed super funds.
On average individuals with direct holdings lose almost $2,300 a year and self-managed super funds lose $12,000 a year.
Labor’s housing and investment taxes will end negative gearing as we know it, and increase capital gains tax by 50%.
If you own your own home it will be worth less and if you rent you will pay more.
Labor will deliver higher personal income tax by reversing the Government’s legislated income tax plan and the enhancements we announced in the 2019-20 budget.
Our Plan will ensure 94% of taxpayers will pay no more than 30 cents in the dollar.
It means Labor would leave over 126,000 Tasmanians worse off.
Labor’s Family Business Tax will impose a minimum tax rate of 30% on the 5,000 Tasmanian small businesses structured through discretionary trusts.
This is the same rate imposed on large multinational companies.
On top of this, modelling by BAEconomic’s Managing Director, Dr Brian Fisher, shows Labor’s plans for a 45% emissions reduction target and 50% Renewable Energy Target will:cost the economy $472 billion,
slash more than 336,000 jobs,
cut the average wage by over $9,000, and
increase wholesale electricity prices by 58%.
This is a cost that Tasmanian businesses and families can’t afford.
The modelling forecasts that Labor’s plan would result in an up to 8.6 per cent contraction in Australia’s $3 billion fishing sector.
In Tasmania, which accounts for nearly one-third of national output, that would represent a blow to state output of more than $80 million.
Labor also plans to return to their failed Tasmanian Forestry Agreement, which was a sham deal that committed to more forest lock ups and was going to destroy our forest products industries.
In contrast, the Coalition has a plan for lower taxes so that you can keep more of the money that you earn.
We have a fully costed $3.5 billion Climate Solutions Plan that will ensure we meet and beat our international targets without wrecking the economy,
and a comprehensive plan to bring down energy prices.
There will only be one outcome for Tasmania under Labor – a weaker economy,
fewer jobs
and higher taxes.
If Labor can’t be trusted to run the economy and manage the budget, they can’t be trusted to invest in the services Tasmanians rely on, including health, education and aged care.
Cost
The Coalition will invest an additional $25.6 million in healthcare for north and north-west Tasmania.
Our Plan for Strengthening Australia's World-Class Health System
Key Points
The Morrison Government’s Long-Term National Health Plan is providing Australians with access to quality medical care, record hospital funding, affordable life-saving medicines and breakthrough research for new drugs and treatments.
Our goal is to make our health system even stronger and to ensure it is the best in the world.
By keeping our economy strong we will ensure the essential health services that Australians rely on, such as Medicare and the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).
Medicare funding is at record levels.
Almost nine out of 10 Australians who visit the doctor have no out of pocket costs with GP bulk billing rates at a record 86 per cent, up from 82 per cent under Labor.
We are keeping the cost of health care down by increasing funding for diagnostic services such as MRIs and PET scans to detect breast cancer.
In partnership with GPs, we will improve options for more flexible care to meet the needs of patients and to keep them healthy and out of hospital with a $1.6 billion package to strengthen primary care.
Australians have access to the latest medicines through the PBS – with reduced costs on more than 2,000 new and amended medicines listings since 2013, thanks to an investment of $10.6 billion.
These medicines are saving and changing lives.
Record funding will be provided for public hospitals with an additional $31 billion from 2020-21 to 2024-25 to employ more nurses, doctors and specialists, delivering – in partnership with the states and territories – more surgeries and medical services.
With one in five Australians affected by a mental health disorder, we are expanding support services particularly for young people.
We are working to address the nation’s suicide rate with the largest youth suicide prevention plan in Australia’s history focused on expanding headspace, Indigenous youth suicide prevention and supporting children and their parents.
Australians living in rural and regional Australia have greater access to services including through new regional cancer centres, expanded telehealth services, regional clinical trial centres and increased opportunities for Australia’s rural and regional health workforce.
Our 10-year medical research plan through the $20 billion Medical Research Future Fund backs our local scientists and ensures we can quickly take life-saving discoveries from the laboratory to the hospital.
When Labor was last in Government, their budget mismanagement denied patients affordable access to life changing medicines.
Hospital funding and bulk billing rates were lower under Labor. And Labor won’t commit to the Private Health Insurance rebate.
If you can’t manage the budget, you can’t invest in essential health services.
Introduction
A stronger economy means the Morrison Government can guarantee the essential services that Australians rely on.
Our Long-Term National Health Plan is based on four key pillars: Medicare and medicines, hospitals, mental health and medical research.
Over the next four years, we will invest a further $6 billion in Medicare.
Under the Morrison Government, almost nine out of 10 Australians who visit the doctor have no out of pocket costs with GP bulk billing rates at a record 86 per cent, up from 82 per cent under Labor.
We will deliver a $1.6 billion package to strengthen Australia’s world-class primary care system, helping GPs provide better care and keep people healthy and out of hospital.
For the first time we are making Medicare available for MRI and PET scans for breast cancer with an investment of $32.6 million to benefit 15,000 patients during their diagnosis and pre-surgery planning.
This is in addition to the $198.6 million funding for diagnostic imaging to reduce the costs of vital scans and x-rays, plus a further $375 million expansion of more than 50 MRI licences around the country.
All up, our investment in diagnostic imaging totals more than $606 million and benefits all patients requiring diagnostic services.
Since coming to Government, the Liberal Nationals Government has invested $10.6 billion to add over 2,000 new medicines listings to the Pharmaceutical Benefit Scheme (PBS).
We are subsidising breakthrough medicines such as Spinraza for spinal muscular atrophy, Orkambi for cystic fibrosis and new immunotherapy drugs for cancer.
These are medicines that change and save lives.
We are bringing new cancer treatments to Australia such as the revolutionary CAR-T cell treatment for cancer, which has the potential to provide a cure for blood cancers.
Ensuring a strong economy has enabled the Morrison Government to deliver record funding for public hospital services.
Funding has increased by 60 per cent to a record $21 billion in 2018-19.
When Labor left office in 2013, public hospital funding was $13 billion.
The Morrison Government is prioritising support for mental health services with funding exceeding $4.8 billion in 2018-19.
This includes a $375 million expansion of headspace services and new residential centres for treating eating disorders.
We will trial eight new adult mental health centres as an alternative to Emergency Departments.
And we are supporting farmers and regional communities affected by natural disasters to ensure they get the support they need through increased mental health services including telehealth services.
We will invest $70.2 million to establish new residential eating disorders treatment facilities nationally.
This builds on the $110 million announced in December 2018 to create the first specific, comprehensive Medicare items so that people affected by eating disorders can access up to 40 psychological services and 20 dietetic services.
Importantly our $503.1 million Youth Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan is the largest suicide prevention plan in Australia’s history and focuses on expanding the headspace network, Indigenous suicide prevention and early childhood and parenting.
We are supporting Australians who have diabetes.
Having delivered our commitment to provide continuous glucose monitoring for children at risk, we’re expanding the program to over 37,000 pregnant women and concession card holders over the age of 21.
We will invest a further $1 billion to provide core dental services for children and enable families to claim up to $1,000 in benefits under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule.
The Morrison Government is also expanding the National Immunisation Program to cover whooping cough vaccines for pregnant women and adolescents with a vaccine protecting against meningococcal strains ACWY.
We are also investing $12 million over the next three years to extend the reach of the childhood immunisation education campaign to encourage vaccinations which save lives and protect children from serious diseases.
Investment in medical research is critical to the release of new medicines, medical devices and disease treatments.
We will invest $6 billion to develop these new treatments and potential cures in collaboration with Australia’s health and medical research sector.
Genomics is being prioritised to develop personalised treatments for cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, ageing and dementia and mental health.
This includes $614 million for clinical trials for rare cancers, rare diseases and unmet needs.
The Morrison Government is implementing the most comprehensive rural health package in decades, which will improve access to doctors, nurses and other health care services for all Australians, especially those in the regions.
We believe that people living in rural and regional Australia deserve the same access to high-quality healthcare services as those living in capital cities.
That is why we are investing $550 million for the Stronger Rural Health Strategy, which delivers 3,000 additional doctors and more than 3,000 additional nurses and allied health professionals in rural general practice over the next decade.
In addition we will invest $100 million to establish the Rural and Regional Clinical Trials Infrastructure Program.
Our Plan
Guaranteeing Medicare
We have established the Medicare Guarantee Fund, which is guaranteeing the ongoing funding of the Medicare Benefits Schedule and the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme with $36.6 billion in 2019-20.
We will increase Medicare spending by $6 billion from $24.7 billion in 2018-19 to $30.7 billion in 2022-23 – far exceeding the $19.5 billion allocated by the former Labor Government in 2013.
We have removed Labor’s Medicare Freeze with the re-indexation of Medicare and diagnostic imaging, totaling $2.4 billion from 2017-18 to 2022-23.
Record GP Bulk Billing
Under the Morrison Government, almost nine out of 10 Australians who visit the doctor have no out of pocket costs with the GP bulk billing rates at a record 86 per cent, up from 82 per cent under Labor.
Over 133 million free GP services were delivered in 2017-18 – an increase of 5.7 million from 2016-17 and 27.3 million more than Labor managed in their last year.
Supporting our GPs to provide better care
The Morrison Government will deliver a $1.6 billion package to strengthen Australia’s world-class primary care system, supporting Australia’s doctors and specialists to deliver better care for patients.
A new $448.5 million funding and service model will support GPs to provide enhanced care to patients, many of whom will have chronic and complex conditions.
This will allow Australians aged 70 and over to enter into a new type of agreement with their general practice to receive more personalised, consistent and coordinated care.
GPs and others in their practice will be able to provide consultations, referrals, scripts and test results by email, phone, FaceTime or Skype – making it easier and more convenient for patients, including those in rural, regional and remote areas.
Doctors will be supported by a $201.5 million boost to the Practice Incentives Program Quality Improvement Initiative including funding to treat aged care residents.
More Affordable Medicines
Under the Liberal National Government, more than 2,000 new or amended medicines listings have been added to the PBS since 2013.
That’s an average of one new or amended medicine listing a day, worth a total of over $10.6 billion, including $1.4 billion for cancer medicines in the past year.
Unlike Labor’s track record we have a commitment to list all medicines on the PBS after a positive recommendation from the medical experts.
The PBS is an uncapped scheme and we have provisioned $40 billion for these life-changing medicines on the PBS over the next four years.
Many of these drugs cost thousands of dollars, but are now available through your local pharmacy for $6.50 (concessional) or $40.30 (general patients) per script.
These life saving and life changing medicines include:Opdivo and Yervoy® for the treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma, which would otherwise cost patients $254,200 per treatment course without subsidy.
Ibrance® and Kisqali® for advanced and metastatic breast cancer are now available, which would otherwise cost up to $70,000 per year without subsidy.
Venclexta® in combination with Rituximab for the treatment of adult patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, which would otherwise cost $165,000 per treatment course without subsidy.
Tagrisso® for non-small cell lung cancer which would otherwise cost $88,000 per treatment course without subsidy.
Spinraza® a life-changing medicine which treats the devastating illness Spinal Muscular Atrophy is now available on the PBS, which would otherwise cost more than $367,850 per year without subsidy.
Orkambi® for cystic fibrosis, which would otherwise cost $250,000 without subsidy.
Through community pharmacies we will continue to support quality use of medicines programs such as dose administration aids and medicines checks.
LOWERING THE PBS SAFETY NET
A re-elected Morrison Government will also invest $308 million to further cut the cost of life changing prescription medicines for over 1.4 million Australians who require multiple medicines.
From 1 January 2020 the Safety Net threshold to receive free or cheaper medicines through the PBS will be lowered by 12 scripts for concession card holders and the equivalent of 2 scripts for non-concession card holders.
This change will mean that people will take less time to reach their safety net threshold saving them up to $80 per year and providing them earlier access to free medicines or medicines at a reduced co-payment.
This will be of particular benefit to families who require multiple medicines per month and pensioners and individuals with multiple chronic conditions such as heart disease, high cholesterol, arthritis, asthma and diabetes.
Greater Access to Life-saving Diagnosis, Scans and Tests
We will significantly expand access to MRI scans covered by Medicare which will help keep the cost of health care down for families, and boost the fight against cancer and other serious conditions.
We will invest $375 million in more than 50 Medicare-eligible MRI licences across the country.
We will invest $32.6 million to provide Medicare funded MRI and PET scans supporting the 15,000 Australians diagnosed with breast cancer each year.
The Morrison Government has also announced an extra $198.6 million investment in diagnostic imaging to reduce the cost of these services for patients by re-indexing more than 90 percent of services – including ultrasounds and x-rays.
This will lead to lower costs when patients see their radiologists, obstetricians and cardiologists.
It is the first time in 20 years that a government has increased funding for these essential services – once again, Labor failed to act to reduce these costs for patients.
We are providing record funding for Medicare funded blood tests by investing $2.95 billion for approximately 145 million pathology services last year alone, an 8.5% increase.
This is an increase of $572 million since we were first elected and this investment in services will continue to grow to over $3.4 billion in 2021-22.
This has led to record bulk billing rates for out of hospital Medicare pathology services – 99.3% in 2017-18.
We are paving the way for the future of diagnosis with a $500 million Genomics Mission focused on how we improve access to genetic tests that will enable more individually targeted cancer treatment.
Simpler and More Affordable Private Health Insurance
For the 13 million Australians who rely on private health insurance, we have introduced reforms to make it more affordable and easier.
These include: •Four easy-to-understand levels of cover to make it easier to compare insurance policies.
•Discounts for Australians under 30 of up to 10 per cent.
•Greater access for mental health services.
•Greater travel and accommodation benefits for regional and rural Australians.
These reforms have resulted in the lowest average premium change in 18 years.
The Morrison Government will guarantee the private health insurance rebate.
Labor’s plan for private health insurance will remove the rebate from low-cost policies and force over 65,000 Australian families to pay up to 16 per cent more for their health cover.
Record Hospital Investment
Ensuring a strong economy has enabled the Morrison Government to deliver record funding for public hospital services.
Funding has increased by 60 per cent to a record $21 billion in 2018-19.
When Labor left office in 2013, public hospital funding was $13 billion.
Under the Morrison Government funding for hospitals will continue to grow.
Under a new national hospitals agreement with the states and territories, the Morrison Government has committed an additional $31 billion in public hospital funding from 2020-21 to 2024-25, taking overall funding during this period to over $131 billion.
The Morrison Government will continue to increase funding for every hospital in every community and every state and territory across Australia, with full details available at the Department of Health Funding Facts website, health.gov.au.
Patients in every state and territory will also have access to improved health and hospital services under our landmark $1.3 billion Commonwealth Health and Hospitals Program (CHHP).
Funded projects include:$100 million for Australia’s first Comprehensive Children’s Cancer Centre at the Sydney Children’s Hospital in Randwick;
$30 million for a new state-wide brain and spinal rehabilitation unit at the revamped Repat Health Precinct in South Australia;
$80 million for a Centre of Excellence in Cellular Immunotherapy at Melbourne’s world-leading Peter McCallum Cancer Centre;
A $25 million redevelopment of the Peel Health Campus in Western Australia and cancer treatment, elective surgery and outreach specialist services for Tasmania.
We will also invest $65 million for a 16-bed inpatient cystic fibrosis unit at the Westmead Hospital, which will integrate admission services with ambulatory care and research.
This will be Australia’s first dedicated cystic fibrosis specialist unit which will provide specialised treatment with state-of-the-art equipment, with consulting, research and diagnostic facilities all under one roof.
Medical Research Delivering Breakthrough Medicines
Investment in medical research is critical to delivering new life-saving treatments.
The Morrison Government's $20 billion Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) is supporting our local scientists to turn their medical discoveries into clinical trials and revolutionary treatments.
Under the MRFF, we are committed to a new 10-year $5 billion investment strategy underpinned by four key themes: patients, researchers, translation and missions.
This includes doubling the funding for rare cancers research;
unprecedented investment in medical discoveries;
more than doubling the funding for research fellowships and record funding for research infrastructure.
Our medical research missions tackle major health challenges and support future medical advances:The $125 million Australian Brain Cancer Mission aims to double the survival rates and improve the quality of life for patients with brain cancer over the next ten years.
The $500 million Genomics Health Futures Mission aims to transform the lives of more than 200,000 Australians through research into better testing, diagnosis and treatment with precision medicine.
The $185 million Dementia, Ageing and Aged Care Research Mission will improve the quality of life of older people, enhance workforce capability and improve quality of care.
The $220 million Cardiovascular Mission will improve health outcomes through prevention strategies, earlier detection and improved outcomes for patients suffering a heart attack or stroke.
The $160 million Indigenous Health Research Fund will support practical, innovative research into the best approaches to prevention, early intervention, and treatment of health conditions of greatest concern to Indigenous communities including $35 million for rheumatic heart disease.
The $150 million Stem Cell Therapies Mission will advance stem cell research that could potentially grow kidneys, repair damaged spinal cords and cure dementia.
The $50 million Traumatic Brain Injury Mission will enable nationally co-ordinated medical research to improve the recovery of patients with a traumatic brain injury and identify the most effective care and treatments.
The $125 million, 10 year Million Minds Mental Health Research Mission will assist up to one million people affected by mental illness.
Developing new drugs, devices and medical technologies takes time and requires long-term investment.
Our 10-year investment strategy and Health and Medical Research Industry Growth Plan will give researchers and industry certainty and direction.
The plan will create jobs, support opportunities for co-investing and reaffirm Australia’s reputation as a global research powerhouse.
Funding includes the development of a drug discovery centre to fast track new medicines so that our researchers can work in Australia rather than overseas.
Clinical trials for rare cancers, rare diseases and unmet needs will be a particular focus with an investment of $614 million.
Mental Health
One in five Australians experience a common mental health disorder each year and to address this we have made mental health a key pillar of our national health system.
We are spending $4.8 billion on mental health this financial year alone.
Our Primary Health Networks are receiving $1.45 billion to enable them to deliver ongoing and community-tailored mental health services.
This investment will boost crucial services such as headspace, local psychology consultations, suicide prevention activities, and community mental health nursing.
The Morrison Government is determined to reduce the rate of suicide, especially among young Australians.
We are tackling this national crisis through our $503 million Youth Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan.
We will ensure young Australians and their families get help where and when they need by investing an additional $375 million to fund an extra 30 headspaces.
headspace provides youth-friendly services for the challenges facing young Australians across physical health, alcohol and other drug use, vocational support and mental health.
We have established the Million Minds Mission, providing $125 million through the Medical Research Future Fund for mental health research with the aim of bringing new treatments to an additional one million people, and ensuring our mental health system offers the best services possible.
We will invest $70.2 million to establish new residential eating disorders treatment facilities nationally.
This builds on the $110 million announced in December 2018 to create the first specific, comprehensive Medicare items so that people affected by eating disorders can access up to 40 psychological services and 20 dietetic services.
To strengthen Indigenous youth suicide prevention, we will invest $34.1 million, including support for Indigenous leadership that delivers culturally appropriate, trauma-informed care as well as services that recognise the value of community, cultural artistic traditions and protective social factors.
Our support includes $19.6 million for measures to prevent Indigenous youth suicide, particularly in the Kimberley.
We will invest $11.8 million in a range of initiatives to help parents recognise when their children are struggling, improve mental health skills training in schools, enhance peer support networks and boost counselling support services for young people.
We are also investing $15 million to create a new national information system.
This will ensure communities and services can respond quickly to particular areas affected by a high incidence of suicide and self-harm.
Our support builds on $110 million to continue the Early Psychosis Youth Services program at selected headspace centres to provide specialist clinical services for young people at the early stages of severe mental illness.
We will deliver a $98.6 million mental health program in schools and a range of early intervention and prevention initiatives to provide young Australians with the tools and support they need to maintain the best possible mental health and wellbeing.
The Morrison Government is also working to ensure the mental health system is comprehensive and provides coordinated, holistic care.
We are providing $114.5 million to trial eight new adult mental health centres to provide walk-in treatment and advice as a much needed alternative to hospital emergency departments.
Regional communities will also have greater access to mental health services through new Medicare rebates for telehealth support.
We are providing $43.9 million for a new perinatal mental health program to support those affected by perinatal mental illness during or after pregnancy, or grieving after the death of an infant.
To ensure that all Australian workers can maintain mental health and get early support if needed, we are investing $11.5 million in a new National Mental Health Workplace Initiative.
This will support workers and businesses – from sole traders to multinationals – to create supportive and healthy workplaces.
Supporting Australians through Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment
Australians are fortunate to have access to a world-class health system where every Australian cancer patient is able to receive the highest quality of care.
Each year 140,000 Australians receive a life changing cancer diagnosis.
A strong economy enables the Morrison Government to invest in record support for public hospitals, access to precision diagnosis and lifesaving cancer treatment for free as well as breakthrough medicines and new revolutionary medical research.
We are investing more than $6 billion on cancer services each year and over $2.3 billion on PBS listed cancer medicines last year alone, one in every five dollars spent on the PBS.
We will dramatically expand access to MRI scans covered by Medicare through a $375 million investment and 99 per cent of out of hospital Medicare pathology services are free.
This will help keep the cost of health care down for families, and boost the fight against cancer and other serious conditions.
We are also providing access to ground-breaking treatments such as the CAR-T therapy Kymriah® for certain blood cancers through the public health system.
This treatment has shown immense promise and could be a cure for some patients and will be extended to other conditions over the coming years.
To further support Australians with cancer we will invest significantly in cancer fighting infrastructure:$80 million to establish the Peter MacCallum centre of excellence in cellular immunotherapy and CAR-T therapy.
$100 million for a Comprehensive Children’s Cancer Centre in Sydney.
$614 million over 10 years under the MRFF for rare cancer and rare diseases clinical trials - to use revolutionary medical science to find cures for patients.
Over $180 million per year in ground-breaking cancer research funding through the NHMRC.
$32.6 million for free breast MRI and PET scans which will benefit thousands of patients per year.
Australia has one of the most effective programs to beat cancer through vaccinations and early detection:We have introduced a new vaccination which will protect against 90 per cent of HPV-related cervical cancer.
We have extended free mammograms for women between the age of 50 and 74 through BreastScreen.
We have expanded the bowel cancer screening program so that, by the end of 2019, all Australians aged 50-74 will receive a screening test kit.
To encourage them to take the test, $10 million will be spent on a new awareness raising campaign.
We have extended support for prostate cancer nurses and through the McGrath Foundation breast cancer nurses to support Australian patients in most need including those in rural and regional areas.
We will invest $20 million in an anti-smoking campaign.
Preventative Health – Immunisation
Record levels of Australian children are now fully immunised, with more parents getting the message to protect their kids with life-saving vaccines.
Our No Jab, No Pay policy has been a success with around 210,000 extra children vaccinated and is backed by a further $12 million for a new immunisation information and education campaign.
To protect new-born babies, the whooping cough vaccine has been made available for pregnant women through an investment of $39.5 million.
We have expanded access to the meningococcal vaccine providing protection against the ACWY strains through an investment of $52 million.
Preventative Health – Domestic Violence
Family and domestic violence has a profound impact on women and children’s health and wellbeing, families and communities and society.
The Morrison Government has zero tolerance for violence against women and has committed over $840 million since 2013 to reduce and prevent family, domestic and sexual violence.
As part of this a ‘Recognise, Respond, Refer’ pilot, already underway in Brisbane, will receive a $7.5 million boost to be extended across five Primary Health Network regions to train GPs and their staff to recognise and manage family violence.
A further $2.1 million training initiative will further improve the domestic violence response of GPs and primary care workers nationally.
Support for Patients with Diabetes
The Morrison Government is committed to working towards the broad prevention of diabetes in the Australian community – through research, medicines and by providing access to continuous glucose monitoring devices.
We have expanded free access to glucose monitoring devices for pregnant women, children and more adults with type 1 diabetes, saving Australians up to $7,000 a year.
Our investment over the next four years will ensure that free glucose monitoring devices are available to over 37,000 eligible Australians with type 1 diabetes.
We will also invest $54.5 million for research that will give new hope and support for Australian children and adults living with type 1 diabetes.
Preventative Health – Blood Borne Virus and Sexually Transmitted Infections
A Morrison Government will invest $45.4 million to support the implementation of the next National Blood Borne Virus (BBV) and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) Strategies (2018-2022).
This investment has been acknowledged as the greatest increase in funding to prevent, diagnose and treat STIs and BBVs in at least two decades.
We are able to provide record support for strategies and initiatives that are improving our collective efforts to prevent and address the impact of BBVs and STIs.
This funding will support:national awareness and prevention strategies to reduce the impact of BBVs, such as HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C, and STIs, with a specific focus on syphilis, gonorrhoea and chlamydia.
projects that improve diagnosis and treatment options
health professional and community education
targeted assistance to diverse and vulnerable populations including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and culturally and linguistically diverse people.
We have also provided $8 million to establish a taskforce to combat Human T-cell Lymphotropic Virus-1 (HTLV-1) and other emerging communicable diseases in remote communities.
Drug Treatment and Prevention
To tackle drugs such as ice, the Morrison Government has committed more than $720 million over four years to reduce the impact of drug and alcohol misuse, with more than $544 million dedicated for treatment services.
We will continue to invest $450 million in the National Ice Action Strategy (NIAS) to help local communities, including funding for over 240 Local Drug Action Teams.
We have also delivered an extra 471 local drug and alcohol services since 2016 based on community need.
We are investing $22.3 million to support more alcohol and other drug treatment and support services in remote, rural and regional areas; an additional 65 specialist service providers will operate after-hours and on weekends in under-serviced areas.
In addition, funding of $4.3 million will provide local support for families, communities and regions struggling with the impacts of illicit drug use.
We will also invest $7.2 million establishing a take-home naloxone program to help prevent deaths associated with opioids and other drugs.
Dental
The Morrison Government will invest $1 billion over three years to support eligible Australian children to continue to access core dental services and families to claim up to $1,000 in benefits under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule.
This is on top of the adult program, in which an extra $100 million has been invested to ensure low-income households, including pensioners, can receive affordable public dental care.
It means an extra 180,000 services will be delivered at little or no cost to patients.
The extension of the National Partnership Agreement on dental health with the states and territories will deliver Australian Government funding of $350.3 million from January 2017 to 30 June 2020.
Women's and Men’s Health
The Morrison Government recently launched the Women's and Men’s Health Strategies for 2020-2030.
Our Women’s Health Strategy provides a $52 million investment in better women’s health with a significant focus on ovarian cancer and endometriosis.
We will invest $20 million in research to improve the survival rates for women with ovarian cancer and an additional $10 million to support women with endometriosis.
The new funding for endometriosis will raise awareness and support research to improve the treatment and understanding of this often misunderstood and crippling condition.
This additional investment brings the total funding for endometriosis under the Morrison Government to almost $15 million.
We have also provided over $27 million in new funding for more McGrath Foundation Nurses for breast cancer, particulary to support patients in rural and regional areas.
In addition we are investing $32.6 million so breast cancer patients have life-saving MRI and PET scans covered under Medicare, saving patients up to $1,500 per scan.
We will also provide $43.9 million to support the mental health of expectant and new parents through a Perinatal Mental Health and Wellbeing Program.
This will improve the services available to better support families affected by perinatal mental illness, or grieving after the death of a child.
Our Men’s Health Strategy provides more than $19 million to improve the health outcomes of all men and boys in Australia, particularly those battling cancer, mental health issues and loneliness.
We are increasing funding to support 62 prostate cancer nurses.
We are also providing the Men’s Sheds movement with over $11 million over 4 years to support their important work in local communities.
The Morrison Government is also providing $3.8 million for research to investigate the causes and prevention of male infertility which is estimated to affect one in six couples.
Indigenous Health
The Morrison Government will continue to make progress towards Closing the Gap in health outcomes between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians and non-Indigenous Australians.
Funding of $4.1 billion over the next four years will improve access to health care through the Indigenous Australians Health Program.
We are working on ending avoidable blindness and deafness and improving renal health and access to dialysis.
A $160 million Indigenous Health Research Fund will deliver rapid solutions to some of the biggest preventable health challenges.
$35 million has been committed to research and develop a vaccine for rheumatic heart disease, which could save thousands of lives.
We are focused also on increasing the Indigenous health workforce, so more people from local communities can provide health services.
Tragically, the suicide rate in Aboriginal and Torres Straits Islander communities remains significantly higher than in the non-Indigenous population.
We are addressing the high rate of youth suicide through our Youth Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan, which includes $34.1 million for Indigenous suicide prevention and mental health initiatives.
Specifically $4.2 million has also been provided for the Young Indigenous Ambassadors, Yarn Safe Campaign, and a fast-tracked roll-out of the Be You program in the Kimberley.
In addition we will invest $12.5 million from the Million Minds Mission for research on the best approaches to prevent Indigenous suicide.
Landmark Rural Health Strategy
The Morrison Government is implementing the most comprehensive rural health package in decades, which will improve access to doctors, nurses and other health care services for all Australians, especially those in the regions.
We believe that people living in rural and regional Australia deserve the same access to high-quality healthcare services as those living in capital cities.
That is why we will invest $550 million for the Stronger Rural Health Strategy, which delivers 3,000 additional doctors and more than 3,000 additional nurses and allied health professionals in rural general practice over the next decade.
The Strategy also includes $84.1 million in additional funding for the Royal Flying Doctor Service to provide dental care, mental health services and emergency aeromedical services to rural and remote communities.
It also includes $94.5 million for a new Murray Darling Medical Schools Network which aims to increase the number of medical students training in rural areas, and increase the number of students who then go on to practice in regional and rural Australia.
An additional $26.6 million will accommodate longer transition arrangements for the changes to rural bulk billing incentives and the Workforce Incentive Program.
We will invest $62.2 million over five years from 2018-19 to implement a National Rural Generalist Pathway.
This program will train specialised rural doctors to provide health services tailored to the needs of rural and remote communities and follows the expert advice of Australia’s first National Rural Health Commissioner.
Under the Morrison Government rural and remote patients are gaining additional access to general consultations through an extension of telehealth services with an investment of $33.5 million.
We are investing $12 million to expand the Heart of Australia mobile cardiology and health services in rural Queensland.
This funding will support the ongoing service delivery of their two mobile specialist clinics and establish a third service for Northern Queensland and the Cape York Peninsula, bringing the total number of communities serviced by Heart of Australia across Queensland from 16 to 25.
We are investing $18 million to develop a world-class rural health and medical research facility in Orange NSW that will support the needs of rural communities throughout Australia.
The Institute for Regional, Rural and Remote Health and Medical Research will focus on addressing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health inequity, supporting ageing and aged care, improving child health, promoting consumer-driven rural health research, building clinical research capacity and improving health service delivery.
The Morrison Government will invest $100 million to establish the Rural and Regional Clinical Trials Infrastructure Program.
Access and participation in clinical trials can be limited for doctors and patients in rural, regional and remote areas of Australia.
The $100 million investment from the Medical Research Future Fund National Critical Infrastructure initiative will establish state of the art physical infrastructure and equipment to provide patients with hope and access to advanced treatment options regardless of where they live.
This will also boost rural, regional and remote economies with direct industry investment in jobs.
We will also establish new regional cancer centres and drug and alcohol treatment facilities in regional communities such as Mount Gambier, Townsville, Batemans Bay, North West Tasmania, Grafton and Gladstone.
We will also provide additional mental health services and support for people affected by recent natural disasters.
People living in Northern and Western Queensland impacted by the recent floods, those affected by the fires in Tasmania and drought affected farmers in the Gippsland region will receive access to additional mental health support including through telehealth with an investment of $26.9 million.
This complements work already under way in drought affected areas under the Government’s $21.9 million Empowering our Communities Program.
These services will be delivered by local Primary Health Networks.
The Cost
The Coalition’s plan for strengthening Australia’s world class health system will not place additional costs on the Budget.
As at the 2019-20 Budget we have invested over $339 billion in the health system over the forward estimates.
Our Plan to Back Our Multicultural Communities
Key Points
The Morrison Government is working to keep our economy strong, keep Australians safe and keep Australians together.
Australia is the most successful multicultural society in the world and our Government is working to ensure we remain a strong, prosperous and united society.
Our plan for Australia will: 1.Create 1.25 million more jobs over the next five years.
2.Maintain budget surpluses and pay down debt.
3.Deliver tax relief for families and small businesses.
4.Keep Australians safe and our borders secure and
5.Guarantee increased funding for schools, hospitals, medicines and roads that you and your family rely on, already at record levels.
All without increasing taxes.
The Morrison Government will continue to celebrate our nation’s unique multicultural heritage while strengthening our economy,
maintaining social cohesion and securing our future.
Our plan will:Reward hard work and the enterprise of migrant families and businesses.
Deliver better government services to people from culturally diverse backgrounds.
Build social cohesion with practical measures that help new migrants and people from culturally diverse backgrounds to engage in the workforce and the community.
Open up new opportunities for migrants in regional Australia.
Maintain programs to assist migrants and multicultural communities to prosper and succeed in Australia.
A re-elected Morrison Government will invest an additional $5 million in a dedicated Accelerator Support Program to assist first generation migrants looking to develop a start-up business.
New grants will support those organisations best placed to deliver targeted business education,
incubation and mentoring to people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds.
A re-elected Morrison Government will invest $10 million to create a dedicated network of Aged Care System Navigators to assist people from CALD backgrounds and their families in navigating the aged care system.
The Navigators will assist these families to understand options and make the right decisions when it comes to finding alternative accommodation options, securing residential care or Home Care Packages, understanding the financial implications and completing the paperwork.
Our Plan
Australia is the most successful multicultural society in the world, uniting a multitude of cultures, beliefs and traditions.
Twenty-nine per cent of Australians were born overseas, while half of our population were either born overseas or have a parent born overseas.
Our migrant heritage is an enduring source of strength, prosperity and cultural vibrancy.
Coalition Governments have contributed to our multicultural success over many decades.
The Morrison Government will continue to celebrate our multicultural achievement while preserving our economic strength,
social cohesion
and security.
We believe in equal opportunity in a fair and compassionate society irrespective of someone’s race, religion or ethnic background.
We will defend Australia’s democratic freedoms and its longstanding commitment to tolerance and the rule of law.
A re-elected Morrison Government will ensure Australia remains a cohesive and prosperous society where those who have a go get a fair go.
Rewarding hard work and the enterprise of migrant families and businesses
Our plan for lower taxes will reduce taxes on low- and middle-income earners by up to $1,080 for single earners or up to $2,160 for dual income families.
We are also reducing tax thresholds further, and reducing the 32.5 per cent tax rate to 30 percent as part of the largest tax reform in a generation.
Under our plan, 94 per cent of taxpayers are projected to face a marginal tax rate of 30 per cent or less in 2024-25.
We are delivering lower taxes for small, medium and family businesses so business owners can reinvest in their business
and create more jobs.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics estimates that one in three owners of small businesses were born overseas.
Migrant businesses employ more than 1.4 million Australians and make a huge contribution to our economy.
Our plan for small business will enable migrant businesses to expand
and create even more jobs.
Our tax plan benefits around 3.3 million small, medium and family businesses and their 7 million employees.
We have already lowered the tax rate from 30 per cent to 27.5 per cent and this will be cut further to 25 per cent by 2021-22.
We are also helping small, medium-sized and family businesses invest and grow through increasing the instant asset write-off from $25,000 to $30,000, with around 3.4 million small and medium businesses employing some 7.7 million workers now eligible.
Our other initiatives to back small business include better access to finance, red tape relief, helping small business cash flow by ensuring they get paid on time and supporting our small businesses to go digital.
As part of our big plan for small business, a re-elected Morrison Government will invest an additional $5 million in a dedicated Accelerator Support Program to assist first generation migrants looking to develop a start-up business.
New grants will support those organisations best placed to deliver targeted business education, incubation and mentoring to people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds.
Delivering better government services for people from culturally diverse backgrounds
The Morrison Government is working to ensure government programs and services are accessible to all eligible Australians and deliver fair outcomes for them regardless of their cultural and linguistic backgrounds.
We have guaranteed increased funding for schools, hospitals and medicines – commitments that benefit all Australians.
Nothing could be more important to keeping Australians together than universal access to world-class health care.
The Morrison Government’s plan for a stronger economy means we can continue to make record investments in Medicare, hospitals, new medicines and medical research.
We are supporting communities affected by specific health and medical needs including $3.9 million for tailored mental health support for Australians from multicultural backgrounds.
Our multicultural communities recognise the value of a good education and the opportunities it unlocks.
The Morrison Government’s strong commitment to choice means parents from CALD backgrounds have more options when it comes to giving their children the best possible start to life aligned with their values and beliefs.
We are delivering record funding for students attending state government, independent and Catholic schools, as well as early learning and child care.
Our investment of an extra $37.6 billion in schools over the next decade will ensure funding per student increases, on average, by around 62 per cent through to 2029.
We are keeping all Australians safe through new investments such as our Safer Communities Fund and our plan to reduce violence against women and children.
As part of our $328 million plan to tackle domestic violence we are improving accessibility to 1800RESPECT for people from vulnerable and diverse cohorts, including from CALD backgrounds, to ensure they have access to high quality and culturally appropriate counselling and support.
We recognise that migrant communities can face particular challenges in understanding the full range of government services and the options presented.
An area like aged care is a good example.
We know that people from CALD backgrounds are less likely to utilise residential aged care services due to language barriers faced in accessing and engaging with services.
A 2018 review of the aged care system found people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds faced greater challenges than the rest of the population when navigating the referral to services and in rating aspects of the aged care services received.
In February 2019, the Morrison Government released Australia’s first Aged Care Diversity Action Plan to support older CALD Australians to overcome barriers they may face in accessing aged care services.
A re-elected Morrison Government will invest $10 million to create a dedicated network of Aged Care System Navigators to assist people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and their families to get the services they need.
The network will comprise on-line and mobile information hubs, community hubs and one-on-one support from specialist workers and volunteers to streamline and simplify aged care service access.
These navigators will assist senior Australians and their families from CALD backgrounds to get the best outcomes from the aged care system.
They will assist older Australians and their families in understanding options and making the right decisions when it comes to:Finding alternative accommodation options
Securing residential care or Home Care Packages
Understanding the financial implications
Completing the paperwork.
Building social cohesion and community engagement
The Morrison Government is working with diverse communities to ensure Australia remains a safe and socially cohesive nation where people have a strong sense of identity, participate in our economy and are committed to Australian values.
Our plan to keep Australians together includes practical programs that build social cohesion by connecting diverse communities to Australian society and to the workforce.
Settlement programs support migrants to become self-reliant and active members of the Australian community.
For example, humanitarian migrants and other eligible migrants receive early, tailored and intensive settlement support in the first five years of their arrival in Australia.
Government settlement services assist these migrants with employment, education and training, housing, health, legal and services.
As well as increasing support for migrants to become established and integrated in their communities, we are acting across a broad front to reduce the factors that lead to social isolation.
We are supporting grassroots initiatives that foster belonging and break down barriers to social and economic participation.
With a $71 million investment over four years, we are:Expanding programs to help new arrivals settle and integrate into Australia through the National Community Hubs Program and a new round of Fostering Integration Grants.
Building interfaith and intercultural understanding in classrooms, cultural institutions and through community-driven programs.
Helping young people identify, understand and counter online hate.
Funding sporting initiatives based on the unique role sport plays in promoting social inclusion.
Providing $10 million to establish the Community Language Schools Multicultural Grants Program to provide new funding to help young Australians learn another language and connect people to new cultures.
Opening up new opportunities for migrants in regional Australia
The Morrison Government will maintain a responsible and generous migration program as part of our comprehensive population strategy.
Our plan will ease the pressure on the big capital cities while supporting the growth of those smaller cities and regions that want more people.
Australia’s migration arrangements, which focus on young, skilled migrants, have contributed enormously to our economic prosperity.
Without migration, growth in Australia’s workforce would slow dramatically and, in the longer term, would even shrink.
While permanent migration, and particularly skilled migration, has contributed to Australia’s economic success, temporary migration has also made a large contribution to our economy.
In 2017-18, for example, international students in Australia added $32.4 billion to the economy and tourism $21.6 billion, making these our third and fifth largest export industries.
The focus of the migration program will remain firmly on attracting skilled migrants to our shores who will help alleviate the impact of the ageing of Australia’s population,
fill labour and skills shortages,
and add to our diverse society.
Our strategy enhances the migration program’s focus on skills, with the number of Employer Sponsored skilled visas increasing from 35,528 grants in 2017-18 to 39,000 places in 2019-20.
Opportunities will, of course, remain for family and humanitarian migration.
There is no change to the Family stream of the program, with 47,732 places available in 2019-20.
Migration flows have tended to concentrate in our three largest cities.
At the same time, many communities in regional Australia are keen to attract a higher share of our migration intake, with an estimated 60,000 job vacancies in regional Australia today.
By encouraging them to settle and study in regional areas, the Morrison Government is opening up new horizons and opportunities for migrants in regional Australia.
Under our integrated population strategy, we will introduce two new provisional visas to encourage more migrants to settle and remain in regional areas.
These visas will enable skilled migrants to settle in and contribute to regional communities with a pathway to permanent residency at the end of a three year period.
We will set aside 23,000 places for these visas in 2019-20 – up from 8,534 visa grants in 2017-18 for people required to live in regional Australia.
The changes will mean more migrants will stay in regional Australia easing the pressure off our congested cities.
Under the two new regional categories, visas will be priority processed.
Employers who want to nominate migrants for positions in their businesses where Australia are not available will have access to a larger pool of occupations compared to those located in our major cities.
To attract Australian and international students to study in regional centres, we will also provide $93.7 million over four years from 2019-20 for scholarships for domestic and international students under a new Destination Australia program.
Changes will also be made to provide an additional one year Temporary Graduate visa for international students who have completed their studies at a regional campus of a university to ensure they can continue to live and work in regional Australia for longer.
We will also maintain programs to assist migrants and multicultural communities to prosper and succeed in Australia.
The Morrison Government provides a settlement framework to help new migrants integrate into Australian life that is widely considered best practice.
New arrivals, particularly through Australia's refugee and humanitarian program, benefit from specialised support,
including help learning English and gaining necessary education or employment skills.
The Morrison Government takes a pragmatic and responsive approach to elements of the migration program.
For example, we have implemented tailored aged care labour agreements to support migrant communities.
These changes allow aged care providers to hire overseas workers with specialised skills that will support older Australians from multicultural backgrounds.
We have has also made changes to support Australia’s religious communities through the minister of religion labour agreement making it easier for religious institutions to sponsor overseas workers, where Australians are not available.
The Coalition Government has delivered on its commitment to introduce a family reunion visa, with sponsorship applications for the new Temporary Sponsored Parent Visa now open to migrant families wanting their parents to come to Australia for up to 10 years.
The Choice
The Morrison Government has a plan to keep our economy strong, keep Australians safe and keep Australians together.
Labor has a plan for hundreds of billions of dollars in higher taxes.
This would slow the economy,
deny hardworking Australians tax relief and weigh down small businesses looking to invest
and create jobs.
A successful migration program depends on public confidence.
Labor has a failed record on immigration.
Public confidence in our immigration system nose-dived as Labor lost control of our borders.
It was left to the Coalition to take the difficult but necessary decisions to regain control of our borders and restore the integrity of our migration program.
Labor mismanaged and misused the 457 Visa program.
It was left to the Coalition to end the mismanagement and put in place a new temporary skill shortage visa that strengthens the integrity and quality of the employer-sponsored skilled migration program.
COST
The Coalition will invest an additional $15 million to assist migrants and multicultural communities
Our Plan to Back Small Business
Key Points
Small businesses are the beating heart of the Australian economy.
When small businesses are healthy, all Australians are better off.
It means more jobs,
more choice, better living standards
and more vibrant and connected communities.
When you work hard, build your business and invest in your community, you are having a go.
And you will get a go under the Morrison Government.
That’s why we are backing small business owners to invest,
employ more workers
and grow their business.
We will grow small businesses by expanding their access to finance.
We will make it easier for them to employ even more Australians.
We will lower taxes for small, medium and family businesses.
We will ensure they have the skills they need for today and tomorrow.
We will ensure they get a fair go and are paid on time
We will lift the red tape and paperwork burden.
We will build modern transport infrastructure.
We will build modern transport infrastructure.
We will give small business access to billions of global customers.
We will ensure they have affordable, reliable and sustainable energy.
We will help them seize the opportunities of the digital economy.
We will support their mental health and wellbeing.
We will support tens of thousands of Australian women through our female entrepreneurs programs and help kick-start migrant businesses through the accelerator support program.
A re-elected Morrison Government will:Support the creation of another quarter of a million small businesses over the next five years.
Invest $100 million to establish the Australian Business Growth Fund to enhance equity financing to small businesses, complementing the Australian Business Securitisation Fund.
By keeping the economy strong,
the Morrison Government is providing the settings and opportunity for business to do what it does best.
On the other hand, Labor do not believe in enterprise and aspiration.
In opposition, Labor voted many times for higher taxes for small business.
If elected, Labor will raise taxes on family businesses,
condone union thuggery,
impose unsustainable costs on small business through rigid workplace policies
and hit small businesses hardest with their reckless emissions reduction plan.
Our Plan
Backing small businesses is and always will be at the centre of the Morrison Government’s plan for a stronger economy.
Small and medium businesses make up over half of our economy and employ two-thirds of our workforce.
They donate their time, money, goods and services to build their local community.
Acknowledging the important role small business plays in our economy and community we have developed a comprehensive plan to back small and family businesses across Australia.
The Morrison Government’s plan is making it easier for aspiring Australians to start a small business and or existing small businesses to expand.
Since our election in 2013, the Liberal Nationals Government has revitalised the small business sector.
More than 230,000 new small businesses have opened their doors,
creating hundreds of thousands of new jobs.
We are committed to small business creation
– because when small businesses are created jobs are created.
That is why a re-elected Morrison Government will support the creation of another quarter of a million small businesses over the next five years.
Growing small businesses by expanding their access to finance
The Morrison Government will significantly enhance access to funds for small business across Australia.
We understand that small businesses find it difficult to obtain finance other than on a secured basis.
And that small businesses that have already obtained secured finance but wish to continue to grow also find it difficult.
With access to finance a critical issue, the new $2 billion Australian Business Securitisation Fund will start on July 1 this year.
This fund increases small business access to competitive finance by providing more funding for small banks and non-bank lenders.
We also know that access to debt financing is not the only constraint to small business growth.
Many small and family businesses find it difficult to attract passive equity investment to enable them to grow without taking on additional debt or giving up control of their business.
A re-elected Morrison Government will establish the Australian Business Growth Fund by providing $100 million in funding and partnering with financial institutions to enhance equity financing to small businesses.
The Fund will aim to expand to $1 billion as it matures.
Both of these Funds are in addition to the reforms that took effect last year which allow businesses to raise capital through crowdfunding.
The Australian Business Growth Fund
A re-elected Morrison Government will establish the Australian Business Growth Fund by providing $100 million in funding.
Partnering with financial institutions the aim is for the Growth Fund to expand to $1 billion as it matures.
It is expected to back 30-50 businesses each year with annual turnovers between $2 million and $50 million.
The Growth Fund will significantly enhance small and family businesses’ ability to access funding, filling a gap in the market that is preventing them from reaching their full potential.
Many small and family businesses find it difficult to attract passive equity investment to enable them to grow without taking on additional debt or giving up control of their business.
The Reserve Bank of Australia has acknowledged that “it’s not the absence of entrepreneurial spirit, it’s the absence of entrepreneurial finance that’s been the main factor holding that part [small business] of the economy back”.
The Growth Fund will provide patient long-term capital, enabling small businesses to grow while the owners retain control of their business.
The Growth Fund is modelled on similar vehicles in the UK and Canada.
Since 2011, the UK equivalent has invested $2.7 billion into small businesses in a range of sectors across the economy.
It will operate commercially and independent of Government.
An independent board and management team will run the Growth Fund.
Investment decisions will be made by professional managers independent of Government and performance will be assessed on a fully commercial basis according to private sector funding models.
Small businesses that receive equity funding will also be provided with mentoring, coaching and access to a talent pool of expert staff to maximise the benefits of the patient capital investment.
The Small Business Ombudsman has also called on Government to ”fast-track the establishment of the Australian Business Growth Fund to address this long-term funding gap.”
COSBOA have also provided their support for the fund: “All in all, the ABSF and the ABGF are outstanding responses to the decade long challenges of SME financing in Australia.
Once implemented, they will enable small business owners to invest in growth with consequent benefits for Australia’s future economic prosperity and employment growth.”
Lowering taxes for small, medium and family businesses
Lower taxes mean more money to reinvest into the business
and create more jobs for Australians.
The Morrison Government has already provided lower taxes to around 3.4 million small, medium and family businesses employing over 7 million workers.
We have fast-tracked small and medium businesses moving to a lower corporate tax rate: reducing the rate from 30 per cent to 27.5 per cent.
It will be cut further to 25 per cent by 2021-22 – five years earlier than previously planned.
Fast-tracking these lower taxes will benefit around 970,000 small and medium companies that employ over 5 million workers.
We will ensure that unincorporated small businesses receive comparable treatment through an increase in their small business discount.
This will benefit around 2.4 million businesses employing 1.9 million workers.
Incentivising investment
The Morrison Government is helping small and medium businesses invest and grow through increasing and expanding the instant asset write-off.
It has been increased from $25,000 to $30,000 and can be used every time an asset under that amount is bought: be it a new fridge or grill for a café, new plumber’s tools or a new van for a courier.
The incentive has been expanded to medium businesses with a turnover up to $50 million.
This will benefit an extra 22,000 businesses employing around 1.7 million workers.
All up, around 3.4 million small and medium businesses employing around 7.7 million workers are eligible.
Providing the skills needed for today and tomorrow
The Morrison Government is committed to delivering a vocational education and training system that will deliver the skilled workers
needed by Australia’s small businesses to help them grow and prosper.
The $525 million Delivering Skills for Today and Tomorrow package will strengthen the VET system
and provide small business with support to take on more apprentices in areas of skills shortage.
The package includes up to 80,000 new apprenticeships in industries with skills shortages through a doubling of employer incentive payments to $8,000.
The new apprentices – including bakers, bricklayers, plasterers, hairdressers, plumbers and carpenters – will also receive a $2,000 incentive payment.
Levelling the playing field and ensuring a fair go
The Morrison Government has put in place a range of initiatives to ensure small business gets a fair go when dealing with larger businesses and the financial sector.
These include:Reforms to competition policy (Section 46) to prevent big businesses abusing their market power.
New unfair contract legislation to protect small business.
Free, fast and binding dispute resolution under the new Australian Financial Complaints Authority.
Stronger enforcement to combat illegal phoenixing activities.
An advocacy voice in the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman.
We are also ensuring easier, cheaper and quicker resolution of Australian Tax Office disputes.
Ensuring small businesses get paid on time
The Morrison Government is ensuring small businesses get paid on time.
We are setting the example, with 97 per cent of Commonwealth agency bills under $1 million paid within 30 days. From July 2019 this will reduce to 20 days.
Large businesses tendering for government contracts will be required to match our 20-day policy.
We are ensuring small businesses are not used as a bank by requiring large businesses with a turnover of over $100 million and government agencies to publish their payment information.
Lifting the red tape and paperwork burden
The Morrison Government wants small business people to spend more time growing their businesses and less time dealing with paperwork and red tape.
To make life easier, the Business Activity Statement has been simplified for 2.7 million small businesses, ASIC financial reporting thresholds have been doubled (reducing the burden on 2,200 companies) and the regulatory framework for employee share schemes has been simplified.
The Government has also provided $300 million to the states and territories to help them reduce their red tape on small business.
Investing in modern transport infrastructure
The Morrison Government is investing a record $100 billion in transport infrastructure to reduce congestion, keep our roads safe, connect people to jobs and deliver our goods to market.
Small business productivity will be bolstered with owners and their employees getting to work faster and more efficient supply chains sending products to customers more quickly.
Boosting our small business exporters
The Morrison Government wants our small businesses to capitalise on billions of global customers.
We have delivered trade agreements with China, Japan and Korea.
We have signed the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations and agreements with Indonesia, Peru and Hong Kong.
Australian exporters will also benefit from the Trans-Pacific Partnership between 11 major regional economies worth $13.8 trillion.
We are boosting our Export Market Development Grants scheme by $60 million so small businesses can harness further international opportunities.
And we have invested $20 million in Small and Medium Enterprise Export Hubs to help small businesses work together to access export markets and global supply chains.
Lowering energy costs
The Morrison Government is committed to lowering power prices while keeping the lights on.
We are providing $50 million in grants to eligible businesses and community organisations, helping them to save energy by either installing new equipment or by reviewing and improving their energy management – all contributing to lower power bills.
Eligible small businesses will be able to claim grants of up to $20,000 with high energy using businesses up to $25,000.
We are also delivering tailored advice to help small businesses find the best energy deal and identify opportunities for them to use energy more efficiently through the Business Energy Advice program.
Seizing the opportunities of the digital economy
The digital economy presents opportunities and challenges for small business.
Through the Small Business Digital Champions project, the Morrison Government is helping small businesses to learn the skills and build confidence to embrace digital opportunities.
Through the Empowering Business to Go Digital program, we are providing up to $3 million in matched funding to support the establishment of an NGO to build and enhance small business digital capacity.
We’re supporting online safety with the $10 million Small Business Cyber Security program.
Eligible small businesses can apply for grants of up to $2,100 for cyber security safety checks.
Supporting mental health and wellbeing
We understand the stresses involved in operating a small business – the responsibility for your family’s prosperity, the income and welfare of your employees and just staying on top of everything.
The Morrison Government is committed to improving access to mental health services for small business by partnering with grassroots organisation Everymind to deliver evidence-based prevention and intervention.
We have also provided $11.5 million for the National Mental Health workplace initiative to assist businesses to create healthy workplaces.
Harnessing the entrepreneurship of Australian women
The Morrison Government is determined to increase the number of female business leaders.
We are supporting 55,000 young women to become entrepreneurs through the Future Female Entrepreneurs Program, boosting digital skills and entrepreneurship and providing mentorship to the businesswomen of the future.
The Boosting Female Founders fund also provides access to early stage capital and entrepreneurial support to launch businesses of high-growth potential.
Harnessing the entrepreneurship of migrants
The Morrison Government understands the contribution of small business owners who were born overseas - with 1 in 3 owners born overseas according to the ABS.
To support more migrant businesses, a re-elected Morrison Government will invest an additional $5 million into the Accelerator Support program to assist migrants to start their own business.
This will deliver business education, incubation and mentoring to people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
The Choice
The choice at this election is clear.
Labor do not believe in enterprise and aspiration.
In opposition, Labor voted repeatedly for higher taxes on small business.
If elected, Labor will raise taxes on family businesses,
condone union thuggery,
impose unsustainable costs on small business through rigid workplace relations policies and hit small businesses hardest with their emissions reduction plan.
Labor’s reckless policies will hit small business directly and hardest as they will also feel the flow-on effects of a weaker economy.
Labor’s plan for higher taxes
The Morrison Government has a clear plan to lower taxes for small business.
In contrast, Labor has a plan to impose $387 billion of higher taxes – each and every one of which are bad for business.
A Shorten Labor government would be the highest taxing government in Australia’s history.
Labor’s plan for higher taxes will cost Australian small businesses twice.
First, they will be directly hit as the cost of doing business increases.
Second, a Shorten Labor Government will weaken our economy and make it a harder environment for small business to operate in.
Within a decade, Labor’s tax hit will equate to an extra yearly household tax bill of $5,400.
That is $5,400 less to spend at local businesses and $5,400 less going back into the community.
Labor’s $27 billion family business tax is the most destructive of all the taxes on small business.
Bill Shorten wants small family businesses taxed at the same rate as large multinational companies – 300,000 small family businesses that use trusts for asset protection, estate planning and cash flow.
Labor’s collapse of the skills sector
The Morrison Government has a clear plan to revitalise the skills sector, supporting employers with a range of incentives that will be streamlined to make them easier to navigate.
Labor cannot be trusted when it comes to VET and skills.
Labor’s failed VET FEE HELP scheme left thousands of students with debts and no qualifications.
From 2011-13 Labor cut employer incentives to businesses employing apprentices a total of nine times at a cost of $1.2 billion.
While Bill Shorten was Employment Minister, the number of apprentices and trainees collapsed by 22 per cent or 110,000 – the biggest annual decline ever.
The previous Labor Government cut funding for skills and failed to commit funding to the National Partnership Agreement with the states.
Labor’s plan is to redirect funding away from private training organisations where the majority of VET students study, jeopardising student outcomes and putting jobs at risk.
Labor’s failure to protect small business and promote competition
The Liberal National Government fought hard to legislate reforms to competition policy (Section 46) to prevent big business abusing their market power.
Labor did not support a level playing field and opposed these reforms, preferring to back big businesses and big unions over the interests of small business and consumers.
Bill Shorten wanted to leave the ACCC powerless when it came to protecting small business.
Labor’s plan to reduce market access and re-write existing trade deals
The Morrison Government has delivered free trade agreements (FTAs) that have brought direct benefits to many small businesses.
Labor did not start and finish one free trade agreement when last in government.
Their new policy platform will make it even more difficult for a Shorten Labor Government to secure an FTA.
Labor has committed to renegotiating the existing trade agreements that Australian small and family businesses rely on.
A Labor Government would throw thousands of these businesses into an uncertain trading environment by opening the agreements for renegotiation.
And Labor has not released any details of which markets and tariff arrangements they’re prepared to negotiate away.
The needs of Australian exporters to access new markets will be traded off for union demands to reopen all existing agreements – placing small businesses at risk and trashing Australia’s reputation for honouring agreements.
Labor also ripped $100 million out of the Export Market Development Grants scheme which directly backs small businesses to capitalise on international opportunities.
Labor’s plan to increase energy costs
The Morrison Government has a clear plan to reduce power prices for small and family businesses, while Labor has a clear plan to increase energy costs.
During the last Labor Government, power prices doubled and went up each and every year.
Labor’s reckless emissions targets will drive up power prices once again,
cost jobs and reduce wages.
By 2030, Labor’s emissions policies will lower the average full-time wage by $9,000 in real terms, reduce the number of jobs by 336,000
and increase wholesale electricity prices by 58 per cent.
Labor’s car tax will increase the cost of vehicles by over $4,800 and mandate electric vehicles for half of all new car sales.
Seventeen of the top 20 vehicles sold in Australia don't have models which meet Labor’s new carbon standard.
Tradies and small businesses which need larger vehicles will be hardest hit by these disastrous new policies.
Cost
The Coalition is providing a $100 million equity investment to the Australian Business Growth Fund to help Australian small businesses grow.
Our Plan for the Northern Territory
Key Points
A safe, secure and prosperous Northern Territory depends on a strong and growing economy.
A strong economy allows us to deliver lower taxes for hard working Territorians, and to guarantee the high quality essential services the NT relies upon.
The NT needs strong economic leadership now more than ever.
While the rest of Australia is growing, the NT economy and finances have weakened after two years of mismanagement by the Gunner Labor Government.
The Morrison Government has provided $500 million in GST top-up funding to the NT.
This much needed cash injection is critical to delivering services for Territorians given the Gunner Government's mismanagement of the budget.
The Gunner Government’s poor record provides a taste of what the NT can expect if Labor is elected federally.
Only the Morrison Government will support the economic development of the NT,
its Indigenous communities and northern Australia more broadly.
Our record includes backing major infrastructure projects,
awarding Indigenous owned businesses more Commonwealth contracts,
lowering taxes for small businesses,
and opening up new industry,
A re-elected Morrison Government will work to build a stronger NT economy, allowing us to guarantee and improve essential services.
We will:Invest $20 billion over 20 years in Defence infrastructure and facilities providing opportunities for small to medium sized NT businesses to secure long term work
Invest in new infrastructure to grow the NT economy and improve road safety, including an additional $622 million for land transport infrastructure over the next decade, bringing our total investment to $2.4 billion.
Open up the Beetaloo Basin for gas exploration and development, delivering more jobs for the NT
and more reliable and affordable gas supply for Australia.
Boost tourism
and jobs by investing up to $216 million to upgrade Kakadu National Park and remediate Jabiru.
Tackling high youth unemployment with an industry training hub in Alice Springs.
Deliver Territorians the largest personal income tax relief since the Howard Government, with tax relief of up to $1,080 for single income families earning up to $126,000.
For a dual income family that’s up to $2,160 in families’ pockets.
Back small and family businesses, with lower taxes and an increase in the instant asset tax write-off to $30,000 now expanded to medium-sized businesses.
Continue to increase funding for NT healthcare, with a $95.4 million NT Health Plan to strengthen the health system
Deliver safer and more secure NT communities including investing in crime prevention like CCTV cameras and security systems.
Support economic development, education and services in Indigenous communities including a new $40 million Indigenous tourism initiative, and introducing a target of 3 per cent of the value of Commonwealth contracts to be awarded to Indigenous businesses within a decade.
Continue to roll-out the Darwin City Deal and Barkly Regional Deal.
Support NT veterans and their families with a Veterans’ Wellbeing Centre and veterans employment programs.
The NT can’t afford Labor governments at both the Territory and federal levels.
Labor’s plans to impose billions of dollars of taxes and a 45 per cent emissions target will put Territory households under pressure
and jobs at risk.
Labor’s economic and budget mismanagement means the essential services the NT relies on – hospitals, schools and better roads – will be put at risk.
Our Record
The Coalition has demonstrated it will back the NT and make the right decisions to strengthen the economy,
deliver jobs
and guarantee essential services.
We have made significant investments in transport infrastructure to drive economic growth and improve safety.
We have committed over $1.5 billion to Northern Australia from the Roads of Strategic Importance Initiative, and committed $2.4 billion to projects in the NT since 2013.
This includes:$180 million to upgrade the Central Arnhem Road to a two lane sealed road.
$111 million towards the NT component of our $330 million to seal and widen sections of the Outback Way.
$100 million to upgrade the Buntine Highway to a two lane sealed road.
$77 million for the NT Roads package which will upgrade other key roads like Port Keats Road, Roper Highway and Santa Teresa Road.
Improvements to major roads in Darwin, including $70 million for the Tiger Brennan Drive duplication project and $29.5 million for the Garramilla (formerly Barneson) Boulevard.
$30 million for the Barkly Stock Route and Tablelands Highway under the Beef Roads Program.
Record funding for NT public hospitals, with funding more than doubling from $152 million in 2012-13 under Labor, to $306 million in 2019-20, and $15 million for a new PET scanner and cyclotron to improve cancer services.
Cheaper medicines with more than 2,000 new medicine listings on the PBS since we were elected in 2013, including life-saving drugs for cancers.
More funding for NT schools, with a total of $4.6 billion from 2018 to 2029, equivalent to a per student funding increase of 43.6 per cent.
More affordable child care with out-of-pocket costs for parents falling by 6.4 per cent in Darwin over the first six months of Coalition reforms.
More support for remote housing, with $550 million over five years
$21.6 billion for aged care in 2019-20 across Australia, including funding for an additional 10,000 home care packages nationally, and a Royal Commission into the sector.
We have also rolled out the NBN to over 99% of the NT,
backed Darwin as a centre for tropical medicine,
invested $4.8 million in the Darwin International Airport Freight and Training Hub, supported CSIRO to identify new areas for water and agricultural development and delivered over $500 million in GST top-up funding to the NT.
Indigenous economic development has been a priority.
We have delivered an Indigenous Business Sector Strategy and set targets for government contracts which have lifted the number of Indigenous businesses winning Commonwealth contracts from 30 in 2012-13 to over 1400 today, including over 280 in the NT alone.
More Indigenous organisations than ever before are delivering services on behalf of the Commonwealth and are employing more local people who are closer to the communities they serve.
Our strong economic and budget management means we have been able to deliver:Record funding for NT public hospitals, with funding more than doubling from $152 million in 2012-13 under Labor, to $306 million in 2019-20, and $15 million for a new PET scanner and cyclotron to improve cancer services.
Cheaper medicines with more than 2,000 new medicine listings on the PBS since we were elected in 2013, including life-saving drugs for cancers.
More funding for NT schools, with a total of $4.6 billion from 2018 to 2029, equivalent to a per student funding increase of 43.6 per cent.
More affordable child care with out-of-pocket costs for parents falling by 6.4 per cent in Darwin over the first six months of Coalition reforms.
More support for remote housing, with $550 million over five years
$21.6 billion for aged care in 2019-20 across Australia, including funding for an additional 10,000 home care packages nationally, and a Royal Commission into the sector.
A strong economy has allowed us to invest safety in the Territory.
The Government has maintained strong borders – we stopped the boats, stopped the deaths at sea, removed children from immigration detention, and have cancelled the visas of thousands of criminals across the country, including 58 in the NT.
Through the NT Remote Aboriginal Investment National Partnership, the Commonwealth is providing over $975 million over the period 2015-2022, including supporting the health and safety of individuals, children and families.
Around $3 million has also been invested under the Safer Communities Fund for crime prevention in NT communities, including CCTV cameras, improved lighting and other infrastructure.
Our Plan
Investing in NT Defence infrastructure and facilities
The NT is strategically important to the defence of our nation and protection of our borders, which is why we will invest $20 billion in Defence infrastructure and facilities in the NT over the period from 2016 to 2036.
Defence spending under the Morrison Government will increase to around 10 per cent of the Territory’s Gross State Product in coming years.
This funding will go towards:upgrades to Larrakeyah Barracks and HMAS Coonawarra to support the future maritime force, including larger offshore patrol vessels
upgrades to RAAF Bases Darwin and Tindal to accommodate the new F-35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters
facilities, infrastructure and airfield works at RAAF Base Tindal to support P8-A Poseidon aircraft and MQ-4C Triton unmanned aircraft
the construction of a Norther Explosive Ordnance storage facility
purpose-built facilities at the Delamere Air Weapons Range to support training on the EA-18G Growler electronic attack aircraft
upgrades to the Bradshaw Field Training Area and Robertson Barracks.
The Morrison Government will ensure this investment offers businesses and tradies in the NT opportunities to secure additional long-term work and create more jobs by introducing a Local Industry Capability Plan requirement for all significant Defence infrastructure projects, following our successful pilot projects.
All tenderers for construction services valued at $7.5 million or more will be required to develop a Local Industry Capability Plan, outlining how local industry has been engaged, and the work it will undertake.
This means we will roll out Local Industry Capability Plans for Stage 6 of the RAAF Base Tindal Redevelopment and RAAF Base Tindal Airfields Works projects, both commencing in early 2020.
The construction of a new health centre at Larrakeyah Barracks and the refurbishment of the existing health care centre at Robertson Barracks will result in around 90 per cent of the workforce coming from the Darwin region and will create up to 55 sub-contract packages, with a total value of $10.4 million.
Indigenous businesses will also benefit including through the NT component of the Land Force Mortar Replacement projects.
In addition to these infrastructure investments, the Coalition’s acquisition of new and enhanced platforms, like our larger Arafura class Offshore Patrol Vessels, and the F 35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter,
also offer Territorian businesses opportunities to secure capability sustainment work.
Existing sustainment work on the current Armidale class patrol boats alone has planned expenditure of $116 million across northern Australia in 2019-20.
Our expanded international engagement also means more visiting defence forces.
This creates a boon for local Territory businesses who support those visits.
The US Force Posture Initiatives, particularly the Marine Force Rotation – Darwin, creates opportunities for local businesses to support the visiting US forces.
Record funding for transport infrastructure
A stronger NT economy starts with investing more in infrastructure to unlock economic potential and ensure Territorians get to their destinations quickly and safely.
In the 2019-20 Budget, we locked in a further $622 million over the next decade for land transport infrastructure in the NT, bringing our total investment to $2.2 billion.
New projects include:$492 million for projects from the Roads of Strategic Importance initiative, including:
$162 million for the Alice Springs to Darwin corridor
$160 million for the Alice Springs to Halls Creek (WA) corridor
$70 million for the NT component of our $270 million investment in the Tennant Creek to Townsville corridor upgrade.
$60 million for the Adelaide River to Wadeye corridor upgrade.
$40 million for the NT component of our $110 million investment in the Newman to Katherine corridor upgrade.
$70 million for Kakadu National Park road upgrades
$60 million for Tiwi Island road upgrades
We will also ensure the NT gets its fair share of our $2.2 billion National Road Safety Package, which includes additional funding of $1.1 billion for the Roads to Recovery Program; $550 million for the Black Spots Program; $275 million for the Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program; and $275 million for bridges renewal funding.
The NT will also benefit from our new $220 million Stronger Regional Digital Connectivity Package, building on the 32 mobile blackspot base stations we have funded in the NT to date.
Opening up the Beetaloo Basin
The Beetaloo Basin is one of the most prospective new gas reserves in Australia.
It is a potential game-changer for the Australian gas market and the NT economy, with the NT’s independent inquiry finding that even small-scale developments in the Beetaloo could create more than 6,500 full-time jobs.
The Morrison Government is investing $8.4 million to accelerate gas supplies from the NT to the east coast market.
This will support the opening of the Beetaloo Sub-basin for exploration and development, and improve the transparency, competiveness and long-term security of gas supply in Australia.
The funding will go towards environmental baseline work, a feasibility study on gas exploration areas, and an Aboriginal economic strategy to support the development of the Beetaloo.
With the Inpex project construction phase winding down, development of the Beetaloo Basin has the potential to provide more Territory jobs,
more Territory royalties,
and more funding for Territory services.
Securing tourism and jobs in Kakadu
Kakadu is one of Australia’s most important environmental and heritage assets.
It is a tourism icon and home to 60,000 years of living Indigenous culture.
The Morrison Government will invest up to $216 million to upgrade the World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park and help the township of Jabiru transition to a tourism-based economy.
This funding will restore the Territory’s place as one of Australia’s leading natural tourism locations, attracting more tourists from around Australia and the world, and boosting the Territory economy.
The funding will be front-loaded, with around $150 million (close to 70 per cent) to be delivered by 2022-23. //|The initiative includes:
Up to $70 million to upgrade roads to improve access to the park.
$51 million for tourism infrastructure and attractions, including upgrades to camp grounds, walking tracks and viewing platforms, improved signage, mobile and WiFi services.
Up to $60 million to support a world-class, Indigenous-led World Heritage Kakadu Visitor Centre in Jabiru.
$35 million to support remediation of Jabiru
Tackling high youth unemployment
The NT will benefit from the Morrison Government’s $525 million national skills package, including our $58 million investment in Industry Training Hubs and scholarships to skill young Australians for jobs of the future.
Alice Springs is one of ten locations of elevated youth unemployment across Australia that have been selected to host an Industry Training Hub, which will strengthen partnerships between local schools, employers and industries, and ensure that vocational education programs are tailored to meet local workforce needs and skills demands.
Youth unemployment in the Alice Springs region at 12.1 per cent is higher than the national average of 11.5 per cent.
Under the scholarship program, young people in training hub areas will be eligible to apply for a scholarship to undertake an eligible VET Approved Program of Study.
Across the nation, four hundred scholarships, valued at up to $17,500 each, will be made available from Certificate III to Advanced Diploma level.
Strengthening the NT health system
The Morrison Government’s health plan for the NT will improve lives, protect lives and save lives.
It builds on the record funding we have provided for NT public hospitals, record levels of bulk billing, $15 million for the new PET scanner and cyclotron, and more than 2000 new medicine listings subsidised through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.
Funding for NT public hospitals will triple from $152 million in 2012-13 under Labor to $467 million in 2024-25 (with $306 million in 2019-20) under a new hospitals agreement. We will also deliver a $95.4 million NT Health Plan to strengthen the NT’s health system, providing affordable and accessible health services for more Territorians, where and when they need them.
The Plan will deliver more doctors, more services and more critical health infrastructure, including:$25.7 million for the Alice Springs Hospital Ambulatory Centre
$18.7 million to extend the Remote Area Health Corps
$14 million for a new adult mental health centre in Darwin Hospital
$9 million for an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander diabetic foot complication program
$8.5 million for an enhanced capacity for testing and treating syphilis program
$7.5 million for a new MRI licence at the Darwin Hospital
$4.5 million to address urgent gaps in knowledge to address HTLV1 virus in Central Australian communities
$3.275 million for a staff accommodation block in Tennant Creek
$2.3 million for Katherine Hospital Consulting Rooms
$1.2 million for Red Dust to support young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with mental health issues in the NT to access the care that is right for them
$750,000 for point of care pathology testing infrastructure.
$4.1 billion to Indigenous health over the next four years.
$34 million specifically for Indigenous suicide prevention and mental health initiatives
Our $550 million Stronger Rural Health Strategy, which is delivering 3,000 additional doctors and more than 3,000 additional nurses and allied health professionals across Australia, including $84.1 million for the Royal Flying Doctor Service to provide dental care, mental health services and emergency aeromedical services.
Access to new treatment and clinical trials through the $100 million National Rural and Regional Clinical Trial Centre Program.
NT communities will also benefit from a range of other national initiatives including: Lower taxes for hard-working Territorians
The Morrison Government is lowering taxes for hard-working Territorians as part of our plan to deliver a stronger economy
and record job creation.
Our tax system must be fair for all Australians.
Our Personal Income Tax Plan delivers lower taxes for Territorians, ensuring they keep more of what they earn.
The enhanced plan will result in a better tax system, with greater reward for effort while ensuring top earners pay their fair share.
Around 100,000 lower and middle income earners in the NT will receive relief of up to $1,080 after they lodge their 2018-19 tax return.
That’s up to $2,160 for dual income families.
These benefits are then locked in for subsequent years.
A re-elected Morrison Government will also deliver long-term structural reform by lowering the 32.5 per cent tax rate to 30 per cent from 1 July 2024.
As a result of this plan, around 94 per cent of Australian taxpayers are projected to face a marginal tax rate of 30 per cent or less in 2024-25.
The Government’s strong fiscal management means that it can deliver surpluses while also rewarding hard-working Australians and easing cost of living pressures.
Supporting small and family businesses
Small and family businesses are at the centre of the Morrison Government’s economic plan for Australia and the NT.
They are the engine room of our economy, with the NT’s 19,000 small and medium-sized businesses employing around 62,000 workers.
When small businesses are healthy, all Australians are better off.
It means more jobs,
more choice, better living standards
and more vibrant and connected communities.
The Morrison Government knows some small businesses in the NT are going through hard times.
We want small businesses to prosper.
We want them to employ even more Australians.
The Morrison Government is pursuing a number of measures to strengthen small and medium businesses and the national economy.
We are reducing taxes on small businesses – the business tax rate for small and medium-sized companies has been reduced from 30 per cent to 27.5 per cent and will fall further to 25 per cent in 2021-22.
Unincorporated Territorian small businesses will have access to the Government’s increase to the unincorporated tax discount.
We have increased the instant asset write-off threshold to $30,000 until 30 June 2020.
We also expanded access to the instant asset write-off to include medium-sized businesses by increasing the annual turnover threshold from $10 million to $50 million.
These changes provide a much needed boost to agricultural, retail, tourism, hospitality and other small and medium businesses in the NT.
Small and family businesses in the NT can trust the Morrison Government to back them with other announced measures, including streamlining red tape and simplifying tax reporting; increasing access to finance;
and ensuring they get paid on time by government and big business.
Safer and more secure NT communities
Crime in the NT is still too high.
While there have been recent improvements in some areas, like assaults, other areas like property crimes, break-ins and theft have been increasing.
The Morrison Government is committed to support the safety and security of communities in the NT and will deliver a comprehensive suite of actions that will help keep people in the NT safe.
In addition to maintaining strong borders, cancelling visas of people who commit crimes,
and delivering funding for community safety in Indigenous communities, the NT will benefit from our national plans to:
Support local councils and community organisations to undertake crime prevention activities as well as protect schools, religious institutions and other sites from religious and racial intolerance through CCTV cameras, security lighting, alarm systems and other infrastructure.
We will earmark $4 million specifically through the NT under Round Five of the Safer Communities Fund.
Deliver a comprehensive drug strategy to address the supply, demand and harm caused by illicit drugs with a five-year investment of $337 million.
This includes $152 million to strengthen law enforcement efforts to disrupt and reduce the supply of illicit drugs including by targeting the threat posed by outlaw motorcycle gangs
Take action against domestic violence, with the largest ever Commonwealth investment of $328 million for prevention and frontline services to support the Fourth Action Plan of the National Plan to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children
Deliver a comprehensive plan to improve online safety, including funding a $10 million Online Safety Grants program to deliver practical online safety education and training projects, continuing to protect Australians, particularly kids online through our world-first e-safety Commissioner, and establishing an Online Safety Charter to set out expectations of social media companies.
Reducing energy costs
The Morrison Government will reduce energy costs for families and businesses across the NT.
The $50.4 million national Regional and Remote Communities Reliability Fund will support up to 50 off-grid and fringe-of-grid communities and businesses to investigate whether establishing a micro grid is cost-effective and whether existing off-grid capabilities can be upgraded with modern technology.
This will allow communities to improve their local transmission, install community-scale batteries to support existing generation (such as solar), or upgrade existing facilities such as old diesel generators.
Moving some remote customers to off-grid supply could save hundreds of millions of dollars in network costs and reduce bushfire risks, while delivering more reliable and affordable power.
The Morrison Government’s Energy Efficient Communities Program will provide $50 million through more than 2,500 grants to eligible businesses and community organisations across the country, helping them save energy and reduce their power bills by installing new equipment or reviewing and improving their energy management.
Eligible small businesses will be able to claim grants of up to $20,000 and high-energy using businesses up to $25,000.
While keeping the economy strong and returning the 2019-20 Budget to surplus, we are also providing $365 million for Energy Assistance Payments of $75 for singles and $125 for couples to eligible social security payment recipients to help with their next power bill and cost of living expenses.
Closing the gap and supporting Indigenous communities
The Liberal National government’s $5.2 billion Indigenous Advancement Strategy is helping to ensure Indigenous children get an education, assist adults into work, grow the Indigenous business sector and deliver safer and healthier communities.
But while there has been meaningful progress on many fronts, only two of the seven Closing the Gap targets are on track.
That is why a re-elected Morrison Government will follow through on its Closing the Gap refresh.
We have committed to share ownership of, and responsibility for, jointly agreed frameworks, targets and ongoing monitoring of a refreshed Closing the Gap Agenda, with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples at its heart.
This is a major step toward the genuine and mutually respectful formal partnership between governments and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians that will empower individuals and allow communities to thrive.
The Morrison Government will also:Boost Indigenous tourism, with $40 million over four years for tourism planning work with Indigenous communities and individuals interested in pursuing tourism opportunities.
Funding will also be available to support planning and investment at the start-up phase of an Indigenous tourism enterprise.
This will support more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people into work and see the growth of economic opportunities for Indigenous communities.
Support even more Indigenous businesses through government procurement building on our highly successful Indigenous Procurement Policy.
Commencing on 1 July 2019, the Commonwealth will introduce a new three per cent value target for all Commonwealth contracts to be awarded to Indigenous business within the next decade.
Invest $200 million in the Indigenous Youth Education Package to fund additional scholarship placements and give more Indigenous students the support and mentoring they need.
Encourage teachers to work in Very Remote Areas by helping them pay their Higher Education Loans.
For teachers working in a Very Remote Area, their HECS debt will be frozen, meaning they will not have one cent of interest added to their debt whilst they are working in a Very Remote Area.
For teachers who work for four years in a Very Remote Area, their HECS debt will be scrapped.
Continue to roll-out the $12 million a year Connected Beginnings program, which integrates early childhood, maternal and child health and family support services with schools in areas of high need and vulnerability.
Over time, our objective is to reduce the differences between Indigenous and non-Indigenous children when it comes to school readiness and educational outcomes.
Twelve projects are already underway, including in Alice Springs, where engagement with parents at Braitling Primary School is already improving as a result of the program.
Support local and regional decision making, increasing the involvement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians in the development of policies and the delivery of services that benefit Indigenous communities, with $7.3 million provided in the 2019-20 Budget.
City and regional deals
The Morrison Government will implement our transformative city deal for Darwin and the Barkly Regional Deal, delivering more liveable communities.
The $200 million Darwin City Deal, including $100 million from the Morrison Government, is a ten year plan to position Darwin as a vibrant and liveable tropical capital city, supported by a growing population and diverse economy.
The deal will revitalise Darwin’s city centre and support future growth, and includes:The creation of a new education and civic precinct on Cavenagh Street featuring a new Charles Darwin University campus, as well as retail, commercial and community spaces.
Construction of a new art gallery in State Square.
Transformation of public spaces in the CBD to create cooler, greener streetscapes
A new Urban Living Lab led by CSIRO which will test and evaluate improvements in Darwin’s liveability, sustainability and resilience.
A process to redevelop a key piece of Defence-owned land at Stokes Hill.
An 8.8 per cent Indigenous employment target and 3 per cent supplier-use target for City Deal projects, and $2 million to support the Larrakia Development Corporation.
The Barkly Regional Deal is Australia’s first ever Regional Deal, covering Tennant Creek and surrounding areas.
The deal will provide $78.4 million, with $45.4 million from the Commonwealth, to improve the productivity and liveability of the Barkly region, including:$15.9 million to increase housing supply and reduce overcrowding by building a visitor park and student boarding accommodation and entering into a private-public partnership for new social and affordable housing stock.
$15.4 million for the installation and operations of a new weather radar near Tennant Creek.
$10.1 million for economic development to stimulate private sector activity including developing an economic master plan, establishing a business hub and investing in local infrastructure.
$3.9 million to support local community leadership, reactivate sporting leagues, deliver mediation services and invest in community projects in remote areas and homelands.
Supporting veterans and their families in the Territory
The NT is home to over 5,000 defence personnel, many of whom are veterans, as well as many former ADF members who choose to make the Top End their home after their service ends.
As part of the Morrison Government’s plan to provide better services for our veterans, we will provide $5 million to support the establishment, enhancement or redevelopment of a Veterans’ Wellbeing Centre in the Darwin region.
This centre will support co location of veterans’ support services and allow for closer integration and coordinate of government and non-government support, including connections with local health services, community organisations, and advocacy and wellbeing support.
Further, the Morrison Government will support non-profit organisations Solider On and Team Rubicon with grants of $6 million and $3 million respectively to deliver innovative veterans employment programs, including in Darwin, to help veterans find meaningful civilian employment after their ADF service.
This will help veterans and the Top End community, as well as help retain highly-skilled personnel in the region.
The Choice
There is a lot at stake at this election.
And there is a clear choice.
A choice between a Government that is delivering a strong economy or a Labor Party that would weaken our economy.
A choice between a Government that is fixing the budget or a Labor Party that can’t manage money.
A choice between a Government that is easing the pressure on families by lowering taxes or a Labor Party that will put more strain on households by imposing $387 billion in new taxes on workers, retirees and small business.
A choice between a Government that can afford to pay for better infrastructure and services or a Labor Party that would max out Australia’s credit card.
A choice between a Government that has secured our borders and is keeping Australians safe or a Labor Party that has learned nothing from its border security failures.
The NT cannot afford Labor governments at both the federal and state levels.
As the people of the NT know too well, Labor can’t manage money and they can’t manage the economy.
When Labor can’t manage money, they come after yours.
The Gunner Labor Government is cutting $11.2 billion in spending over the decade through a series of austerity measures and went to Canberra seeking an emergency bailout.
This poor record provides a taste of what the NT can expect under a Shorten Labor Government.
Labor plans to hit Australians with $387 billion in big new taxes which will hurt the people of the NT:Labor’s retiree tax will punish older Australians in the NT who have worked hard and saved for retirement by abolishing tax refunds on share dividends.
In the NT, this will affect over 2600 individuals who have direct shareholdings and many more invested through self-managed super funds.
On average individuals with direct holdings lose almost $2,300 a year and self-managed super funds lose $12,000 a year.
Labor’s housing and investment taxes will end negative gearing as we know it, and increase capital gains tax by 50%.
If you own your own home it will be worth less, and if you rent you will pay more.
Labor would impose higher income tax by reversing the Government’s legislated income tax plan and the enhancements we announced in the 2019-20 Budget.
Our Plan will ensure 94% of taxpayers will pay no more than 30 cents in the dollar.
Labor's approach would leave over 71,000 people in the NT worse off.
Labor’s Family Business Tax would impose a minimum tax rate of 30% on the 1200 NT small businesses structured through discretionary trusts.
This is the same rate imposed on large multinational companies.
cost the economy $472 billion,
slash more than 336,000 jobs,
cut the average wage by over $9,000, and
increase wholesale electricity prices by more than 58%.
On top of this, Labor’s emissions targets will:
This is a cost that NT businesses and workers can’t afford.
Labor's car tax will also increase the cost of SUV's and utes by up to $5,000 and reduce choice of vehicles.
Labor also can’t be trusted with supporting NT businesses with long-term defence work.
Labor’s record when last in Government was that they slashed Defence spending.
Defence capability and infrastructure in the NT was particularly a victim of those cuts.
Last time in government, Labor closed down the live export trade.
Under the influence of the Greens, there is a big risk they would do it again.
In contrast, the Coalition has a plan for lower taxes so that you can keep more of the money that you earn.
We also have a fully costed $3.5 billion Climate Solutions Plan that will ensure we meet and beat our international targets without wrecking the economy, and we have a comprehensive plan to bring down energy prices.
There will only be one outcome for the NT under Labor – a weaker economy,
fewer jobs
and higher taxes.
If Labor can’t be trusted to run the economy and manage the budget, they can’t be trusted to invest in services the NT relies on, including health, education and roads.
Cost
The Coalition’s plan for a stronger Northern Territory will not place additional costs on the Budget.
The plan includes over $100 million in previously unannounced measures.
Our Plan to Respect and Support Veterans and their Families
Key Points
Australia is proud of our veterans – the men and women who signed up to the Australian Defence Force, prepared to put their lives on the line for our nation, our values, and our way of life.
We need to do more to respect and recognise our returned servicemen and women, including those who have been involved in the more recent chapters of our military history, such as the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.
If we ask men and women to risk all for our country, then it is beholden on our country to do everything we can for them.
The Liberal Nationals Government has a strong track record of delivering services and support for veterans and their families.
Our Government provides more than $11 billion a year to support around 280,000 veterans and their families, widows and children.
We will build on this record to ensure that their needs continue to be met for decades ahead.
A re-elected Morrison Government will:Ensure veterans and their families are cared for and supported through our record investments in mental health care and counselling for veterans and their families.
This will remain uncapped and demand driven.
Expand access to the DVA Gold Health Treatment Card from 1 July 2019 for members of the SEATO surgical and medical teams who served during the Vietnam War.
Invest $30 million in a network of Veterans’ Wellbeing Centres in partnership with ex-service organisations and state and territory Governments in Townsville, Darwin, Perth, Nowra, Adelaide and Wodonga.
Digitise all Second World War service records, expand the Saluting their Service grants program and work with the PNG Government to commemorate the bonds between Australia and PNG from the Second World War, particularly around the Kokoda Track, as part of the commemoration of the 75th Anniversary of the end of the Second World War.
Ensure veterans find jobs after their service by expanding the Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Program to invest $16.2 million into initiatives run by not-for-profit organisations that are helping veterans transition out of ADF service.
We will support programs run by SoldierOn, Team Rubicon and the RSL.
Exempt TPI veterans from the ‘treatment cycle’ requirement for exercise physiology and physiotherapy allied health services.
Expand access to the Defence Service Homes Insurance Scheme and the Defence Home Ownership Assistance Scheme for veterans after they’ve completed their service.
Recognising and remembering the service and sacrifice of our veterans and their families by rolling out our Australian Veterans’ Card and Lapel Pin as part of the Australian Veterans’ Covenant, ensuring veterans are recognised in our community.
Our Record
Since coming to Government, the Coalition has been implementing our 2013 Four Pillar Plan to support current and future veterans and their families:To recognise the unique nature of military service.
To retain a stand-alone Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA).
To tackle mental health challenges for veterans and their families.
To support veterans through strong advocacy and welfare services.
Our Government introduced fairer indexation for military superannuants, investing $1.4 billion for fairer indexation for the Defence Forces Retirement Benefits and Defence Force Retirement and Death Benefits schemes.
We’ve introduced free mental health care for anyone who has a single day of ADF service.
We’ve provided $16.1 million over four years to introduce a payment to help vulnerable veterans who are waiting on the outcome of a mental health claim.
We are delivering $2.1 million over four years for an annual health assessment for ex-serving ADF members for the first five years post-discharge.
We passed legislation to grant the DVA Gold Health Treatment Card from 1 July 2019 to members of the SEATO surgical and medical teams who served during the Vietnam War, finally recognising their brave service after nearly 50 years.
We commissioned a world first trial into the use of assistance dogs to support veterans with PTSD and ongoing financial support for the purchase of assistance dogs for veterans upon recommendation by a medical specialist.
Our Government has provided $6.7 million to develop the SoldierOn Fussell House facility, which will provide accommodation support to families of veterans accessing treatment at Concord Hospital.
We’ve helped families of veterans by extending eligibility for counselling services delivered through Open Arms to families and children of those who have served including partners and ex-partners.
We’ve provided more than $9.7 million to Kookaburra Kids to help them support children with a parent serving in the ADF or a veteran parent affected by mental illness.
The Liberal National Government has committed nearly $500 million to fund the biggest reform of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) in its 100-year history.
This will ensure the DVA meets the needs of veterans and their families for the next century.
We’ve developed the Australian Defence Veteran Covenant, in partnership with the ex-service community, to recognise the unique nature of military service and acknowledge and honour the service and sacrifice of our veterans.
As a lasting legacy to the Centenary of ANZAC, we’ve invested nearly $100 million in the award-winning Sir John Monash Centre in France and delivered the successful Centenary of Anzac commemorations.
Our Government committed $498 million over the next nine years to redevelop the Australian War Memorial.
This important project will allow the Memorial to display more of their collection and proudly tell the stories from recent years in Afghanistan, Iraq, the Solomon Islands and East Timor.
And we’ve introduced the Prime Minister’s Veterans Employment Program to promote the valuable skills and capabilities that the veteran community can bring to civilian employment.
Our Plan
A re-elected Morrison Government will continue to put veterans and their families first.
Our plan is focused on three key themes: improving veterans care and support, helping veterans live their best lives by finding jobs after their service and recognising and respecting the service and sacrifice of our veterans and their families.
Improving veterans care and support
The Morrison Government recognises the importance of access to exercise physiology and physiotherapy allied health services for Totally and Permanently Incapacitated (TPI) veterans whose conditions are often chronic and long-term.
The Morrison Government will invest $17 million to exempt TPI veterans from the new ‘Treatment Cycle’ requirements that are due to commence on 1 July 2019.
TPI veterans will continue to be able to access exercise physiology and physiotherapy allied health services under existing arrangements, which is an annual GP referral or an ongoing referral for chronic conditions.
To provide better service to our veterans, we are committing $30 million to the development of a network of Veterans’ Wellbeing Centres in partnership with ex-service organisations and state governments.
These centres will support co-location of veterans’ support services and allow for closer integration and coordination of government and non-government support, including connections with local health services, community organisations and advocacy and wellbeing support.
Where possible, investment in these centres will be focussed on enhancing or redeveloping existing facilities to meet the needs of veterans and their families.
The Centres will be established across Australia in areas with significant numbers of veterans and transitioning members by the relevant state government or ex-service organisation.
There will be:$5 million to support The Oasis Townsville.
$5 million to support the RSL WA to construct a new Veteran Central facility in Perth.
$5 million to support the creation of a veterans’ wellbeing centre at the revitalised Repat Hospital at Daw Park in Adelaide.
$15 million ($5 million each) to support the establishment, enhancement or redevelopment of centres in the Darwin, Nowra and Wodonga regions.
We will provide an additional $4 million to Open Arms – Veterans and Families Counselling to collaborate with the Returned and Services League to deliver a national program of mental health training to volunteers to recognise people at risk and offer intervention and support.
This measure will cost $6.2 million over four years.
We will provide $2.1 million to deliver a national program of comprehensive health checks to identify service-related illness, disease and injury associated with anti-malarial medication.
And we will extend the trial of provisional access to medical treatment by one year while the trail evaluation is being completed.
This provides access to DVA-funded treatment for common health conditions while claims are being processed, ensuring faster access to treatment and reducing the risk of further deterioration.
Helping veterans live their best lives and find jobs
We will provide $16.2 million over four years to support non-profit organisations to deliver tailored, innovative support to help veterans find meaningful civilian employment.
Initial grants have been approved for:Soldier On to deliver veteran employment services and education in Albury/Wodonga, Bendigo, Darwin, Launceston, Newcastle, Port Macquarie, Wagga Wagga and Western Sydney – $6 million.
Team Rubicon to establish its unique veterans’ employment program, which focuses on the developing the skillset and qualifications of veterans through volunteer disaster response, in Perth, Darwin, Adelaide, Canberra-Queanbeyan, Lismore, Hobart, Penrith and Gosford – $3 million.
State Branches of the Returned and Services League to deliver state based employment programs for veterans – $6 million.
Recognising and respecting service and sacrifice
The Morrison Government will implement the Australian Defence Veterans Covenant that has been developed in partnership with the ex-service community and commits to enshrining it in legislation.
To help the wider Australian community and businesses to recognise and support our veterans we will roll out our Australian Veterans’ Card and Lapel Pin.
Australian businesses will have the opportunity to offer holders of the Australian Veterans’ Card special discounts or offers, helping to recognise the service of veterans and lower their cost of living.
75th Anniversary of the End of the Second World War
Almost one million Australians served in the armed forces during the Second World War.
Of those on active service, over 27,000 were killed in action or died, over 23,000 were wounded and over 30,000 were taken prisoner of war.
Mainland Australia came under attack for the first time with hundreds killed – air raids on Darwin, Broome and across Northern Australia; midget submarine attacks on Sydney Harbour and the loss of the hospital ship Centaur off Brisbane without warning on 14 May 1943, in which over 260 people were lost.
The Morrison Government believes that it is important to appropriately commemorate the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War next year, so that we can remember and understand the service and sacrifice of those who came before us.
To do this, we will:Provide $10 million to the National Archives of Australia to finally digitise all 1,062,000 Second World War service records that are yet to be digitised (around 80 per cent) to enable all Australians to discover the as yet untold stories of their relatives and how they defended our nation during times of war.
The digitised records will be freely available to all Australians wherever they live and will provide a comprehensive and authoritative source of information for students, journalists, authors, academics and families interested in knowing about the service of those who came before us.
Expand the well-known Saluting their Service Grants program by providing an additional $10 million to enable local communities to honour the service and sacrifice of our veterans, with a particular focus on commemorating service in the Second World War and beyond.
We will also increase the maximum amount available for community grants from $4,000 to $10,000 to ensure that local communities can appropriately commemorate this important anniversary.
Invest up to $10 million to work with the PNG Government and local landowners on projects to commemorate the bonds between Australia and Papua New Guinea from the Second World War, particularly around the Kokoda Track.
This could include investing in the World War Two/Kokoda collection at the PNG National Museum and Gallery;
upgrading the national World War Two memorial at Ela Beach;
building a new interpretive centre at Owers’ Corner at the head of the Kokoda Track;
funding for tourism related activities to support Kokoda Track communities, such as training and development of wildlife guides
and helping NGOs to strengthen the quality of health and education services for communities along the Kokoda Track.
Invest $154,000 to undertake Stage 2 of the successful ANZAC 360 app, which will focus on key Second World War Two battles and campaigns in South East Asia, including the Burma-Thailand railway (Hellfire Pass), the Sandakan-Ranau death march and Papua New Guinea campaigns including Kokoda.
The app will use virtual reality and 360 degree drone technology.
Invest $400,000 to undertake scoping studies to develop a new interpretive facility at or near the Bomona Commonwealth War Cemetery in Port Moresby and replace the ageing interpretive facility at Sandakan Memorial Park in Malaysia.
And we will provide funding of $500,000 to undertake a scoping study for a new memorial at Lemnos, to commemorate the service and sacrifice of Australians in Greece in World War One.
The Choice
The Liberal National Government has delivered record new investment in services and support for the veteran community over successive budgets to help make up for years of under-investment by Labor.
The Labor Party failed to implement fairer indexation for military superannuants while in Government, despite their 2007 election commitment to do so.
Our $1.4 billion investment in fairer indexation ensures veterans can access a fair income after their service to our nation.
After years of under-investment and neglect by Labor, our Government has invested in the most significant reform program for the Department of Veterans’ Affairs in 100 years, ensuring that it can deliver support to veterans and process claims more quickly.
These investments are only possible because our Government has ensured we have a strong economy – and all without raising taxes.
We know that more needs to be done to ensure we are constantly meeting the expectations of our veterans and the wider community.
We are therefore firmly committed to supporting those men and women who have been prepared to join the proud ranks of Australian Defence Force and to honour and recognise their service and sacrifice.
Cost
The Coalition will invest an additional $77 million to support veterans and their families.
Our Plan for Delivering High Quality Skills and Vocational Education
Key Points
The Morrison Government will create 1.25 million jobs over the next five years, including 250,000 new jobs for young Australians.
A world-class, modern and flexible vocational education and training (VET) system is crucial to meeting this goal.
We need to ensure:Australians develop the skills to succeed in a changing labour market.
Businesses have access to the skilled workforce they need to grow and prosper.
The Morrison Government’s plan for a stronger economy will:Create another 1.25 million jobs over the next five years, including 250,000 new jobs for young Australians.
Deliver the largest personal income tax relief in a decade, with tax relief of up to $1,080 for single income families earning up to $126,000.
For a dual income family that’s up to $2,160 back in families’ pockets in a few weeks’ time.
Ensure Australians have the skills they need through a new $585 million skills package with more than 80,000 new apprenticeships.
This includes doubling the number of new apprentices supported through the Australian Apprentice Wage Subsidy trial, with further investment of around $60 million.
Establish 10 Industry Training Hubs to better connect local industry and schools in areas of high youth unemployment.
Expand the Youth Jobs PaTH Program to pilot up to 10 industry-led job pathway programs to better target the training and internship experiences of young people.
Expand the successful Transition to Work service to allow young people aged 22 to 24 years to also voluntarily access pre-employment services that help prepare them for work.
Transform our employment services system to help Australians who need extra support to get a job.
Strengthen small and medium businesses by lowering business tax, improving access to finance and equity, ensuring small business is paid on time by big business and government, and increasing and expanding access to the instant asset write-off.
Better connect people to jobs, their homes and their communities, and allow businesses to connect to domestic and global export markets through a $100 billion infrastructure plan.
Ensure the Government lives within its means with disciplined fiscal management without increasing taxes.
We believe that learning through a vocational education is just as valuable as a university degree.
That’s why we are transforming the way we deliver skills, support employers and fund training.
We are creating hundreds of thousands of new apprenticeships and trainee places to guarantee a pipeline of Australian tradies and skilled workers.
Our plan will ensure that VET is responsive and flexible to meet changes in the way we work and the demand for new skills.
Labor’s track record shows they cannot be trusted with VET.
Their failed VET FEE-HELP policy was a lightning rod for dodgy providers who ripped off young Australian students, saddling them with debt and no qualification to show for it.
The Liberal National Government has restored the integrity of Australia’s VET system.
Our Plan
With a modern economy that is changing the way we work, there is a growing demand for new skills and occupations.
The Morrison Government is committed to ensuring our VET system is responsive, so students and employers reap the benefits.
We commissioned former New Zealand Minister for Tertiary Education, Skills and Employment the Hon Steven Joyce to review how Australia’s VET system can better deliver for Australian job-seekers and employers.
The Review suggested immediate steps and a longer-term roadmap.
The Morrison Government will build on our existing support to the VET sector by implementing a $585 million package to:Reduce the shortfall of skilled workers in key occupations and create up to 80,000 new apprentices by introducing a Skill Shortages payment of $4,000 for eligible employers and $2,000 for apprentices.
Further expand the successful rural wage subsidy to support employers in rural and regional Australia to take on even more apprentices.
Streamline incentives for employers of apprentices and trainees and update the skills need list to ensure it responds to labour market demand.
Address youth unemployment in regional Australia and create better connections between school students, employers and the VET sector by establishing 10 industry training hubs.
Support more young Australians to gain a VET qualification through the Commonwealth Scholarship Program for Young Australians.
Raise the profile of the VET sector and improve the career advice given to students and others transitioning to a new career by establishing a National Careers Institute and appointing a National Careers Ambassador.
Support high impact programs that create innovative partnerships between schools, tertiary providers and employers through new competitive grants.
Increase support for those with low levels of education to identify and address language, literacy, numeracy and digital skills deficits, including in remote Indigenous communities.
Give students ownership over their education records and support the lifelong learning of Australian workers by expanding the Unique Student Identifier and creating a centralised digital Tertiary Learning Repository.
Promote a nationwide approach to skills development, enhance research and analysis of future skills needs and give industry a greater role in designing training courses (by establishing a National Skills Commission and Skills Organisations across the country, starting with the growth areas of human services and digital technology (including cyber security).
Support thousands of young Tasmanians to gain new skills to boost the state’s renewable electricity generation sector and bring the Battery of the Nation plan to life.
Expand the Australian Apprentice Wage Subsidy
The Morrison Government is determined to ensure that young Australians in rural and regional areas have the opportunity to secure an apprenticeship,
while ensuring that regional small businesses have access to the skilled workforce they need to grow and prosper.
From 1 January 2019, a new trial wage subsidy program began to support eligible new Australian apprentices located in regional areas facing skill shortages.
The trial has enabled businesses in rural and regional areas to take on around 1,600 more apprentice plumbers, mechanics, electricians, painters and hairdressers than they would otherwise have been able to do.
Under the subsidy, eligible employers are able to receive payments based on the apprentice’s relevant award wage rates.
Subsidies are provided at 75 per cent of the apprentice’s award wage in the first year, followed with 50 per cent in the second year and 25 per cent in the third year.
The Coalition is committed to growing regional communities and businesses and to giving young Australians more opportunities to train for a rewarding career in the regions.
That is why a re-elected Morrison Government will expand the current successful trial program and double its size from 1 July 2019, providing additional support for young Australians and small businesses across rural and regional Australia.
Skill Shortage payment
Apprenticeships provide a pipeline for skills, particularly trade skills that are essential to keeping our economy strong.
From 1 July 2019, the Morrison Government will introduce a new apprenticeship incentive to create up to 80,000 additional apprentices in Australia’s top 10 areas of skills shortage.
Eligible apprentices will receive $1,000 after 12 months of their apprenticeship and $1,000 more upon completion.
Eligible employers will receive $2,000 after 12 months of the apprenticeship, and $2,000 more upon completion.
Support for employers and apprentices in occupations of skill shortage will boost the supply of skilled workers and help businesses grow.
This new incentive will be in addition to existing incentives.
Streamline incentives for employers of apprentices and trainees – and modernise skills
The Morrison Government will establish a new streamlined system of incentives underpinned by a priority occupations list that employers can navigate easily, ensuring that current skills needs are targeted.
To boost the economy, our apprenticeships system must be able to quickly adapt to emerging skills areas such as information technology and cyber security.
The skills needs list will be updated regularly in response to changing labour market demand.
10 Industry Training Hubs
The Morrison Government will establish 10 industry Training Hubs to address the challenge of high youth unemployment in regional areas.
The Hubs will create better connections between local industry and schools to improve outcomes for students, employers and the VET sector.
They will be an on-the-ground presence where new approaches are needed to help students transition from school to training and work.
The Hubs will facilitate additional education for trainers as well as career advice and mentoring for young people with a specific focus on traditional in-demand trades.
A career facilitator will form partnerships between industries in sectors of local skills shortages and those providing advice and education to students.
Commonwealth Scholarship Program for Young Australians
The Morrison Government will establish a Commonwealth Scholarships Program for Young Australians to help more young people enter the vocational education and training sector and gain the skills they need for a successful and rewarding career.
Four hundred Commonwealth Scholarships will be available to students in regions surrounding the pilot industry training hubs to provide a comprehensive pathway for young job-seekers in those regions.
Successful students will receive scholarship funding up to $17,500, depending on scholarship length and the type of study or training, for a maximum period of three years.
Priority will be given to eligible applicants in the following cohorts:individuals who have exited from the Australian Defence Force (ADF) in the previous 2 years (the age criteria will not be applicable for ADF applicants)
Indigenous young Australians
young Australians with a disability, and
young Australians from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
A National Skills Commission and Skills Organisations
In line with recommendations of the Joyce Review, the Morrison Government will establish a National Skills Commission to build a nationwide approach to skills development that serves students, industry and drives long-term VET reform.
The Commission will undertake research and analysis of future skills needs and investigate the efficient and fair price of qualifications.
The Commission will also play a role in promoting apprenticeships, including by collaborating with industry to assess and respond to workforce needs.
Linked to the Commission, new Skills Organisations will be piloted in areas of future jobs growth.
The Organisations will provide industry-based advice and develop industry partnerships to trial new ways to develop VET qualifications.
The initial pilots will be in the growth areas of human services, digital technologies and cyber security.
National Careers Institute and National Careers Ambassador
The Morrison Government will establish a National Careers Institute to transform the delivery of career advice for Australians across the life of their education, training and employment.
This will be supported by a National Careers Ambassador who will have strong relationships with key stakeholders and raise the profile of VET.
The institute will address a current gap in quality careers information to support the transition from school to further study or training.
As the expectations of employers evolve, young people and others transitioning through multiple careers and jobs need to know what to study to match their ambitions to the demand for skills.
Innovative partnerships between schools, tertiary providers and employers
The Morrison Government will establish a competitive grants program to support high impact programs that build innovative partnerships between schools, tertiary providers and employers.
This will enable employers to play an active support role in developing the skills they need for the jobs of the future.
Grants of up to $350,000 will be available for eligible partnerships.
The National Careers Institute will administer the program.
New national program to address language, literacy, numeracy and digital (LLND) skills deficits
The Morrison Government will establish a new national program and a series of pilots to address low language, literacy, numeracy and digital literacy skills among employed and recently unemployed Australians.
One in five Australians have poor literacy and numeracy, robbing them of the fundamental skills for employment or career progression.
This program will help participants engage with further training and job opportunities.
Foundational skill levels are an even greater concern in remote Indigenous communities.
Pilot programs will be undertaken in four locations to address the needs of adults in these communities with LLND skills deficits.
The pilots will be co-designed with local Indigenous community members.
Support lifelong learning
The Liberal National Government will expand the Unique Student Identifier to all tertiary students, giving more power to students to track their education.
The Government will also create a Tertiary Learning Repository to allow higher education providers to record an individual’s education and training records.
These measures provide a necessary down-payment for developing a more flexible system of learning across a worker’s lifetime.
Energising Tasmania
With the Energising Tasmania initiative, the Morrison Government is providing additional support to Tasmanians to train in areas of priority skills.
We will partner with the Tasmanian Government to provide fee-free training, ensuring Tasmania can build a skilled workforce to power its pumped hydro capabilities, energy infrastructure and Battery of the Nation project.
This proposal will:Provide support to fund the gap between the existing state subsidy and the total course cost for training in priority skills.
Provide up to $1000 per person to cover other costs associated with training, such as books and materials, and student amenity fees, opening up training to those least able to pay.
Supporting skills in the regions
The Morrison Government is committed to supporting small businesses
and jobseekers in rural and regional areas and we understand that providing a skilled workforce will strengthen local economies and communities.
Our skills plan contains several measures targeted to address skills shortages and elevated youth unemployment in rural and regional Australia.
We will expand the Australian Apprentice Wage Subsidy Trial by allowing more small businesses and apprentices in rural and regional areas to benefit.
We will establish 10 Industry Training Hubs in regional areas to forge better connections between local schools and businesses, ensuring that training courses are designed to tackle the specific skills needs of the regions and help reduce youth unemployment.
We will make 400 VET scholarships available to young Australians in regional areas.
We will establish four pilot programs in remote Indigenous communities to improve foundational language, literacy, numeracy and digital skills in those regions.
We will increase the lifetime loan limit available to aviation students studying at a VET Student Loans approved provider to $150,000, up from $104,440.
This will help to cover the cost of training for the licences and ratings issued by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority.
This change has also been extended to those who study at higher education providers.
We will invest $15 million to build a new Royal Flying Doctor Service Aeromedical Training Centre in Bundaberg.
The Morrison Government is delivering a comprehensive pathway for young Australians in rural and regional communities to take them from their education into training and work.
The Choice
Labor cannot be trusted when it comes to VET and skills.
Labor’s failed VET FEE-HELP scheme left thousands of students with debts and no qualification – and caused significant reputational damage to the sector.
The Liberal National Government has cleaned up Labor’s VET FEE-HELP mess.
We are supporting affected students and restoring integrity to the system.
Between 2011 and 2013, Labor cut employer incentives to businesses employing apprentices a total of nine times (at a cost of $1.2 billion).
While Bill Shorten was Employment Minister, the number of apprentices and trainees in training collapsed by 22 per cent or 110,000 – the biggest annual decline ever.
By contrast, the Morrison Government is supporting employers with a range of incentives that will be streamlined to make them easier to navigate.
Labor and their union mates have consistently opposed the successful trial of the Australian Apprentice Wage Subsidy program, describing it as "shameful" and rewarding employers with a hand out (Buzzfeed, 2 November 2018).
Labor’s opposition to this program demonstrates their lack of interest in supporting young Australians and small businesses in rural and regional Australia.
Cost
The Coalition will invest around $60 million to support additional apprentices being employed through an expansion of the Australian Apprentice Wage Subsidy trial.
Our Plan for Central Queensland
Key Points
The Morrison Government is committed to working with the communities of Central Queensland to build a strong economy,
open up new job opportunities
and support the essential services Central Queenslanders rely on.
Supporting the economy of Central Queensland means backing small and family businesses
and standing up for traditional industries like resources,
agriculture,
manufacturing and tourism.
Only the Morrison Government will back these industries
and the thousands of jobs they support.
A re-elected Morrison Government will build a stronger economy
for all of Central Queensland,
allowing us to guarantee and improve essential services.
We will:Invest in new infrastructure to grow the Central Queensland economy and improve road safety, including the Rockhampton Ring Road and Gladstone Port Access Road extension.
Support new resource development in Queensland,
having completed Commonwealth environment approvals required to start the Adani Carmichael project, with conditions to ensure protection of the environment.
Create a first-class conference facility by investing up to $20 million in the Keppel Bay Sailing Club Convention and Sporting Hub.
Support Central Queensland farmers including helping farmers through the drought and developing new opportunities for beef and other sectors.
Invest in water infrastructure to expand agriculture, including the Urannah Dam, Rookwood Weir and Mogoa Mackenzie Water Supply Scheme.
Back small and family businesses, with lower taxes and an increase in the instant asset tax write-off to $30,000 now expanded to medium-sized businesses.
Improve Energy affordability for families and businesses with a $10 million investment into the business case for new affordable energy supplies in Central Queensland and new Energy Assistance Payments for social security recipients.
Deliver Central Queenslanders the largest personal income tax relief since the Howard Government, with tax relief of up to $1,080 for single income families earning up to $126,000.
For a dual income family that’s up to $2,160 in families’ pockets.
Boost funding for Central Queensland healthcare, with new funding for cancer services, new treatments, preventative health and mental health.
Invest in Defence infrastructure
and facilities providing opportunities for small to medium sized business to secure long-term work.
Protect the Reef by continuing our Great Barrier Reef Partnership Program.
Keep communities safe by maintaining strong borders,
increasing funding for Safer Communities, and implementing comprehensive plans to address drugs, domestic violence and online safety.
The Morrison Government believes that, working together, we can create a stronger Central Queensland, but this could all be put at risk with a return to Labor.
Under Labor, the Central Queensland economy will be sent backwards with its plans to impose billions of dollars in new taxes,
a 45 per cent emissions target
and its attacks on mining and agriculture.
Major industries in Central Queensland would be faced with a 45 per cent emissions target and higher energy costs.
These are costs borne by industries and passed on to households and small businesses in higher costs – higher electricity costs, higher gas costs, refrigerant prices and waste charges.
Labor’s car tax would also push up the cost of SUVs and utes by up to $5,000.
Labor will also hit Queensland farmers with more environmental regulation.
Labor’s economic and budget mismanagement means the services Central Queenslanders rely on, like health, education and roads, would also be put at risk.
Our Record
Central Queensland has been a major focus of the Liberal Nationals Government since we were first elected in 2013.
To deliver a stronger Central Queensland economy we have invested significantly in infrastructure, including:$10 billion package of improvements to the Bruce Highway with projects including the $800 million Rockhampton Ring Road, over $677 million for stages of the Mackay Ring Road and $96.8 million Rockhampton Northern Access Upgrade.
$166 million for the Walkerston Bypass west of Mackay.
$120 million for the Walkerston Bypass west of Mackay.
$60 million to duplicate the Capricorn Highway between Rockhampton and Gracemere and $15 million for overtaking lanes along the highway.
$20 million for the Rockhampton Road Network under our Beef Roads program.
$20 million for Philip Street in Gladstone.
We have also strengthened digital and communications infrastructure.
The NBN has been rolled out to more than 78 per cent of Queensland we’ve invested in over 200 mobile blackspot base stations state-wide, including almost 50 in Central Queensland.
Our Government is prioritising regional economic development.
We have delivered an Indigenous Business Sector Strategy and set targets for government contracts which have lifted the number of Indigenous businesses winning Commonwealth contracts from 30 in 2012-13 to over 1400 today.
We stood up for the sugar industry by introducing a mandatory code of conduct
and are taking strong action in the WTO against unfair international subsidies.
We have also invested in important local projects:$25 million for the construction of the South Rockhampton Flood Levee.
$10 million to upgrade Central Queensland University’s Gladstone marina site.
$5.8 million for the Tropical Pines fruit processing facility.
$5 million for the Signature Onfarm beef processing facility.
We recognise the critical contribution of the resources sector to Central Queensland’s future and have completed Commonwealth environment approvals required to start the construction of the Adani Carmichael project, with conditions to ensure protection of the environment.
Strengthening the economy has allowed us to guarantee the services Central Queenslanders rely on.
Our strong economic and Budget management means we’ve been able to deliver:Record funding for Queensland public hospitals – increasing by 84 per cent from $2.7 billion in 2012-13 under Labor to $4.9 billion in 2019-20 under the Liberal Nationals Government's National Health Reform Agreement.
Cheaper medicines for Queenslanders with more than 2,000 new medicine listings on the PBS since we were elected in 2013, including life-saving drugs for cancer.
More funding for Queensland schools with a total of $65.1 billion from 2019 to 2029 – equal to growth of over 74 per cent.
Child care reforms which have cut out-of-pocket costs for parents within the first nine months by around 8.9 per cent.
Major commitment to aged care with $21.6 billion in 2019-20 across Australia, including funding for an additional 10,000 home care packages and a Royal Commission into the sector.
We’ve also prioritised creating a safer Central Queensland including investments under the Safer Communities Fund for CCTV cameras, security lighting, alarm systems for community spaces and other infrastructure.
The Liberal National Government has maintained strong borders: we stopped the boats, stopped the deaths at sea, removed children from detention and have cancelled the visas of thousands of criminals, over 1,100 in Queensland.
Our Plan
Record funding for roads
A stronger Central Queensland economy starts with investing more in infrastructure to unlock economic potential, ensure quicker and safer travel and help businesses efficiently transport products.
As part of the 2019-20 Budget, we have locked in a further $4 billion over the next decade for land transport infrastructure in Queensland, bringing our total investment to over $25 billion.
Projects that will benefit Central Queensland include:$800 million for the Rockhampton Ring Road as part of our $10 billion of upgrades to the Bruce Highway.
$100 million for the Gladstone Port Access Road extension, addressing safety concerns around the port and improving freight productivity and access.
Further projects under the Roads of Strategic Importance initiative, including:
$254 million for the Mt Isa to Rockhampton corridor, including
$64 million for the Yeppoon Road duplication.
$100 million for the Townsville to Roma corridor.
A re-elected Morrison Government will also invest up to $20 million to replace the John Peterson Bridge over the Boyne River.
We will also ensure Central Queensland gets its fair share of our $2.2 billion National Road Safety Package, which includes additional funding of $1.1 billion for the Roads to Recovery Program; $550 million for the Black Spots Program; $275 million for the Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program and $275 million for bridges renewal funding.
A first-class conference facility for the Capricorn Coast
A re-elected Morrison Government will invest up to $20 million to deliver the Keppel Bay Sailing Club Convention and Sporting Hub.
The project involves the redevelopment of the existing Keppel Bay Sailing Club sites to create a new conference facility, retail spaces and other infrastructure.
This project is a game-changer for the Capricorn Coast.
It will host thousands of guests,
create local jobs
and inject millions of dollars into the local economy.
More visitors to the region means more heads on beds, more customers in local cafes, restaurants and boutiques and more money back in the pockets of local business people.
Supporting Central Queensland farmers
Central Queensland farmers hit by drought are being supported through the $6.3 billion we are providing to help farmers and rural communities in need now and strengthen their preparedness and resilience for the future.
This includes the new Future Drought Fund which will grow to $5 billion and provide $100 million each year to help farmers and regional communities to prepare for, and respond to, the impacts of drought.
The Morrison Government has actively pursued trade and market access opportunities for the region’s farmers.
We have successfully negotiated 8 new trade agreements including with our major export markets of China, Japan and Korea.
As a result, beef exports to these markets have increased by up to 34.5% to a total value of $4.3 billion in 2017-18.
We are investing in important projects to grow the local agricultural industry and create more jobs, including:A $6 million co-investment with Meat and Livestock Australia for priority research into pasture dieback in Central Queensland.
Dieback is a serious issue for graziers and the $11.5 billion beef industry.
The project will focus on the insect mealybug (believed to be the culprit) and build the knowledge necessary to eventually stop it and the spread of dieback.
$3.9 million to support the delivery of Beef Australia 2021, Australia’s largest and internationally renowned beef industry exposition held in Rockhampton every three years.
The event attracts visitors from around Australia and the world and facilitates new trade and export opportunities.
Up to an additional $2.5 million for the Isis Central Sugar Mill’s proposed Wallaville cane railway project to help secure thousands of extra tonnes of cane and open up more cane production across the region, on top of our initial $2.5 million investment in the project.
Investing in water infrastructure
The Morrison Government is delivering priority water infrastructure projects that will drive economic growth and support local communities in Central Queensland.
Earlier this year we increased the Water Infrastructure Development Fund by more than $500 million, bringing our investment to fast-track water infrastructure to over $1.3 billion.
The benefits for Central Queensland include:$176 million for Rookwood Weir to expand irrigated agriculture in the Lower Fitzroy and deliver an estimated 2,100 jobs.
$10 million for pre-construction works and a business case for the Urannah Dam.
Up to $3.01 million for the Nogoa Mackenzie Water Supply Scheme.
The Liberal National Government will continue to support water infrastructure development in Central Queensland and elsewhere to expand our agricultural industry and secure water supplies for local communities.
Supporting small and family businesses
Small and family businesses are central to the Morrison Government’s economic plan for Central Queensland.
They are the engine room of our economy, with Central Queensland’s 48,000 small and medium businesses employing thousands of workers.
When small businesses are healthy, all Australians are better off.
It means more jobs,
more choice, better living standards
and more vibrant and connected communities.
The Morrison Government wants small businesses to prosper.
We want them to employ even more Australians.
So we are lowering taxes – the business tax rate for small and medium-sized companies has been reduced from 30 per cent to 27.5 per cent and will fall further to 25 per cent in 2021-22.
Unincorporated Queensland small businesses are receiving help to get ahead with the Government’s increase in the unincorporated tax discount.
As part of the 2019-20 Budget, we delivered an increase to the instant asset write-off threshold to $30,000 until 30 June 2020.
We also expanded access to include medium-sized businesses by increasing the annual turnover threshold from $10 million to $50 million.
These changes delivered a much-needed boost to agricultural, tourism, retail, hospitality and other small and medium-sized businesses in Central Queensland.
Small and family businesses in Central Queensland can trust the Morrison Government to back them with other announced measures, including streamlining red tape and simplifying tax reporting; helping them to expand by increasing access to finance with the $2 billion Australian Business Securitisation Fund and ensuring they get paid on time by government and big business.
Lower taxes for hard-working Queenslanders
The Morrison Government is lowering taxes for hard-working Queenslanders as part of our plan to deliver a stronger economy
and even more record job creation.
Our tax system must be fair for all Australians.
Our Personal Income Tax Plan delivers lower taxes for Central Queenslanders, ensuring they keep more of what they earn.
The enhanced plan will result in a better tax system, with greater reward for effort while ensuring top earners pay their fair share.
Around 170,000 lower and middle income earners in Central Queensland will receive relief of up to $1,080 after they lodge their 2018-19 tax return.
That’s up to $2,160 for dual income families.
These benefits are then locked in for subsequent years.
A re-elected Morrison Government will also deliver long-term structural reform by lowering the 32.5 per cent tax rate to 30 per cent from 1 July 2024.
As a result, around 94 per cent of Australian taxpayers will benefit from a marginal tax rate of 30 per cent or less in 2024-25.
Our Government’s strong fiscal management means that we can deliver surpluses while also rewarding hard-working Australians and easing cost of living pressures.
Strengthening the Central Queensland health system
The Morrison Government’s health plan for Queensland will protect, improve and save lives.
It builds on the record funding we have provided for Queensland public hospitals, with an 95.6 per cent increase in funding since 2012-13, record levels of bulk billing and more than 2000 new medicines listings subsidised through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.
Funding for Queensland public hospitals will increase from $2.7 billion in 2012-13 to $4.9 billion in 2018-19 and is on track to increase to $6.8 billion under a new hospitals agreement.
Our new hospitals agreement will deliver an additional $7 billion to Queensland Hospitals over five years.
Our Health Plan for Central Queensland strengthens the health system by providing affordable and accessible health services, including:Greater hospital and health services and infrastructure, including:
$7 million for a new multi-level car park
$0.52 million for Ozcare drug and alcohol services
$0.14 million for Breaking the Barrier pilot study with the Central Queensland Multicultural Association
More cancer services with $92.5 million for new MRIs across Queensland, including at Central Queensland Radiology Gladstone.
Better mental health support, with $15.4 million to support seven new headspace services across Queensland including in Sarina, and Emerald.
More funding for preventative health, with $12 million for the Heart of Australia to support and expand mobile cardiology and other services for rural Queenslanders.
Our $550 million Stronger Rural Health Strategy – delivering 3,000 extra doctors and more than 3,000 extra nurses and allied health professionals across Australia and in Central Queensland, including $84.1 million for the Royal Flying Doctor Service to provide dental care, mental health services and emergency aeromedical services.
Medical research – access to new treatment and clinical trials through the $100 million National Rural and Regional Clinical Trial Centre Program, with sites to be implemented that will improve access to new treatments for people including in Central Queensland.
Supporting affordable and reliable energy
The Morrison Government is committed to lower power prices while keeping the lights on.
We understand rising power prices are hurting Australian families struggling with the cost of living
and preventing small businesses from employing more people and expanding.
The Morrison Government has announced a $10 million program to address supply and affordability issues in North and Central Queensland, and support large energy users such as aluminum smelters, cement producers, and irrigators battling excessively high energy prices.
Industries such as these, which play a vital role in Queensland’s economy, have struggled to obtain long term competitively priced electricity contracts.
We are also investing:$50.4 million to help regional communities invest in new micro-grids.
The Regional and Remote Communities Reliability Fund will support up to 50 off-grid and fringe-of-grid communities: investigating whether establishing a micro-grid is cost-effective and if technology can upgrade existing off-grid capabilities.
$50 million in the Energy Efficient Communities Program for more than 2,500 grants to eligible businesses and community organisations across Australia including community groups in central Queensland.
In Central Queensland, we are supporting community groups with grants of up to $12,500 each to invest in solar and battery systems to reduce energy costs.
$365 million for Energy Assistance Payments of $75 for singles and $125 for couples to four million eligible social security payment recipients – to help with their next power bill and cost of living expenses.
As recommended by the ACCC, our Underwriting New Generation Investments program will also lower prices, increase competition and boost reliability.
In Central Queensland, the majority of generation and networks are controlled by the Queensland State Labor Government, which has failed to address affordability concerns in Queensland, while announcing a record $1.65 billion for the state’s coffers thanks to government-owned generators/retailers.
Labor's reckless 45% emissions target and 50% renewable energy target will push up wholesale electricity prices by 58% and deliver greater profits to Queensland Government owned electricity generators and networks.
Investing in Defence infrastructure and facilities
Central Queensland is home to one of the most important Defence training areas in the nation – the 453,700 hectare Shoalwater Bay Training Area, which has been in use since 1965.
As part of the Coalition Government’s 2016 Defence White Paper, around $190 million was allocated for infrastructure upgrades and other projects over the decade to 2026.
Under the Coalition’s Local Industry Capability Plan pilot, 80 per cent of the sub-contracts for the Shoalwater Bay Remediation Project have been awarded to local businesses in the Rockhampton and Livingstone regions.
Further, under the Australia-Singapore Military Training Initiative (ASMTI) Facilities Project, work is commencing by the end of 2019 on a five-year $800 million project to deliver enhanced military training areas at Shoalwater Bay.
Under the Coalition’s Local Industry Capability Plan, over 80 per cent of the work arising from this project will be sourced from the Central Queensland region, ensuring local businesses can take advantage of this important initiative.
The ASMTI is a key achievement of the Coalition Government as part of our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Singapore.
It will see $2.25 billion invested in Central and North Queensland, with a strong focus on local industry participation, both as part of infrastructure works as well as ongoing support to the Australian Defence Force and Singaporean Defence Force utilising the training areas,
bringing jobs, skills and economic activity to the region.
skills
and economic activity to the region.
Protecting the Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is not only a natural wonder
– it’s a huge economic driver, particularly in Central Queensland.
The Reef contributes 64,000 jobs
and $6.4 billion in economic value every year.
We will continue to roll out the $443.3 million Great Barrier Reef Partnership Program as part of our more than $1.2 billion Reef investment.
This funding is supporting proven reef protection activities such as improving water quality, crown-of-thorns starfish control, community action and scientific research and development to find new ways of restoring and protecting the Reef.
Safer and more secure Queensland communities
The Morrison Government is committed to supporting the safety and security of Central Queensland communities.
We will deliver a comprehensive suite of national actions that will help keep people in Central Queensland safe.
As well as maintaining strong borders and cancelling visas of criminals,
Central Queensland will benefit from our national plans to:Support local councils and community organisations in crime prevention activities (as well as protect schools, religious institutions and other sites from religious and racial intolerance) with CCTV cameras, security lighting, alarm systems and other infrastructure. This will be delivered through a further $58.2 million investment in the Safer Communities Fund.
Deliver a comprehensive drug strategy to address the supply, demand and harm caused by illicit drugs with a five-year $337 million investment.
This includes $152 million to strengthen law enforcement to disrupt and reduce the supply of illicit drugs – including targeting outlaw motorcycle gangs.
Take action against domestic violence, with a record investment of $328 million for prevention and frontline services to support the Fourth Action Plan of the National Plan to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children.
Deliver a comprehensive plan to improve online safety, including funding a $10 million Online Safety Grants program to deliver practical online safety education and training projects; continuing to protect kids online through our world-first e-safety Commissioner and establishing an Online Safety Charter to set expectations for social media companies.
The Choice
There is a lot at stake at this election.
And there is a clear choice.
A choice between a Government that is delivering a strong economy or a Labor Party that would weaken our economy.
A choice between a Government that is fixing the Budget or a Labor Party that can’t manage money.
A choice between a Government that is easing the pressure on families by lowering taxes or a Labor Party that will put more strain on households by imposing $387 billion in new taxes on workers, retirees and small business.
A choice between a Government that can afford to pay for better infrastructure and services
or a Labor Party that would max out Australia’s credit card.
A choice between a Government that has secured our borders and is keeping Australians safe or a Labor Party that has learned nothing from its border security failures.
Central Queensland cannot afford Labor governments at both the federal and state levels.
Labor can’t manage money and they can’t manage the economy.
When Labor can’t manage money, they come after yours.
In 2017-18 the Queensland Labor Government cut activity funding by $8.7 million for the Central Queensland Health Service and $1.7 million form the Mackay Health Service.
This is what happens when you can’t manage money, and it provides a taste of what Central Queensland can expect under a Shorten Labor Government.
Labor plans to hit Australians with $387 billion in big new taxes which will hurt Central Queenslanders:Labor’s retiree tax will punish older Australians who have worked hard and saved for retirement by abolishing tax refunds on share dividends.
In Central Queensland, this will affect over 15,000 individuals who have direct shareholdings and many more invested through self-managed super funds.
On average individuals with direct holdings will lose almost $2,300 a year and self-managed super funds will lose $12,000 a year.
Labor’s housing and investment taxes will end negative gearing as we know it, and increase capital gains tax by 50 per cent.
If you own your own home it will be worth less, and if you rent you will pay more.
Labor would impose higher income tax by reversing the Government’s legislated income tax plan and the enhancements we announced in the 2019-20 Budget.
Our plan will ensure 94 per cent of taxpayers will pay no more than 30 cents in the dollar.
This would leave over 130,000 people in Central Queensland worse off.
Labor’s Family Business Tax would impose a minimum tax rate of 30 per cent on the 6,000 small businesses in Central Queensland structured through discretionary trusts. This is the same rate imposed on large multinational companies.
On top of this, Labor’s reckless emissions targets will:Cost the economy $472 billion.
Slash more than 336,000 jobs.
Cut the average wage by over $9,000.
Increase wholesale electricity prices by more than 58%.
Labor’s car tax will also increase the cost of SUVs and utes by up to $5,000 and reduce choice of vehicles.
Central Queensland will be particularly hard hit with higher electricity and gas prices, higher costs of refrigeration and higher transport costs.
There are costs that Central Queensland businesses and workers can’t afford.
Labor’s reckless carbon hit list targeting 250 firms will have a disproportionate impact on Central Queensland, adding substantial costs on organisations which employ thousands of workers.
Firms at risk include beef processing, alumina refineries, aluminium smelters, coal producers, LNG plants, sugar refiners and chemical plants.
Labor also can’t be trusted with supporting Central Queensland industries like mining and agriculture, with a massive new Environmental Protection Authority planned in Canberra.
By contrast, the Morrison Government has a plan for lower taxes so that you can keep more of the money you earn.
We have a comprehensive plan to bring down electricity prices by increasing competition in Central Queensland projects to underwrite generation and develop micro-grid energy solutions.
There will be only one outcome for Central Queensland under Labor – a weaker economy, fewer jobs and higher taxes. Labor can’t be trusted to run the economy and manage the Budget.
fewer jobs
higher taxes.
Labor can’t be trusted to run the economy and manage the Budget.
And they can’t be trusted to invest in services that Central Queenslanders rely on, including health, education and roads.
Cost
The Coalition’s plan for Central Queensland will not place additional costs on the Budget.
Our Plan for Supporting Farmers in Drought
Key Points
No Australian Government can make it rain.
No Australian Government can make it stop raining.
But only the Morrison Government is making it a priority to build resilience against the inevitable droughts and floods that will visit our land.
The Morrison Government has made it a national priority to build support for drought-stricken communities and resilience against future droughts.
The Morrison Government approach has been built on three pillars.
First, we ensured a coordinated approach by appointing a Coordinator-General for Drought, Major General Stephen Day and the Drought Special Envoy Barnaby Joyce.
We convened a Drought Summit and developed a new National Drought Agreement ensuring a united front from Commonwealth and state and territory governments in support of farming businesses, families and communities.
Second, we ensured affected farming families and communities have the support they need.
And we will continue to do so.
Third, we acted to build our nation’s resilience against drought with a landmark Future Drought Fund.
A re-elected Morrison Government will:Invest $3.9 billion in the Future Drought Fund to prepare for future droughts.
The Fund will grow to $5 billion over the next decade and enable investment of $100 million per year in water infrastructure and drought resilience.
Continue to ensure the Farm Household Allowance is fit for purpose, making the $5m farm assets test for Farm Household Allowance permanent.
Create a new restocking and replanting concessional loan through the Regional Investment Corporation
Establish a $7 million Drought Communities Small Business Support Program
Provide extra support by providing $1 million each to an additional 14 local council areas experiencing severe drought through the Drought Communities Program
Labor has no empathy for regional Australia.
Labor does not appreciate the contribution that Australian farmers make to the national economy.
Labor even voted against the landmark Future Drought Fund.
Labor has no plan to support farmers and farm communities affected by drought.
Labor has no plan to strengthen the Australian farm sector’s resilience to drought.
Our Record
The Morrison Government has a plan for drought.
By keeping our economy strong, we are ensuring support for our agricultural industries to combat, recover and prepare for drought.
The Morrison Government understands that agriculture depends on good seasonal conditions and advantageous trade terms.
When our farmers are doing well, our regional economies are doing well.
When our farmers are doing it tough, the Morrison Government has demonstrated its willingness to act to make sure they get the hand up they need.
The effects of the drought in south-eastern Australia are starting to flow through.
Nationally, farm profitability is expected to be lower in 2018-19 than the previous two years, largely due to drought conditions.
The effects of the drought in south-eastern Australia are starting to flow through.
Nationally, farm profitability is expected to be lower in 2018-19 than the previous two years, largely due to drought conditions.
The Morrison Government has made support available for drought-stricken communities.
At the same time, we are prioritising the work required to be resilient against future droughts.
The Morrison Government is investing $6.3 billion in ongoing, immediate and long-term drought support to help farming families and communities in drought.
Our response to the drought has been shaped by the ongoing intelligence gathered on the ground by the Coordinator-General for Drought and the Drought Special Envoy.
Australia’s farmers are in the hands of the weather, and climate change forms part of this.
The Morrison Government has announced a $3.5 billion Climate Solutions Plan, which is among the largest investments by Australia in emissions reduction.
The Climate Solutions Plan will ensure Australia meets our 2030 target.
Support for farmers and their families
Farm Household Allowance (FHA) has helped more than 11,200 farmers and delivered $266.9 million in fortnightly support payments.
FHA is not just a drought measure, it helps all farmers facing financial hardship.
However, many of the farmers that access FHA do so because of drought.
FHA is relatively new, becoming available only four years ago.
During this time, the Liberal Nationals Government has made a number of changes to ensure the Allowance meets the needs of Australian farming families, whether that be putting food on the table, paying household bills or buying school supplies.
In recognition of the ongoing drought conditions, the Morrison Government also provided FHA recipients with a Special Drought Supplement payment.
The supplement was paid in two instalments of $3,600 for singles and $3,000 for each partner for couples.
Through the $30 million Drought Community Support Initiative, charities are providing around 10,000 of our farming families with cash and vouchers to help with daily household expenses.
$5 million has also been provided to the CWA to support their drought charity efforts.
The financial stress of drought brings mental stress.
The Liberal Nationals Government has also invested $29.4 million to expand the Empowering our Community and Connecting Youth Awareness raising Initiative and Telehealth Services.
We are providing $15 million in extra funding to the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal to deliver small-scale grants for not-for-profit community groups.
Support for farm businesses
Farm businesses told us that it is difficult and time consuming to sift through the web of information to find the right support for their particular needs because each program is found on different websites.
To ensure that farmers and communities can find out what support is available and where to get help, the government has funded the National Farmers’ Federation FarmHub.
FarmHub is a single trusted point of access to information and services.
It’s a one-stop-shop covering support and programs from all levels of government, industry groups and not-for-profit organisations.
The Morrison Government has provided an additional $339,000 to the NFF to expand the content of FarmHub.
The additional content will focus on farm risk management approaches, including the development of a Drought Preparedness E-checklist.
Farm businesses are able to access concessional loans through the Regional Investment Corporation.
The Morrison Government provided the RIC with an additional $1 billion to help drought affected farmers.
This funding supports the RIC’s special drought loan, helping farmers prepare for, manage through or recover from drought.
Since 2013, more than 1,600 farm businesses have had loans approved - only eight were approved the last time Labor was in Government.
The Morrison Government has established a $50 million Emergency Water Infrastructure Rebate Scheme.
Farmers can use this funding for on-farm emergency watering points, de-silting of dams and drilling new stock water bores to improve drought resilience.
The Rural Financial Counselling Service has been around for about 30 years.
It provides confidential rural financial counselling to primary producers and fishers experiencing financial difficulties.
The Liberal Nationals Government has provided an additional $5 million to the RFCS bringing our total investment to $77 million. Over 4,000 farming businesses are being assisted by Rural Financial Counsellors.
Building long term resilience to drought means tackling pests and weeds. Weeds alone cost the agriculture sector $4.8 billion a year.
To help farmers and communities manage the impact of wild dogs, pest animals and weeds during drought, the Liberal Nationals Government is providing $15 million in funding for 48 projects across drought ravaged communities.
Our total investment in fighting pests and weeds has reached over $200 million.
Farmers told us they need better weather forecasting to help them plan.
We have responded with $77.2 million in funding for radars to address gaps and $2.7 million to the Bureau of Meteorology for regional climate guides provided.
These initiatives will provide farmers with more information to farmers and giving them the resources to better manage the weather and climate.
The Morrison Government cut red tape to get fodder to farms more quickly.
Heavy vehicle height and width allowances were increased for trucks carrying hay and fodder to drought areas, resulting in up to 54,000 days per year avoided in waiting for permits.
Additionally, the $75 million accelerated fodder storage asset depreciation will provide farmers the option to instantly depreciate their asset, instead of depreciating it over 3 years.
Support for farming communities
When Australian farmers are doing it tough, so do the communities that support and rely on them.
Through the Drought Communities Fund, 96 local governments have access to $1 million each to deliver local infrastructure and drought relief products.
An additional $23.7 million has been provided to fast track capping and tapping free-flowing bores across the Great Artesian Basin to ensure there is water available for generations to come.
$72 million in funding has been made available for projects in drought-affected areas through a special National Water Infrastructure Development Fund Drought Round.
Our Plan
Delivering the Future Drought Fund
No Australian Government can make it rain.
No Australian Government can protect Australia’s farmers from drought.
But the Morrison Government will make an unprecedented investment in drought resilience, preparedness and recovery.
The Government’s $3.9 billion Future Drought Fund - which will grow to $5 billion over time - will deliver $100 million per annum to a range of projects mitigating the impact of drought.
Labor doesn’t support the Future Drought Fund.
Labor doesn’t want to put in place guaranteed funding to help Australian farmers who need to prepare for and respond to drought conditions that are out of their control.
Restocking and Replanting Concessional Loans
In recognition of the impact of prolonged drought on farm capital resources, the Morrison Government will make available a new loan product to drought affected farmers for restocking and replanting purposes.
Drawing on the Regional Investment Corporation (RIC), eligible farmers will be able to borrow up to $200,000 for restocking and replanting.
Loan terms include a two year interest free period, with no interest accrual.
This will assist farm businesses immediately rebuild and restore their future viability following successive years of financial hardship brought about by harsh drought conditions.
The concessional rate of interest and flexible repayment terms over the remainder of the term will help farming families get back on their feet.
Eligible farmers must demonstrate their property is in a 10 per cent rainfall deficient area through Bureau of Meteorology rainfall deficiency mapping over at least a 24 month period and have experience of consistently failed crops or have consistently destocked for two or more years.
Fit for purpose Farm Household Allowance
A re-elected Morrison Government will continue to improve FHA to ensure it is fit for purpose.
Farmers are unlike other recipients of government support.
They have a full-time business to run, livestock to care for, crops to market and properties to maintain.
That’s why FHA has more generous assets tests and other special dispensations.
In 2018 the Liberal National Government temporarily extended the farm assets threshold to $5 million. A re-elected Morrison Government will make this permanent.
This move recognises that farmers have substantial assets but no income to meet daily expenses.
As part of the recent Budget, the Morrison Government made changes to discount or exempt the forced sale of livestock from the FHA income test when the income is invested in a Farm Management Deposit.
Farmers on FHA who are destocking will be able to retain access to income support and make long-term financial plans for their future.
Farmers on FHA who are destocking will be able to retain access to income support and make long-term financial plans for their future.
Financial Counselling for Small Businesses in Drought Affected Communities
When our farmers are doing it tough in a drought, so are the small businesses that support them.
One of the long-standing and most successful services for farmers in hardship is the Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS).
The RFCS supports our farmers to make business decisions, identifying financial and business options, developing action plans and negotiating with lenders.
A re-elected Morrison Government will commit $7 million to establish the RFCS Drought Communities Small Business Support Program.
The Program will be provided free of charge to business owners.
Supporting communities tackling drought
As part of the recent Budget, an additional $15 million has been allocated to 15 more local government areas under the Drought Communities Program.
This brings the total investment to $96 million for 96 local governments suffering drought.
Funding has been used for a wide variety of projects that help farmers and residents.
The Bollon Town Common Fencing Upgrade will renew fences for better management of stock near main roads in the Balonne Shire.
The Unsealed Road Infrastructure Upgrade will install water-filling stations closer to farmers and upgrade cattle grids in the Tamworth Shire.
A re-elected Morrison Government will continue to evaluate drought conditions and provide assistance to those Council areas in most need.
We will provide $1 million to an additional 14 Councils experiencing severer drought conditions.
Councils include:BalranaldBerriganHayRenmark ParingaUnincorporated SALatrobeMilduraYarriambiackFederationCoolamonAdelaide PlainsAlexandriaCopper CoastPort Pirie City and District
This brings our total investment under the Drought Communities Program to $110 million.
The Choice
There is a lot at stake at this election.
And there is a clear choice.
A choice between a Government that is delivering a stronger economy and a Labor Party that would weaken our economy.
A choice between a Government that is fixing the Budget and a Labor Party that can’t manage money.
A choice between a Government whose sound economic management enables it to properly fund drought support and resilience measures and a Labor Party who can’t manage money and therefore can’t deliver essential services.
A choice between a Government that values Australia’s farm sector and a Labor Party that opposed the Future Drought Fund in the Australian Parliament.
A choice between a Government that has increased Farm Household Assistance and a Labor Party that would let the program wither.
A choice between a Government that stands behind farmers in need and a Labor Party that would abandon our farmers and their communities.
No empathy, no plan, no ideas
Labor has no plan to support farmers and farm communities affected by drought.
Labor has no plan to strengthen the Australian farm sector’s resilience to drought.
Labor has never demonstrated any understanding of challenges and
Farmers and their families matter to the Liberals and Nationals.
The Morrison Government stands behind farmers in need.
The Morrison Government is prepared to provide a genuine, long term investment in drought resilience and drought proofing Australia.
Labor has no plan.
Cost
The Coalition will invest an additional $36.4 million to help farmers tackle drought
Our Plan to Showcase Agriculture: Our heritage. Our future.
Key Points
The Morrison Government has a plan to showcase agriculture and bring the city and country closer together.
Our plan for a strong economy is ensuring we can better educate the next generation and the generations to come about where their food and fibre come from.
Agriculture has always played an important role in the success of our nation – it touches all Australians.
It’s a key pillar of the economy.
Our farmers care for our land while feeding and clothing us and tens of millions more in markets abroad.
Hundreds of thousands of Australians work on the land or in related sectors in our regional towns and the major cities.
It’s an advanced and innovative industry with an exciting future.
But many of our kids don’t know or are confused about where their food comes from and we are trying to fix this.
We need to engage current and future generations about the contribution, the promise and the future of farming, show them where our food and fibre come from and encourage more young Australians to study agriculture.
A re-elected Morrison Government will invest $10 million in two new programs to bring our kids and our farms together.
We will fund primary and secondary school student visits to farms and we will establish up to 80 mobile ‘mini farms’ in urban based schools through the iFarm program.
Australia’s regional communities are the hubs supporting our farmers.
Hubs that play an important role in Australia’s economic growth.
The Morrison Government has invested in our regional communities, especially those faced with droughts and, most recently, the extensive flood event in north Queensland.
The Drought Communities Program for example, is delivering infrastructure projects that provide employment, stimulate local community spending use local resources, businesses and suppliers and have a long-lasting benefit to the communities.
More needs to be done to bring regional communities together, to keep them strong and resilient. Agricultural shows are the most authentic and accessible showcases of Australian farming.
These institutions are at the very heart of our regional communities.
They bring farmers and people from the city together.
Agricultural shows are fun, bring communities together and showcase new technology and promote competition with prized livestock.
However, many are struggling with old infrastructure making it hard for shows to go ahead and attract visitors.
A re-elected Morrison Government will establish a new $20 million Regional Agricultural Show Development grant program.
Grants will be available for regional agricultural show societies that run annual shows to upgrade and maintain existing infrastructure and to build new infrastructure.
This investment will help keep our agricultural shows running, help bring communities together and help bridge the divide between country and city.
Our Plan
Regional Australia makes a significant contrition to our national economy.
It has long been the engine room of the economy with around $537 billion (31 per cent) of our annual GDP coming from regional Australia in 2016-17.
When Australia’s regional towns prosper, so does the Australian economy.
But when times are tough, the Morrison Government has demonstrated our commitment to back in regional communities.
A prime example is our Drought Communities Program, which is delivering $1 million each to Councils across the country severely impacted by the drought.
The Program has supported community infrastructure and other drought relief projects.
It’s aimed at providing employment for people whose work opportunities have been impacted by the drought and stimulating local community spending.
The Morrison Government has also provided $30 million in much needed drought support to families through the Drought Community Support Initiative.
This includes up to $2,000 in cash and $1,000 in vouchers, making sure the money is spent in the local community.
After the major flood event in north Queensland the Morrison Government provided 11 of the most impacted Councils $1 million each to help them with the costs of the response and clean-up.
The significant donations made by the public to help farmers tackle drought and natural disasters demonstrate that Australians support the bush and want to make sure that our farmers have a future.
Gone are the days when large numbers of Australians had a close relative working the land.
This is resulting in a lack of understanding about where our food and fibre come from and the career and lifestyle opportunities available in modern farming and our regions.
Agriculture is more than big hats and boots.
It’s a high-tech industry with an exciting future producing the food we eat and the fibre we wear.
A re-elected Morrison Government will help promote that message, especially to our kids.
Taking kids to farms and farms to kids
Studies have found that 75 per cent of primary and secondary school students think that cotton socks are made from animal products.
Sadly, 45 per cent don’t think that bread, bananas and cheese come from farmed product and 40 per cent believe that farming damages the environment.
A re-elected Morrison Government is committed to changing attitudes to farming and addressing the gap in kids' understanding of where our food and fibre come from.
We will invest $5 million over three years to fund primary and secondary school student visits to farms and other primary production worksites.
The funding will be used for state farming bodies to sponsor government, Catholic and independent primary and secondary school visits to teach kids about agricultural production, sustainability practices and farm land stewardship.
City kids will have a hands-on, practical farm experience with the intention of gaining a better understanding of where and how their food and fibre are produced as well as the role and importance of agriculture to Australia’s way of life, regional communities and the economy.
$5 million will also be provided to the iFarm initiative for up to 80 city schools to establish ‘mini farms’: a mobile, living ‘mini farm’ that is fully integrated and computerised as an educational platform to teach students about the use of water, land and energy in food production.
Where they have little room to establish a permanent garden, iFarm is ideal for schools on small footprints, particularly in inner city locations – demonstrating how food is grown through water management, solar energy, soil quality, fertilisers, recycling and waste management.
iFarms replicate large farming practices into a small scale unit.
Showcasing agriculture
Agricultural shows are an integral part of Australian culture.
They play an important part in country life, highlighting the local strengths and bringing communities together.
This is particularly important when our regional communities are tested with extended droughts and one-in-one hundred-year weather events.
Agricultural shows started in the nineteenth century and at their core they still provide unique opportunities to showcase new technologies.
Shows also promote competition with awards for best in class or category for livestock and produce.
Agricultural shows allow people from cities and big regional centres to better understand where their food and fibre come from.
Right across regional Australia our agricultural shows are delivered each year by hardworking volunteers.
Often show societies are faced with ageing infrastructure and expensive repair bills, impacting on the quality of the show and, in some cases, forcing shows to be cancelled.
More can and should be done to support these institutions that are at the very heart of our regional communities.
A re-elected Morrison Government will establish a $20 million Regional Agricultural Show Development Grants Program.
Grants will be available for regional agricultural show societies that run annual shows to upgrade and maintain existing infrastructure and to build new infrastructure.
Regional show ground upgrades support more than agricultural shows.
This vital community infrastructure is often used for other local events, including local farmers markets, that bring communities together.
Promoting the role of farming
The Morrison Government is providing $720,000 to Agricultural Shows Australia (ASA) to utilise and mobilise the agricultural show network to enhance the skills of young people in agriculture and promote the value and role of farmers.
This funding will support the Young Judges and Paraders Program and the Young Farmers Challenge.
ASA will also use this funding to boost education around sustainable agri-food production for schools, shows and community events.
It will see ASA work with organisations like the Primary Industries Education Foundation Australia to deliver better educational material and resources.
This funding will ensure the agricultural shows movement continues to be a strong contributor to our economy, culture and communities and continues to support our young farmers and rural leaders.
Encouraging more Australians to study agriculture
The Morrison Government is providing $220,000 to Primary Industry Education Foundation Australia (PIEFA) to fund a new major study of students' and teachers’ perceptions about food and fibre production, as well as their views on the careers that are available in the agricultural sector.
The outcomes will inform future education and communication initiatives to improve young Australians' connection with agriculture and food and fibre production, and encourage young people to study agriculture.
If Australian agriculture is going to have a strong and sustainable future, we must invest in our most important resources – our people. The funding also allows PIEFA to deliver annual one-day workshops on food and fibre education for Australian school students in each state and territory.
The Morrison Government wants to get more kids excited about the job opportunities and long-term rewarding careers that agriculture offers.
This program is part of the Government’s Plan to strengthen agriculture,
support jobs
and our regional communities
and boost our economy.
The Choice
The Morrison Government appreciates the need to ensure that our children understand and value the contribution of farming.
We are invested in supporting the sector, regional communities and the future of farming.
By contrast, Labor has no empathy for ‘the bush.’
Labor under-estimates the value of the farming sector to the Australian economy.
Cost
The Coalition will invest an additional $30 million to showcase farming and agricultural careers.
Our Plan for Western Sydney
Key Points
The Morrison Government’s strong partnership with the NSW Liberal Nationals Government is supporting a major transformation of Western Sydney.
Our vision is for a new city, supported by a major investment in infrastructure that will better connect the people of Western Sydney to the rest of Australia and the world.
By building the Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport, undertaking congestion-busting road projects and transforming the public transport system, we will make Western Sydney a better place to live, work and play.
Our plan will deliver more high-paid job opportunities,
better transport infrastructure, a sensible and responsible approach to population pressures, and improved local services.
The investment we are making in Western Sydney is already showing results.
Since the Liberal Nationals Government came to power in 2013, the unemployment rate has fallen across Western Sydney.
A re-elected Morrison Government will build an even stronger economy in Western Sydney,
allowing us to guarantee the essential services that local residents need and rely on.
We will:Build the Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport to directly connect Western Sydney to the world by 2026.
Implement the Western Sydney City Deal to create 200,000 new jobs,
boosting the NSW and national economy.
Invest in congestion-busting infrastructure to ensure people in Western Sydney spend less time in traffic, and more time with friends and family.
Manage population growth responsibly, including by reducing permanent migration to ease pressure on roads and services across Sydney.
Back small and family businesses, with lower taxes and an increase to the instant asset write-off to $30,000 now expanded to medium-sized businesses.
Tackle cost of living pressures, including lower taxes for hard-working Western Sydney workers,
a plan for lower energy prices,
Energy Assistance Payments for social security recipients and record bulk billing rates.
Boost funding for Western Sydney healthcare, including for hospital services, cancer infrastructure and mental health.
Deliver safer and more secure Western Sydney communities by maintaining strong borders, continuing to deport criminals,
increasing funding for the Safer Communities Fund, and implementing comprehensive national plans to address drugs, domestic violence and online safety.
Meet our climate commitments and protect the local environment, including funding to clean-up and improve the Hawkesbury and Nepean Rivers.
With the economy growing and major infrastructure projects underway, now is not the time to turn back.
Labor’s plan for billions of dollars of new taxes on retirees, workers, investors and family businesses and reckless emissions reduction targets will stop Western Sydney’s growth in its tracks.
Labor’s economic and budget mismanagement also means the essential services Western Sydney relies on, like health, education and roads, would be put at risk.
Our Record
Around 180,000 jobs have been created in Western Sydney since the Liberal Nationals Government was first elected in 2013.
There are more people in work, fewer people on welfare, and the local economy is thriving.
fewer people on welfare,
and the local economy is thriving.
At the heart of our economic plan for Western Sydney is a multi-billion dollar investment in new infrastructure.
We are rolling out:A $3.6 billion Western Sydney Infrastructure Plan in partnership with the NSW Government to provide better local roads and connections to the new airport, including:
Upgrades to The Northern Road to a minimum of four lanes from Narellan to Jamison Road.
Upgrades to Bringelly Road to a minimum of four lanes between The Northern Road and Camden Valley Way.
Construction of the Werrington Arterial Road by upgrading Kent Road and Gipps Street to four lanes between the Great Western Highway and the M4 Motorway.
Upgrades of the intersection of Ross Street and the Great Western Highway.
$200 million package for local roads.
The Plan will also support the creation of 4000 direct and indirect jobs.
$1.5 billion grant plus a $2 billion concessional loan for WestConnex to link Western Sydney to the city, airport and ports, with up to 52 traffic lights gone, saving commuters approximately 40 minutes.
It will also create 10,000 direct and indirect jobs.
$115 million to upgrade Mulgoa Road and surrounding connections.
We have also provided tax relief to hard-working Western Sydney workers,
finalised the Western Sydney City Deal,
supported the world-class aerotropolis,
invested $15 million in the Western Sydney Housing Package to boost housing supply,
and are supporting local community projects such as $5 million for the Tench Reserve boat ramp
and $7.2 million for the Campbelltown Centre of Sport and Health Excellence
and are investing in women’s change rooms at sporting grounds and community swimming facilities across Australia.
Strengthening the economy has allowed us to guarantee the services Western Sydney relies on.
Our strong economic and budget management means we have been able to deliver:Record funding for NSW public hospitals, with funding having increased by 59 per cent from $4.3 billion in 2012-13 under Labor to $6.8 billion in 2019-20.
Cheaper medicines for Australians, with more than 2,000 new medicine listings on the PBS since we were elected in 2013, including life-saving drugs for cancers.
More funding for NSW schools, with a total of $95.9 billion from 2018 to 2029, equivalent to growth of 84 per cent.
Childcare reforms which have cut out-of-pocket costs for parents within the first nine months, including by 6.4 per cent in Sydney.
Major commitment to aged care including $21.6 billion for aged care in 2019-20 across Australia, an increase of more than 50 per cent since 2013-14, funding for an additional 10,000 home care packages, and a Royal Commission into the sector.
A $150 million Western Parkland City Liveability Program in partnership with the NSW Government and local councils to improve community facilities and urban amenity in Western Sydney.
We have also prioritised creating a safer Western Sydney, including investments under the Safer Communities Fund for CCTV cameras, security lighting, alarm systems for community spaces and other infrastructure.
The Liberal Nationals Government has also maintained strong borders – we stopped the boats, stopped the deaths at sea, removed children from detention, and have cancelled the visas of thousands of criminals across the country, including over 1500 in NSW alone.
Our Plan
Building the Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport
After decades of indecision, it is the Liberal Nationals Government that broke the stalemate over the long-awaited Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport at Badgerys Creek.
The first sod was turned in September last year and construction is underway ahead of the planned opening in 2026.
The airport will establish a new international gateway to the country, secure Sydney’s aviation capacity and connect Western Sydney with the world.
With Sydney’s aviation demand set to double over the next 20 years, the airport will help Sydney to meet this demand,
while also providing a source of jobs
and economic growth for the region.
Tourism will also be boosted,
with the airport providing better accessibility to destinations across Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains.
The airport will generate more than 11,000 jobs throughout the construction period.
Once operational, the airport will support around 28,000 direct and indirect jobs to Western Sydney by 2031.
Congestion busting infrastructure
The Morrison Government understands that Western Sydney families want to spend less time in their cars and more time with their friends and families.
As part of the 2019-20 Budget, we have locked in a further $7.3 billion for infrastructure in NSW over the next decade, bringing our total investment to $33 billion.
We are making a significant investment in Western Sydney to ease congestion, ensure people get to their destinations quickly and safely, and help businesses efficiently transport goods and products around the city:Up to $3.5 billion towards the first stage of the North South Rail Link, from St Marys to the Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport, including $61 million for the Elizabeth Drive Overpass, an essential piece of enabling infrastructure to ensure the new airport is rail ready.
An additional $405 million towards the $1.4 billion construction of a new M12 motorway to provide quality road connectivity to the new airport.
$200 million for a new crossing of the Hawkesbury River, between Richmond and North Richmond to reduce congestion, and improve road flood capacity and immunity.
$95 million to upgrade Horsley Drive in the city’s south-west, including a 2.4km four lane divided road between the M7 Motorway and Cowpasture Road.
Commuter car park upgrades to improve access to public transport including at Kingswood Station ($20 million), St Marys Station ($20 million), Emu Plains Station ($15 million), Campbelltown Station ($15 million), Macarthur Station ($15 million), Revesby Station ($9.5 million), Panania Station ($7.5 million), and Riverwood Station ($9.5 million).
$63.5 million to upgrade Dunheved Road in Penrith, addressing unsafe stretches of the road between Richmond Road and Werrington Road.
$50 million to upgrade Homebush Bay Drive, including investigating options to improve traffic flow at the intersection of Australia Avenue and Underwood Road.
Western Sydney will also get its fair share of our $2.2 billion Local and State Road Safety Package to address much-needed local road maintenance as well as blackspots.
Managing population growth
Over the past decade, Australia’s population increased by 3.8 million people – much of this in Sydney, Melbourne and South-East Queensland.
The Morrison Government recognises that the current rate of growth, and its concentration in major cities, has heightened existing pressures, leading to rising congestion and reduced liveability in places like Western Sydney.
That is why the Morrison Government has delivered Australia’s first serious plan to manage population growth into our future.
This will improve quality of life in Western Sydney, meaning workers spend less time in traffic in their commute to work, and more time at home with friends and family.
As part of the plan, the Government has decided to reduce the permanent migration program ceiling by a cumulative 120,000 places over four years, and to introduce new regional provisional visas to encourage more migrants to settle and remain in regional areas.
We are also providing increased flexibility for States to meet their particular population needs.
Supporting small and family businesses
Small and family businesses are central to the Morrison Government’s economic plan for Australia and for Western Sydney.
They are the engine room of our economy, with around 215,000 small and medium businesses in Western Sydney employing thousands of workers.
When small businesses are healthy, all Australians are better off.
It means more jobs,
more choice, better living standards
and more vibrant and connected communities.
The Morrison Government wants small businesses to prosper.
We want them to employ even more Australians.
So we are lowering taxes – the business tax rate for small and medium-sized companies has been reduced from 30 per cent to 27.5 per cent and will fall further to 25 per cent in 2021-22.
Unincorporated Western Sydney small businesses are also receiving help to get ahead with the Government’s increase in the unincorporated tax discount.
As part of the 2019-20 Budget, we delivered an increase to the instant asset write-off threshold to $30,000 until 30 June 2020.
We also expanded access to include medium-sized businesses by increasing the annual turnover threshold from $10 million to $50 million.
These changes delivered a much-needed boost to retail, hospitality, manufacturing and other small and medium-sized businesses in Western Sydney.
Small and family businesses in Western Sydney can trust the Morrison Government to back them with other announced measures, including streamlining red tape and simplifying tax reporting;
helping them to expand by increasing access to finance with the $2 billion Australian Business Securitisation Fund and the $100 million Small Business Growth Fund;
ensuring they get paid on time by government and big business;
and supporting SME exporters through an additional $60 million for the Export Market Development Grants scheme.
Lower taxes for hard-working Australians
The Morrison Government will support families across Western Sydney by relieving cost of living pressures.
This starts with lowering taxes for hard-working Australians as part of our plan to deliver a stronger economy
and record job creation.
Our tax system must be fair for all Australians, one that provides reward for effort.
Our Personal Income Tax Plan delivers lower taxes for lower and middle income earners, ensuring they keep more of what they earn.
800,000 lower and middle income earners in Western Sydney will receive relief of up to $1080 after they lodge their 2018-19 tax return.
That’s up to $2160 for dual income families.
These benefits are then locked in for subsequent years.
A re-elected Morrison Government will also deliver long-term structural reform by lowering the 32.5 per cent tax rate to 30 per cent from 1 July 2024.
As a result, around 94 per cent of Australian taxpayers will benefit from a marginal tax rate of 30 per cent or less in 2024-25.
The Government’s strong fiscal management means that it can deliver surpluses while also rewarding hard-working Australians.
Lower taxes support consumption growth, help with cost of living pressures
will strengthen the Western Sydney economy.
Reducing power prices for families, small businesses and communities
The Morrison Government will tackle cost of living pressures for families and businesses in Western Sydney through our Fair Deal on Energy, which delivers affordable, reliable 24/7 power to Australian families, businesses and communities.
To reduce power prices and protect consumers, the Morrison Government will take comprehensive action across a range of areas:We have introduced a default market offer to act as a price safety net for those who find pricing and discounts confusing, or who simply don't have time to negotiate.
Households changing to default market offers from standing offer tariffs could save hundreds of dollars in NSW.
Provide $365 million for Energy Assistance Payments of $75 for singles and $125 for couples to four million eligible social security payment recipients – to help with their next power bill and cost of living expenses.
From 1 July 2019, we will permanently get rid of the ‘loyalty tax’ and lock in better deals for 800,000 households and tens of thousands of small businesses.
Crack down on unacceptable behaviour by the big energy companies against pensioners, families and hardship customers.
We have taken action to ban sneaky late payment fees, which can cost a household up to $1000 more.
To cut costs for families we will introduce new standards for appliances including space heaters, and we have created new labels for air conditioners to help inform customers which one will best suit their needs.
Take a big stick to stop the big energy company rip-offs – with our ‘big stick’ legislation based on recommendations from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission.
Changing the National Energy Market rules to protect consumers, including by banning retailers from offering confusing discounts, ensuring vulnerable customers in financial hardship get the help they need, and requiring retailers to accept self-meter reads instead of estimated reads so customers are accurately charged.
These savings build on price cuts of up to 15 per cent secured by the Morrison Government for more than 500,000 families and small businesses from 1 January 2019.
Small businesses and community organisations will also benefit from our energy plans.
A $50 million Energy Efficient Communities Program will provide more than 2,500 grants to eligible businesses and community organisations to help them reduce their power bills by installing new equipment or improving their energy management.
Eligible small businesses will be able to claim grants of up to $20,000, high-energy using businesses up to $25,000 and community groups up to $12,500.
In Western Sydney, a re-elected Morrison Government will provide up to $12,500 for community groups to install solar and battery systems to reduce energy costs.
We have also invested $11.7 million in the Business Energy Advice Program, delivering practical advice to help small businesses get better energy deals and increase energy efficiency.
Strengthening the health system
The Morrison Government’s health plan for Western Sydney will protect lives, improve lives and save lives.
It builds on the record funding we have provided for New South Wales public hospitals, record levels of bulk billing and more than 2,000 new medicines listings subsidised through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) at an investment of $10.6 billion since 2013.
Funding for NSW public hospitals will increase from $4.3 billion in 2012-13 to $6.8 billion in 2019-20 and is on track to increase to $8.8 billion under a new hospitals agreement.
Our new hospitals agreement will deliver an additional $9.2 billion to NSW Hospitals over five years.
Under the Morrison Government, Australians across the country, including in Western Sydney, have affordable access to medicines through the PBS.
The PBS covers over five thousand brands of medicines which without subsidy could cost tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars for patients.
Through the Morrison Government’s subsidy of PBS medicines the cost is reduced on average by 89 per cent.
Recent new PBS listings for lung cancer which were costing patients $88,000 per year, cystic fibrosis $250,000 per year and arthritis $15,000 per year now cost as little as $6.50 per script for concession card holders.
Families want to know that they can access health services when and where they need them.
Medicare funding is at record levels and almost nine out of 10 visits to the GP are bulk billed under the Morrison Government.
Across Australia bulk billing rates are at record levels at 86% up from 82% under the last Labor Government.
Our Health Plan for Western Sydney strengthens the health system by providing affordable and accessible health services, including:Greater hospital and health services and infrastructure including $65 million for Australia’s first dedicated Cystic Fibrosis Specialist Unit at the Westmead Health and Education Precinct.
Guaranteeing Medicare with bulk billing rates in Western Sydney above the national average at 87%.
More cancer services with $17.5 million for new MRIs across Western Sydney including at Penrith, Mt Druitt, Rouse Hill and Bella Vista.
Better mental health support with $20 million in 2018-19 for mental health and suicide prevention services across the Western Sydney Primary Health Network, and a new headspace service in Katoomba.
Simpler and more affordable Private Health Insurance with better access to mental health services, discounts for young people and the lowest premium change in 18 years.
More funding for preventative health with $52 million for expanded access to the meningococcal vaccine providing protection against the ACWY strains for children 12 months of age and teenagers 14 to 19 years of age.
Better access for children’s dental care with $1 billion over three years to support eligible Australian children to continue to access core dental services and families to claim up to $1,000 in benefits under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule.
Better management for type 1 diabetes through expanded free access to glucose monitoring devices for pregnant women, children and more adults with type 1 diabetes, saving Australians up to $7,000 a year.
Medical Research through the $20 billion Medical Research Future Fund backing our local scientists and ensuring we can quickly take life-saving discoveries from the laboratory to the hospital.
Safer and more secure Western Sydney communities
The Morrison Government is committed to keeping Western Sydney communities safe and secure.
We will deliver a comprehensive suite of actions that will help keep people in Western Sydney safe.
As well as maintaining strong borders and cancelling visas of criminals,
Western Sydney will benefit from our national plans to:Support local councils and community organisations in crime prevention activities (as well as protect schools, religious institutions and other sites from religious and racial intolerance) with CCTV cameras, security lighting, alarm systems and other infrastructure.
This will be delivered through a further $58.2 million investment in the Safer Communities Fund.
Deliver a comprehensive drug strategy to address the supply, demand and harm caused by illicit drugs with a five-year $337 million investment.
This includes $152 million to strengthen law enforcement to disrupt and reduce the supply of illicit drugs – including targeting outlaw motorcycle gangs.
Take action against domestic violence, with a record investment of $328 million for prevention and frontline services to support the Fourth Action Plan of the National Plan to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children.
We have also committed up to $480,000 for the Penrith Women’s Health Centre if re-elected.
Deliver a comprehensive plan to improve online safety, including funding a $10 million Online Safety Grants program to deliver practical online safety education and training projects; continuing to protect kids online through our world-first e-safety Commissioner and establishing an Online Safety Charter to set expectations for social media companies.
Meeting our climate commitments and protecting the local environment
Western Sydney has a beautiful natural environment, and the Morrison Government is committed to working with the local community to support practical, on-ground environment protection and restoration.
Our commitment to Western Sydney’s environment includes:Up to $511,000 to revegetate and deal with weeds in the Hawkesbury and Nepean Rivers to both improve the environment and improve amenity for the local community and sports groups.
Supporting local community groups, including landcare groups, scouts groups and sports clubs to improve the local environment through our $22 million Communities Environment Program.
Australia has a proud track record of meeting our international climate commitments and supporting renewable energy.
Climate change is a global issue that requires a global solution.
The Liberal Nationals Government has overachieved on our commitment under the Kyoto Protocol, something few countries have done.
We will reduce emissions by 26-28 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030 and we will do this while growing the economy,
creating jobs,
protecting our environment
and keeping power prices down.
The Morrison Government has a $3.5 billion Climate Solutions Plan – among the largest investments by Australia in emissions reduction.
A new $2 billion Climate Solutions Fund will ensure we meet our 2030 Paris commitments by supporting practical measures such as revegetation of degraded land, reducing waste, savannah burning and improving energy efficiency.
The Morrison Government is also expanding our world-class renewable hydro resources to supply millions of Australians with reliable renewable energy.
Snowy 2.0 will be the world’s second-largest high tech pumped hydro power station and increase generation capacity by 2,000 megawatts – enough power for 500,000 homes during peak demand.
It will provide 175 hours of energy storage – that’s more than 2,700 SA Tesla batteries.
Importantly, Snowy 2.0 will also put downward pressure on wholesale electricity prices.
It will create up to 2,400 jobs in construction and support up to 5,000 direct and indirect jobs across the Snowy Mountains region, providing opportunities for local businesses, improvements in local infrastructure and increased economic activity.
Our strong policies contrast with Labor’s reckless plan to introduce a carbon tax
and hit every family and business with increased grocery, energy and transport costs.
The Choice
There is a lot at stake at this election.
And there is a clear choice.
A choice between a Government that is delivering a strong economy or a Labor Party that would weaken our economy.
A choice between a Government that is fixing the Budget or a Labor Party that can’t manage money.
A Choice between a Government committed to improving the lives of residents of Western Sydney or a Labor Party that takes Western Sydney for granted.
A choice between a Government that is easing the pressure on families by lowering taxes or a Labor Party that will put more strain on households by imposing $387 billion in new taxes on workers, retirees and small business.
A choice between a Government that can afford to pay for better infrastructure and services or a Labor Party that would max out Australia’s credit card.
A choice between a Government that has secured our borders and is keeping Australians safe or a Labor Party that has learned nothing from its border security failures.
Labor can’t manage money and they can’t manage the economy.
When Labor can’t manage money, they come after yours.
Labor plans to hit Australians with $387 billion in big new taxes which will hurt people in Western Sydney:Labor’s retiree tax will punish older Australians who have worked hard and saved for retirement by abolishing tax refunds on share dividends.
In Western Sydney, this will affect over 25,000 individuals who have direct shareholdings and many more invested through self-managed super funds.
On average individuals with direct holdings will lose almost $2,300 a year and self-managed super funds will lose $12,000 a year.
Labor’s housing and investment taxes will end negative gearing as we know it and increase capital gains tax by 50%.
If you own your own home it will be worth less and if you rent you will pay more.
Labor would impose higher income tax by reversing the Government’s legislated income tax plan and the enhancements we announced in the 2019-20 budget.
Labor’s plan would leave over 550,000 people in Western Sydney worse off.
Labor’s Family Business Tax would impose a minimum tax rate of 30% on the 7,900 small businesses in Western Sydney structured through discretionary trusts.
This is the same rate imposed on large multinational companies.
On top of this, Labor’s reckless emissions targets will:cost the economy $472 billion,
slash more than 336,000 jobs,
cut the average wage by over $9,000, and
increase wholesale electricity prices by more than 58%.
Western Sydney will be particularly hard hit with higher electricity and gas prices, higher costs of refrigeration and higher transport costs.
These are costs that Western Sydney workers and businesses can’t afford
Moreover, Labor’s plan to impose punitive new carbon costs on 250 firms nationally will have a disproportionate impact on manufacturing and processing operations located in regional and outer suburban areas, including Western Sydney.
Labor’s plan will add millions of dollars in costs to Western Sydney businesses engaged in beef and dairy processing, the manufacture of building materials and specialty gases.
It will even hit firms and local authorities involved in waste management and operating landfills.
Labor also ignores the supply chain that extends from Western Sydney to the state’s mining operations in the Hunter Valley and the Central West.
Industry data has showed that NSW mining companies spent $5.6 billion in NSW on the purchase of goods and services from 7,135 local businesses in 2017-18.
More than 3000 of these firms were in Sydney including thousands in Western Sydney.
So Labor’s multi-billion hit on NSW mining companies over the next decade will not just be felt in the Hunter Valley and the Central West but in Western Sydney as well.
By contrast the Morrison Government has a plan for lower taxes so that you can keep more of the money you earn.
There will only be one outcome for Western Sydney under Labor – a weaker economy,
fewer jobs
and higher taxes.
Labor can’t be trusted to run the economy and manage the budget.
And they can’t be trusted to invest in the services Western Sydney relies on, including health, education and aged care.
Cost
The Coalition’s plan for Western Sydney will not place additional costs on the Budget.
Our Plan for Stronger Defence and Defence Industries
Key Points
The first role of Government is to keep Australia and Australians safe.
We are investing more than $200 billion in Australia’s defence capability over the next decade – the nation’s biggest peacetime investment in Defence.
By 2020-21, we will have restored investment in Defence to 2 per cent of GDP.
This is in stark contrast to Labor who slashed more than $18 billion from Defence, reducing Defence spending to just 1.56 per cent of GDP – the lowest level since 1938.
To keep Australians safe and secure, we need to keep our economy strong.
The Coalition Government’s strong economic management underpins the investments needed to defend Australia and protect our borders.
Our record rejuvenation of Defence includes building 54 naval vessels in Australia, modernising our Army and introducing a world-leading fifth generation Air Force.
We are maximising involvement and opportunity for Australian industry across Defence programs - from large scale projects with national reach, to local projects and contracts that support our Defence Force day to day.
Our plan is creating tens of thousands of highly-skilled, high-paid jobs throughout the country.
This is securing jobs for generations to come and ensuring the Australian Defence Force is supported by the thriving Australian defence industry they need, when they need it.
A re-elected Morrison Government will continue building Australia’s defence capability by:Maintaining our commitment to increase Defence investment to 2 per cent of GDP by 2020-21, to provide certainty for Defence planning and procurement.
Building an additional three naval vessels in Henderson, Western Australia – two Mine Warfare Support vessels and a hydrographic vessel – adding to the 31 minor war vessels already being built in WA and the 54 naval vessels being built in Australia overall.
This will bring the number of naval vessels the Coalition has committed to build (or already commenced) in Australia to 57.
Built in Australia, by Australian workers, with Australian steel – in stark contrast to Labor, who committed to build no naval vessels in Australia.
Investing $156 million to roll out a package to support further enhancing our cyber resilience and workforce – particularly across the ADF and the Australian Signals Directorate and the Australian Cyber Security Centre, as well as strengthening our broader cyber security resilience and response across small business, older Australians and families.
Continuing with the Attack class submarine project, which Labor say they are putting on ‘pause’ to once again delay and create uncertainty for our Navy and our defence industry.
Supporting our ADF personnel by allowing them the choice to contribute to their ADF Super even after they have transitioned to a new employer.
Our Record
The Coalition has a strong record of investing in and delivering what is needed to keep Australians safe.
Strong economic management has meant we can restore defence spending to 2 per cent of GDP, reversing the significant decline under Labor.
Under Labor, Defence, and thus the safety and security of our nation, was an unacceptable casualty of their inability to manage the economy.
Under Labor, defence funding was gutted by over $18 billion and investment fell to just 1.56% of GDP – the lowest level since 1938.
Under Labor 119 Defence projects were delayed, 43 projects reduced and eight cancelled.
By contrast, the Coalition Government has made over 173 project-related decisions since the release of our 2016 Defence White Paper: we’re getting on with the job of delivering the best equipment and facilities our Defence Force needs.
Australia has one of the finest militaries in the world.
A proud history, equipped with some of the best equipment and training in the world, combine for an envied reputation.
But we live in a region which is increasingly volatile.
Competition for power is growing and the threat of terrorism is clear and present.
To keep Australians safe and secure, we need to keep our economy strong.
For too long, successive Labor Governments have treated Defence like an ATM when it needed to prop up its own poor budget decisions, placing the safety and security of our nation at risk.
Only the Morrison Government can be trusted to keep Australia safe.
To do that, we are: •Continuing to deliver reliable and sustainable Defence funding.
•Continuing to renew our Defence capabilities.
•Contributing to operations at home and around the globe.
•Enhancing support for regional security.
•Building a stronger Navy, Army and Air Force.
•Investing in infrastructure and enablers.
•Building the Australian defence industry.
•Keeping Defence on the cutting edge.
•Enhancing our cyber warfare and security workforce and resilience.
•Supporting Our Defence personnel.
Our Plan
Reliable and sustainable Defence funding
Reliable and sustainable Defence funding gives Australia’s military the confidence to plan ahead and make the investments they need to keep Australia safe.
In turn, Australia’s defence industry can invest and employ more Australians.
The 2019-20 Budget maintains the Morrison Government‘s commitment to provide Defence with stable and sustainable funding growth.
By 2020-21 we will have restored Defence investment to 2 per cent of GDP.
Renewing our Defence capabilities
Under strategies laid out in the 2016 Defence White Paper, the Morrison Government is investing in the capabilities and platforms necessary to meet the challenges of an increasingly complex security environment.
Our fully-funded plan is investing more than $200 billion in Australia’s defence capability over the next 10 years, including the largest regeneration of our Navy since the Second World War.
Built in Australia, by Australians, using Australian steel.
The 10-year Integrated Investment Program laid out Defence’s plans for procurement, giving certainty to industry of the path ahead.
To deliver this ambitious program, the Coalition Government has made over 173 project decisions since the release of the White Paper.
Not only do these decisions get vital equipment into the hands of our service men and women sooner, but they also create opportunities for Australia’s defence industry to invest and grow.
Operations at home and around the globe
The Australian Defence Force is one of the most respected and effective militaries in the world.
Only the Morrison Government can be trusted to continue to invest the resources necessary to keep it that way:
We have given our ADF the power to target terrorists with lethal force (in accordance with international law).
This includes targeting support networks and improvised weapons manufacturers, as well as front-line combatants.
As part of Operation Okra, around 600 ADF personnel have been involved in the fight against Da’esh.
While we have achieved territorial defeat, Da’esh remains a threat to global security.
We’ve increased Australia’s commitment to the NATO-led Operation Resolute Support in Afghanistan (to around 300 personnel) so that Afghanistan does not again become a safe haven for terrorists.
To combat terrorism in our region, ADF training teams are building the capacity of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to combat Islamic State-aligned terrorists.
We are also expanding the ADF’s role in training select state and territory police units to respond to domestic terrorist incidents.
Enhanced support for regional security
The Morrison Government recognises Australia’s security is intertwined with our Pacific neighbours so we are stepping up actions in this vital region.
Our package of security, economic, diplomatic and people-to-people initiatives will take Australia’s engagement to a new level and Defence will play a key part:The Morrison Government has committed to building a large-hulled vessel dedicated to increased ADF engagement with our Pacific partners, especially for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
We are fundamentally changing how the Pacific region identifies and responds to maritime security threats with the 30-year, $2 billion Pacific Maritime Security Program.
This will deliver bigger and more capable Australian-built patrol boats, aerial surveillance, information sharing, and capacity building.
Building a stronger Navy
The Morrison Government is keeping Australians safe with our $90 billion plan to build 57 new vessels – the largest regeneration of the Navy since the Second World War.
This is in stark contrast to Labor, who did not commission any naval vessels from Australian shipyards when they were last in office.
We are doubling our submarine fleet to 12 Attack class submarines, building nine Hunter class frigates and 12 Arafura class offshore patrol vessels to ensure our borders remain secure and our nation safe. We are also building 21 Guardian class pacific patrol boats to help our near-neighbours.
A re-elected Morrison Government commits to building an additional three naval vessels in Henderson, Western Australia – two mine warfare support vessels and a hydrographic vessel.
All 57 vessels will be built in Australia, using Australian workers and Australian steel – creating thousands of jobs for decades to come.
More than 700 Australian businesses have already prequalified to work on the Hunter class frigates.
Around 170 have pre-qualified to work on the Attack class submarine program.
The Morrison Government has committed to building world-class new naval shipyards to construct the vessels and has established the Naval Shipbuilding College to ensure we have the right workers at the right time.
The Morrison Government is continuing our initial investment in 2017 with the University of Tasmania’s Australian Maritime College, by investing a further $30 million to create a Tasmanian Defence Innovation and Design Precinct, helping to deliver the research needed for Australia’s cutting-edge maritime defence capability.
Our commitment to construct two further mine warfare support vessels at the Henderson shipyard precinct in Western Australia is part of our new mine warfare strategy.
We will bring forward the replacement of the Huon-class mine hunters from the 2030s to the mid-2020s, as part of our new Maritime Mine Countermeasures Program (to be known as SEA 1905).
The Morrison Government has allocated over $1 billion in the Defence Integrated Investment Program to deliver the full scope of SEA 1905, including the building of the two mine warfare support vessels and investment in new mine countermeasure (including autonomous) systems.
The build of the three additional vessels will be coordinated with our existing naval shipbuilding programs in Western Australia.
This will ensure the naval shipbuilding workforce in WA continues to grow over the long term.
It’s estimated there will be around 1,000 jobs created to build the Arafura class offshore patrol vessels and 400 jobs to build the Guardian class Pacific patrol boats.
Building a stronger Army
The Morrison Government will keep Australians safe with an unprecedented investment in our Army including:A $5.2 billion project to build over 200 new Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicles in Queensland and creating 1,450 jobs nationwide.
A $15 billion project to replace the Army’s M113 Armoured Personnel Carriers with a fleet of up to 450 modern Infantry Fighting Vehicles.
New weapons including rifles, pistols, grenade launchers and mortars as well as new body armour and night-fighting equipment.
A new protected truck fleet: Australian-built trailers and modules, cranes, excavators, front-end loaders, forklifts and tractors as well as aviation refuelling and fire trucks.
Building a stronger Air Force
The Morrison Government will keep Australians safe with an unprecedented investment in Air Force capability including:More than $17 billion to acquire the world-best F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter. More than 50 Australian companies have shared in more than $1.3 billion in production contracts so far.
The program is expected to support over 5,000 Australian jobs by 2023.
Boosting the security of our borders with the manned P-8A Poseidon and unmanned MQ-4C Triton maritime patrol aircraft.
Infrastructure alone for this project will support over 4,000 Australian jobs.
Enhancing our ability to watch and protect ADF land forces by acquiring the MQ-9 Reaper as Australia’s first armed, remotely-piloted aircraft system.
Australian industry will provide a range of innovative sensor, communication, manufacturing and life-cycle support capabilities, as well as associated infrastructure development.
Investing in infrastructure and enablers
The Morrison Government has committed to the redevelopment and construction of new infrastructure across Defence, ensuring the ADF has the facilities it needs for operations in our region and beyond. This includes:
Over $3 billion for facilities and maintenance hubs to support new capabilities for the Navy, Army and Air Force.
Over $1.8 billion on military base and critical infrastructure renewal for the Navy, Army and Air Force.
More than $25 billion forecast investment (to 2028) to build and maintain defence infrastructure to support new and existing capabilities.
At the same time, the Government is providing $5 billion in additional funding to 2025‐26 to modernise Defence’s information and communications technology.
Building Australia’s defence industry
Our creation of a stronger, more resilient, and internationally competitive defence industry is maximising opportunities for Australian businesses to secure Defence contracts.
Hundreds of thousands of people and more than 3,000 small to medium enterprises are already employed in Australia’s defence industry.
The Morrison Government has launched the 2019 Defence Policy for Industry Participation, providing further opportunities for Australian companies to compete for work and drive the long-term development of Australia’s sovereign defence industry.
This policy builds on the success of the Government’s well-established Australian Industry Capability Program and Local Industry Capability Plan. It also extends the requirement to include opportunities for Australian industry on all Defence procurements of $4 million, and above $7.5 million for construction.
The policy ensures local Australian businesses have more opportunities to benefit from our $200 billion-plus investment in Defence capability over the next decade, ensuring we create Australian jobs and a sovereign Australian defence industry.
The policy ensures local Australian businesses have more opportunities to benefit from our $200 billion-plus investment in Defence capability over the next decade, ensuring we create Australian jobs and a sovereign Australian defence industry.
The policy also supports the Government’s long-term vision for an Australian industry that is positioned to meet Defence’s requirements and generate economic growth and jobs across Australia.
The $230 million Centre for Defence Industry Capability works closely with industry to help it take advantage of the unprecedented opportunities.
This includes the awarding of 80 Capability Improvement Grants to help companies prepare and to be more competitive to do business with Defence.
The first Australian Defence Industrial Capability Plan lays out how we will build the Defence industry Australia needs.
This includes a dedicated annual Sovereign Industrial Capability Priority grants program, providing up to $17 million to Australian small and medium enterprises to assist them to purchase essential equipment, such as enhancing cyber security, providing access to specialist training, or the ability to attain appropriate accreditations and certificates.
The Defence Export Strategy, Defence Export Advocate, $3.8 billion Defence Export Facility and $20 million annually in extra export promotion to help Australian defence industry market its capabilities to our friends and allies overseas for a sustainable Australian defence industry.
Expanding access to Efic, the Export Credit Agency, to enable Australian companies to access a range of specialist finance solutions to expand their business and help them secure export-related contracts in new markets.
Continuing to grow the Global Supply Chain program, giving Australian companies a foot in the door for greater access to global markets through the supply chains of defence prime companies.
Keeping defence on the cutting edge
Ensuring Australia has access to and control of vitally important capabilities to keep the ADF on the cutting edge of new technologies.
The Sovereign Industrial Capability Assessment Framework and the Sovereign Industrial Capability Priorities establish key areas for research and development, which is then backed-up with funding to ensure they are developed in Australia.
The Coalition Government has committed $1.6 billion to ensure our Defence Forces remain at the cutting edge of technology by expanding opportunities for Australia’s innovation and research and development organisations to continue to challenge, expand and grow their knowledge base and skills:The Next Generation Technologies Fund has invested more than $130 million in long-term research programs aligned with Defence priorities, along with over 130 research activities with 24 Australian universities and 15 small and medium enterprises.
The Defence Innovation Hub has received over 820 innovation proposals and awarded more than $109 million in contracts. More than 80 per cent of investments have been with micro, small and medium businesses.
Enhancing our cyber warfare and security workforce and resilience
New and more complex security threats in cyberspace will be an important part of our future security environment.
The cyber threat to Australia is growing.
Cyber attacks are a real and present threat to the ADF’s warfighting ability as well as to the rest of government and Australia’s economy and critical infrastructure.
To counter the growing threat of cyber attack, the Coalition Government has improved our national cyber security capabilities.
Defence’s cyber security capabilities have been strengthened to protect the ADF’s warfighting and information networks.
The Australian Signals Directorate and the Australian Cyber Security Centre are at the forefront of the broader contribution to enhanced national cyber security efforts, which include better coordinated cyber security capabilities and working further with industry and academia to counter the threat of cyber attack.
The Coalition Government’s landmark $230 million Cyber Security Strategy has also been a key catalyst for change across the economy.
We have streamlined our national cyber security structures across the Departments of Defence and Home Affairs, we have invested in strong cyber defences (across government and the rest of the economy), we have spread our global cyber engagement, and we have focussed on growing a cyber-smart nation.
But there is more to do. Cyber crime continues to cost our economy billions of dollars a year, particularly impacting families, small and medium sized businesses and families.
We need to take a proactive approach to ensuring that Australians and Australian businesses can fight back against these criminals.
And we need to grow our cyber and STEM workforce to ensure that we have the right people with the right skills to fill roles across the ADF, Defence, the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD), the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC), defence and other industry and the broader economy.
A re-elected Morrison Government will therefore make a $156 million investment in further enhancing our cyber resilience and workforce – particularly across the ADF and the ASD/ACSC, as well as strengthening our broader cyber security resilience and response across small business, older Australians and families.
This will be a significant further investment in the development of our national cyber security workforce, which will have economy wide flow-on impacts.
We will: Invest $80 million to expand the Australian Defence Force’s and Australian Signals Directorate’s cyber operations and workforce capabilities, by:Accelerating the creation of 230 positions for military cyber operations specialists in the ADF over the next four years, significantly enhancing existing capabilities.
By bringing forward these positions, we will be able to deliver the required number of cyber operations personnel in less than half the time originally forecast.
A targeted recruitment program will be launched to attract interested Australians.
As part of our cyber operations targeted recruitment program, building on our highly successful ADF Gap Year Program to create up to 100 new gap year positions each year that are focussed on cyber and information warfare domains to encourage young Australians, particularly women, to embark on a cyber-related career.
In 2018-19, the ADF Gap Year Program received over 5,500 applications, yet only about 10 per cent of applicants were successful in securing a position.
By building a cyber-warfare focussed cohort, we will encourage, inspire and educate young Australians in the cyber domain – ready to join the ADF in military cyber operations specialist and related roles; to join the Australian Signals Directorate in specialist cyber intelligence related roles; to join defence industry; or undertake further studies in the field.
Establishing a Countering Foreign Cyber Criminals capability within ASD and the ACSC, and drawing on the expertise of the Australian Federal Police, that will use our advanced cyber capabilities to combat the increasingly sophisticated organised cyber crime gangs.
Most cyber crimes and scams against Australians originate overseas.
This makes it difficult for domestic law enforcement authorities to investigate, prosecute, and shut down offenders.
Developing a Counter Foreign Cyber Criminal capability will create a capability to both defend against and fight back against cyber criminals overseas, including scammers, fraudsters and those involved in child exploitation.
Growing the Australian Government’s Cyber Security ‘SPRINT’ Teams, to develop cyber partnerships with owners and operators of critical infrastructure to be ready to respond to any emerging national security threats.
Create a $50 million Cyber Security National Workforce Growth Program, that builds on initiatives set out in our Cyber Security Strategy, and brings together Defence, Home Affairs, law enforcement, other government agencies, defence and wider industry, and academia under the leadership of the National Cyber Security Adviser, to further develop and implement a range of initiatives to grow the available national cyber workforce pool and inspire young Australians and students into cyber related careers.
This will build on the significant efforts we have made as a result of the Cyber Security Strategy and have significant flow-on benefits to industry and the broader economy.
This will include:Scholarships for postgraduate, undergraduate and TAFE studies directly associated with cyber security.
A minimum of 50 per cent of scholarships will be made available to female students.
Support for cyber security challenges and educational activities that are targeted primary school, high school, and tertiary students, inspiring and training them to take up a career in cyber related fields (this includes programs such as CyberTaipan, the Cyber Security Challenge Australia (CySCA), and the Cyber Experience Platform).
Development of specialist cyber security related courses, which directly meet the needs of Defence, government and industry.
Building on Questacon’s Engineering is Elementary pilot program – educating teachers about increasing student interest in engineering and other STEM field in a national rollout of the program, which will train 1,000 primary school teachers from every state and territory around the country.
Evidence suggests that getting primary school aged children interested in STEM subjects from an early age encourages them to into STEM careers over the long term.
This will help drive a STEM-cyber workforce of the future.
Development of work experience placements and government/industry exchanges to help develop the practical skills of our national cyber security workforce.
Supporting Women in Cyber mentoring and coaching programs that help promote a diverse cyber workforce.
Invest $26 million to expand the role of the Australian Cyber Security Centre to help businesses and families address cyber security issues
and helping to support the wider Australian economy.
This includes:Developing a comprehensive online cyber security training program, which focusses on providing practical cyber advice for small businesses, older Australians and Australian families.
This will help them to avoid becoming victims of increasingly sophisticated cyber criminals, especially in relation to online transactions, identity theft and internet banking.
Expanding the ACSC’s 24/7 hotline for reporting cyber security incidents to include a dedicated helpdesk for small and medium sized businesses, older Australians and families.
Evidence suggests that 43 per cent of cyber attacks cost small businesses on average $10,000 per attack and that they have limited knowledge and capacity to protect themselves or recover after a cyber security incident.
The help desk will employ specially trained staff who can provide tailored technical cyber security advice for these groups, including advice that prevents, and responds to, cyber security incidents.
The help desk will provide free advice and support to those recovering from a malicious cyber incident – such as data breaches, scams, fraud and identity theft – to equip them to get back on line.
Working with industry and Home Affairs to develop a voluntary code of practice to improve the security of consumer ‘Internet of Things’ (IoT) devices in Australia.
This will help inform manufacturers of the security features that consumers will expect from their IoT devices, particularly as 5G technology is rolled out.
Auditing the cyber security arrangements of defence industry contractors, particularly those involved in our $90 billion Naval Shipbuilding Plan, to ensure that we protect our cutting edge military capability.
International experience shows that defence industry sub-contractors can often be the weakest link when it comes to cyber security, so it is essential that we ensure appropriate arrangements are in place to secure our more than $200 billion investment in Defence capability over the next decade.
Updating our 2016 Cyber Security Strategy to take account of developments in cyber security over the past three years.
Protecting Australia from cyber threats is one of our greatest defence and national security challenges and only the Morrison Government is delivering the strong economy necessary to invest in our cyber warfare and security capabilities and workforce.
Supporting Australia’s defence personnel
At the heart of Australia’s Defence Forces are the men and women who proudly wear the uniform.
The Morrison Government will continue to support Australia’s former, current and future Defence personnel, by:Implementing significant workforce reform – making it easier for members leaving the ADF to continue to serve our nation in a permanent capacity or in the Reserves, and also return to the full time force.
Ensuring that the transition from the ADF into civilian life is as seamless as possible by providing a full range of support and services, including:Implementing a new needs-based model of transition support, ensuring more members and their families receive the support they need.
Providing enhanced support for Defence families by extending the Job Search Preparation program to include a program designed specifically for partners of transitioning members.
Delivering additional support services through the Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Program and ex-service organisations.
Improving the format of ADF Member and Family Transition Seminars to allow attendees to tailor their experience.
Ensuring that all ADF personnel leaving the military now have an individual transition plan, a record of professional military education and training, unit posting and employment history, and copies of all entitlements and medical records.
Implementing programs to meet the needs of separating personnel at risk of a poor transition, those transitioning with complex medical conditions and partners of members transitioning for medical reasons.
Providing access to ADF Transition Coaches to help ADF personnel develop tailored career plans and provide additional support where required.
Rolling out our new network of Veterans’ Wellbeing Centres nationwide.
Allowing former members to contribute to their ADF Super even after they have transitioned to a new employer, allowing them the option to maintain one super account over working life.
Expanding access to the Defence Home Ownership Assistance Scheme and the Defence Service Homes Insurance Scheme for ex-ADF members.
Continuing to invest in our Non-Liability Health Care program, providing free and immediate treatment for all mental health conditions for current and former ADF members – uncapped and demand driven.
Introducing stronger protections for Reservists when they provide service.
Continuing the ADF Gap Year program for school leavers.
Establishing a Council for Women and Families United by Defence Service to provide a forum for women and families to have a direct voice to the Government on issues that impact ADF families and the unique challenges of women who wear our nation’s uniform.
The Choice
Only the Morrison Government can be trusted to invest the resources necessary to keep Australia safe and continue to strengthen Australia’s Defence Forces.
Under Labor’s weak border protection policies, the boats restarted.
The Navy was diverted from strategic tasks to deal with asylum seeker vessels, placing Australian lives in dangerous and difficult circumstances.
Circumstance that were preventable and which cost thousands of lives and cost billions of dollars.
Now they have announced they will ‘pause’ the project after the Coalition Government got it back on track.
In six years Labor didn’t build one naval vessel in an Australian yard – the shipbuilding ‘Valley of Death’ is indeed ‘Labor’s Valley of Death’.
In 2012-13, Labor slashed the Defence budget by over 10 per cent in real teams, causing Defence investment to fall to 1.56 per cent of GDP – the lowest level since 1938.Overall, Labor cut over $18 billion from the Defence budget while it was in Government.
Under Labor 119 Defence projects were delayed, 43 projects reduced and eight cancelled.
The choice is clear: Labor pays lip service to Defence but then treats it like an ATM when it runs out of money to pay for their unaffordable spending promises and half-baked schemes.
The Morrison Government will increase the Defence budget to 2 per cent of Gross Domestic Product by 2020-21, three years ahead of our original commitment.
To meet our funding commitments and keep Australian’s safe and secure,
we need to keep our economy strong.
The Morrison Government is providing greater certainty for investment.Greater certainty for jobs.And greater certainty for the Australian Defence Force.
Combined, this ensures a stronger Australian defence industry, creating opportunities for Australian defence exports, and laying the foundation for a globally competitive Australian defence industry.
The Morrison Government is providing greater certainty for investment, greater certainty for jobs and greater certainty for the Australian Defence Force.
Cost
The Coalition’s Plan for Stronger Defence and Defence Industry will not place additional costs on the Budget.
Our Plan to Keep Communities Safe
Key Points
Keeping Australians safe is a top priority of the Morrison Government.
We have a clear plan to protect Australian families and their communities from criminals and the menace of illicit drugs, child exploitation and other crimes.
Crime today is more organised and sophisticated than ever before, but its effects continue to reach into the hearts of our communities.
That’s why, under the Coalition’s plan to keep our communities safe, we have been tackling organised criminals, targeting their gangs and going after their money.
We are deporting criminals who commit serious crimes and stopping others who try to come here to break the law.
We are also looking after local communities, using criminals’ ill-gotten gains to pay for practical measures, like CCTV, to prevent crime in your local community.
The Liberal Nationals Government can be trusted to keep communities safe because that’s what we’ve done for the last six years.
And because the Morrison Government is committed to strong economic management we will have the means to invest in community safety and security.
We will continue to keep our communities safe by:strengthening efforts to counter organised crime, illicit drugs and child exploitation by ensuring our laws are up to the task and our police and intelligence agencies have the resources to do the job;
enhancing measures to ensure non-citizens convicted of serious crimes have their visa cancelled and are removed from our communities;
targeting organised criminals peddling drugs and firearms with a commitment of new resources for the highly-successful National Anti-Gangs Squad;
helping families and communities affected by drug addiction with further investments in treatment options, including in regional areas;
working with local communities to keep our streets safe and address local crime with investments in CCTV and other security measures and paid for by the assets of criminals.
Our Record
We are entitled to feel safe in our homes, streets and communities.
Since the Coalition was first elected, our Government has been making the choices needed to ensure Australia is the best place in the world in which to live, work and raise a family.
We have been keeping our country strong so Australians can plan for the future with confidence.
We have repaired our borders, invested in our defence, deported violent criminals, and we have provided our security and intelligence agencies with the powers, resources and technology they need to keep Australians safe.
And by bringing together our law enforcement, immigration and security agencies into the one Home Affairs portfolio, we have strengthened our capabilities and coordination to keep Australians safe, and make it harder for criminals and others to threaten Australia and our way of life.
We have addressed the challenges to our security and safety beyond our shores, on our borders, in our communities and in our homes.
The Morrison Government is protecting Australians in a security environment few imagined 20 years ago.
Crime today is more organised and sophisticated than ever and it’s costing the nation an estimated $47 billion a year.
The personal cost is even greater for families affected by the scourge of illicit drugs or abhorrent child exploitation.
Since 2013, the Liberal Nationals Government has invested in our law enforcement agencies, including a funding commitment to the Australian Federal Police of more than $600 million in the 2019-20 Budget.
We are tackling the supply of ICE through international cooperation, intelligence sharing, better controls on precursor chemicals, and stronger law enforcement.
We have invested in the National Wastewater Drug Monitoring Program and the National Anti-Gangs Squad.
We have cancelled the visas of over 4,400 dangerous criminals, including murderers, rapists, drug dealers, and outlaw motorcycle gang members.
A further 28 dual nationals have had their Australian citizenship revoked, most for vile child sex offences.
And we have funded the initiation of the Australian Centre to Combat Child Exploitation.
There is no place in Australia for those who come here and do us harm.
Tackling crime isn’t just about tougher laws and penalties; it’s also about helping the victims of crime and crime prevention.
We have taken concrete steps to improve community safety, funding practical local crime prevention activities through our Safer Communities fund.
The Coalition launched the National Drug Strategy to help communities with treatment and prevention options for those affected by illicit drugs.
We have invested $450 million to help communities fight the impact of ICE, including funding for over 244 Local Drug Action Teams across Australia, with two-thirds operating outside of major cities.
Local Drug Action Teams help communities to work together to prevent and minimise the harm caused by alcohol and drugs.
We promised to make Australian communities and neighbourhoods safer and we are delivering and we have a plan to do even more.
The safety and security of Australians is paramount.
Our Plan
Protecting our communities from crime
More resources, tougher laws
Australian communities are being targeted by organised crime groups peddling drugs, defrauding individuals and small business, or conducting sickening acts of child abuse and other crimes.
These criminals are sophisticated, using technology, including encryption, to conduct their activities in secret and launder their profits.
A re-elected Morrison Government will give our law enforcement agencies the funding and laws they need to tackle this threat, as we did in the 2019-20 Budget.
We have already changed the law to make it more difficult for criminals to hide from law enforcement using encrypted messaging apps.
We will fund the AFP’s development and modernisation of enhanced technical capabilities to catch criminals in the act.
Through the Government’s financial intelligence agency, AUSTRAC, we will strengthen partnerships with the financial sector to find and seize illicit funds. We will also strengthen Commonwealth fraud investigations capability.
Criminals will face tougher penalties under a re-elected Morrison Government.
We have already sought parliament’s support for mandatory minimum sentences for serious child sex offences; and for firearms trafficking offences.
We will increase maximum penalties for a range of crimes, including child sex offences.
Deporting foreign criminals
We believe there’s no place in Australia for people who come here and break our laws or harm our community.
That’s why we will continue to cancel the visas of dangerous foreign criminals.
We have already cancelled the visas of over 4,400 dangerous criminals, including 200 Outlaw Motor Cycle Gang members and revoked the Australian citizenship of 28 dual national criminals.
Last year alone, over 800 criminals had their visas cancelled, including: 16 for murder; 7 for manslaughter; 55 for domestic violence; 58 for armed robbery; 92 child sex offenders and 135 for assault.
We will continue to revoke the visas of convicted child sex offenders – having already cancelled the visas of more than 300 child sex offenders and stopped hundreds more at the border.
And we will ensure child sex offenders are prevented from travelling overseas under laws we proposed that passed through the Parliament.
Fighting drug crime
Illicit drugs, especially ICE, are an enduring scourge in many Australian communities.
That’s why the Coalition introduced the National Drugs Strategy to stop drug peddlers and help those caught in the vice of addiction.
Criminal gangs traffic illicit drugs and firearms without shame or care for victims.
A re-elected Morrison Government will extend the National Anti-Gangs Squad to combat organised criminals, including bikie and non-traditional emerging gangs, with a $90.6 million investment.
Since we established the Squad in 2014, operations have led to the arrest of more than 1270 offenders, the laying of more than 4,000 charges and the seizure of almost 6,000 illegal firearms and firearms parts, and more than 2.5 tonnes of illicit drugs and precursors.
The Coalition will continue the highly successful effort to keep illegal guns off our streets.
This will include extending the firearms operations of the National Forensics Rapid Lab, which is helping to disrupt and dismantle firearms trafficking networks.
Supporting individuals and families dealing with addiction
A re-elected Morrison Government will be tough on drug criminals, but will help individuals and families trying to deal with addiction and substance abuse.
As part of the Morrison Government broader National Drugs Strategy we are investing over $720 million over four years from 2018-19 in specific health initiatives to reduce the impact of drug and alcohol misuse including through treatment, prevention and research.
We are providing $450 million to help communities fight the impact of ICE through the National Ice Action Strategy.
This has enabled us to fund 244 Local Drug Action Teams and deliver an addition 471 local drug and alcohol services since 2016 based on community need.
We have also listed 15 additional items on Medicare for Addiction Medical Specialists to make it easier for people to get the professional assistance they need to break the ICE habit.
We will also support local communities and families with over 9,400 local sports clubs to expand the national Good Sports program to help them prevent and manage illicit drug issues, such as ICE addiction.
Funding of $4.3 million will also provide local support for families and communities struggling with the impacts of illicit drug misuse, including ICE, through local family drug support services.
The Government is also building on its efforts to reduce prescription opioid overuse and abuse.
The Rural Health Outreach Fund is being expanded to give people better access to pain management specialist services and train providers to improve prescribing habits.
To help prevent deaths associated with opioid addiction and abuse, the Morrison Government will extend funding for a pilot take-home naloxone program for people at risk of overdoses on opioids and other prescription and illicit drugs.
We are providing an additional $2.8 million to extend the take home naloxone pilot to Western Australia, on top of the $7.2 million two year pilot take-home naloxone program announced in the Budget in New South Wales and South Australia.
Naloxone is a drug that can temporarily reverse opioid overdose.
The take-home naloxone pilot aims to reduce barriers currently preventing greater uptake of naloxone amongst people at risk of, or likely to witness, an overdose.
We are also investing significantly in and partnering with local programs across Australia through the Community Health and Hospitals Program, including:$6.5 million for the Choices program in Western Australia to expand access to support for vulnerable and disadvantaged people who have frequent contact with both hospital emergency departments and magistrates courts, and who may have issues with substance abuse.
The program links these individuals, who would previously be discharged to their own residence, with place-based community service providers.
The Choices program will be expanded to the Joondalup Health Campus, St John of God Midland Public Hospital, Armadale Health Service and Peel Health Campus.
$3 million to develop a residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility in Dubbo NSW.
$3 million for new drug and alcohol services through the Limestone Coast in South Australia.
$5.9 million for the Salvation Army to build a 10 bed detox facility in Townsville and fund an additional eight residential rehab beds.
$9 million to establish a new drug and alcohol withdrawal and detox services in Cairns.
The National Alcohol and Other Drugs Hotline will provide the community with local information, support and services and maintain our ICE online community toolkit – Cracks in the ICE.
We are also investing significantly to support the mental health of individuals and families dealing with addiction and abuse.
The Morrison Government is prioritising support for mental health services with overall funding exceeding $4.8 billion per year.
We will deliver a $375 million expansion of headspace services and new residential centres for treating eating disorders.
We will trial eight new adult mental health centres as an alternative to Emergency Departments.
We are determined to reduce the rate of suicide, especially among young Australians.
We are tackling this national crisis through our $503 million Youth Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan.
We will deliver a $98.6 million mental health program in schools and a range of early intervention and prevention initiatives to provide young Australians with the tools and support they need to maintain the best possible mental health and wellbeing.
Helping women and families to prevent and reduce violence against women and children
The Liberal and Nationals Government is leading the development of the Fourth Action Plan of the National Plan to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children, with $328 million for prevention measures and frontline services.
This brings the total invested by our Government to more than $840 million since 2013.
The National Plan aims to connect the important work being done by all Australian governments, community organisations and individuals to reduce violence so that we can work together to ensure each year, less women experience violence and more women and their children live safely.
We are delivering:$68.3 million for prevention strategies to help eradicate domestic and family violence in our homes, workplaces, communities and clubs.
$78.4 million to provide safe places for people impacted by domestic and family violence.
$82.2 million to improve and build on frontline services to keep women and children safe.
$64.0 million for 1800RESPECT, the national sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling service.
$35.0 million in support and prevention strategies for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
These measures build on our strong commitments in recent years to support women and children at risk of violence:
$101.2 million under the Women’s Safety Package to provide a safety net for women and children at high risk of experiencing violence.
$67 million under the Women’s Economic Security Package for measures to support women experiencing family and domestic violence.
$1.5 billion per annum under the National Housing and Homelessness Agreement, including dedicated homelessness funding, which is to be matched by states and territories, and will have a focus on women and children affected by family and domestic violence.
Since 2013, over 7,046 women and children have been granted visas through the Women at Risk program, which supports women at risk of victimisation, harassment or serious abuse because of their gender.
In 2017-18, the highest number of women and dependents were granted a woman at risk visa in our history (2,126 people in total).
A re-elected Morrison Government will increase the Women at Risk Program as a proportion of the Offshore Component of our refugee intake from 14 per cent in 2017-18 to 20 per cent in 2019-20.
Helping keep local communities safe from crime
A re-elected Morrison Government will introduce new measures to prevent crime in our communities.
Our Government has expanded the fourth round of grants to $55 million and provided $35.1 million for a fifth round in the 2019-20 Budget.
Since 2016, we have provided over $130 million and 340 grants under the Safer Communities program for local councils and community organisations to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour.
Safer Communities grants have put CCTV in crime hotspots, strengthened security for schools and supported other crime prevention efforts.
The grants are funded from the proceeds of crime (money and assets that have been seized from criminals) and we established a national unexplained wealth scheme to hit criminals even harder where it hurts most: their hip pockets.
A re-elected Morrison Government will increase round five funding by $20 million in response to community demand for crime prevention measures, such as fixed and mobile CCTV.
Initiatives like CCTV in crime hotspots help create safer communities in a number of ways.
First, they help deter criminals and people undertaking anti-social behaviour if they know they are being monitored and that there is a higher chance of them being identified and prosecuted for their crimes.
Second, they give greater confidence to members of the public using those community spaces, which in turn supports local businesses (such as restaurants and bars, where people feel more confident attending after hours if CCTV is present).
Thirdly, it provides police with a useful investigative tool to identify other criminals who may have incidentally been in the area.
A re-elected Morrison Government will further other measures to prevent crime in our communities. We will, for example, introduce legislation to establish a National Public Register for Child Sex Offenders, ensuring parents and carers are better informed about the location of paedophiles in the community.
These initiatives and the Safer Communities investments are making our streets safer for all of us.
The Choice
By keeping the economy strong and returning the Budget to surplus, the Morrison Government is helping to make our communities safer.
After racking up $240 billion in deficits over six years when last in government, Labor does not have the track record to invest in keeping us safe.
Our Government has prioritised the safety of Australians by boosting funding for security agencies by over $3 billion since 2014.
We have passed unexplained wealth legislation to confiscate even more criminals’ assets and invest the proceeds of crime back into communities to fight crime and treat drug addiction.
Rather than invest in the protection of Australians, the former Labor Government simply raided the accounts of our law enforcement agencies to prop up its Budget bottom line.
Our Government believes in protecting Australian children from exploitation and heinous sexual offences.
By contrast, Labor oppose mandatory minimum sentences for child sex offenders, meaning predators may not even spend a day behind bars.
Labor wants to water down laws that are helping our law enforcement agencies detect paedophiles and terrorists now.
The Liberal National Government cancelled more visas and deported more criminals in 2018 than Labor did in six years of government.
We established the National Anti-Gangs Squad, which has seized almost 6,000 illegal firearms and firearms parts.
Labor won’t even support legislation to increase penalties for the trafficking of illegal firearms.
To better protect Australian communities, the Liberal National Government created the highly-successful and coordinated portfolio of Home Affairs.
Labor has not even appointed a Shadow Minister for Home Affairs.
Only the Morrison Government can be trusted to ensure the safety and security of Australians, their families and communities.
Cost
The Coalition Government will provide an additional $24.1 million to expand our programs to create Safer Communities.
Our Plan to Support People with Disability
Key Points
The Morrison Government is backing Australians with disability, their families and carers.
We proudly support the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), which is transforming the lives of people with disability, their families and carers.
It is important to get it right.
We are committed to providing individual choice and control to people with disability, to create opportunity and so they can achieve their goals.
We understand that people with disability want to play an important role contributing to the social and economic life of our community.
We recognise that it is good for them, their families and the nation.
If people with disability want to work, we will support them to find and keep a job.
Keeping the economy strong is vital.
It is only by building a stronger economy that we can guarantee the essential services that people with disability, their families and their carers rely on and deliver them the jobs they deserve.
A re-elected Morrison Government will:Continue to ensure the NDIS is fully funded by building a stronger economy and keeping the budget in the black.
Rollout new NDIS participant planning pathways – making sure people with disability have a single point of contact with the NDIS, and can choose to be on a longer NDIS plan of up to 3 years if their disability is stable.
Expand the NDIS community connectors program to support and assist hard to reach communities - including Indigenous Australians, culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities and ageing parents of children with disability - to navigate the NDIS and get the services they or their children need.
Introduce a new NDIS Participant Service Guarantee – setting new standards for shorter timeframes for people with disability to get an NDIS plan and to have their plan reviewed, with a particular focus on children, and participants requiring specialist disability accommodation (SDA) and assistive technology.
Commit $45 million to develop a national disability information gateway, including a website and 1800 number, to assist all people with disability and their families to locate and access services in their communities.
Introduce a new 7 per cent employment target for people with disability across the Australian Public Service (APS) by 2025.
Provide $2 million to support people with autism to find and keep a job, including a $1.5 million national expansion of the successful Dandelion Program in partnership with DXC Technology.
Our Record
The Coalition has implemented significant reforms to improve the lives of people with disability, their families and their carers.
We are implementing the National Disability Strategy
Since 2013, the Liberal National Government, in partnership with the states and territories, has released:The National Disability Strategy 2010-2020 Second Implementation Plan – Driving Action 2015-2018.
The Australian Government Plan to Improve Outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People with Disability.
National Disability Strategy 2010-2020 Australian Government Action Plan.
In 2017, also under the second implementation plan, we released the Australian Government Action Plan and the Australian Government Plan to Improve Outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People with Disability (the Indigenous plan).
To support the Indigenous plan, our Government announced funding of $3 million for two targeted projects: a research to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander prisoners and ex-prisoners with disability and a trial on integrated health and education approaches to support students with disability in remote communities.
We have also announced $10.5 million to fund initiatives to help build inclusive communities in the final two years of the current strategy and build the foundation for delivery of a new strategy for beyond 2020.
Consultation on a new strategy for beyond 2020 has now commenced.
We are rolling out the NDIS and making it the best it can be
The NDIS is rolling out in accordance with the agreements signed between the Commonwealth and the States and Territories - area by area, group by group.
The NDIS has grown by more than 900 per cent in less than three years – from about 30,000 participants in 2016 to almost 280,000 today.
More than 85,000 – or almost one in three – are receiving support for the very first time.
The provider market has massively expanded, from around 3,500 to more than 20,200 service providers – an increase of almost 580 per cent over the same period.
NDIS budget funding is growing strongly – from $13.3 billion in 2018-19 to almost $18 billion in 2019-20 and more than $22 billion in 2020-21.
We continue to roll out improvements to better support NDIS participants, their families and carers.
For example, we are implementing a new participant planning pathway, with face-to-face planning (where this is the participant’s preference), a single point of contact, easier to read plans and improved training for NDIS staff.
We are actively promoting longer term plans of up to 3 years for people with disability whose circumstances are stable – reducing red tape for participants and providers who will no longer need to get a plan every 12 months.
The length of a plan will be determined in consultation with the participant, who will still be able to request a plan review at any time if their circumstances change.
We are rolling out a new psychosocial disabilities stream, with specialised planners and closer linkages with mental health services, and we are providing better planning and pricing for NDIS participants with complex support needs.
These improvements will lead to a better NDIS experience and improved long term outcomes for NDIS participants.
We are beginning to see the development of a vibrant and diverse market for Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), helping more Australians with disability to live better lives - with more independence, more privacy and more engagement with the broader community.
There are now 12,350 NDIS participants with SDA in their plan – a 13 per cent increase in the 12 months since December 31 2018 – and the number of registered SDA providers has increased from 802 to 892.
Our significant reforms to SDA will simplify processes for people with disabilities and encourage greater investment in SDA for an estimated 28,000 participants when the NDIS is fully rolled out.
As a result of our reforms, participants, their carers or families will be able to go into the market and find or commission a home that suits their individual needs.
We are providing greater pricing certainty to SDA investors, and will allow properties under construction to be precertified so that investors have more certainty that their property will meet SDA design standards upon completion.
All of these SDA reforms are being supported by a dedicated planning team in the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) and the establishment of an SDA industry reference group to provide input on SDA policy and price settings.
We are making it easier and quicker for NDIS participants to access assistive technologies (AT), such as wheelchairs, magnifying devices or vehicle and home modifications, including:replacement for standard AT items will be quickly assessed without needing a full re-assessment, and will only require one quote for items valued between $1,500 and $15,000;
From April 2019, we have started a pilot of a new approach to improve the quality and timeliness of assessment for participants requiring complex and non-standard AT; and
In June 2019, we will introduce changes making it easier for participants to access refurbished or pre-used AT.
These changes build on earlier improvements to AT processes.
Since May 2018, low cost, low risk AT under $1,500 could be purchased without further assessment, quotes or approvals once approved as reasonable and necessary in a participant’s plan.
This benefited an estimated 45 per cent of participants requiring AT.
Since December 2018, no more than two quotes have been required for AT costing greater than $1,500.
We have committed to a national action plan to reduce the number of younger people living in residential aged care
Our reforms to the NDIS have allowed us to commit to a national action plan to get younger people out of residential aged care. Under our plan we will:Support those already living in aged care aged under 45 to find alternative, age-appropriate housing and supports by 2022, if this is their goal.
Supporting those already living in aged care aged under 65 to find alternative, age-appropriate housing and supports by 2025, if this is their goal.
Halve the number of younger people aged under 65 years entering aged care by 2025.
While appropriate attention will be given to the small number of younger people aged under 45, this will not preclude or prevent our plan from immediately benefitting all people aged under 65 currently living in residential aged care.
We will continue to work beyond 2025 to minimise to the fullest extent possible the number of younger people aged under 65 years entering and living in aged care.
Providing for safe and quality services for NDIS participants
The Morrison Government believes all forms of violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation of people with disability are abhorrent and have no place in society.
We committed $209 million to establish the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission from 1 July 2018.
The NDIS Commission is already up and running in NSW and South Australia, with operations to begin in all other states from July 2019 (except Western Australia, to start in July 2020).
The NDIS Commission is an independent statutory body with strong investigation and regulatory powers.
It can take tough action including banning orders and substantial civil penalties on both providers and workers.
The NDIS Commission is responsible for registering providers, handling complaints, receiving and managing incident notifications, setting quality standards and enforcing a Code of Conduct for NDIS providers and workers.
In partnership with the states and territories, the NDIS Commission will also provide clinical leadership in behaviour support and promote the reduction and elimination of restrictive practices.
It will host a $13.6 million national database of NDIS worker screening clearances from 1 July 2019 – which will provide a way to check that people who are working, or seek to work, in the NDIS do not pose an unacceptable risk of harm to people with disability.
The NDIS Commission is already doing its job, with more than 600 complaints handled in the first six months of operation.
We have also established a Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability – with funding of $527.9 million over five years.
This funding includes more than $100 million to support people with disability participate in the inquiry through the provision of advocacy and counselling support.
What we learn from the Royal Commission will help to inform governments, institutions and the wider community on how to protect people with disability.
We are growing the market for disability services and jobs
The Morrison Government is investing to ensure that NDIS participants have access to the services they need.
We have released the Growing the NDIS Market and Workforce Strategy to support the creation of an additional 90,000 full-time jobs under the NDIS in the next 5 years.
We are providing $45.6 million through the NDIS Jobs and Market Fund to support the growth, capacity and capability of the NDIS provider market and workforce so that it can meet the needs of NDIS participants.
We have established the $33 million Boosting the Local Care Workforce Program and launched the NDIS Demand Map to provide local post code level data to assist NDIS providers with their business planning.
Tailored business advice (up to $20,000) to help providers transition to the NDIS is also available.
We have announced an $850 million injection per year into the NDIS market from 2019-20.
New prices include a minimum increase of almost $11 per hour for therapists and up to a 15.4 percent price increase to the base limit for attendant care and community participation.
By encouraging an increase in services, this will mean NDIS participants can better access the quality and innovative supports that meet their individual needs.
We are taking action to improve employment outcomes for people with disability
Despite their enthusiasm, commitment and good reputation as employees, people with disability too often find it hard to get into the workforce.
About 14 per cent of working age people in Australia have a disability but people with disability comprise only nine per cent of the workforce.
Only 53 per cent of Australians with disability are participating in work compared with 83 per cent of Australians without disability.
The Morrison Government is committed to helping people with disability who have the desire and capacity to work, to find and keep a job.
Our significant reforms to Disability Employment Services (DES) on 1 July 2018 have seen a 27 per cent increase in the number of people with disability voluntarily participating in the DES program.
Our reforms also provide people with disability with greater choice and control over who they receive support from, enabling them to choose someone who best meets their needs. So far, over 9,800 participants have taken this opportunity, no questions asked.
Because of these reforms, we are also seeing greater employment outcomes – 82 per cent of successful job placements are lasting at least 13 weeks, an increase of 24 per cent over previous arrangements.
In November 2018, the Morrison Government also established the NDIS Participant Employment Taskforce, charging it with overcoming barriers to employment for NDIS participants and developing an NDIS Employment Strategy by July 2019.
We are backing the Taskforce with a $19.9 million grant round for projects that boost economic participation for people with disability.
The Morrison Government has already provided $300,000 for the Impact21 pilot program, delivered by not-for-profit e.motion21.
The pilot aims to educate and employ young adults with Down syndrome.
The pilot includes a one-year work readiness program, including partnership with a national employer and a seven-week work placement program.
We are also encouraging employers to hire people with disability through the ‘Employ their Ability’ campaign.
The campaign aims to highlight the benefits of employing people with disability and ensure employers are aware of the government support and programs available to help them.
As part of the ‘Employ their Ability’ campaign, we have also released the Employer Toolkit, an online resource to guide employers through the entire process of employing people with disability.
Our plan to strengthen the Australian economy has already seen 1.3 million jobs created across the economy over the past five years.
We have a plan to keep our economy strong and create 1.25 million more jobs over the next five years.
Our NDIS Participant Employment Taskforce and grants will help ensure that people with disability will have real employment opportunities and share in the benefits of a strong and growing jobs market.
We are supporting students with disability
The Morrison Government will invest almost $29 billion for students with disability from 2018 to 2029.
This record level of funding will grow by 5.1 per cent on average per student with disability each year.
This funding is in addition to the base per student funding amount provided for all students at each school, and in addition to the funding provided by the states and territories.
Our funding also recognises the individual needs of students, and provides real needs-based funding consistently across Australia.
Under the special deals on schools funding Labor signed, funding for students with disability was inconsistent across the states and territories.
Each state had a different definition of disability which meant a student with a disability could be funded in one state but not another.
Under the Coalition’s reforms, the Commonwealth will provide the same level of funding for a student with a disability regardless of the state in which they live, and funding increases with the student’s level of need.
We have invested in advocacy to support people with disability
Since September 2013, the Coalition’s investment in disability advocacy has grown from $19.7 million to $34.4 million in 2018-19, recognising the significant challenges involved for people with disability to understand and access the NDIS.
This recognises the significant challenges involved for people with disability to understand and access the NDIS.
Our Plan
Establishing a national NDIS Community Connectors Program
A re-elected Morrison Government will complete the rollout of the NDIS.
It is estimated that more than 460,000 participants will benefit from the NDIS when it is fully rolled out in 2020.
To finalise the rollout of the NDIS and ensure that hard to reach communities are engaged in the NDIS, a re-elected Morrison Government will commit $20 million to expand the NDIS Community Connectors Program.
The program will assist rural and remote communities (including Indigenous communities), culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities and ageing parents of children with disability to engage and navigate the NDIS.
NDIS Community Connectors would assist hard to reach communities engage with the NDIS and assist them in access, planning and implementation processes.
The role of Community Connectors would be to provide a community based and trusted resource, to actively connect people with disability and their families with the NDIS and NDIS providers.
Community Connectors would assist potential NDIS participants and their families to acquire the evidence required to test their eligibility for the NDIS, assist with the development of culturally appropriate plans, and help link them with providers to implement their plans.
We have also already announced $165 million to continue to support the smooth transition of remaining clients of Commonwealth programs into the NDIS or continuity of support services in 2019-20.
A re-elected Morrison Government will continue our work to deliver an NDIS that benefits people with disability, their families and their carers. This will include:Continued improvements to NDIS planning processes.
Better use of functional assessments to assist in access and planning decisions.
Piloting new approaches to improve the quality and timeliness of assessment for participants requiring complex and non-standard assistive technology.
Removing restrictions that currently prevent some families from living together in SDA.
Implementing the national action plan to reduce the number of younger people entering residential aged care.
Rolling out the new $398 million NDIS Information, Linkages and Capacity Building (ILC) strategy.
Further enhancements to the NDIS myplace portal, website and other ICT.
More improvements to NDIS pricing, including deregulating pricing where appropriate.
Introducing a new NDIS Participant Service Guarantee
With the NDIS transition period nearing an end, it is now also time to set up the NDIS for future success.
A re-elected Morrison Government will therefore introduce a new NDIS Participant Service Guarantee following the practical completion of the NDIS rollout in 2020.
The new NDIS Participant Service Guarantee will set timeframes for participants to receive an access decision (that is, a decision on whether they will be covered by the NDIS); to have their NDIS plan approved; and to have their NDIS plan reviewed, should a participant request a review.
Under the NDIS Act introduced with bipartisan support in 2013, the only requirement placed on the NDIA was to make an access decision within 21 days of receiving all information required to make that decision.
While this was appropriate for the transition phase with all the complexity of rolling out the NDIS to 460,000 people - it is no longer fit for purpose for the NDIS at maturity.
These new service standards will reduce the time taken for people with disability to access the NDIS, and have their plan approved and implemented.
Specific service standards will be enforced for children with disability and participants requiring specialist disability accommodation and assistive technology.
This will ensure that children in need of assistance will be provided with immediate support.
The introduction of the NDIS Participant Service Guarantee will commence on 1 July 2020 following a review of the NDIS Act in the second half of 2019.
A key objective of this review is to streamline NDIS processes and cut red tape for participants and providers.
The NDIS Participant Service Guarantee will be developed and legislated in close consultation with people with disability, their families, carers and supporters, as well as state and territory governments.
The NDIA will be required to report against their performance under the new NDIS Participant Service Guarantee to the COAG Disability Reform Council.
The Commonwealth Ombudsman will be given additional resources of $2 million to allow it to monitor the NDIA’s performance against the Participant Service Guarantee timeframes, and to support NDIS participants pursuing complaints about time frames they have experienced.
Establishing a national disability gateway to support all people with disability
We recognise that the NDIS was never intended to be the only support provided to people with disability, their families or carers.
There are more than 4.3 million Australians with disability, of whom 460,000 are expected to be eligible for the NDIS.
A re-elected Morrison Government will provide $45 million over three years to establish a national disability information gateway for people with disability, their families and their carers.
The gateway will provide people with disability and their families with a one-stop shop to access up-to-date, relevant information, support and referral to assist them in making their own choices about the services and supports they use, and the activities, in which they engage in their communities.
The gateway will consist of a website, including a service finder similar to that available on the My Aged Care and Carer Gateway websites, and a national call centre via a dedicated 1800 number to assist people with disability and their families to locate and access services for themselves or the ones they love.
Establishing a national gateway will improve access to information and services for people with disability and their families, which is currently fragmented and difficult to navigate with services and supports spanning multiple sectors including health, housing, employment, transport and disability services.
For example, the gateway will assist people with disability to find a local advocacy services, a sporting team that meets the needs of their disability, disability related events and disability service providers.
The Gateway will utilise information and resources that will be developed as part of the NDIS Information, Linkages and Capacity Building (ILC) National Information Program.
Further action to improve employment outcomes for people with disability
The Liberal and Nationals Coalition has already created 1.3 million jobs.
We have a plan to keep our economy strong and create 1.25 million more jobs over the next 5 years.
It is only through creating these jobs that people with disability will have real employment opportunities.
A re-elected Morrison Government will continue to support initiatives that boost employment for people with disability.
Introduce a new disability employment target for the APS
A re-elected Morrison Government will lead by example by introducing a new 7 per cent employment target for people with disability across the Australian Public Service (APS) by 2025.
While the APS is a major employer across Australia, there has been a consistent decline in the recorded number of people with disability in the APS workforce, from 6.6 per cent in 1986.1
When Labor was last in Government the recorded employment of people with disability in the APS declined from 3.6 per cent in 2007 to 3.2 per cent in 2013.
Under the Coalition, we have already reversed this trend with the recorded employment of people with disability in the APS increasing back to 3.7 per cent in 2018.2
The work of the National Disability Insurance Agency and Department of Social Services demonstrates the ability to increase the level of employment of people with disability across the public service.
The work of the National Disability Insurance Agency and Department of Social Services demonstrates the ability to increase the level of employment of people with disability across the public service.
While a number of initiatives are currently underway to support greater employment of people with disability in the APS, there is currently no target to drive significant cultural change.
A re-elected Morrison Government would therefore lead by example by implementing a target of 7 per cent recorded employment of people with disability across the APS by 2025.
We will task Departmental Secretaries and Agency heads with reviewing their employment policies and the target will form part of their key performance indicators.
We will also task the APS Commissioner with developing a new APS Disability Employment Strategy for 2019-2025, including a review of current recruitment and assessment processes to ensure they are not creating barriers to employment for people with disability, especially those with an intellectual disability or autism.
A number of state and territory governments have implemented employment targets for people with disability within their public service - Victoria with a target of 6 per cent by 2020, Queensland an 8 per cent target by 2022, and NSW wanting to boost public service disability employment from 2.7 per cent to 5.6 per cent by 2027.
A re-elected Morrison Government would also call on all other state, territory and local governments to set ambitious targets for employing people with disability.
Supporting people with autism into employment
A re-elected Morrison Government will provide $2 million to support people with autism to find and keep a job, including a $1.5 million national expansion of the successful Dandelion Program in partnership with DXC Technology.
The Morrison Government recognises that autism is the highest represented disability in the NDIS at almost 30 per cent, and a growing number of people with autism will be leaving school in the next five to ten years.
These young people will need support to help their transition to the workplace.
Since 2014, DXC Technology has successfully delivered the DXC Dandelion Program, providing long term employment outcomes for approximately 100 people with autism in government and non-government workplaces.
To date, the Dandelion Program has achieved a retention rate of around 92 per cent.
This collaborative partnership will leverage DXC’s extensive experience in building careers for people on the autism spectrum – presenting the opportunity to extend this kind of program to the 164,000 Australians with autism.
As part of the partnership, a range of initiatives will be developed to support potential employers to integrate people with autism into the workforce and to become more disability confident and aware.
A re-elected Morrison Government will invest an additional $500,000 for initiatives to encourage employers to become autism-confident.
This will stimulate the widest possible take up of recruitment processes which are inclusive of people with autism and enable people with autism to work in an environment that accommodates their needs.
The Choice
The NDIS is one of the biggest social policy reforms in Australia’s history.
It is important that we get it right.
Unfortunately, Labor’s implementation of the NDIS was led more by political expediency than policy perfection.
A review of the NDIA’s capabilities released in early 2014 found that “The Agency is like a plane that took off before it had been fully built and is being completed while it is in the air.”
Labor has a dismal track record of implementation ambitious schemes - from home insulation schemes to its promise to ‘end the double drop-off’ which was disgracefully abandoned when a mere 38 of a promised 260 child care centres on school premises nationally had been built
If Labor wins government, it will likely do a poor job of implementing the continued roll out of the NDIS.
By building a strong economy and getting the budget back into balance, we have been able to fill the multibillion dollar funding gap left by the previous Labor Government without increasing taxes.
Cost
The Coalition will invest an additional $22 million for our Plan to Support People with Disability.
Our Plan for a Stronger Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Sector
Key Points
The Morrison Government has a plan to lift Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry to a $100 billion industry by 2030.
The industry has a roadmap to do this – our policies will help get them there.
A $100 billion industry means many more jobs in our regional and rural communities.
Our plan to help the agriculture, fisheries and forestry sector reach its potential is focused on:Tackling barriers to growth and production.
Providing the water needed for growth and drought proofing.
Tackling intergenerational land transfer and encouraging new farmers.
Expanding exports and improving market access.
Getting the balance right for the fisheries and forestry industries.
There are challenges, but we’re addressing these too: pests and weeds, external biosecurity threats, external biosecurity threats, climate impacts,  changeable consumer preferences and international competition on research and development and commercialisation.
A re-elected Morrison Government will:Support farmers to buy their first farm and plan for intergenerational transfer with ‘AgriStarter’ concessional loans through the Regional Investment Corporation.
Establish the National Water Grid, a statutory authority responsible for national strategic planning and management of water policy and infrastructure.
Increase opportunities to sell Australian food and fibre overseas including expanding horticulture through a new 2030 protected horticulture strategy.
Continue to ensure the industry has the skilled workforce in needs through a National Agricultural Workforce Strategy and a new National Agricultural Labour Advisory Committee.
Support farm safety with a new National Farm Safety Education Fund.
Implement a Dairy Mandatory Code of Conduct and support more sophisticated contracting and milk marketing tools to increase price transparency.
Support the battle against pests and weeds in drought affected communities.
Deliver the Murray-Darling Basin Plan in full to give Basin Communities certainty – a triple bottom line approach that recognises the continued importance of agriculture in the Basin.
Deliver increased transparency and accountability in river management.
Commission the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission to undertake a review of southern Basin water markets.
Protect the right to farm with new laws targeting trespass and protecting farmers’ privacy.
Develop a National Fishing Plan built on close consultation with the sector to achieve a shared vision for the industry.
Develop a Commonwealth Fisheries Resource Sharing Framework based on comprehensive surveys and careful analysis.
Support better mental health for commercial fishers through a trial of a mental health trusted advocate network.
Support projects that improve the health of Australia’s marine and estuarine habitats.
Invest in building the capacity of recreational, Indigenous and commercial fisheries representatives.
Support new and upgraded recreational fishing and camping facilities, regional jobs and fishing safety through a new grant program for local councils.
Support the planting of 1 billion new plantation trees by developing special Plantation Development Concessional Loans under the Regional Investment Corporation.
Deliver 20-year rolling Regional Forestry Agreements with relevant states.
Bring forward the establishment of the Regional Forestry Hub in South West Slopes NSW as a pilot Hub.
Develop a farm forestry strategy.
Commission an inquiry into short-term timber supply chain constraints in the national plantation sector through the Standing Committee on Agriculture and Water Resources.
Labor risks it all.
Under Labor, farm production will be hit.
They have already promised to burden farmers with unnecessary and unprecedented new federal environmental regulations and raise the cost of doing business with additional taxes.
Labor's trade policy will make it next to impossible to grow our exports.
They want to meddle with the Free Trade Agreements our government has delivered.
Labor's trade policy will take us backwards.
Under Labor, there will be no growth in the forestry industry.
Not only do they plan to return to their failed Tasmanian Forestry Agreement, there are real concerns that Labor will abolish Regional Forest Agreements altogether and put forestry under the control of their proposed new Environment Protection Agency in Canberra.
Under Labor, Murray-Darling Basin communities will not have certainty.
Our Plan
Tackling barriers to growth and production
Increasing production by combating pests and weeds
Pests and weeds cost Australian farmers and graziers billions of dollars in production losses every year.
The Morrison Government has recognised that tackling the scourge of pests and weeds does not stop during times of drought.
Hardy weeds can dominate pastures and wild dogs can accentuate stock losses.
We have invested $15 million in the Communities Combating Pests and Weed Impacts During Drought Program to deliver 48 on-ground, direct action projects in Queensland, NSW, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania and Western Australia.
With the drought continuing, a re-elected Morrison Government will provide an additional $10 million for a further round of funding under the program.
This will enable farmers and local communities to continue to fight feral pests and invasive weeds and boost agricultural productivity and growth
Labour challenges are impacting growth
The agricultural sector is facing a number of labour force challenges that are impacting growth and the social fabric of rural and regional communities.
Too many of our best and brightest kids leave our rural communities, never returning to practise their skills and professional interests.
Agricultural and STEM graduates are scarce and increasingly mobile, meaning hiring and retaining young talent is difficult.
Regionally based SMEs and large-scale, labour intensive enterprises are finding it increasingly difficult to source high-performing seasonal labour.
The Morrison Government has already introduced a suite of measures to help farmers access the workers they need.
We introduced targeted changes to the Seasonal Worker Program, the Pacific Labour Scheme and the Working Holiday Maker visa programs.
To further ensure a sustainable, highly-skilled workforce, in the 2019-20 Budget the Morrison Government committed $1.9 million to work with the industry to develop a National Agricultural Workforce Strategy.
The strategy will consider the role of agricultural education in meeting Australia’s current and future workforce needs and identify labour gaps across the agriculture, fisheries and aquaculture sectors as well as ways to attract, train and protect the workforce that is needed now and in the future.
To support this work, a re-elected Morrison Government will establish a National Agricultural Labour Advisory Committee.
The Committee will consider and advise the Government on farm labour and agricultural sector workforce challenges.
On the other hand, Labor will put access to workers at risk with prohibitive penalty rates and union domination of industry needs.
Labor will increase the difficulty, complexity and cost of developing appropriate visa types, robbing employers and employees of opportunity.
A fairer go for dairy farmers
The Liberal Nationals Government has stood behind our farmers – ensuring they get a fair price for their produce. In line with the Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper, we invested $11.4 million to boost Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) engagement with the agriculture sector – including the establishment of a new Commissioner dedicated to agriculture.
Dairy is Australia’s third-largest agricultural industry with a value of $4.3 billion in 2017-18 and is the economic mainstay of many rural communities.
Yet dairy farmers around the country have been struggling.
In 2017, the Liberal Nationals Government asked the ACCC to examine the performance and structural problems within the dairy sector.
The Commission found significant power imbalances at each point along the supply chain, with dairy farmers the worst hit.
Farm gate prices for milk are eroding incentives for production and re-investment in an important domestic and export industry.
The ACCC recommended the establishment of a mandatory code of conduct, which, after extensive consultation with farmers and processors, the Morrison Government will activate from 2020 – the 2019-20 Budget provided $8.7 million for implementation. Drafting of regulations to give effect to the code has begun.
Current milk marketing follows a century-old model burdened with hidden pricing, constraints over growers’ sales in favour of local processors and no hedging or options tools.
A re-elected Morrison Government will, through Australian Dairy Farmers, engage the Australian Milk Price Initiative (AMPI) to design new milk pricing and marketing concepts for the dairy sector.
This will give dairy farmers better leverage, more transparency from the supply chain and more choices on how and when they price their milk.
National Farm Safety Education Fund
One in five workplace fatalities happen on the farm.
From January to September 2018, there were 49 reports of on-farm deaths with tractors, utilities, quads and motorbikes most often implicated.
The same period saw 120 non-fatal on-farm injury events, 16 of them involving children under 15.
Quad bikes and motorbikes accounted for around a third of all incidents.
A re-elected Morrison Government will seek to turn these statistics around.
A $3.5 million National Farm Safety Education Fund will be established to support activities that address on-farm safety issues including:Increasing peer-to-peer activities that promote farm safety measures.
Developing and/or updating resources to support on-farm learning and awareness of farm safety.
Campaigns specifically targeted for and to children including farm dam, farm machinery and quad bike safety.
Support for the annual Farm Safety Week.
Farmsafe Australia (which is supported by farm organisation members) is expected to be a major beneficiary of the Fund.
Farmsafe’s mission is to drive efforts to enhance the well-being and productivity of Australian agriculture through improved health and safety awareness and practices.
Providing the water needed for growth and drought proofing
National Water Grid
We need the states to work more closely with the Australian Government to better capture and store water – as well as protect our communities from devastating flood.
A re-elected Morrison Government will establish the National Water Grid – a statutory authority responsible for the strategic planning and project management of water policy and water infrastructure across the nation.
The National Water Grid will:Bring together the world’s best scientists to remove the politics from the allocation, capture and storage of water – ensuring decisions are based on the best available science.
Develop a pipeline of all established and future water infrastructure projects and then identify the missing links.
Use the best science to examine how large-scale water diversion projects could be established to deliver reliable and cost-effective water to farmers and regional communities.
A re-elected Morrison Government will also:Seek agreement from states and territories to co-invest in the project through COAG.
Invest an initial $100 million to better understand water resources and kick-start investigation and delivery of water diversion projects.
Amend the Operating Mandate for the Regional Investment Corporation to allow local Governments and the private sector to access water infrastructure loan funding.
Deliver the Murray-Darling Basin Plan for a healthy river system
The Liberal and Nationals Government is committed to a Basin Plan that delivers certainty to farmers, communities and the environment.
The drought and historic low inflows in Murray Darling Basin rivers over the past twelve months have placed stress on the river and the communities that rely on it.
Communities should expect transparency in river management, water markets and Basin Plan delivery.
A re-elected Morrison Government will:Request the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission to undertake a review of the southern Basin water market and its operation since 2012.
Unlike Labor, we are committed to the social and economic criteria that will govern how the additional 450 GL in water for the environment will be recovered – and the 1500 GL cap on buybacks.
Tackling intergenerational land transfer and encouraging new farmers
Our Government believes in a fair go for farming families.
To realise a $100 billion industry by 2030 we must nurture and foster our next generation of farmers, graziers and agricultural producers.
We know there are many young people crying out to own their own farm but with little to no means to do so.
Most Australians appreciate the challenge faced by young Australians wishing to buy their first home but it is even harder for new and young farmers seeking their first farm.
A productive farming operation that provides a steady income can be priced at millions of dollars.
For young farmers, the level of equity and deposit required is daunting.
Basic stock and equipment is a further cost.
It can become even more complicated when intergenerational transfer is involved, which is increasingly the case with an ageing farmer population.
In Europe, the UK and Canada, governments have acknowledged the problem and found innovative ways to deal with it.
It’s time we did the same.
The Morrison Government has extended the mandate of the Regional Investment Corporation (RIC) to create a new loan product to assist new entrants.
‘AgriStarter’ concessional loans of up to $2 million to new farmers will help them purchase a majority share or total share of a farm.
Many of Australia’s older farmers would like to transfer their farm but haven’t got the capacity to simply gift it to the next generation, or someone else.
The loan means families will be able to discuss succession, plan for the future and new entrants to farming will get the start they need.
Expanding exports and improving market access
Improving and growing export markets is critical for the sector to reach a $100 billion value by 2030.
Australian farmers produce almost 93 percent of our daily domestic food supply.
Each farmer produces enough food to feed 600 people, 150 at home and 450 overseas.
About 70 per cent of what we produce is exported.
Through our trade agenda and the delivery of trade agreements, tariffs are coming down, making our agricultural exports more competitive.
A re-elected Morrison Government will prioritise the conclusion of a free trade agreement with the European Union, the implementation of the India Economic Strategy and the expansion of the Trans Pacific Partnership.
Other market-opening opportunities include a free trade deal with the United Kingdom and a trade agreement with the four-nation Pacific Alliance.
The 2019-20 Budget provided an additional $60 million for Export Market Development Grants to allow small and medium businesses to capitalise on international opportunities.
It provided an additional $29.4 million investment to back Australia’s agricultural export trade.
By contrast, Labor has a poor record delivering trade and market access for our agricultural produce.
Labor will be driven by the unions to reduce trade in betrayal of the sector, workers and jobs.
The alarm bells have already sounded, with the unions – which run the Labor Party – pressuring Bill Shorten to rip up our latest agreement with Indonesia.
$11.4 million to accelerate horticulture market access
Horticulture will strongly contribute to the $100 billion target.
Horticulture exports have doubled in value since 2010-11 and are projected to be valued at $3 billion in 2018-19.
The Gross Value of Production (GVP) of horticulture is estimated at almost $10.7 billion, with around 73,000 employees across the sector in 2017-18.
By 2022-23 the GVP is forecast to be $13.6 billion.
The Morrison Government is investing a further $11.4 million over four years to work on the next tranche of horticulture market priorities.
Market access was recently achieved for walnuts to India and the nut sector has identified significant opportunities in Latin America.
Our investment has also brought phytosanitary pathways to market.
There are now opportunities to diversify markets in Asia, India, the Middle East and Latin America.
Maintaining and improving existing market access is critical.
For example, the transition of Vietnam to a regulated market in 2015 required the development of more than 30 technical submissions for a range of commodities.
$5.1 million to tackle non-tariff measures
Trade agreements are progressively reducing import tariffs and as a result, global agricultural trade has grown.
However, the use of non-tariff measures (NTMs) has also grown and this is impacting on our exports: 245 NTMs cost the red meat industry $3.4 billion a year across 41 markets.
Most NTMs (such as health and safety certification or biosecurity compliance) are justified as they provide assurances, but inefficient and overly-costly requirements can have a profound effect.
The Morrison Government is investing $5.1 million over four years and $2.4 million each subsequent year on a program to help Australian export industries tackle NTMs.
The work will assess the nature and impact of NTMs and develop strategies and commercial approaches for their reduction or removal
$6.8 million to expand the Agricultural Trade and Market Access Cooperation program
The Agricultural Trade and Market Access Cooperation (ATMAC) program has delivered real market access gains for Australian farmers and exporters.
For example, technical collaboration between the Australian Livestock Export Council and China on Bluetongue virus will provide positive outcomes for both countries in the trade of Australian live ruminants and generic material.
The Morrison Government is investing $6.8 million in the ATMAC program for a further four years – to keep our export markets moving.
$6.1 million to extend the Package Assisting Small Exporters program
In 2013, the Liberal Nationals Government established the Package Assisting Small Exporters (PASE), a grant program to improve market access for small exporters.
A $6.1 million investment will extend the program for four years.
With small businesses often finding it difficult to navigate exporting, PASE has funded 54 projects across a number of industries.
For example, the Primal Foods Group created an online portal – Farmgate Exchange – as a single point of contact for grain trade between smaller Australian growers and international buyers.
The portal will help growers to market grain from their own silos directly to buyers around the world, delivering better access and prices.
The Morrison Government will also continue to work with the United States to ensure Australian fishers are meeting the new requirements for importers under the US Marine Mammal Protection Act and are not locked out of the market.
2030 Protected Horticulture Strategy
A re-elected Morrison Government, along with industry and Horticulture Innovation Australia, will progress a 2030 vision for protected horticulture in Australia. Protected cropping (whether high-tech enclosed systems or poly tunnel) is a leading tool to increase food production: reducing risks from temperature extremes, pests and bugs and water availability.
The Liberal Nationals Government has invested $4.3 million in the National Vegetable Protected Cropping Centre, a state-of-the-art greenhouse facility for research, education and training.
We will build on this and provide national leadership to develop a 2030 Protected Horticulture Strategy.
The Strategy will ensure the sustainable expansion of protected cropping in Australia and coordination of industry, governments and other research and development organisations.
Fisheries international engagement
Australia participates in a number of internationally-shared fisheries with migratory stocks like tuna and straddling stocks such as orange roughy.
The Liberal Nationals Government has focused on the sustainability of fisheries we share with other nations, and ensuring ongoing access for our industry.
We actively support Australia’s critical work in Regional Fisheries Management Organisations and other similar international forums.
The Morrison Government is committed to building the capacity of our close neighbours to effectively manage their fisheries and ensure compliance with fisheries management rules.
Capacity building helps ensure these countries protect the sustainability of shared stocks by adequately controlling their catch and combatting Illegal Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing.
Our international collaboration efforts have led to significant reductions in IUU fishing, particularly in the southern ocean with Patagonian toothfish.
A re-elected Morrison Government is committed to ongoing funding for our government agencies at the forefront of international fishing forums.
Getting the balance right for the fisheries and forestry industries
The right planning
Working with commercial, recreational, Indigenous and aquaculture fisheries, the Morrison Government will develop a new sector blueprint.
We will leverage the strong cross-sectoral nature of the first National Fisheries Advisory Council, established in 2018, to develop Australia’s first National Fisheries Plan.
Different jurisdictional approaches to fisheries policy and management are impacting the industry. The plan will develop a strategy for achieving the shared visions of the sector, seeking to harmonise:Resource sharing methodology.
The way Indigenous interests are captured in legislation.
Harvest strategy methodology.
Aquaculture management.
Commonwealth Fisheries Resource Sharing Framework
All fisheries sectors are concerned about ongoing access to resources.
Only the Morrison Government is committed to ensuring fair and equitable sharing of fisheries.
In partnership with the sector we will develop a Commonwealth Fisheries Resource Sharing Framework.
The Framework will outline the rules for sharing resources across the fisheries sectors and between the Commonwealth and other Australian jurisdictions.
To share a resource, you must first know how large it is, how much can be sustainably harvested and the current level of extraction.
For that reason we have invested heavily in stock assessments and catch recording.
Once we have a complete picture, we will move forward with refined stock assessments and formal resource sharing arrangements.
The Morrison Government has also launched a national recreational fishing survey to gather economic and social data: we are working with the states and the Northern Territory to align recreational catch surveys wherever possible.
This data will again inform sustainability and resource sharing assessments.
We will continue the Southern Bluefin Tuna recreational catch survey as a basis for ongoing discussions about sustainable harvesting and resource sharing for this iconic species.
Removing red tape for the fisheries sector
The Liberal Nationals Government has a track record of simplifying cross-jurisdictional fisheries management to increase efficiency.
Most Australian fisheries are managed by the states, the Northern Territory or the Commonwealth – depending on location.
In some cases, management is shared under Offshore Constitutional Settlement (OCS) arrangements.
Our Government has worked hard with the states and the Northern Territory to minimise the regulatory burden under some OCS arrangements, negotiating responsibility back to single jurisdictions where appropriate.
For example, we successfully transitioned the Western Australian Southern Demersal Gillnet and Longline Fishery to single jurisdiction management in 2018.
The Morrison Government is committed to continuing to implement simpler fisheries management.
We will work with Queensland and the Northern Territory to move a number of fisheries away from joint management to single jurisdiction.
Fisheries habitat restoration
A re-elected Morrison Government will work with fishing clubs to restore marine and estuarine habitats through an $8 million investment.
The health of many fisheries and fish stocks depends on the health and proper functioning of our estuaries, which provide critical nursery habitats.
This funding will build on the work being undertaken by OceanWatch.
OceanWatch is working in partnership with the Australian seafood industry, federal and state governments, natural resource managers, private enterprise and local communities on habitat restoration.
Capacity building for fisheries representatives
The Morrison Government is ensuring that all relevant fisheries sectors are included in decision-making through an extension of objectives in the Fisheries Administration Act 1999.
Changes to the Act mean the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) must now ensure the interests of recreational and Indigenous fishers (along with commercial fishers) are considered in fisheries management decisions.
The Liberal Nationals Government also established the National Fishing Advisory Council (NFAC) to ensure each sector is heard in the development and refinement of Commonwealth fisheries policies.
As well, the industry has highlighted the need to ensure representatives are appropriately skilled and knowledgeable.
A re-elected Morrison Government will invest $400,000 in building the representative capacity of the sector by delivering a well-developed understanding of the regulatory, scientific and economic drivers of fisheries management.
The funding will target training for commercial, recreational and Indigenous representatives on relevant Commonwealth and national fisheries advisory bodies and committees.
Mental health support for commercial fishers
The Morrison Government acknowledges recent work of the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation that highlighted the levels of psychological distress among fishers.
Studies have shown a range of factors including chronic job insecurity has led to poor levels of mental health and high rates of suicide among Australian commercial fishers.
A re-elected Morrison Government will invest $600,000 over two years to support a trial of a mental health trusted advocate program for the fisheries sector.
Up to 10 advocates will be established in eight communities across the country.
Advocates will be supported with training in mental health first aid or counselling to assist them in their role.
This will provide soft entry points to mental health services to reduce barriers and stigma.
They will be the linkage between fishers and the wider mental health support network.
Funding is through an extension of the National Suicide Prevention Leadership and Support Program.
Recreational fishing and camping facilities
Around one in five Australians are recreational fishers, enjoying a healthy outdoor leisure activity.
A re-elected Morrison Government will invest $20 million for local councils to improve, maintain or build new boating, marine rescue, fishing and camping facilities.
Through the new Fishing and Camping Program, Australians and overseas tourists will get better and more amenities to explore our vast coastline.
Studies have found a significant economic benefit from recreational fishing for Australia’s fishing towns – coastal, lake and river.
New and improved facilities will encourage tourism, bringing jobs and economic growth.
Fixing old and damaged facilities will also increase safety for our recreational fishers.
Councils will be able to apply for funding for a range of projects including for new or improved boat ramps, marine rescue facilities, toilet blocks and fish cleaning and camping facilities
Plantation Development Concessional Loans
A re-elected Morrison Government will support the delivery of 1 billion new plantation trees through a new concessional loan product under the Regional Investment Corporation (RIC).
The support is expected to encourage foreign and domestic investment in this slow-growing, long-term and sustainable crop at a time when demand is increasing and the domestic resource is stagnating.
Without Government support for the purchase of the land (the largest cost), there will continue to be little increase in Australia’s total plantation estate.
It’s anticipated that a $500 million new capital investment could result in up to 150,000 hectares of new plantations – vital to meeting future demand for forest products.
Loans will be prioritised for new plantation development that delivers a sustainable resource and over time will support the growth of regional economies and communities.
Implementing the $20 million National Forest Industries Plan
Our Government’s new $20 million National Forest Industries Plan is set to turbocharge Australia’s renewable timber and wood fibre industry.
It’s crucial to the industry’s aspirational goal of tripling economic value by 2050.
The Morrison Government will deliver the plan in full.
We will work with industry, governments and communities to deliver pilot Regional Forestry Hubs.
The Hubs will add value to existing and new forest resources.
They will seek new processing opportunities and analyse inefficiencies, limitations or constraints to growth within the forest industries in each region.
The Hubs underway are in South West Western Australia, North/North West Tasmania, North East NSW and the Green Triangle region.
A re-elected Morrison Government will bring forward the establishment of the South West Slopes of NSW Hub as one of the pilots.
After the pilots, we will install Hubs in four more regions: Gippsland in Victoria, Central West NSW, South East Queensland and North Queensland.
We will continue discussions with other regions identified by industry as locations for further Hubs.
These areas have been selected because of their competitive advantages in forestry – including transport and processing infrastructure as well as a skilled forestry workforce.
Importantly, we recognise the opportunity provided to interested Indigenous landholders from unlocking potential timber supply through sustainable harvesting.
We will work with them to deliver a new stream of returns to Indigenous communities.
Farm forestry has the potential to provide additional revenue from timber and carbon storage.
Other benefits include bundling forestry and landscape services, supporting animal husbandry and lowering erosion and water evaporation.
A re-elected Morrison Government will work with industry and farming groups to develop a Farm Forestry Strategy.
The aim is to transform farm forestry as a commercial, timber-supplying enterprise by investigating aggregation tools, data needs, mapping and business models and navigating the challenges of changing land use.
Regional Forestry Agreements
The Morrison Government is backing in our native forestry sector.
The forest products industry (native and plantation) is vital to our regional communities.
Regional Forestry Agreements (RFAs) are the best mechanism for balancing environmental, economic and social demands on our native forests and giving the industry confidence for the future.
Without the RFAs, the native timber industry would effectively shut down with widespread job losses.
Australia’s native forests are sustainably managed – only 0.06 per cent are harvested annually and then regenerated.
Nationally, more than 4 million hectares of forests have been protected since the RFAs were signed.
A re-elected Morrison Government will continue delivering 20-year extensions to RFAs until all are completed.
To bring further confidence to these Agreements, the Morrison Government will publicly report on the management of native forests in the RFA regions every five years.
Maintaining strong laws against illegal logging
On 16 January 2019, the report of the ‘Statutory review of the Illegal Logging Prohibition Act 2012’ was tabled in Parliament.
The review examined the first five years of Australia’s illegal logging laws.
A re-elected Morrison Government will continue its strong stance against illegal logging.
The Forest Industry Advisory Council (FIAC) will consider the findings of the review and will provide advice on any strengthening of the laws while not increasing regulatory burden.
Our Government will act on this advice.
Inquiry into short-term timber supply chain constraints
The Morrison Government supports the industry, but with the long growing time for trees we need to assess any resource access or supply chain constraints in the short term.
A re-elected Morrison Government will ask the Standing Committee on Agriculture and Water Resources to conduct an inquiry into short-term timber supply chain constraints in the national plantation sector.
The Liberal Nationals Government has a strong track record of delivering for agriculture.
Since we came to office the value of total production is up 25 per cent and the value of agricultural exports is up 29 per cent.
We have given farmers the tools to capitalise when times are good – and the help they need when times are tough.
Support through tough times
We have supported our farmers through the toughest of times – drought, floods and market downturns.
Dealing with the drought and preparing for future droughts has been a top priority, with $6.3 billion of support to farmers and rural communities outlined in our Plan for Supporting Farmers in Drought.
The tragedy of the floods in northern Queensland in early 2019 reminded us that Australian farmers are at the mercy of weather.
Hundreds of thousands of livestock were destroyed.
The Morrison Government acted swiftly by developing a $3.3 billion package to support the rebuilding of agriculture in the flood-hit zones.
A new executive agency, the North Queensland Livestock Industry Recovery Agency, was established to deliver the package that includes:$300 million for two grants programs to support restocking/replanting and to rebuild on-farm infrastructure.
$1.75 billion in loans to banks to support interest rate relief for existing and new business loans.
$1 billion of concessional loans through the Regional Investment Corporation for restocking and for debt refinancing.
These measures have helped in the immediate response.
But rebuilding will take months and years and our Government’s support will be there for the long haul.
The North Queensland Livestock Industry Recovery Agency’s long-term plan expected in the coming months will set this out.
Protecting farmers from extreme activists
The Morrison Government is about choice – farmers’ choice to grow and process animals, fish, fruit and vegetables and choice for consumers.
We have taken action to protect Australian farmers’ right to farm animals without fear or intimidation.
Our Government has brought the Aussie Farms website under the Privacy Act, exposing it to potential penalties of more than $400,000 for breaches.
This action means that Aussie Farms is prescribed as an organisation under the Act.
We will legislate to make it an offence to use a carriage service, such as the internet, to disclose personal information to incite trespass on agricultural land where that could cause commercial detriment.
We will pass new laws to ensure that what Aussie Farms is doing is illegal and punishable by up to 12 months jail.
Exemptions will apply for bona-fide journalists and whistle-blowers, where the release of information shows a law being broken such as animal cruelty.
Taking farms to kids and kids to farms
A 2011 study by Primary Industry Education Foundation Australia found that 75 per cent of primary and secondary school students think that cotton socks are made from animal products.
Forty-five per cent don’t think that bread, bananas and cheese come from farmed product and 40 per cent believe that farming damages the environment.
The Morrison Government is committed to changing attitudes to farming and addressing the gap in kids' understanding of food and fibre sources.
We have committed $10 million for two new programs – taking kids to farms and other primary production worksites, and establishing mini-farms in up to 80 city-based schools.
Further details are outlined in the Morrison Government’s Plan to Showcase Agriculture: Our Heritage. Our Future.
Showcasing agriculture
Agricultural shows are an integral part of Australian culture.
They play an important role in country life, highlighting the local strengths and bringing communities together.
This is particularly important when our regional communities are tested with extended droughts and other extreme weather events.
The Morrison Government will establish a $20 million Regional Agricultural Show Development Grants Program.
Grants will be available for regional agricultural show societies that run annual shows to upgrade and maintain existing infrastructure and build new facilities.
Further details are outlined in the Morrison Government’s Plan to Showcase Agriculture: Our Heritage. Our Future.
Opening markets
To grow the agriculture, fisheries and forestry sector we need access to more markets – and better access to existing markets.
Our track record speaks for itself.
Agriculture, fisheries and forestry contributed more than $53 billion in export earnings in 2017-18, up by over $14 billion from 2011/12 when Labor was in office.
In just six years the Liberal Nationals Government has concluded export agreements with China, Japan, Korea, the 10 economies of the Trans-Pacific Partnership, the countries of the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations, as well as Indonesia, Peru and Hong Kong.
Our Free Trade Agreements have delivered.
Australia’s agricultural exports to Korea are growing: for example, orange exports were worth $4.6 million in 2017-18, a 59 per cent increase from $2.9 million in 2016-17.
There have been six rounds of tariff cuts under the Japan Australia Economic Partnership Agreement that came into force on 15 January 2015, with the most recent occurring on 1 April 2019.
And we have doubled our overseas Agriculture Counsellor network to expand our ability to access markets.
The Liberal Nationals Government has achieved 107 key technical market access gains, along with 94 key market improvements since January 2016.
For example, cherries to Vietnam and extending shelf-life for vacuum-packaged Australian beef and sheep meat to the UAE.
Protecting our pest and disease free status
Our pest and disease free status underpins our international reputation and export trade.
The Liberal Nationals Government injected an additional $313 million to build a smarter and stronger biosecurity system to further protect us against unwanted pests, weeds and diseases.
And we strengthened our border protection against pests, weeds and diseases by delivering a new Intergovernmental Agreement on Biosecurity with state and territory governments.
At home, we have invested $208.3 million in a range of initiatives to reduce the impact of established pests, animals and weeds on farmers, land managers, the community and the environment. This has already reduced stock losses from wild dogs and improved ground cover and fodder.
As well, our Government is investing $16.9 million to build a strong and effective fruit fly management system.
This includes $7.8 million to implement a national fruit fly research, development and extension program to modernise Australia’s fruit fly management techniques.
Profiling the importance of bees to agriculture
Pollinating bees are critical to ensuring the plants we grow produce the food we eat and the fibre we wear.
Without bees, two-thirds of Australian agricultural production would be at risk.
The Morrison Government will invest $1.5 million to promote the role of bees and their impact on the entire food chain.
The effort, targeting all aspects of agricultural production, will help protect our pollinators and reducing their decline. AgriFutures Australia will coordinate, working closely with apiarist organisations.
We have also invested $1.65 million in a honey bee genetic improvement program.
This project could create gains of $41 million in honey production over 25 years.
Unlocking investment
We have invested in our farmers by establishing the $4 billion Regional Investment Corporation to provide a range of loan products including:Farm investment loans to improve long-term strength, resilience and profitability, diversify markets, refinance existing debt and to prepare for, manage, or recover from, drought.
Drought loans to prepare farm businesses for drought, manage and recover from the effects of drought or to refinance existing debt.
Water infrastructure loans to accelerate construction of major projects, build sustainable water security and provide affordable water.
Historic investment in water infrastructure
The Liberal Nationals Government is unlocking the potential of regional Australia with a record $3 billion investment in water infrastructure.
We will work with state and territory governments to fast-track projects that will deliver greater water security for rural communities, increase jobs and support new and expanded agriculture.
Since coming to Government, we have co-invested in water infrastructure projects with state and territory governments including:$190 million for the Myalup-Wellington Pipeline in Western Australia.
$176 million to construct Rookwood Weir in Central Queensland.
$45.6 million for the Northern Adelaide Irrigation Scheme in South Australia.
$30 million for the Macalister Irrigation Scheme in North East Victoria.
$25.27 million for the Scottsdale Irrigation Scheme in Tasmania.
We also understand it is not just about large-scale infrastructure projects.
That’s why the Liberal Nationals Government is backing our farmers through the $50 million On-Farm Emergency Water Infrastructure Rebate Scheme.
The scheme is helping livestock producers in drought-affected areas to provide additional watering points and to desilt their dams.
All primary producers are also able to benefit from the Government’s instant depreciation of $25,000 for on-farm water investments.
This will rise to $30,000 for small businesses with a turnover of less than $50 million.
Securing the future of the Great Artesian Basin
We have ensured the long-term future of the Great Artesian Basin – a critical resource for communities in South Australia, New South Wales, Queensland and the Northern Territory – particularly in times of drought.
We have committed $36.9 million over six years to the next phase of the GAB Sustainability Initiative, building on our $8 million funding under the Interim Great Artesian Basin Infrastructure Investment Program.
We have also invested $6.5 million towards ensuring governments have a much better understanding of the Great Artesian Basin, with Geoscience undertaking a Great Artesian Basin Water Balance Assessment.
Delivering for the Murray-Darling Basin and its communities
The Murray-Darling Basin is the largest and most complex river system in Australia and accounts for more than $22 billion worth of food and fibre every year.
The river system and surrounding environment form the heart of Basin communities.
That’s why decisions on the basin must deliver a true triple bottom line with economic, social and environmental outcomes.
We need to ensure that a healthy river system underpins community prosperity well into the future.
We are on track to deliver the Basin Plan – in full without needing to adjust the buyback cap.
We have invested more than $2.5 billion since 2013 to recover 616GL of water and deliver it back to the environment – with $2.25 billion of that through infrastructure modernisation and efficiency improvements and only $29 million in open water buybacks, compared to Labor’s $2.1 billion in buybacks.
We are investing more than $136.2 million to enhance the Murray Darling Basin Authority’s compliance and enforcement capability, implement measures to protect low flows in the Barwon-Darling, improve connectivity between rivers and support fish recovery.
We are investing $40 million to support cultural and economic water for the Basin’s Indigenous communities – creating opportunities for them to secure real economic benefits.
We are investing $25 million to strengthen the economic and social resilience of 15 Basin communities through the Murray Darling Basin Economic Development Program.
We have introduced legislation to ensure an Indigenous member on the Murray Darling Basin Authority.
We have delivered key amendments to the Basin Plan that will deliver environmental benefits at a much lower social and economic cost for Basin communities.
We are investing $5 million in a Basin-wide Native Fish Management and Recovery Strategy. We’ve also provided an additional $3 million to the CSIRO for ecosystem research.
We have announced an independent panel to undertake a broad-ranging assessment of the social and economic conditions in irrigation communities across the Murray-Darling Basin.
Supporting our land stewards
Our Government invested $1.1 billion in the next phase of the National Landcare Program and continued our proud record of delivering long-term benefits to our farmers, communities, the economy and environment.
This funding includes $134 million for Smart Farms and $450 million for Regional Land Partnerships.
Almost 50 local organisations are now benefiting from Regional Land Partnerships funding to deliver on-ground environment and sustainable agriculture projects.
Agriculture Biodiversity Stewardship Program
Farmers and producers care for the land and the natural resources that help them produce clean and green food and fibre for Australians and the world.
To ensure farmers receive due recognition for their efforts, the $30 million Agriculture Biodiversity Stewardship Program will encourage the adoption of improved biodiversity practices.
The focus will be on small and medium farms, using tailored approaches to incentivise change.
The Morrison Government will invest in methodologies, monitoring and evaluation to quantify the benefits to production and biodiversity.
Projects that could be funded include maintaining or enhancing remnant forest, regeneration of gullies or waterways and creating shelter belts.
The Morrison Government will also develop an Agriculture Biodiversity Policy to strengthen agriculture’s role in improving Australia’s biodiversity outcomes.
Australian Farm Biodiversity Certification Scheme
The National Farmers Federation will receive $4 million to develop and trial a biodiversity certification scheme to help biodiversity-friendly farmers achieve a premium for their product.
The aim is for Australian farms to showcase best-practice management of natural resources that is recognised and rewarded by consumers here and abroad.
Helping our farmers adapt to climate change
Climate change poses production risks for the sector and the Government and our primary producers are actively preparing.
The Liberal Nationals Government is supporting our agriculture sector to adapt to climate change through:Rural research and investment to develop understanding, resources and tools to help producers better manage drought and climate impacts.
The Managing Farm Risk Programme to provide better on-farm risk management.
Funding improved seasonal forecasting tools to inform decision-making.
Tax incentives including depreciation arrangements to encourage on-farm investment in preparedness.
Establishing and topping up the now $1 billion National Water Infrastructure Development Fund to secure farmers’ water security.
We are making strategic investments ($853 million so far) through the Clean Energy Finance Corporation to encourage agricultural businesses to reduce energy costs and improve productivity.
The Emissions Reduction Fund is also providing real benefits to landholders through emission reduction activities. Of the 193 million tonnes of abatement under the ERF, 157.4 million tonnes – more than 80 per cent – was contracted to the agriculture and land sectors.
Our $300 million investment in Rural Research and Development Corporations is also helping to improve resilience to climate events, manage soil health and more efficiently manage our water resources.
Strengthening Country of Origin labelling
We supported farmers by delivering on our election commitment to introduce clear and transparent Country of Origin labelling.
Building a world-class rural innovation system
We have committed to building a world-class agricultural innovation system to ensure we continue to produce the best and most sustainable food and fibre.
Together with rural industries, our $800 million a year investment means we can create fantastic jobs and give our kids the best opportunity to live and work in rural and regional Australia.
The Morrison Government has already delivered a major review of Australia’s agricultural innovation system.
It found that we must modernise and be better coordinated to capture value for farmers and the sector.
The report outlines a roadmap to boost the capacity of our research and development system to deliver a more competitive, prosperous and sustainable agricultural industry.
We have invested $2.9 million in national leadership to drive the change required to ensure a more coordinated, collaborative and commercially-focused approach to meeting agtech innovation needs.
This includes making best use of our annual $300 million investment in research and development.
Additionally, $2 million has been invested in a one-stop shop for agricultural research and development through an online collaboration hub – ensuring we better broker and connect domestic and international agtech investment into outcomes for farmers.
Creating jobs
The Liberal Nationals Government has also supported decentralisation of a number of agricultural agencies because we believe country people have as much right to public service jobs as their city cousins.
We have created jobs in Armidale and Orange and are committed to regional offices of the Murray Darling Basin Authority including Murray Bridge, Mildura, Griffith, Wodonga and Goondiwindi.
Delivering a stronger and sustainable fisheries sector
Our Government manages Australia’s fisheries carefully and sustainably.
Australia’s seafood industry is valued at more than $3.2 billion and supports more than 25,000 families.
The industry plays an important role in securing Australia’s food base, employment, economic activity and generating valuable export income.
For the fifth year in a row, no fish stocks solely managed by the Australian Government are considered to be overfished.
This is testament to our strong, robust and science-based approach to fisheries.
In 2013, we promised to review, improve and implement Marine Plans in Commonwealth-managed waters, in close consultation with marine industries, the community and scientists – and we have delivered.
On 1 July 2018, five new management plans (covering 44 Australian Marine Parks) across the North, North-west, South-west, Temperate East and Coral Sea marine regions came into effect.
Covering more than 2.8 million sq km, the Marine Parks will deliver the strong protection and sustainability that benefits all Australians.
They encompass 36 per cent of our oceans, well above the United Nations benchmark of 10 per cent – and we’ve done this in a balanced way that minimises impacts on commercial and recreational fishers.
To enable our fishing community to transition to these new arrangements, our Government has developed the $35 million Fisheries Assistance and User Engagement Package.
Our updated Commonwealth Fisheries Harvest Strategy Policy and Commonwealth Fisheries Bycatch Policy reflects our constant striving to improve sustainability.
It maximises the economic viability of the commercial fleet, recognises the interests of recreational and Indigenous users and ensures Australian seafood is available for future generations.
We also recognise the contribution and potential of the aquaculture sector. In 2017, the Liberal Nationals Government released Australia’s National Aquaculture Strategy with the aim of doubling the 2017 industry value to $2 billion a year by 2027.
The Morrison Government remains committed to supporting the states and the Northern Territory to achieve this goal.
In 2018 the Liberal Nationals Government formed Australia’s first National Fisheries Advisory Council (NFAC).
The Council provides the Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources with information and advice on fisheries issues, proposed legislation and policies.
The Morrison Government is ensuring the long-term sustainability of the Southern Bluefin Tuna stock.
We are supporting the Tuna Champion program, which aims to improve stewardship, fish handling and responsible fishing practices in the Southern Bluefin Tuna recreational sector.
This will lead to reduced wastage, increased catch and release rates (with greater post-release survival rates) and more engagement in future recreational harvest surveys.
We also understand our inland waterways are highly valued and enjoyed by recreational anglers.
Recreational fishing groups play an active role in restocking and rehabilitating inland rivers, streams and lakes.
The tragic fish deaths that occurred at Menindee and the lower Darling in December 2018 have been widely felt – from recreational fishers to communities along the Murray-Darling Basin river system.
We’ve responded with a range of measures addressing the findings of the independent report into the deaths, including:$5 million for the development of a Basin-wide Native Fish Management and Recovery Strategy.
Extending the Native Fish Demonstration Reach program to the lower Darling.
Committing an extra $3 million into Basin-wide monitoring and evaluation to maintain vigilance on the health of native fish stocks and the system as a whole.
A Strong, Innovative and Sustainable Forestry Sector
A long-term forestry plan is important because growing trees is a long-term business.
The Morrison Government understands the need for a balanced approach to forestry.
And our $20 million National Forest Industries Plan: Growing a Better Australia – A Billion Trees for Jobs and Growth delivers this.
One billion new plantation trees over a decade will create 18,000 new jobs
and help meet a quadrupling in global demand for timber by 2050.
This is on top of the around 52,000 Australians already employed in the sector and the tens of thousands more indirect jobs.
To achieve 1 billion new plantation trees, we need to plant the right trees at the right scale and in the right places.
Our Government has already announced a $12.5 million investment in the Regional Forestry Hubs and research and development elements of our plan, which will help meet our target.
The Hubs bring key players together from strategic forestry areas to look at that region’s unique strengths, opportunities and barriers to growth.
To boost innovation, research and product development, in collaboration with governments and industry, we are also delivering centres of National Institute of Forest Products Innovation in South Australia and Tasmania, with at least two more to come.
The Morrison Government, in partnership with Forestry and Wood Products Australia, has committed $200,000 for two forestry education activities: a new National University Challenge for innovative uses of wood residues or timber products (prizes total up to $100,000) and the development of a virtual reality tool.
The VR tool will bolster forestry education in nine secondary schools, highlighting the renewable cycle of forests.
Regional Forestry Agreements (RFAs) are the best mechanism for balancing environmental, economic and social demands on our native forests, as well as giving the industry confidence for the future.
The Liberal Nationals Government has also delivered on its commitment to 20-year rolling RFA agreements.
We have renewed and extended the Tasmanian, NSW and Western Australian RFAs, with a short extension to the Victorian RFAs ahead of a longer-term renewal that is being negotiated.
These achievements are no accident.
They are due to our Government’s strong investments in the forestry sector, which we want to see prosper and grow.
The Choice
Only the Morrison Government has a plan for the agriculture, fisheries and forestry sector.
Australia's farmers know they can only rely on the Morrison Government to stand with them in the good times and bad – we have their back.
We know that when our farmers prosper, our regional communities thrive.
Agriculture is just not on Labor’s radar, which signals a return to the bad old days that the sector experienced under previous Labor governments.
When last in office Labor inflicted six long years of neglect and anti-agricultural policies on Australian farmers to appease the Greens.
Between 2007 and 2013, Labor’s agriculture funding was slashed from $3.8 billion to $1.7 billion.
Labor has already promised to burden farmers with unnecessary and unprecedented new federal environmental regulations and increase the cost of doing business through additional taxes.
Labor has no interest in unlocking the potential of our regional communities, securing their water supply, creating jobs and delivering agricultural economic opportunities.
Labor will revert to the lock-up and lock-out approach of its 2012 Marine Park plans.
This poses a significant risk to our fishing industry and the environment, and flies in the face of the overwhelming support for the Morrison Government’s plans from stakeholders, non-government organisations and fishers.
Labor’s plans will also lock out recreational fishers from over a third of marine parks.
Australians have a choice between the Morrison Government that supports the forestry sector as one of the most renewable resources of the 21st century – or a Labor/Greens Government seeking to take us back to the dark days of forest lock-ups.
When last in government, Labor’s policies (backed by the Greens) decimated our forest product industries, especially in Tasmania – led by former Wilderness Society campaigner Tony Burke.
Cost
The Coalition will invest an additional $43.4 million to secure a stronger agriculture, fisheries and forestry sector.
This is on top of the $36.4 million additional funding for drought and $30 million for showcasing agriculture.
Our Plan for a Cleaner Environment
KEY POINTS
The Morrison Government will continue the Liberal Nationals’ strong record of supporting practical and meaningful environmental action that gets results.
Australia’s iconic environment is part of our national identity and we are committed to protecting and preserving it for future generations.
It’s also an important asset that helps us to grow the economy
and create jobs: by drawing tourists to our unique natural attractions, through farmers making their land more sustainable and productive, and by incentivising businesses to develop new clean technology.
The Morrison Government understands that a healthy economy and a healthy environment go hand in hand.
We can invest in our environment because we are keeping our economy strong.
We believe that protecting and restoring the environment is best achieved by working in partnership with the community, Landcare groups, small and large businesses, Indigenous communities, farmers and scientists.
By building these partnerships, we aim to deliver:More recycling and less waste to protect the environment, deliver healthier communities and build our recycling industry.
Cleaner and greener local communities to improve the environments in which Australians live, work and play.
Cleaner oceans, coasts and waterways to protect our marine life, support our industries and ensure future generations can continue to enjoy these natural playgrounds, including the Great Barrier Reef.
Protection of threatened species to ensure our unique plants and animals are preserved.
This will complement the action we are taking through our Climate Solutions Fund to meet our international emissions reduction targets.
Our focus on practical, on-ground action and partnership with the community contrasts with Labor who only have a plan for more bureaucracy and public servants.
Labor can’t be trusted to invest in the environment
when they can’t run the economy and they can’t manage money.
They can’t even cost the impact their emissions plan will have on the economy.
Only the Liberal Nationals Government can protect the environment
while maintaining a strong economy.
OUR RECORD
Liberal Nationals Governments have a long and proud history of protecting and restoring our environment, including saving the Great Barrier Reef from oil drilling, ending whaling in Australia and creating the Natural Heritage Trust.
Since our election in 2013, we have continued this tradition of sensible and practical environmental leadership.
We have put Landcare back in focus with our $1 billion National Landcare Program.
We are on track to meet our target of planting 20 million trees by 2020.
And we have invested over $250 million to support thousands of community-led environmental projects.
The Great Barrier Reef is receiving more funding than ever, with our Government investing over $1.2 billion to improve water quality, control crown of thorns starfish, clean up plastic litter and fund new research into protecting the Reef.
Our investments are being guided by our world-class Reef 2050 Plan which has been endorsed by the World Heritage Committee and praised by the OECD.
We have also put an end to all capital dredge spoil disposal in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.
Australia has the second largest marine park network in the world after the Liberal Nationals protected an additional 2.3 million square kilometres through a new national network of marine reserves – and we’ve done this while minimising impacts on recreational and commercial fishers.
The Liberal Nationals Government has been working hard to protect our threatened plants and animals.
We appointed Australia’s first Threatened Species Commissioner in 2014 and launched the Threatened Species Strategy in 2015.
Since 2014, over $425 million has been mobilised for over 1,300 projects to protect and recover populations of threatened species.
Our new National Waste Policy will create jobs,
protect the health of communities
and reduce environmental impacts by increasing recycling and reducing waste.
We have invested $50 million in a National Food Waste Strategy to halve Australia’s food waste by 2030.
We have established a voluntary scheme for recycling tyres.
We have worked with business to remove plastic microbeads from cosmetic and skin-care products that end up in our waterways and oceans – 94 per cent of these products are now microbead-free.
Through the Natural Heritage Trust, we are providing $47 million to protect our World Heritage sites including the Greater Blue Mountains, the Ningaloo Coast, Shark Bay and the Tasmanian Wilderness area.
We continue to protect the rainforests of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area by investing in the eradication of introduced Yellow Crazy Ants, with a further $9 million committed in the 2019-20 Budget.
Our Australian Heritage Grants Program is providing support to protect our National Heritage listed sites, with up to $21.4 million from 2018-19 to 2021-22, and $5.7 million per annum from 2022-23 onwards.
We are investing a record $830 million for Indigenous Rangers and Indigenous Protected Areas over 10 years through to 2023.
OUR PLAN
More recycling and less waste
Governments, businesses and the community all need to play a part in ensuring we have a healthy recycling sector and less waste and litter.
Australians create around 67 million tonnes of waste each year and we all want to see less waste going to landfill and ending up in our oceans, and more being re-used and recycled.
A re-elected Morrison Government will implement a comprehensive $167 million Australian Recycling Investment plan to increase Australia’s recycling rates, tackle plastic waste and litter, accelerate work on a new battery recycling scheme and continue action to halve food waste by 2030.
Healthy recycling sector: With other countries starting to shut down their markets to Australia’s recyclable materials, there is an opportunity to grow and strengthen Australia’s domestic recycling industry, and support it to lift recycling rates in Australia.
The Morrison government will support a range of measures to do this, including:A new $100 million Australian Recycling Investment Fund through the Clean Energy Finance Corporation to support the manufacturing of lower emissions and energy-efficient recycled content products, such as recycled content plastics and paper/pulp.
$20 million for a new Product Stewardship Investment Fund to accelerate work on new recycling schemes, including for batteries, electrical and electronic products, photovoltaic systems, and plastic oil containers.
Reducing contamination by helping Australians identify what can and can’t be recycled, with up to $2 million to support the Australian Council of Recycling’s ‘Project Yellowsail’ national recycling app.
Working with Planet Ark and the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation with up to $1.6 million to establish a Circular Economy Hub to drive innovation and establish an online marketplace to match buyers and sellers of waste.
Supporting the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation to deliver increased recycling rates for packaging waste, with up to $1.1 million for consumer education.
Continue working to halve food waste by 2030 under our National Food Waste Strategy, with an additional $500,000 to support the delivery of a Fight Food Waste campaign by OzHarvest.
Continue to work with state, territory and local governments on opportunities to get more recycled content into road construction, building on the funding provided to the Australian Road Research Board in the 2019-Budget.
Tackling plastic waste: Plastic litter and debris is a major environmental issue. We need to take action at a local, national and global level. A re-elected Morrison Government will:
Allocate $20 million through a special round of the Cooperative Research Centres Projects (CRC-P) to find new and innovative solutions to plastic recycling and waste, including new ways of incorporating recycled plastics in manufacturing and construction.
Work with our Pacific neighbours to combat marine litter by allocating $16 million towards a Pacific Ocean Litter Project.
Support Conservation Volunteers Australia to undertake community beach and river clean-ups and monitoring across the country (up to $5 million).
Continue the great work of Clean Up Australia and Keep Australia Beautiful to mobilise the community to reduce and clean-up litter (up to $600,000).
Support Clean4Shore to continue their clean-up activities on the NSW Central Coast (up to $300,000).
Environment Restoration Fund
The Morrison Government has committed $100 million in the 2019-20 Budget to a new Environment Restoration Fund to support major environmental projects that deliver lasting conservation benefits.
This is the type of investment that is only made possible through a strong economy and responsible budget management.
The fund will be a vehicle for national leadership on emerging and long-term environmental issues, building on our $1 billion National Landcare Program.
Funding will be provided for a broad range of environmental restoration and protection projects, built around three key priorities:Cleaning up and protecting Australia’s coasts, oceans and waterways.
Protecting threatened and migratory species and their habitats.
Increasing recycling and reducing waste.
Cleaner coasts and waterways
Our coasts and waterways are an important part of Australian life.
They harbour a wide array of wildlife, support our industries and are natural playgrounds for our people.
A re-elected Morrison Government will strategically invest in our key rivers, waterways and coasts through the Environment Restoration Fund to help clean them up and improve water quality.
Key priorities will include:Improving the health of the Yarra River (up to $2 million).
Protecting Victoria’s iconic Surf Coast dune systems (up to $1.5 million)
Restoring Mount Martha North Beach (up to $1.5 million)
Improving the health of the Swan and Canning Rivers in Western Australia (up to $2 million).
Continuing River Torrens recovery in South Australia (up to $2 million).
Restoring waterways in the lower Brisbane River catchment (up to $1.15 million).
Improving the health of Moreton Bay in Queensland (up to $1.2 million).
Improving the health of the Georges River in New South Wales (up to $1 million).
Keeping the Hawkesbury and Nepean Rivers in New South Wales healthy (up to $511,000).
Improving the health of Gosford Coastal Lagoons (up to $300,000).
Protecting the health of Bowling Green Bay in North Queensland (up to $2 million).
The initiative will build on the $9 million we have already provided under Landcare for the River Torrens, Swan and Canning Rivers, Yarra and Tamar Rivers and Tuggerah Lakes, and a $95 million investment in the Tamar River under the Launceston City Deal.
Recovery of threatened species
Australia has some of the most unique and special animals in the world, but a number of them are under threat.
A re-elected Morrison Government will allocate up to $10 million under the Environment Restoration Fund in an important new program to support the creation of safe havens for threatened species.
Safe havens are a priority under the Government’s Threatened Species Strategy.
They are fenced areas where feral predators like feral cats and foxes can be removed and kept out – allowing species like rock wallabies, bilbies, quolls and bandicoots to be reintroduced and thrive.
A scientific review has identified a range of priority sites to fill the gaps in Australia's safe haven network, including the Victorian Alps, Darling Downs, Sturt Stony Desert and Flinders Ranges.
Up to $1.2 million of this funding will also go towards completing the feral-free Wandiyali-Environa Wildlife Sanctuary in NSW.
We will also make targeted investments through the Fund to recover our at-risk species.
This will include up to $6 million for a major koala initiative in northern NSW and south-east Queensland, including funding to enhance koala habitat and support for rescue activities and wildlife hospitals.
It also includes up to $3 million to protect WA's black cockatoos, $1.5 million for Bruny Island's threatened mammals, and $1.5 million for Kangaroo Island's threatened dunnart.
The Morrison Government is committed to Australia playing its part in protecting endangered animals and plants from around the world.
Australia has some of the strictest regulation of international trade of endangered species and we are working internationally to stop illegal wildlife trade.
we are also working to further strengthen regulations within Australia by working with states and territories on banning domestic trade of ivory and rhino horn.
By shutting down the market for these items here in Australia we’ll help to better protect elephants and rhinos in their native habitats.
Cleaner and greener local communities
We understand that local communities are often best placed to implement effective environmental protection and management.
The Morrison Government has committed more than $22 million to give communities new opportunities to protect and care for their local environment.
Through the Communities Environment Program, each Federal electorate will receive up to $150,000 in 2019-20 for community-led projects that deliver real environmental benefits.
The Energy Efficient Communities Program will provide $50 million in grants to businesses and community organisations to help them save energy and lower their power bills.
This includes up to $20,000 for small businesses and $25,000 for high energy-using businesses for equipment upgrades such as new lighting, refrigeration and air conditioning.
Community organisations will also be able to access grants through the $5 million Solar Communities Program, providing up to $12,500 for small-scale solar energy generation and storage projects such as solar PV, solar hot water and batteries.
We will also invest $30 million in a pilot Agriculture Biodiversity Stewardship Fund to provide incentives to farmers to boost biodiversity and reduce emissions.
This will reward farmers who look after biodiversity on their farm and give them more motivation to maintain and enhance bushland, regenerate waterways and plant native trees.
Supporting sustainable development and environmental education
The Morrison Government has committed $50 million in the 2019-20 Budget towards the establishment of new world-leading environment research and education facilities.
We will contribute $25 million towards a National Centre for Coasts, Environment and Climate within the Quarantine station precinct at Port Nepean: supporting Monash University and the University of Melbourne in establishing a facility where Australian and international researchers and students can better understand the pressures of population growth and climate change on temperate coastal ecosystems like Port Phillip Bay.
We will invest $25 million in the development of the $40 million Harry Butler Environmental Education Centre at Murdoch University.
The groundbreaking Centre will promote the positive partnership of economic development and a healthy, sustainable environment.
Climate change and renewables
Australia has a proud track record of meeting our international climate commitments and supporting renewable energy.
Climate change is a global issue that requires a global solution.
The Liberal Nationals Government has overachieved on our commitment under the Kyoto Protocol, something few countries have done.
We will reduce emissions by 26-28 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030 and we will do this while growing the economy,
creating jobs,
protecting our environment
and keeping power prices down.
The Morrison Government has a $3.5 billion Climate Solutions Plan – among the largest investments by Australia in emissions reduction.
A new $2 billion Climate Solutions Fund will ensure we meet our 2030 Paris commitments by supporting practical measures such as revegetation of degraded land, reducing waste, savannah burning and improving energy efficiency.
The Morrison Government is also expanding our world-class renewable hydro resources to supply millions of Australians with reliable renewable energy.
Snowy 2.0 will be the world’s second-largest high tech pumped hydro power station and increase generation capacity by 2,000 megawatts – enough power for 500,000 homes during peak demand.
Importantly, Snowy 2.0 will also put downward pressure on wholesale electricity prices.
Upgrading Kakadu
The Morrison Government has committed up to $216 million to upgrade the World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park and support the township of Jabiru.
The funding will upgrade roads to improve access to the park; upgrade camp grounds, walking tracks and viewing platforms; improve signage, mobile and WiFi services and support an Indigenous-led World Heritage Kakadu Visitor Centre in Jabiru.
Investing in Sydney Harbour’s parks and heritage
The 2019-20 Budget included $21.4 million for infrastructure upgrades for important defence heritage sites around Sydney Harbour.
At Headland Park, we’ll preserve the heritage of key buildings for appropriate educational, community, recreational and commercial uses and construct a public path circuit integrated with the new Sydney Harbour Scenic Walk.
We’ll also contribute to the renewal of the former submarine base Platypus: creating a lasting impact along the Sydney Harbour foreshore by adapting significant heritage buildings for community access.
Conserving Antarctica
The Morrison Government is committed to ensuring Australia remains a leader in Antarctica.
We are strengthening Tasmania as the premier gateway and scientific research hub for East Antarctica.
We are investing $450 million over the next 10 years to upgrade Australia’s Antarctic research station network and infrastructure – effectively tripling the investment in Antarctic infrastructure to support Antarctic science and operations.
This will bring our investment in Antarctica to a record level of around $2.8 billion including:$1.9 billion towards a new icebreaker.
$45 million over 10 years for overland traverse capabilities.
$210 million over 10 years for additional funding for our Antarctic operations.
$107 million over 11 years for Antarctic research initiatives.
$50 million for a new research station on Macquarie Island.
Environmental laws
The Morrison Government supports sustainable development that meets high environmental standards.
It is important that environmental laws provide the high levels of protection expected by the community,
while minimising the regulatory burden on businesses
so they can continue to grow the economy.
The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) was introduced by the Liberal Nationals in 1999 and it remains the cornerstone of Australian environmental regulation.
To ensure the EPBC Act remains best-practice, the Morrison Government will consult widely on an independent statutory review of the Act.
Consultation will begin later this year and include feedback from business groups, environmental organisations, farmers and other land users and the broader community to ensure we strike the right balance with our environmental laws – continuing to protect the environment
while allowing for sustainable development.
Protecting the Rainforest and the Reef
The Morrison Government understands that the Great Barrier Reef and the rainforests of the Wet Tropics are not only natural wonders of the world, they are also a huge driver of the economy, particularly in North Queensland.
The Great Barrier Reef alone contributes 64,000 jobs
and $6.4 billion in economic value every year.
We will continue to roll out our $443.3 million Great Barrier Reef Partnership Program as part of the more than $1.2 billion we are investing in the Reef.
This funding is going towards proven reef protection activities like improving water quality, crown-of-thorns starfish control, community action, and scientific research and development to find new ways of restoring and protecting the Reef.
We also announced as part of the 2019-20 Budget that we will deliver $9 million over the next three years to control Yellow Crazy Ants in the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.
Yellow Crazy Ants are among the world's worst invasive species and their presence threatens endangered species such as the Southern Cassowary, Mahogany Glider, Northern Bettong and stream-dwelling rainforest frogs, as well as posing a major threat to sugar cane growers.
THE CHOICE
By keeping our economy strong, the Liberal Nationals Government can continue investing in our environment.
Australia’s environment cannot be supported under Labor’s economy-wrecking plans.
If you can’t manage the economy and the Budget, then you can’t invest in the environment.
The Morrison Government will support practical and meaningful actions to protect the environment for future generations.
We will do this by working in partnership with the community, Landcare groups, small and large businesses, Indigenous communities, farmers and scientists.
We support balanced environmental laws that ensure good environmental outcomes without burying business in unnecessary red tape.
Labor’s plan for the environment is a plan for more bureaucracy and public servants.
They will establish a large new environmental bureaucracy in Canberra, money that would be better spent on protecting our threatened species and improving our coasts and oceans.
The Liberal Nationals Government has prioritised protecting the Great Barrier Reef.
We are working in partnership with the community, including the biggest single investment in the Reef through a $443 million partnership with the Great Barrier Reef Foundation.
Labor wants to take this money away, They can’t be trusted to protect the Reef: when they were last in government, the World Heritage Committee put the Reef on its in-danger ‘watch list’ and criticised Labor’s handling of dredging proposals along the coast.
The Morrison Government will invest over $22 million to support our community groups, including Landcare groups, scouts groups, sports clubs and councils, to protect and care for the local environment.
This includes protecting native species, improving local waterways and coastal areas, cleaning up waste and litter, and greening local parks and urban areas.
Labor wants to abolish the program and has no plan to support cleaner and greener local communities.
COST
The Coalition’s Plan for a Cleaner Environment will invest an additional $20 million in the Product Stewardship Investment Fund.
Our Plan to Back Australian Tourism and Jobs
KEY POINTS
The Morrison Government is backing in our tourism sector to grow even stronger.
Its contribution to the Australian economy is enormous and growing: attracting $136 billion in spending every year and employing one in 13 workers – many in small and family businesses.
Tourism is particularly important for regional Australia, with 43 cents of every visitor dollar spent in the regions.
Over the last five years, international visitor numbers have grown by 45 per cent while spending by overseas visitors is up 53 per cent.
This compares with a 10 per cent increase in international visitor spending during five years of Labor.
The latest National Visitor Survey shows that visitor spending by Australians has increased by 13 per cent to a record $72.7 billion, including 105.6 million domestic overnight trips.
Under the Liberal National Government nearly 45,000 tourism jobs have been created, more than four times as many as under Labor.
Building even further on this success and growth is a key component of the Morrison Government’s plan to keep the economy strong
and deliver 1.25 million new jobs over the next five years.
A re-elected Morrison Government will:Deliver a Tourism Icons Package to ensure that Australia’s tourism icons, particularly regional icons, remain world-class experiences and continue to attract high-value tourists.
Support tourism infrastructure and operators in the Shipwreck Coast and Great Ocean Road area with a $184 million investment and invest up to $216 million to upgrade Kakadu National Park and support the Jabiru township.
Support the tourism industry in regional Australia by providing dedicated funding in future rounds of the Building Better Regions Fund for tourism-related infrastructure.
Provide a $40 million fund to establish and grow Indigenous tourism as part of the Indigenous Advancement Strategy.
Deliver improved arrival and visa processing systems for international visitors.
Deliver the tourism boost provided by City Deals, including Geelong, Hobart and Adelaide and deliver regional tourism investment in iconic destinations such as Longreach, Margaret River, Cradle Mountain and Kangaroo Island.
Deliver the Beyond 2020 tourism strategy to help Australia’s tourism industry make the most of opportunities provided by fast-growing markets over the next decade.
Continue to support the hundreds of thousands of small and medium-sized businesses in the tourism sector, including 92,373 in regional Australia, through lower taxes, growing the economy and creating jobs.
Continue to support the tourism sector by investing record levels of funding for Tourism Australia over the next four years.
OUR RECORD
Australia’s tourism sector is growing strongly and now accounts for 10 per cent of exports.
International visitor numbers and expenditure are at record levels, and businesses are seizing opportunities to start, expand
and create jobs.
Since we were elected, the number of tourism businesses has increased by 17,881.
This contrasts with Labor’s last term of government, when tourism business numbers fell by 12,614.
Since we came to office, the pipeline for new tourism accommodation rooms has more than doubled.
Supporting small and family tourism businesses
Our Government has focused on supporting tourism that benefits small and family businesses and communities.
Since 2014, we have committed $120 million to support nearly 300 tourism projects nationwide.
This includes over $70 million specifically for tourism projects under Round 3 of the Building Better Regions Fund.
The Coalition promised at least $45million in tourism infrastructure projects and delivered over $70 million of tourism projects.
With 43 cents in every tourism dollar already spent in Regional Australia, the Coalition’s investment in tourism through the Building Better Regions Fund will give a significant boost to the regional tourism industry.
Round 3 of the Building Better Regions Fund will support 13,000 jobs throughout regional Australia, across all projects funded in the round.
International tourism
To increase inbound tourism, an additional six domestic airports have become designated international airports.
Hobart, Newcastle, Avalon, Canberra and Townsville are either already servicing international flights or will be ready to do so in the near future.
Toowoomba’s Wellcamp Airport can receive and despatch freight overseas.
The Liberal National Government has broken decades of indecision and deadlock to launch the Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport at Badgerys Creek.
It will support almost 28,000 direct and indirect jobs by 2031 and connect businesses to national and international markets.
We’re also stepping up tourism from the world’s fastest-growing economies.
Following the signing of an open skies agreement between Australia and China in 2016, more than 160 direct flights between the two nations are contributing to strong growth in visitor numbers.
The Morrison Government is implementing the India Economic Strategy which identifies tourism as a priority sector for growth.
Around 70 million Indians will travel overseas annually by 2035 in a potential windfall of over $9 billion a year for the Australian economy.
Traditional markets like New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Japan and the United States will continue to be strongly targeted in tourism campaigns.
An improved visitor experience
To improve the experience of international tourists, our Government has invested in road and tourism-specific infrastructure at iconic destinations like Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory, the Great Ocean Road and Shipwreck Coast in Victoria and Cradle Mountain in Tasmania.
We’re easing congestion and upgrading safety.
We’re also making the journey to Australia smoother by investing in technology.
For major tourism markets like China and India, around 80 per cent of tourism visa applications are now done on-line, providing 24/7 access and ensuring a shorter timeframe.
We have also expanded the use of longer-term validity visas for key markets including China, Singapore, Indonesia and India.
Indigenous tourism
Since 2013, Indigenous tourism has grown by over 40 per cent and expenditure is up by 8 per cent a year on average.
There has also been a 30 per cent increase in Indigenous businesses as a result of our Government’s policies, including the Indigenous Procurement Policy and the Indigenous Business Sector Strategy.
Working holiday-makers
A factor in Australia’s tourism appeal is the chance for young holiday-makers to work in industries and regions where available labour is scarce.
The Morrison Government has made changes to the Working Holiday Maker visa program to support regional and rural communities by increasing the number of tourists eligible to do seasonal work.
These reforms, effective on 5 November 2018, include the expansion of the regional areas where subclass 462 visa holders can work in agriculture (plant and animal cultivation) to qualify for a second year of stay in Australia.
Previously only those who worked in Northern Australia were eligible.
Other changes will extend the period that certain visa holders can stay and increase the caps and age limits for eligible working holiday-makers.
Case Study – How Working Holiday-Makers support regional communities
Bowen Gumlu Growers Association
The Bowen Gumlu in the Whitsunday area of North Queensland is the largest winter growing region in Australia and exports hundreds of millions of dollars of produce to New Zealand.
The population of Bowen grows to over 3500 people during the peak picking season from May to November.
The majority are employed in picking and packing fruit and vegetables on around 40 local farms.
The Working Holiday Visa scheme has allowed the Bowen horticulture industry to source an accessible and flexible labour pool to meet increasing demand from Australian customers and export markets in Asia and New Zealand.
Without this labour, the growers would be unable to get their product overseas and to the supermarket shelves.
Carl Walker, President of the Bowen Gumlu Growers Association, says: “Without that flexible transient population the region would be seriously impacted economically … the bulk of our farm workers spend the money they earn in the local and Australian tourism industry.”
Supporting jobs and regions with record funding
The Morrison Government will provide $50 million to the Tourism Icons Package to support the development of five iconic tourism projects – creating new jobs
and helping to diversify local economies.
Rottnest Island sustainable visitor infrastructure and museum in Western Australia
We will contribute $12.2 million for sustainable visitor infrastructure, including upgrades of jetties, wharves, piers, roads, walking trails signage and existing lighthouse and railway, as well as $5 million to improve the visitor experience for Rottnest Island Museum including enhanced facilities, curation and interpretation.
Sovereign Hill Museum Enhancement in Victoria
Acknowledging the 50th anniversary of Sovereign Hill next year, we will contribute $10.1 million to help enhance the outdoor museum’s exhibitions and facilities.
This funding will be used to develop a master plan and then deliver phase one, which may include opportunities to redevelop the Gold Museum, upgrade the entrance building, improve signage and enhance the popular ‘digging area’.
Wangetti Trail construction in far north Queensland
We will contribute $8 million to build the next stage of the Wangetti Trail from the Mowbray River through to Palm Cove.
This will help fund trail construction, upgrades to bridges, campsites and associated infrastructure.
Freycinet National Park in Tasmania
We will contribute $7.2 million to the Freycinet National Park’s Visitor Gateway Hub for a new Visitor Centre, as well as an external car park to reduce congestion within the Park.
This funding will also encourage commercial investment outside the Park and encourage more visitors to spend time in the Coles Bay township.
Northern Rivers Rail Trail development in northern New South Wales
We will contribute $7.5 million for Stage 2 of the Rail Trail – from Old Casino Station to Back Creek Bridge at Bentley.
Visitors will be able to walk the trail, ride a bicycle or horse or drive a zero-emissions vehicle such as a mobility scooter, Segway or electric bike.
These tourism icons build on our commitments to other unique destinations in Australia.
The Morrison Government is providing $184 million for the Great Ocean Road and Geelong.
This funding includes investment in the Geelong Convention Centre, as well as the Shipwreck Coast Master Plan and the Great Ocean Road area, providing improved access for tourists and locals.
Our Government is also investing up to $216 million to upgrade Kakadu National Park and support the Jabiru township in the Northern Territory.
For Kakadu National Park, this means upgrades to walking tracks, viewing platforms, signage and mobile and WiFi services.
For Jabiru, the Government is helping to secure the long-term future of the township in co-operation with the Northern Territory Government and is funding an Indigenous-led World Heritage Kakadu Visitor Centre.
The Morrison Government will provide $11.25 million for a new visitor centre at Monarto Zoo Safari Park near Murray Bridge in South Australia.
The centre is the first stage of the Monarto Zoo expansion project.
It’s expected to unlock private investment to develop a range of zoo accommodation facilities including a safari resort and eco-luxe glamping tents.
The Adelaide City Deal will stimulate Adelaide’s cultural economy by investing over $100m in an Aboriginal Art and Cultures Gallery and an International Centre for Tourism, Hospitality and Food Studies at Lot Fourteen.
The investment will also boost tourism by funding key projects such as the Heysens Gallery in Hahndorf, the Mitcham Hills and Glenthorne Trails in southern Adelaide and upgrading Carrick Hill House to include a visitor centre.
The Government will invest $30 million in the Cradle Mountain Cableway as part of the transformation of the Cradle Mountain Gateway Precinct.
The Gateway Precinct will become the prime entrance to the world-renowned heritage national park and wilderness area.
To ensure that the benefits of tourism growth are spread beyond the major cities, the Morrison Government delivered $70 million to regional tourism-related infrastructure projects from the most recent round of Building Better Regions Fund.
The Building Better Regions Fund supports key infrastructure in regional communities.
It ensures the tourism industry can continue the investment to maintain tourist sites and attract new visitors into their region.
This program is supporting communities through projects such as the new Australian Opal Centre in Lightning Ridge and Townsville’s new Castle Hill adventure tourism experience.
The Morrison Government is supporting the Australian music industry through the $22.5 million Live Music Australia Grant program.
This competitive grants program will support small businesses that host live music performances by Australian artists and help expand the touring circuit to regional venues.
More local artists will have the opportunity to develop at home rather than overseas.
The Tourism Regional Infrastructure Investment Attraction Strategy will continue to deliver additional investment and focus on key tourism assets including the Whitsundays, Snowy Mountains, Margaret River and Kangaroo Island.
Regional focus
We will encourage tourists to visit regional destinations through a series of initiatives including greater promotion as part of Tourism Australia’s marketing, better transport infrastructure and the tourism icons package.
This will complement other Morrison Government investment such as the Indigenous Advancement Strategy and our backing of key regional tourism assets like the Great Ocean Road and Kakadu.
The regions will be a key pillar of the Beyond 2020 Tourism Strategy.
Tourism promotion
The Liberal National Government will provide record funding to Tourism Australia, increasing from $142.9 million in 2013-14 to $154 million in 2019-20 and $167 million in 2022-23.
This will enable Tourism Australia to continue to target high-value tourists in major international markets.
It will also ensure the ongoing success of the Business Event Bid Fund which has already attracted $90 million in global conferences to Australian cities and regions.
Our Government will also improve Tourism Australia’s ability to monitor and adjust their marketing approach to directly support communities impacted by natural disasters and unforeseen events.
Beyond 2020 Tourism Strategy
The Morrison Government will finalise and implement the Beyond 2020 tourism strategy to help Australia’s tourism industry make the most of opportunities and challenges over the coming decade.
The strategy charts a 10-year plan for the tourism sector that has been developed by industry in consultation with state and territory governments.
Targets include achieving $152 billion-$195 billion in overnight visitor expenditure by 2025 and $181 billion-$250 billion by 2030.
The Australian economy will reap strong rewards if these goals are reached,
including jobs for an additional 123,000 to 400,000 workers.
Supporting the growing China market
To support the inbound tourist market from China, the Morrison Government will provide $11 million over the next four years to continue the Approved Destination Status (ADS) scheme, which allows Chinese tourists to travel to Australia in guided groups.
Australia’s position as one of the first western destinations to be granted ADS status gave it a strong start in marketing its tourism product to China.
It means Tourism Australia can market directly to China; currently, about 24 per cent of Chinese leisure tourists are ADS tourists.
The Liberal-National Government is also investing $3 million in a new campaign in China to lure more high-spending, independent and repeat travellers to more areas of Australia.
China is Australia’s number one inbound market (currently worth $11.5 billion), having grown 12 per cent in  12 months.
In the year ending December 2018, Australia attracted more than 1.4 million Chinese visitors.
Improving Australia’s tourism visa and arrival systems
The Morrison Government will invest in improving the visitor visa processing and arrival process into Australia by working closely with the tourism industry, domestic agencies and international partners.
We will streamline and automate the visa application process using the very latest and most sophisticated digital technology.
Under the Morrison Government, all tourists to Australia can expect a faster, fully digital and secure visa application process.
We have installed next generation arrival SmartGates in two airports and will progressively roll them out to all major Australian international airports, ensuring a speedier arrival into Australia.
To remain internationally competitive in tourist and visitor visas, we will commission a review to benchmark Australia's visa settings against our major competitors in international tourism, as well as identify areas for improvement.
Better transport infrastructure
The Morrison Government’s comprehensive plan to upgrade Australia’s transport infrastructure will improve international visitor experiences and increase the nation’s capacity to accommodate overseas tourists.
The Morrison Government has committed around $30 billion for major tourism-related infrastructure including airports, roads and rail.
This funding includes $10 billion for Queensland’s Bruce Highway, $400 million to improve the safety and efficiency of the principal link between northern and southern Tasmania and  $330 million for the Outback Way across the Northern Territory, Queensland and Western Australia.
Indigenous tourism
Indigenous Tourism has huge potential to create and develop more Indigenous businesses that can support jobs, especially in remote areas where economic activity is limited.
According to Tourism Australia, 15 per cent (1.3 million people) of international visitors undertake an Indigenous tourism experience.
The Morrison Government has committed $85 million for an Aboriginal Art and Cultures Gallery in Adelaide and, as part of the tourism icons program, we’re also supporting local Indigenous communities and culture with our funding to Freycinet National Park and the Wangetti Trail.
Building on this success, and our Indigenous Entrepreneurs Fund, the Morrison Government will provide a $40 million Indigenous tourism fund as part of the Indigenous Advancement Strategy (IAS).
Each year, $10 million of IAS funding will be focused on increasing the number of Indigenous owned and operated tourism enterprises, particularly in remote areas.
This fund will support new or expanding Indigenous businesses to purchase capital assets like a vehicle, boat or an accommodation facility to help break down typical barriers for Indigenous entrepreneurs.
The funding will also support tourism planning work with Indigenous communities and entrepreneurs who are pursuing tourism opportunities.
It’s a great new complement to Tourism Australia’s Discover Aboriginal Experiences program – and will also help Indigenous businesses participate in other initiatives such as Tourism Australia’s Signature Experiences of Australia program.
Supporting small and family tourism businesses
One in eight Australian businesses are tourism businesses and almost 90 per cent of them have a turnover under $2 million.
These businesses will benefit from the Morrison Government’s tax reforms, including a reduction in the business tax rate to 25 per cent, an increase in the threshold for the instant asset write-off from $25,000 to $30,000 and expansion of its coverage.
The Morrison Government will also ensure small business is paid on time by big business and government and will increase access to finance with a new $2 billion Australian Business Securitisation Fund.
THE CHOICE
Labor dismisses Australia’s vital tourism sector.
Under Labor, funding for Tourism Australia flat-lined, job growth in the sector was slow
and the number of international visitors and their expenditure was weak.
Labor’s plans to impose an additional $387 billion of taxes on the Australian economy would have dire consequences for tourism.
Many small and family tourism businesses will be hit hard.
Labor’s Retiree Tax would reduce the disposable income of over 900,000 Australians while their union-led restrictions on working holiday-makers would hurt the regions.
Labor’s attack on grey nomads
Australians over 65 account for 15 per cent of all domestic overnight travellers – with 15.6 million trips during the year ending September 2018 and spending of $9.8 billion.
Over 65s make 42 million day trips in Australia annually, spending $3.7 billion.
Labor’s devastating Retiree Tax is a $57 billion tax grab that would hit over 1 million Australians.
This includes more than 900,000 Australians with direct shareholdings, 200,000 self-managed super funds and 1,800 super funds.
On average, these retirees would lose almost $2,300 a year – and more than half of them are women. Self-managed super funds would lose $12,000 a year.
Labor claims their Retiree Tax will only slug the wealthy, but the truth is that 84 per cent of Australians who would be affected are on a taxable income of less than $37,000. And 50,000 pensioners in self-managed super funds would also be hit.
Labor restrictions on working holiday-makers will hurt regional Australia
Labor and the ACTU’s plan to abandon the second year working holiday visa would remove over 36,000 Working Holiday visa holders from the economy.
This is yet another union-driven Labor policy that will damage regional businesses and communities.
AUSVEG understands the important contribution of backpacker visitors under the Working Holiday Maker program.
The peak national body supports our changes that are backing in the farming sector and regional economies.
“Backpackers are an established source of labour for Australian farmers, and allowing them to work for longer periods at a single farm will help our growers retain a more stable workforce throughout the year.” AUSVEG CEO James Whiteside
Labor’s taxes are bad for business. First, Labor's new taxes would directly hit small business.
Second, a Shorten Labor Government would be the highest taxing government in Australia’s history.
Our economy would be weakened under Labor, making it a harder for small businesses to get ahead.
COST
The Coalition’s plan to back Australian tourism and jobs will not place additional costs on the Budget.
Our Plan to Keep Australians Safe Online
KEY POINTS
Keeping Australians safe is the Morrison Government’s first priority.
The online world brings with it the ability to connect with people all over the world as never before. But with these opportunities come new threats and challenges.
The Morrison Government is committed to a safer online environment for all Australians, including families and children.
The online world is no longer an optional extra in people’s lives.
The online world should not be an ungoverned space.
The targets of online abuse and bullying should not be forced offline.
Instead, technology platforms, governments and other users must all play a part in making the internet safe.
It is why we have taken action to crack down on online predators as well as giving parents and carers the information and support they need to ensure their children’s safety in the online world.
We understand that Australians expect the laws and standards of behaviour that apply in the physical world should apply equally in the online world.
A re-elected Morrison Government will:Support parents and carers to raise children who are responsible, resilient and respectful online as well as offline, by investing in new ideas to educate children about online safety, developing resources for parents, providing support for victims of cyberbullying, and increasing research.
We will give parents more control over what their children see and do online, including by ensuring that online products marketed to children default to the most restrictive privacy and safety settings.
Protect Australians from predators and abusive and illegal content, by introducing a new Online Safety Act, toughening penalties for online abuse and harassment, and supporting women’s online safety.
Hold social media platforms and other technology firms to account so they put in place protections for their Australian users, including by mandating transparency reports from the major social media platforms, strengthening obligations for faster take-down and blocking of illegal extremist content, and establishing an Online Safety Charter laying out the Government’s expectations, on behalf of families and the community, of digital platforms.
Work with the international community to prevent the internet and online world being weaponised by terrorists, including working through the G20 with technology firms to eliminate the ability of terrorists to use digital platforms to encourage, normalise, recruit, facilitate or commit terrorist and violent acts.
Only the Morrison Government has a comprehensive plan to keep Australians safe in both the physical and online world.
OUR RECORD
The Government has been at the forefront of online safety regulation and has increased its investment in online safety each and every year in response to emerging issues and growing awareness.
We have changed the law to give greater protection to law-abiding citizens and to punish the creeps and crooks that seek to do them harm.
The Morrison Government has provided funding for eSafety in excess of $100 million over four years.
The Government has led the world in online safety.
In 2015 the Coalition established the world’s first Office of the Children’s eSafety Commissioner to help protect Australian children from cyberbullying and to take a national leadership role in online safety for children through education, advice and enforcement.
In 2015 the Coalition legislated the world’s first kids’ cyberbullying material take-down regime, giving the eSafety Commissioner the power to direct social media organisations to take down materials and issue end-user notices to individuals.
Failure to comply with these measures can lead to fines of up to $21,000 for an individual and up to $105,000 for a corporation, per day.
In 2016 the Government legislated to extend the remit of the Office of the eSafety Commissioner to cover all Australians in light of the office’s expanded responsibility.
In 2019 the Government legislated tough new penalties for online platforms that fail to remove abhorrent violent material in a reasonable time, providing protection for Australians, particularly children, from seeing violent crimes online.
National Online Safety Awareness campaign
The Morrison Government launched a National Online Safety Awareness campaign to coincide with the National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence on 15 March 2019.
This campaign is boosting awareness of resources available to young people, parents and teachers to help children stay safe online and to assist those who experience harm online.
The eSafety Office has a range of online and educational tools and resources, as well as reporting mechanisms and support services for victims, to help keep Australian children safe online.
Parents, children and teachers need to know they can go to the Office of the eSafety Commissioner for help if things go wrong online.
You can find more information at esafety.gov.au.
Image Based Abuse legislation
In 2018 the Government passed legislation which gives the eSafety Commissioner additional powers to combat image-based abuse, including revenge porn, by issuing ‘removal notices’ to websites, content hosts and social media providers.
There are civil and criminal penalties, including fines of up to $525,000 for platforms and $105,000 for individuals and jail time of up to seven years for aggravated offence.
The eSafety Commissioner can issue ‘take-down’, ‘service-cessation’ and ‘link-deletion’ notices to remove prohibited content or block access to prohibited services, such as child pornography and content advocating terrorism.
eSafety Women program
Technology facilitated abuse is an emerging issue for women, particularly vulnerable groups and those suffering from family, domestic or sexual violence.
The Coalition Government has funded the eSafety Women program through the Office of the eSafety Commissioner.
This program provides face-to-face workshops and online training for domestic and family violence front line workers, giving them the skills and confidence to better assist women experiencing technology-facilitated abuse.
The eSafety Women website provides a range of resources to empower women to take control and use technology positively to safeguard themselves and their children.
Supporting Parents and Families
A National Approach
The Government will work with states and territories to develop national principles and a consistent approach to combatting criminal cyber-bullying and online harassment.
This work would seek to address inconsistencies between approaches to criminal cyberbullying across Australia and include further work on a ‘right to be forgotten’ for victims of cyberbullying and abuse.
Further investments for research, awareness and grants for NGOs
Through the $17 million ‘Keeping Our Children Safe Online’ package, we are committing additional resources to support parents, teachers and carers of children under 5, funding a new online safety research program, an annual national eSafety survey, a national awareness campaign and the development of the Online Safety Charter.
We will invest $10 million for a new Online Safety Grants Program to enable non-government organisations (NGOs) to deliver practical online safety education and training projects.
Putting parents in control of what children see and do online
Too often games and apps marketed to children present unnecessary risks – such as inappropriate advertising, automatic in-app purchases and allowing personal information to be shared online without parental supervision.
We believe that parents are the best people to decide what their children should be allowed to do online but many apps and games make it too hard to make those decisions.
The Morrison Government will work with technology firms (including social media platforms, app stores and ISPs) so that they:Make devices and services that are marketed to children default to the most restrictive safety and privacy settings at initial use or set up.
Make available to domestic consumers the option of a filtered internet service that, at a minimum, blocks access to sites identified by the eSafety Commissioner.
Ensure that information regarding online safety and parental control settings is available at all points in the supply chain including point-of-purchase, registration, account creation and first use.
We will take legislative action if necessary.
Keeping children safe is a necessity, not an optional extra.
Digital Pen Licence Review
A re-elected Morrison Government will conduct an independent review of programs designed to assess children’s online safety skills – including Digital Licences and other tools.
Equipping our children and young people with the knowledge and practical skills they need to be safe online is critical.
There are a number of organisations doing good work in this space.
The review will look at the existing products available in the market.
It will consider whether the current online safety training and testing tools are effective, and bring forward suggestions for any improvements that might be needed.
The review will also look at what makes a good competency-based program for teaching children these essential online skills – putting digital licences in the context of a suite of tools available to parents and educators.
The review will be finalised in 2019.
Protecting Australians
A new Online Safety Act
The Morrison Government will introduce a new Online Safety Act to consolidate regulatory arrangements and update them in light of changes in the digital environment.
The Briggs Review, tabled in Parliament in February 2019, found that the world-leading initiative of the Office of the eSafety Commissioner has achieved much success since it was established in 2015.
The Briggs Review made five recommendations, including the key proposal for a single, consolidated piece of online safety legislation, and including greater transparency and reporting requirements for industry.
The Government is committed to ensuring the best online safety arrangements and making the legislative framework the world’s best.
Tougher penalties
To send a clear message to criminals and predators that their actions online will not be tolerated, a Morrison Government will toughen penalties for online abuse and harassment.
This will also allow the courts to impose penalties in line with community expectations that online crime should be treated as seriously as offline crime.
We will increase maximum penalties for those using a carriage service to menace, harass or cause offence under section 474.17 of the Criminal Code Act 1995 from three years’ imprisonment to five years' imprisonment.
In the last Parliament we also tried to pass increased penalties for criminal behaviour online.
The Crimes Legislation Amendment (Sexual Crimes Against Children and Community Protection Measures) Bill 2017 stalled in the Senate because the Labor Party opposes mandatory minimum sentences for child sex offences.
A re-elected Morrison Government will re-introduce this Bill which will increase penalties for certain offences including:Increased maximum penalties for a range of child sex offences, including offences that cover ‘grooming’, sexual activity with a child outside Australia, and using a carriage service to transmit indecent communication to a child.
Setting mandatory minimum sentences for certain child sex offences, including:Using a carriage service for child abuse material, engaging in sexual activity with a child using a carriage service and engaging in sexual activity (other than sexual intercourse) with a child overseas.
Establishing new ‘aggravated’ offences and sentencing for the worst categories of crime, including aggravated offences for sexual intercourse or other sexual activity with a child outside Australia and offences involving conduct on 3 or more occasions and 2 or more people.
We will add an offence of providing electronic services to facilitate dealings with child abuse material.
Currently, the Code does not specifically criminalise the provision of electronic services (e.g. websites or chat fora, often hosted on the dark web) to facilitate online dealings with child abuse material.
This amendment will make it an offence for a person to provide an electronic service with the intention that the service will be used for access to child abuse material.
We will add an offence of ‘grooming’ third parties using the post or a carriage service to procure children for sexual activity.
The new offences will criminalise the transmission of communications (using the post or a carriage service) to a third party who is not the child victim, with the intention of making it easier to procure a specific child for sexual activity.
Preventing and Reducing Violence against Women
Preventing and reducing violence against women has been a priority for the Morrison Government.
Research has indicated that 98 per cent of domestic violence workers have stated they have had clients who had experienced technology-facilitated stalking and abuse.
In recognition of this particular issue, the Government will work with the states and territories to ensure that police and other frontline workers are equipped to respond quickly to incidents of online harassment and abuse.
Under the Fourth Action Plan to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children, a Morrison Government will:Invest $1.5 million for the Office of the eSafety Commissioner to provide targeted advice to help women with an intellectual disability and/or communication difficulties to identify and report online abuse, and to enable the safety features on their devices and online accounts.
Research indicates that women with an intellectual disability are more vulnerable to technology-facilitated abuse.
The program will also include training for domestic and family violence frontline workers.
Provide up to $2.5 million for the Office of the eSafety Commissioner to work with and assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women in communities across Australia to identify, report and protect themselves and their children from technology-facilitated abuse.
The program will develop a range of culturally appropriate resources for frontline workers to help them identify, understand and report technology-facilitated abuse, and ultimately empower the women they support to be safe online.
Holding Social Media Platforms and other Technology Companies to Account
If we don’t know the scale of a problem, we can’t address it properly.
A Morrison Government will mandate transparency reports from the major social media platforms on the number and type of response to reports and complaints about illegal abusive and predatory content by their users.
We will align this work with the work already undertaken by the UK Government as part of their Online Harms White Paper process, including their draft transparency reporting template, to ensure a consistent approach across jurisdictions.
This work will build on the Government’s action in the wake of the Christchurch attack to strengthen obligations for faster take-down and blocking of illegal extremist content.
The Morrison Government has created and passed into law two new offences:Making it a criminal offence for social media platforms not to remove abhorrent violent material expeditiously.
A failure to do so would be punishable by fines of up to 10% of the platform's annual turnover or potential prison sentences for executives.
Requiring social media platforms anywhere in the world to notify the AFP if they become aware their service is streaming abhorrent violent conduct that is happening in Australia.
A failure to do this will be punishable by fines of up to $168,000 for an individual or $840,000 for a corporation.
Online Safety Charter
The Morrison Government expects large technology firms and digital platforms to do more to ensure online safety, particularly for children.
While online safety will always be a shared responsibility, some social media and messaging services (among others) fall short of expectations, and are exposing our community to abusive conduct and harmful content.
A draft Online Safety Charter was released in February 2019, seeking public comments and feedback.
A finalised Charter will set out expectations for industry to reduce online harm.
The finalised Charter will inform digital platforms of the Government’s expectations on behalf of the community and, where necessary, will be given legislative backing.
Social Media Platforms Taskforce
A re-elected Morrison Government will continue working with the Taskforce established by the Prime Minister in March 2019 in response to the terrorist attack in Christchurch, livestreamed online by the perpetrator.
The Taskforce has representatives of the social media platforms and internet service providers working with key government agencies to identify and implement practical measures to see offensive, violent and illegal material identified more quickly and taken down faster and with greater transparency.
The key areas of focus are:
Prevention and protection – including detecting, blocking, and instantaneous and faster takedown options for violent terrorist material.
Transparency – improving transparency of the actions taken by platforms and ISPs in relation to violent terrorist material.
Deterrence – enhancing responsibility for the upload and distribution of violent terrorist material by individuals, platforms and ISPs.
The work of the Taskforce will be considered in the development of new mandatory transparency requirements, and the online Safety Charter, to be introduced by a Morrison Government.
Consumer Privacy
A re-elected Morrison Government will develop amendments to the Privacy Act 1988 to protect Australians’ privacy online and ensure that social media companies and online platforms do not misuse personal information they collect, particularly about children.
We will introduce increased penalties for all entities covered by the Privacy Act from the current maximum penalty of $2.1 million for serious or repeated breaches to the greatest of $10 million, three times the value of any benefit obtained through the misuse of information or 10 per cent of a company’s annual domestic turnover.
The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) will be given new infringement notice powers backed by new penalties of up to $63,000 for bodies corporate and $12,600 for individuals for failures to cooperate with efforts to resolve minor breaches.
The Information Commissioner will create a privacy code specifically targeted at social media companies and online platforms.
The code will expand on and strengthen requirements that are already in place to protect individuals’ privacy in the Privacy Act.
We will also require that social media companies stop using or disclosing an individual’s personal information upon request and establish specific rules to protect the personal information of children and other vulnerable groups.
The OAIC will also be able to ensure breaches are addressed through external reviews and/or the requirement that organisations publish notices about specific breaches and ensure that those directly affected are informed.
To the extent that social media and online platforms may already have these additional protections in place, the Government’s reforms will ensure those protections are legally enforceable in Australia under the Privacy Act with penalties for non-compliance.
Digital Platforms Regulation Inquiry
Digital platforms are where many Australians consume their news and current affairs.
They have become primary destinations for many Australians to seek and access a variety of information.
Digital platforms have also become key players in the advertising market, which has had implications for traditional media platforms.
A re-elected Morrison Government will conduct a Senate Committee Inquiry into digital platforms, their role as publishers and the need for further regulation.
This inquiry will include an examination of the provisions of the Criminal Code Amendment (Sharing of Abhorrent Violent Material) Act 2019 to consider whether refinements are necessary.
This will build on the findings and recommendations of the world-leading ACCC Digital Platforms inquiry, which is due to deliver its final report in June.
Working with the International Community
A re-elected Morrison Government will re-double efforts through the G20 to fight exploitation of the internet for terrorist purposes, including by working with the private sector to remove terrorist content. This will put the 2017 Hamburg G20 Leaders’ Statement on Counter-Terrorism into action.
The notion of the law applying equally online and offline was an underlying principle of that statement.
A re-elected Morrison Government will work with G20 Leaders at the June 2019 Osaka Summit to ensure technology firms meet obligations regarding:Prevention and protection: working with and ensuring that industry implements prevention measures, including appropriate filtering, detecting and removing of content by those who encourage, normalise, recruit, facilitate or commit terrorist and violent activities;
Transparency: the public is entitled to know, in detail, what technology firms are doing to monitor illegal and extremist content, how they manage reports of such content, and the number of types of complaints; and
Deterrence: work with G20 Leaders to ensure that there are clear consequences not only for those who carry out such horrific acts, but for those who facilitate them.
Through this initiative the global community of governments and technology firms can work together to keep our communities, particularly our young people, safe.
Cyber Security
In addition to the work we are investing in through the Office of the eSafety Commissioner we will also invest $26 million to expand the role of the Australian Cyber Security Centre to help businesses and families address cyber security issues and help to support the wider Australian economy.
This includes:Developing a comprehensive online cyber security training program, which focusses on providing practical cyber advice for small businesses, older Australians and Australian families.
This will help them to avoid becoming victims of increasingly sophisticated cyber criminals, especially in relation to online transactions, identity theft and internet banking.
Expanding the ACSC’s 24/7 hotline for reporting cyber security incidents to include a dedicated helpdesk for small and medium sized businesses, older Australians and families.
Evidence suggests that 43 per cent of cyber attacks cost small businesses on average $10,000 per attack and that they have limited knowledge and capacity to protect themselves or recover after a cyber security incident.
The help desk will employ specially trained staff who can provide tailored technical cyber security advice for these groups, including advice that prevents, and responds to, cyber security incidents.
The help desk will provide free advice and support to those recovering from a malicious cyber incident – such as data breaches, scams, fraud and identity theft – to equip them to get back on line.
THE CHOICE
Only the Coalition can be trusted to do what is necessary to keep Australians safe online.
We know that online safety requires a whole-of-community approach where resources are made available to parents and carers, to teachers and early childhood educators and to the end users themselves.
We know that industry has the resources and technological capability to address many of the problems found online.
What has been sometimes lacking is the will.
The Labor Party will tell you that they care about online safety too.
But Labor shadow minister Ed Husic has said that the powers that allow security agencies to access encrypted communications of criminals and terrorists are “terrible laws”.
In the last Parliament we also tried to pass increased penalties for criminal behaviour online. The Crimes Legislation Amendment (Sexual Crimes Against Children and Community Protection Measures) Bill 2017 stalled in the Senate because the Labor Party opposes mandatory minimum sentences for child sex offences.
It was the Morrison Government that acted quickly to stop social media platforms being weaponised by terrorists in the wake of the Christchurch attack, passing the Criminal Code Amendment (Sharing of Abhorrent Violent Material) Act 2019, to limit the spread of extremist terrorist material online.
The Morrison Government will continue working to keep Australians safe – online and on the street.
COST
The Morrison Government’s Plan to Keep Australians Safe Online will not place additional costs on the Budget.
Our Plan for a Stronger Manufacturing Sector
KEY POINTS
Our traditional industry sectors have consistently supported the Australian economy,
creating jobs and being a source of livelihood for so many families.
Driving all our industries forward, including traditional sectors like manufacturing, is central to the Morrison Government’s economic plan.
Manufacturing remains a key part of the Australian economy, employing hundreds of thousands of Australians and contributing tens of billions in annual exports.
Due to our strong economic management, manufacturing under the Liberal Nationals has experienced 32 consecutive months of stable or expanding conditions according to the Australian Industry Group.
And the value of Australia’s manufacturing exports has grown by around 23 per cent since 2013, compared to a 13 per cent decline when Labor was last in government.
There is significant potential to grow the sector, with the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre estimating the sector could capture growth of 25 - 35 per cent by 2026.
But our manufacturing sector will only expand if it can compete with the rest of the world.
This means we need to prepare manufacturing for the future and establish the right policies to make Australia an easy environment for manufacturers to invest, export, embrace new technologies and develop high value products.
The Morrison Government will deliver a stronger manufacturing sector by:Growing exports by Australian manufacturers including by delivering more free trade agreements and supporting an Australian Made export campaign to give our manufacturers a bigger edge in overseas markets.
Supporting manufacturers to modernise and grow through a new Manufacturing Modernisation Fund, support for science, technology and commercialisation, and providing new opportunities in areas like space industry.
Delivering reliable and affordable energy to lower production costs with our Fair Deal on Energy, as well as gas market reforms and investments in business energy efficiency.
Ensuring Australia has a world-class skilled workforce that supports smarter manufacturing, including support for up to 80,000 new apprentices.
Providing better access to finance through our Australian Business Securitisation Fund and Australian Business Growth Fund.
Growing our sovereign defence industry and maximising opportunities for Australian involvement in our record $200 billion investment in Defence capability.
Maintaining a strong anti-dumping system to ensure a level playing field for our manufacturing businesses.
By contrast, Labor’s policies will weaken the manufacturing sector by making Australia a place in which it is harder to do business.
Labor wants to punish manufacturing and other traditional industries with their economy-wrecking emissions reduction targets that would drive up energy prices
and reduce manufacturing production.
Under Labor’s plan, scores of Australian firms including food processors and manufacturers of chemicals, building products and consumer goods will be forced to pay billions of dollars buying global carbon credits in order to comply with Labor’s reckless emissions reduction targets.
Labor’s workplace relations policies will put the unions back in charge while its trade policy will give trade unions a veto over our trade negotiations.
It’s a disastrous recipe that will drive Australian manufacturing jobs offshore, just like the last time they were in office when one in eight manufacturing jobs disappeared.
Labor’s past failures on manufacturing tell us they will not only fail to create manufacturing jobs, but Australian taxpayers will be left to pick up the bill.
Only the Morrison Government has a strong plan to continue to grow Australia’s manufacturing sector and other traditional industries.
OUR RECORD
Australian Manufacturing not only has a great history but an exciting future.
It employs hundreds of thousands of Australians, is a major export industry and contributes almost one quarter of our research and development expenditure.
The Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre, an independent industry-led body established by the Liberal Nationals Government in 2015, has identified significant capacity for Australian manufacturing to grow: by reducing production costs, value-adding and accessing new global markets.
We have already taken major action to bolster manufacturing
and secure the jobs that so many Australian families rely on.
Our strong record includes: //Taking Australian manufacturing to the world
To ensure their growth, our manufacturers need to export and reach new markets.
In just five years, the Liberal Nationals Government has embedded Australia with the economic engines of our region.
We have concluded free trade agreements with China, Japan, Korea, the 10 economies of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP-11) and the 10 countries of the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (PACER Plus), as well as Indonesia, Peru and Hong Kong.
This is powering major opportunities, with manufacturing exports growing by around 23 per cent since 2013.
Lower taxes for small and medium businesses
We are reducing taxes so businesses can grow and employ more Australians.
We have fast-tracked tax cuts for around 3.3 million small and medium-sized Australian businesses with a turnover of less than $50 million, enabling them to invest in and invigorate their businesses.
We have also expanded the instant asset write-off to medium sized businesses and increased it to $30,000.
Investing in science, technology and commercialisation
For an even stronger future, Australian manufacturing must embrace advanced technologies to boost productivity and compete internationally.
Through initiatives like the $100 million Advanced Manufacturing Fund, $40 million Innovative Manufacturing CRC, $30 million Rail Manufacturing CRC, Entrepreneurs’ Program and Industry Growth Centres, our Government is supporting world class manufacturing facilities and fast-tracking commercialisation of new ideas in machinery, rail, food and other products.
Supporting the transition of the automotive sector
Due to our strong economic management, Australian manufacturing continues to thrive after the closure of Ford, Toyota and Holden.
Around 80 per cent of their former workers have successfully transitioned.
We have also supported businesses in the automotive supply chain to diversify into new opportunities such as defence industry through our $100 million Advanced Manufacturing Fund and $155 million Growth Fund, with over 70 per cent of these businesses still manufacturing.
OUR PLAN
Growing exports of Australian Made products
Australia’s future manufacturing growth is highly dependent on local businesses gaining access to new global markets and supply chains.
A re-elected Morrison Government will continue to remove trade barriers and increase support for manufacturing exports through a comprehensive range of measures, including:Delivering new trade deals, building on our record of increasing the total trade covered by free trade agreements from around 26 per cent to around 70 per cent.
This includes working to conclude trade negotiations with the European Union, regional markets via the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership and the four-nation Pacific Alliance (Mexico, Chile, Peru and Colombia) and the UK when they are ready to do so.
Supporting an Australian Made export campaign, with up to $5 million over the next four years to push the logo in Australia’s largest trading markets. Funding would support marketing and promotional campaigns to profile the logo as an export brand of Australia, making it even more valuable for manufacturers of food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, clothing and other products.
Funding will be used to support registration of trademarks for the logo in markets like the UK, European Union and Canada.
Providing support for promotional and marketing activities of exporters through the additional $60 million we are providing to the Export Market Development Grants Scheme (EMDG) over the next three years, bringing the total annual spend to $157.9 million.
The EMDG helps current and aspiring small to medium sized exporters to utilise free trade agreements and seek new offshore opportunities for their goods and services.
Rolling out our $20 million SME Export Hubs program to boost the export capability of businesses across the country, including manufacturers.
Continuing to provide export finance solutions for Australian exporters through Efic, as well as connecting Australian businesses with overseas opportunities and facilitating investment through Austrade.
Supporting manufacturing to modernise and grow
Australian businesses have long been world leaders, using cutting-edge technology and business processes.
Australian manufacturers need to continue to invest, innovate and modernise in order to develop new higher-value products, differentiate themselves in the market and prepare for the future, including for industry 4.0.
A re-elected Morrison Government will establish a new Manufacturing Modernisation Fund, with funding of $50 million from Government and at least $110 million from industry.
The Fund will provide grants to small and medium sized manufacturing businesses to modernise, grow and employ more Australians, particularly helping those manufacturers in regional and outer suburban Australia.
The Fund will support manufacturers to become more competitive
and create more jobs by co-funding capital investments that help them scale-up,
invest in new technologies and develop new high-value products.
$20 million would be provided for matched grants of between $50,000 and $100,000 for smaller scale technology and efficiency investments.
$30 million would be provided for larger-scale grants of up to $1 million, with a $3 co-contribution from industry for every $1 from government, to support more transformative investments in technologies and processes.
This builds on our continued investments in science, technology and commercialisation initiatives that provide new opportunities for manufacturing growth and competitiveness.
This includes our investment of $100 million in the Advanced Manufacturing Fund, the creation of the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre, support through the Entrepreneurs Program and $40 million for the Innovative Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre.
It also includes new Cooperative Research Centres initiatives that support our world-leading researchers to collaborate with the manufacturing industry to develop new products and open up new markets:$55 million for the SmartSat CRC to develop new satellite and communications technologies.
$35 million for the Future Food Systems CRC to establish six regional and periurban food hubs around the country aimed at building export capability and value-adding to local produce.
$25 million for the Future Battery Industries CRC to expand production of critical minerals like lithium and develop opportunities for specialist battery manufacturing.
$20 million from the Cooperative Research Centres Projects grants program for industry-led research and development projects focused on developing new solutions to plastic waste and recycling.
Our investment in the Australian Space Agency will also provide new opportunities for manufacturing, with the space industry expected to grow to $12 billion
and create up to another 20,000 jobs by 2030.
Affordable and reliable energy
Secure, reliable and affordable energy is critical to all businesses – none more so than manufacturing.
As an energy-intensive industry, higher power costs would pose a significant risk to production.
The Morrison Government’s Fair Deal on Energy will deliver affordable, reliable 24/7 power.
It includes a price safety net that will help small businesses make empowered and informed decisions about their energy plan, supports reliable power by requiring energy companies to sign contracts guaranteeing enough energy to meet demand and backs investment to improve competition by underwriting new reliable energy generation – including investment in Snowy 2.0 and Battery of the Nation.
We will continue taking strong action to ensure gas prices go down and gas supply goes up.
This includes, through the Australian Domestic Gas Security Mechanism, ensuring there is enough gas for Australia before it is exported.
The Morrison Government will invest to improve the transparency, competitiveness and long-term security of gas supply – with $8.4 million to accelerate gas supplies from the Northern Territory to the east coast with the opening of the Beetaloo Sub-basin for exploration and development.
Small manufacturers can also benefit from our investment in the Energy Efficient Communities Program.
This will provide $50 million in more than 2,500 grants to eligible businesses and community organisations to help them save energy by either installing new equipment or by reviewing and improving their energy management.
Eligible small businesses will be able to claim grants of up to $20,000 and high energy-using businesses up to $25,000.
World-class skilled workforce
A highly-skilled workforce allows us to work smarter and more competitively on the global stage.
That’s why we are backing in vocational education and training (VET) as central to the growth of Australian businesses, particularly manufacturing.
We established the Skilling Australians Fund in 2017 to boost apprenticeships and traineeships across the country, including in manufacturing.
The Morrison Government is also investing $585 million in the VET sector to better equip Australians with the skills they need for today and tomorrow.
We are establishing a new Skills Shortage Payment to boost existing incentives for areas of identified skills needs to support up to 80,000 new apprentices over five years.
We are establishing a National Skills Commission to drive long-term reform of VET.
This will develop a nationwide approach to skills development, serving the needs of both students and industry.
Language, literacy, numeracy and digital skills are the foundation of employment.
To ensure all Australians have the skills they need for work, the Government will provide $62.4 million to establish a national program to deliver foundational skills training.
We will build on Questacon’s Engineering is Elementary pilot program by investing $6.2 million to roll out the program nationally.
This will provide training to 1,000 primary school teachers across all states and territories to give them the confidence and skills to teach engineering to school kids.
Growing our sovereign defence industry capabilities
We are investing over $200 billion over the next decade to modernise the Australian Defence Force and secure our nation.
This includes $90 billion for our continuous naval shipbuilding program, including the construction of the new Attack class submarines.
Our defence industry policies are ensuring local Australian businesses including manufacturers have more opportunities to benefit from this massive investment in Defence capability, ensuring we create Australian jobs
and a sovereign Australian defence industry.
The creation of a stronger, more resilient, and internationally competitive defence industry is maximising opportunities for Australian businesses to secure Defence contracts.
Tens of thousands of people and more than 3,000 small to medium enterprises are already employed in Australia’s defence industry.
The Morrison Government has launched the 2019 Defence Policy for Industry Participation, providing further opportunities for Australian companies to compete for work and drive the long-term development of Australia’s sovereign defence industry.
This policy builds on the success of the Government’s well-established Australian Industry Capability Program and Local Industry Capability Plan.
It also extends the requirement to include opportunities for Australian industry on all Defence procurements of $4 million, and above $7.5 million for construction.
Our $230 million Centre for Defence Industry Capability works closely with industry to help it take advantage of the unprecedented opportunities.
We released the first Australian Defence Industrial Capability Plan, which lays out how we will build the Defence industry Australia needs.
This includes a dedicated annual Sovereign Industrial Capability Priority grants program, providing up to $17 million to Australian small and medium enterprises to assist them to purchase essential equipment, such as enhancing cyber security, providing access to specialist training, or the ability to attain appropriate accreditations and certificates.
The Coalition Government’s Defence Export Strategy, Defence Export Advocate, $3.8 billion Defence Export Facility and $20 million annually in extra export promotion will help Australian defence industry market its capabilities to our friends and allies overseas for a sustainable Australian defence industry.
And we will continue to grow the Global Supply Chain program, giving Australian companies a foot in the door for greater access to global markets through the supply chains of defence prime companies.
Better access to finance
The Morrison Government will make it easier for aspiring and existing small and medium businesses – including manufacturers – to start and expand.