House debates

Wednesday, 11 November 2020

Questions without Notice

JobMaker Hiring Credit

2:35 pm

Photo of Kate ThwaitesKate Thwaites (Jagajaga, Australian Labor Party) Share this | | Hansard source

My question is to the Prime Minister. Elizabeth, from Diamond Creek, is a single mother in her 40s who says that she's never been unemployed until now. One job ad she found stated that candidates under 30 were preferred so the employer could receive the hiring credit. Why is this government leaving women like Elizabeth behind?

2:36 pm

Photo of Christian PorterChristian Porter (Pearce, Liberal Party, Attorney-General) Share this | | Hansard source

I think it should be noted that under the Fair Work Act—and there shouldn't be advertisements like that—the general protections provisions offer protection to employees who are targeted in any way based on a protected attribute, such as their age. As I noted, there are very serious penalties for anyone who takes adverse action against those employees.

Photo of Tony SmithTony Smith (Speaker) Share this | | Hansard source

Is the Leader of the Opposition seeking leave to table a document?

Photo of Anthony AlbaneseAnthony Albanese (Grayndler, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Opposition) Share this | | Hansard source

Yes, I am, Mr Speaker. At the invitation of a number of the frontbench members opposite, including the Assistant Treasurer, it's the job ad and the website on which it is available.

Photo of Tony SmithTony Smith (Speaker) Share this | | Hansard source

Is leave granted?

Leave not granted.

Photo of Anthony AlbaneseAnthony Albanese (Grayndler, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Opposition) Share this | | Hansard source

You asked for it!

Honourable members interjecting

Photo of Tony SmithTony Smith (Speaker) Share this | | Hansard source

Members on both sides! The member for Barker has the call.