Eric Abetz (Tasmania, Liberal Party, Minister for Employment) Share this | Hansard source

If Senator Bernardi were to cast his gaze directly opposite in the chamber, he would find the exact reason for the delays in being able to stamp out union corruption. Labor and the Greens are opposing our Fair Work (Registered Organisations) Amendment Bill. They have learnt nothing from the Craig Thomson affair. Clearly, they believe it is okay for union members' funds to be spent on prostitutes and living a life of luxury. Labor need to explain why one standard should apply to a company boss who is ripping off shareholders and another much lower standard should apply to a union boss ripping off members. The government's policy is simple: same crime, same time. It seems that Mr Shorten sees his role as an upmarket trade union official rather than a national leader who needs to take into account the national interest.