Penny Wong SA, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Opposition in the Senate
2:28 pm
My question is to the Minister representing the Deputy Prime Minister, Senator Reynolds. The Leader of the House advised the House at question time that Mr Joyce would be absent from question time, as he is a close contact. Minutes later the Deputy Prime Minister showed up. Can the minister advise why?
Linda Reynolds WA, Liberal Party, Minister for Government Services
I thank Senator Wong for that question. I would point out that since that's been happening I have actually been here in the chamber in question time myself, so I will have to take that question on notice and get back to you.
Penny Wong SA, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Opposition in the Senate
Can the Minister representing the Deputy Prime Minister advise whether the Deputy Prime Minister of Australia is a close contact or not?
Linda Reynolds WA, Liberal Party, Minister for Government Services
Again, my previous answer stands: we will have to get advice on that and advise you back.
Penny Wong SA, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Opposition in the Senate
2:29 pm
In a week of chaos from this coalition government, we've had the Nationals under Deputy Prime Minister Joyce attempt to tear up the Murray-Darling Basin Plan and the National Party talking points saying the science no longer supports fresh water for South Australia, and now we have confusion about who represents the Prime Minister in the House during question time. All the while, three capital cities are facing COVID-19 outbreaks and facing restrictions or lockdowns, there is a complete rewrite of the vaccine rollout and there is no plan for fit-for-purpose quarantine. What confidence can Australians have in this chaotic government? (Time expired)
Linda Reynolds WA, Liberal Party, Minister for Government Services
I take most of that as, largely, a political statement from Senator Wong. I can tell you there is no chaos or confusion on this side of the chamber. You have a look. We have been focusing on the health of Australians, on the economy, on jobs, on education and on disability. There is no confusion on this side about what is important for this nation. As I've said, it is all about the economy. It is about protecting Australians and keeping them safe and healthy.
Simon Birmingham SA, Liberal Party, Minister for Finance
2:30 pm
I seek leave to make a short statement in relation to Senator Wong's primary question.