Karen Andrews McPherson, Liberal Party
3:11 pm
My question is to the Treasurer. Given that the Treasurer is the person who will sign the $43 billion cheque to introduce the National Broadband Network, can he tell the House why he has not even bothered to read the National Broadband Network business case?
Julia Gillard Lalor, Australian Labor Party, Prime Minister
Peter Dutton set you up on that question.
Wayne Swan Lilley, Australian Labor Party, Treasurer
Was that a Dutton special?
Julia Gillard Lalor, Australian Labor Party, Prime Minister
Yes, that is right.
Wayne Swan Lilley, Australian Labor Party, Treasurer
I think I said on radio this morning that I have had my head in the middle of the NBN for the past three years. This government has done all of the due diligence that would be required of a great nation-building project. Those opposite are so bereft of economic vision or any alternative policy that they can do nothing but come into this House and deride a great nation building project which will do good things for the thousands of small businesses on the Gold Coast, in North Queensland and in Far North Queensland. We have put forward a comprehensive program and we have put forward comprehensive analyses. We have had an expert committee, we have had a study by McKinsey and KPMG, and now we have the business case.
Joe Hockey North Sydney, Liberal Party, Shadow Treasurer
You have not read it!
Wayne Swan Lilley, Australian Labor Party, Treasurer
We are developing that business case and we are working with the ACCC. But all that those opposite can do, because they are so short sighted, bitter and intent on demolishing the NBN, is carry on with their negative approach. The people of Australia want more than that from an opposition. They want a government that will address the long-term challenges and this government is addressing those challenges.
Wayne Swan Lilley, Australian Labor Party, Treasurer
We will do all of the work and all of the due diligence that is required to make this a fantastic success for Australia.