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

The 12½ per cent pay rise being sought by the CPSU is none of these things and jeopardises 10,000 Public Service jobs. The CPSU national secretary has twice acknowledged that, and I quote her: 'There are no easy savings left.' It is important to set an example, which is why remuneration for MPs and senior Commonwealth officeholders has been frozen and previously determined pay increases will not proceed. I am confident that most Public Servants understand the present situation. Mr President, I table a document showing media APS wage rises compared to CPI increases, and I note I do not need leave.