Michaelia Cash (WA, Liberal Party, Minister for Women) Share this | Hansard source

I thank Senator Hume for her question. I am pleased to say that, last night, the government delivered on its election commitment to protect the volunteers in the Country Fire Authority from a hostile union takeover instigated by the Andrews Labor government in Victoria. This is a victory for the thousands and thousands of men and women who have fought tirelessly to defend the integrity, the autonomy and the authority of their CFA.

I would like to thank the Senate crossbench, including One Nation, the Nick Xenophon Team, the Liberal Democrats, Derryn Hinch's Justice Party and Family First, who all supported the CFA volunteers. Together we have ensured that this vital organisation will be autonomous and strong and will continue to keep Victorians safe. This has been a very long and a very sorry saga. The Country Fire Authority is one of the largest and the most effective volunteer based organisations in the world. It is something that Australians and in particular the Victorians in this place should be so very proud of.

As you know, Mr President, in particular over the past few months a dark cloud has been cast over the 60,000 volunteers. The proposed enterprise agreement, despite—

Senator Cameron interjecting—

the lack of respect being shown by Senator Cameron. This is how members of the Australian Labor Party under Bill Shorten treat volunteers. They show a complete lack of respect for them. On this side of the chamber we will continue to put volunteers first every day of the week.