Christopher Back (WA, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

There is no point of order, and there is no conflict either. This is a convergence of interests, because I am like many other Australians, like many on the Labor side, who have the common sense to avail themselves of the opportunities that are available to them through the taxation system in this country—as many on your side do.

Senator Conroy—through you, Mr Deputy President—do you know what happens when you invest wisely over time in negatively geared property? It actually becomes positively geared. We have positively geared investments, and they contribute to the Australian tax system. Isn't that an amazing notion for the shadow minister—that negatively geared property could in fact become positively geared and become a positive contributor!

There is a very clear distinction between this government and the other mob when they were in government. We have heard Senator Cormann say that all our policies are associated with cutting tax for small business, free trade agreements which are now stimulating so much export income in the services and in the commodity sectors, and the $50 billion infrastructure fund. There is an allegation and accusation that we are not rushing into things. What did Labor do in government? You rushed into the 'Gillard memorial halls', many of which are now falling down. You rushed into pink batts, and we all know the outcome there. You rushed into the $900 and the $1,200 cheques that largely ended up in poker machines, alcohol and drugs. Go and ask the people who work in accident and emergency departments of hospitals where those moneys went.

This government will not be rushing into its final decisions associated with policy development. There is a budget coming up in May. It will be presented on the basis of careful thought, careful consideration, of the implications—not the pink batts analogy but on the basis of clear and careful persuasion—which will be of the greatest benefit and, as Senator Cormann said, to develop strength in our economy and more jobs in a fair fashion.