Michael McCormack (Riverina, National Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

When I was the Deputy Prime Minister and minister for infrastructure—and I know the member for Gippsland held that role, too, of the minister for infrastructure—in the halcyon days of Australian democracy, we used to look forward to budget night. We used to look forward to a Treasurer coming to the dispatch box, just there, and talking up, and not only talking up but funding, infrastructure. But the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government now, the member for Ballarat, who sits opposite—and I'm glad she has come in early—I don't think will be smiling tonight when Dr Chalmers announces his fifth budget. I don't think she'll be happy, because there's nothing in there for infrastructure.

Well, I look forward to that, Minister, because the only thing that's been built in your time is complaints in your in-tray, because you've actually derailed Inland Rail. You've taken that off the plan—off the budget. And that is neglecting regional Australia. That is going against the needs and wants and expectations and demands of rural constituents.

Honourable members interjecting—

And you can yell all you like—

Sharon Claydon (Newcastle, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Now, now—enough with the interjections. Interjections will come to a cease, please. The member for Riverina has the call.

Michael McCormack (Riverina, National Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

And she's calling out because she knows what I'm saying is right. She knows in her heart of hearts that there is nothing in there tonight for regional Australia. And I say: shame on Labor. Start protecting and preserving regional Australia.