Kim Carr (Victoria, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research) Share this | Hansard source

The government's position is very clear. We argue that whatever the level of localisation of resources projects is, it is not enough. We want to ensure that we have the highest possible level of Australian participation in the development of our resources. That is why we announced last week that major federal grants of $20 million or more, including grants to the states and territories, will be contingent upon maximising opportunities for Australian businesses.

We have also required future project developers to publish more details of opportunities for local firms if they want to receive tariff concessions under the Enhanced Project By-law Scheme. Australian firms should be given the opportunity for full, fair and reasonable participation to compete for work both at home and, we argue, overseas. The Leader of the Opposition saw fit to support these measures—through the sides of his mouth—but on the same day, the shadow minister for industry took the view— (Time expired)