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Australia would take back dual nationals if citizenship stripped elsewhere – politics live Australia would take back dual nationals if citizenship stripped elsewhere – politics live
(39 minutes later)
2.27pm AEST05:27
Shorten to Abbott: NATSEM is Australia’s most authortive modelling organisation. NATSEM’s modelling shows that nine out of 10 of Australia’s highest income families will be better off because of the government’s budget. In light of this, how can the PM possibly claim that his budget is fair?
Tony Abbott:
What the leader of the opposition failed to tell us was that NATSEM says, ‘The NATSEM analysis does not include any potential second round effects such as behavioural changes in the policy measures.’...The whole point of the policy measures to is to encourage people to from welfare to work because this government understands in a way that members opposite appear to have forgotten that the best form of welfare is work. Not only does the NATSEM modelling fail to take second round changes into effect, it is not even modelling of the 2015 budget. It’s not modelling of the 2015 budget.
(The Natsem modelling was designed to take into account 2014 budget measures which survived the senate or that the government remains committed to and 2015 measures.)
2.22pm AEST05:22
Check it out, Madam Speaker.
Speaker Bishop is a keen blues follower. She has the scarf on her desk, so expect a lot of goading from NSW Labor members this question time.
2.20pm AEST05:20
Sussan in the spotlight.
2.19pm AEST05:19
A government question on the Medical Research Future Fund.
2.18pm AEST05:18
First government question on small business.
Labor asks Abbott: Will he agree with his treasurer and remove the GST on sanitary products?
Peter Dutton interjects: “your politics on this is...(inaudible).
Uproar ensues and Speaker Bishop remarks:
I hear a lot of male laughter on this but not much female laughter.
Abbott says it’s not the most important issue but if the states
all agree on this, obviously we’d be happy to be accommodating.
2.15pm AEST05:15
A Queensland Liberal member jumps up to get a question in before Shorten. She is sat down promptly with a State of o)rigin joke from the Speaker.
Shorten to Abbott: Will you allow a free vote on marriage equality?
Abbott says it is a serious matter and the Labor bill will be dealt with in the “ordinary way”.
As he proceeds, the parliament hushes to hear Tony Abbott on an issue to which he has been vehemently opposed. In the manner of, OMG what is he going to say ...
Abbott:
I can’t foresee the future. I don’t know how our society will develop. I don’t know how this parliament will proceed in the months and years ahead. I do just make this one point, though, Madam Speaker. If our parliament were to make a big decision on a matter such as this, it ought to be owned by the parliament and not by any particular party.
Updated at 2.19pm AEST
2.07pm AEST05:07
Bill Shorten:
As a child he knew the hardship of the Great Depression. As a young man aged 14, he went to work to support his family and later put himself through night school. Les served in turbulent times, from the split to the dismissal. In many ways, he was made for them. He was tough. He was resolute and he was resilient.
2.06pm AEST05:06
Les Johnson was aboriginal affairs minister when Whitlam returned Indigenous land.
Age catches us all eventually but our country will never forget what we owe to that generation, says Abbott.
2.02pm AEST05:02
Tony Abbott starts first up with a condolence motion for former member for Hughes, Whitlam minister and deputy speaker Les Johnson.
2.00pm AEST05:00
Question time coming up.
1.55pm AEST04:55
Amanda Meade
SBS managing director Michael Ebeid is up now at Senate estimates, telling the committee of the success of Eurovision for SBS. Ebeid is just back from attending Eurovision and cheering on Australian wildcard Guy Sebastian. He says it’s an important event for promoting “Brand Australia”.
Struggle Street, the controversial program on SBS recently, was an important part of the national conversation and was never just about Mount Druitt. “We accept that such topics can be polarising.”
Updated at 2.03pm AEST
1.48pm AEST04:481.48pm AEST04:48
Government brings forward tax write offs for drought measures by one yearGovernment brings forward tax write offs for drought measures by one year
From agriculture minister Barnaby Joyce et al,From agriculture minister Barnaby Joyce et al,
Australian farmers can now claim a tax deduction on all capital expenditure on water facilities, fodder storage assets and fencing incurred since the 2015 Budget was handed down at 7:30pm on 12 May.Australian farmers can now claim a tax deduction on all capital expenditure on water facilities, fodder storage assets and fencing incurred since the 2015 Budget was handed down at 7:30pm on 12 May.
Farmers can fully deduct the cost of water facilities and fencing in the year they are purchased and deduct the cost of fodder storage assets over three years.Farmers can fully deduct the cost of water facilities and fencing in the year they are purchased and deduct the cost of fodder storage assets over three years.
Australian small businesses got a boost on Budget night being able to immediately claim accelerated depreciation on business assets costing up to $20,000. Farms with turnover of less than $2 million qualify as a small business and are therefore also eligible to immediately write-off all asset purchases up to $20,000.Australian small businesses got a boost on Budget night being able to immediately claim accelerated depreciation on business assets costing up to $20,000. Farms with turnover of less than $2 million qualify as a small business and are therefore also eligible to immediately write-off all asset purchases up to $20,000.
There was argy bargy after the budget on making the deadline different for farmers, given the drought is occurring now and also, many are small businesses under the $2m turnover.There was argy bargy after the budget on making the deadline different for farmers, given the drought is occurring now and also, many are small businesses under the $2m turnover.
Joyce obviously got a win.Joyce obviously got a win.
1.41pm AEST04:411.41pm AEST04:41
Sussan Ley says the government has listed $1.3bn worth of over new medicines in the last budget.Sussan Ley says the government has listed $1.3bn worth of over new medicines in the last budget.
The Abbott government has doubled the number of drug listings delivered under the previous Labor Government worth a total of $2.9bn and we’re only halfway through our term. If you were to average it out, we’re making an average of about 30 new and amended listings to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme per month versus an average of just eight under Labor. This is not a political point that I’m making as I very much consider this is an area that requires bipartisan support as much as possible.The Abbott government has doubled the number of drug listings delivered under the previous Labor Government worth a total of $2.9bn and we’re only halfway through our term. If you were to average it out, we’re making an average of about 30 new and amended listings to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme per month versus an average of just eight under Labor. This is not a political point that I’m making as I very much consider this is an area that requires bipartisan support as much as possible.
1.38pm AEST04:381.38pm AEST04:38
Lunch time politicsLunch time politics
1.20pm AEST04:201.20pm AEST04:20
BREAKING: Bruce Billson dodges leadership questions.BREAKING: Bruce Billson dodges leadership questions.
Q: The budget has thrown a spotlight on you and your portfolio. We’ve seen your enthusiasm for small business. Fairfax Media has a profile of you today with colleagues in the business sector referring to you in glowing terms. So everyone seems to agree you’re a nice guy and there has been leadership ructions in the party of late. My question is do you have enough of the mongrel to one day lead the party yourself?Q: The budget has thrown a spotlight on you and your portfolio. We’ve seen your enthusiasm for small business. Fairfax Media has a profile of you today with colleagues in the business sector referring to you in glowing terms. So everyone seems to agree you’re a nice guy and there has been leadership ructions in the party of late. My question is do you have enough of the mongrel to one day lead the party yourself?
All I can say is you’ll have to ask mum that.All I can say is you’ll have to ask mum that.
1.17pm AEST04:171.17pm AEST04:17
We're not very supportive of failure, says Bruce Billson.We're not very supportive of failure, says Bruce Billson.
Steve Lewis asks Billson: Do you think as small business minister and somebody who’s advocating in favour of innovation that might make sense, the Government should look at perhaps some changes to insolvency laws along the lines of the Productivity Commission has recommended?Steve Lewis asks Billson: Do you think as small business minister and somebody who’s advocating in favour of innovation that might make sense, the Government should look at perhaps some changes to insolvency laws along the lines of the Productivity Commission has recommended?
Thank you for your question. The Treasurer and I instigated that inquirywith the aim of teasing out the very point that you raise. We have an interesting culture in Australia. If a small business gets a sniffle there seems to be a race to harvest the organs. Maybe a tissue might be a more appropriate response and we really need to tackle this. The appetite to wind up businesses when there may be a way of working through perhaps a short-term financial challenge that’s bringing solvency questions into play, we think there’s room for that.Thank you for your question. The Treasurer and I instigated that inquirywith the aim of teasing out the very point that you raise. We have an interesting culture in Australia. If a small business gets a sniffle there seems to be a race to harvest the organs. Maybe a tissue might be a more appropriate response and we really need to tackle this. The appetite to wind up businesses when there may be a way of working through perhaps a short-term financial challenge that’s bringing solvency questions into play, we think there’s room for that.
1.11pm AEST04:111.11pm AEST04:11
Bruce Billson, small business minister is answering questions at the National Press Club.Bruce Billson, small business minister is answering questions at the National Press Club.
He is, as Katharine Murphy dubbed him, a serial enthusiast and he is delighted to have his portfolio in the centre of the government’s budget strategy.He is, as Katharine Murphy dubbed him, a serial enthusiast and he is delighted to have his portfolio in the centre of the government’s budget strategy.
It’s like small business is the new black, the new kale of the cafe scene.It’s like small business is the new black, the new kale of the cafe scene.
12.52pm AEST03:5212.52pm AEST03:52
Marriage equality supporter Warren Entsch will not vote for Labor billMarriage equality supporter Warren Entsch will not vote for Labor bill
Liberal marriage equality supporter Warren Entsch has announced he will not support Labor’s same sex bill. He believes rushing the bill through amounts to sabotaging its success.Liberal marriage equality supporter Warren Entsch has announced he will not support Labor’s same sex bill. He believes rushing the bill through amounts to sabotaging its success.
Entsch says Bill Shorten is “destroying the opportunity” of getting the bill through the parliament.Entsch says Bill Shorten is “destroying the opportunity” of getting the bill through the parliament.
He met with Tony Abbott last week on the subject and wants the Coalition party room to address the issue by August - but that does not necessarily mean voting on it by then. (There is a large winter recess in between now and then.)He met with Tony Abbott last week on the subject and wants the Coalition party room to address the issue by August - but that does not necessarily mean voting on it by then. (There is a large winter recess in between now and then.)
Updated at 1.04pm AESTUpdated at 1.04pm AEST
12.39pm AEST03:3912.39pm AEST03:39
George Brandis is giving a dissertation on how appointments are made to arts boards and other bodies, following Labor senator Catryna Bilyk’s questions on the appointment of former Liberal politicians such as Paul Neville and Peter Collins and a conservative commentator Janet Albrechtsen.George Brandis is giving a dissertation on how appointments are made to arts boards and other bodies, following Labor senator Catryna Bilyk’s questions on the appointment of former Liberal politicians such as Paul Neville and Peter Collins and a conservative commentator Janet Albrechtsen.
Brandis says it’s not right to say the prime minister chooses the appointments. The PM is advised of the minister’s recommendation before they go to cabinet.Brandis says it’s not right to say the prime minister chooses the appointments. The PM is advised of the minister’s recommendation before they go to cabinet.
Bilyk asks if the PM doesn’t agree, it doesn’t happen?Bilyk asks if the PM doesn’t agree, it doesn’t happen?
It’s impossible to generalise.It’s impossible to generalise.
Bilyk goes on to ask about the appointment of Sophie Mirabella to the board of ASC and how it marries with the promise by Tony Abbott not to appoint former Coalition members to jobs.Bilyk goes on to ask about the appointment of Sophie Mirabella to the board of ASC and how it marries with the promise by Tony Abbott not to appoint former Coalition members to jobs.
Brandis says it is common practice to appoint former politicians on both sides. He notes a Coalition government reappointed former Labor leader Kim Beazley as Australian ambassador to Washington. Kevin Rudd appointed Brendan Nelson to Nato.Brandis says it is common practice to appoint former politicians on both sides. He notes a Coalition government reappointed former Labor leader Kim Beazley as Australian ambassador to Washington. Kevin Rudd appointed Brendan Nelson to Nato.
Labor is getting to Barrie Cassidy, the ABC journalist who was forced to resign as chair of Old Parliament House’s Museum of Democracy.Labor is getting to Barrie Cassidy, the ABC journalist who was forced to resign as chair of Old Parliament House’s Museum of Democracy.
I have the view that it was inappropriate for someone actively engaged in the political process as a working journalist, says Brandis.I have the view that it was inappropriate for someone actively engaged in the political process as a working journalist, says Brandis.
Brandis says he approached former Labor leader Simon Crean for the board because he had “retired from the political fray”.Brandis says he approached former Labor leader Simon Crean for the board because he had “retired from the political fray”.
It doesn’t matter so much for other boards, says Brandis, but it does for Old Parliament’s Museum of Democracy, which is a:It doesn’t matter so much for other boards, says Brandis, but it does for Old Parliament’s Museum of Democracy, which is a:
shrine of political democracy.shrine of political democracy.
Updated at 12.48pm AESTUpdated at 12.48pm AEST
12.19pm AEST03:1912.19pm AEST03:19
Assistant health minister Fiona Nash responds to Koch from the independent authority, the Organ and Tissue Authority.Assistant health minister Fiona Nash responds to Koch from the independent authority, the Organ and Tissue Authority.
I note the resignation of David Koch from his position as advisory board chairman of the Organ and Tissue Authority following the announcement of an independent review aimed at improving organ donation rates in Australia.I note the resignation of David Koch from his position as advisory board chairman of the Organ and Tissue Authority following the announcement of an independent review aimed at improving organ donation rates in Australia.
The review has been welcomed in a media release from the Organ and Tissue Authority.The review has been welcomed in a media release from the Organ and Tissue Authority.
The Organ and Tissue Authority was informed of the review more than a week ago and given the chance to have input into the terms of reference.The Organ and Tissue Authority was informed of the review more than a week ago and given the chance to have input into the terms of reference.
Mr Koch’s unexpected resignation is a loss to the organisation.Mr Koch’s unexpected resignation is a loss to the organisation.
The review is seeking to establish if there is anything else we can do to improve organ donation rates in Australia and save lives.The review is seeking to establish if there is anything else we can do to improve organ donation rates in Australia and save lives.
It is always unfortunate to lose people of Mr Koch’s calibre from such a good cause. I acknowledge the great contribution Mr Koch has made to support increased rates of organ donation in Australia and would welcome his input into the review.It is always unfortunate to lose people of Mr Koch’s calibre from such a good cause. I acknowledge the great contribution Mr Koch has made to support increased rates of organ donation in Australia and would welcome his input into the review.
Updated at 12.39pm AESTUpdated at 12.39pm AEST
12.12pm AEST03:1212.12pm AEST03:12
In which, David Koch, host of Sunrise, roasts assistant health minister Fiona Nash over her handling of a review of organ donation rates.In which, David Koch, host of Sunrise, roasts assistant health minister Fiona Nash over her handling of a review of organ donation rates.
12.06pm AEST03:0612.06pm AEST03:06
Amanda MeadeAmanda Meade
Mark Scott says the ABC is in the process of closing more than 100 websites and is “looking at” the future of the ABC’s technology and games online gateway, after Stephen Conroy pushes him on whether the website is being closed.Mark Scott says the ABC is in the process of closing more than 100 websites and is “looking at” the future of the ABC’s technology and games online gateway, after Stephen Conroy pushes him on whether the website is being closed.
Conroy is unhappy that there have not been many detailed articles about the NBN as there once were.Conroy is unhappy that there have not been many detailed articles about the NBN as there once were.
Updated at 12.40pm AESTUpdated at 12.40pm AEST
11.53am AEST02:5311.53am AEST02:53
Stephen Conroy wants to help the ABC fact check unit.Stephen Conroy wants to help the ABC fact check unit.
From Amanda Meade:From Amanda Meade:
Labor Senator Stephen Conroy has joined the senate committee hearing on communications and is clearly unhappy with the way the ABC’s Fact Check Unit is keeping track of the Coalition’s promises about the NBN. He wants Mark Scott to look into how the unit is “framing” the questions around the NBN as he alleges they have broken their promises.Labor Senator Stephen Conroy has joined the senate committee hearing on communications and is clearly unhappy with the way the ABC’s Fact Check Unit is keeping track of the Coalition’s promises about the NBN. He wants Mark Scott to look into how the unit is “framing” the questions around the NBN as he alleges they have broken their promises.
Updated at 11.57am AESTUpdated at 11.57am AEST
11.46am AEST02:4611.46am AEST02:46
ABC Mark Scott not seeking extension of his term, which ends July 2016ABC Mark Scott not seeking extension of his term, which ends July 2016
Amanda MeadeAmanda Meade
Scott is now being asked by Senator Dastyari about the search for a new managing director for the ABC when’s Scott’s second five year term ends in July 2016.Scott is now being asked by Senator Dastyari about the search for a new managing director for the ABC when’s Scott’s second five year term ends in July 2016.
Scott tells the committee that reports he had asked the board for an extension of his term as managing director was incorrect.Scott tells the committee that reports he had asked the board for an extension of his term as managing director was incorrect.
11.38am AEST02:3811.38am AEST02:38
ABC: They didn't expect the Hunger GamesABC: They didn't expect the Hunger Games
Amanda MeadeAmanda Meade
Mark Scott told Labor senator Sam Dastyari he is confident he will achieve all the ABC cuts but there are still some decisions to be made about how they are achieved.Mark Scott told Labor senator Sam Dastyari he is confident he will achieve all the ABC cuts but there are still some decisions to be made about how they are achieved.
He went on to explain the impact of the job losses on the staff.He went on to explain the impact of the job losses on the staff.
I am advised it was worse in apprehension than it was in reality.I am advised it was worse in apprehension than it was in reality.
Scott says the staff reacted the way they did because they didn’t expect the so-called “Hunger Games” and some were surprised to find themselves in a pool.Scott says the staff reacted the way they did because they didn’t expect the so-called “Hunger Games” and some were surprised to find themselves in a pool.
However, once he identified the various skill levels, it quickly worked itself out.However, once he identified the various skill levels, it quickly worked itself out.
I appreciate it wasn’t a happy time for staff.I appreciate it wasn’t a happy time for staff.
Updated at 11.47am AESTUpdated at 11.47am AEST
11.32am AEST02:3211.32am AEST02:32
The joys of Senate estimates.The joys of Senate estimates.
Updated at 11.47am AESTUpdated at 11.47am AEST
11.30am AEST02:3011.30am AEST02:30
Back together again for a limited time only.Back together again for a limited time only.
11.17am AEST02:1711.17am AEST02:17
ABC redundanciesABC redundancies
Amanda MeadeAmanda Meade
Mark Scott and his chief financial officer David Pendleton are being asked about how the ABC is managing the efficiency measures brought on by the Coalition’s budget cuts.Scott has told the committee that the ABC’s staff redundancies totalled 400 and 200 of those have already left the organisation.Scott said most of the staff in the content and programming areas had already left their jobs and the next wave of redundancies would be in the support areas.The 400 total was on top of the 80 people who lost their jobs when the Australian Network was de-funded, the committee heard.The managing director said “a range of projects are now under way” to help the ABC to continue to deliver the 1% efficiency dividend as well as the other cuts the government made to the ABC budget.Areas targeted include corporate affairs and “big items like transmission contracts”.The committee has taken a break and Scott will return for more questioning when it returns.Mark Scott and his chief financial officer David Pendleton are being asked about how the ABC is managing the efficiency measures brought on by the Coalition’s budget cuts.Scott has told the committee that the ABC’s staff redundancies totalled 400 and 200 of those have already left the organisation.Scott said most of the staff in the content and programming areas had already left their jobs and the next wave of redundancies would be in the support areas.The 400 total was on top of the 80 people who lost their jobs when the Australian Network was de-funded, the committee heard.The managing director said “a range of projects are now under way” to help the ABC to continue to deliver the 1% efficiency dividend as well as the other cuts the government made to the ABC budget.Areas targeted include corporate affairs and “big items like transmission contracts”.The committee has taken a break and Scott will return for more questioning when it returns.
11.15am AEST02:1511.15am AEST02:15
The nominations for the Husic-Frydenberg boy band are coming in.The nominations for the Husic-Frydenberg boy band are coming in.
11.11am AEST02:1111.11am AEST02:11
Indigenous leaders summit on constitutional recognition: 6 JulyIndigenous leaders summit on constitutional recognition: 6 July
Here is the prime minister’s statement:Here is the prime minister’s statement:
A meeting of Indigenous leaders to discuss constitutional recognition will be convened in Sydney on 6 July 2015.A meeting of Indigenous leaders to discuss constitutional recognition will be convened in Sydney on 6 July 2015.
The meeting will include eminent First Australians who are playing a significant role in the debate on Indigenous constitutional recognition.The meeting will include eminent First Australians who are playing a significant role in the debate on Indigenous constitutional recognition.
It will be an important opportunity for the prime minister and opposition leader to hear the views of a range of Indigenous Australians as our country contemplates change.It will be an important opportunity for the prime minister and opposition leader to hear the views of a range of Indigenous Australians as our country contemplates change.
Indigenous leaders from across the country will be invited to participate in the meeting.Indigenous leaders from across the country will be invited to participate in the meeting.
The meeting will help to inform the process for deciding on a referendum proposal that will have the best chance of success.The meeting will help to inform the process for deciding on a referendum proposal that will have the best chance of success.
The prime minister and opposition leader reaffirm our bipartisan commitment to constitutional recognition.The prime minister and opposition leader reaffirm our bipartisan commitment to constitutional recognition.
Recognising Indigenous Australians in the constitution will complete our constitution, rather than simply change it.Recognising Indigenous Australians in the constitution will complete our constitution, rather than simply change it.
This should be a unifying moment for our nation and this meeting will be an important part of this journey.This should be a unifying moment for our nation and this meeting will be an important part of this journey.
Today is the anniversary of the 1967 referendum which removed two references in the Australian constitution that discriminated against Aboriginal people.Today is the anniversary of the 1967 referendum which removed two references in the Australian constitution that discriminated against Aboriginal people.
Updated at 11.27am AESTUpdated at 11.27am AEST
11.02am AEST02:0211.02am AEST02:02
The latest Canberra boy band: Two Directions.The latest Canberra boy band: Two Directions.
Updated at 11.27am AESTUpdated at 11.27am AEST
10.59am AEST01:5910.59am AEST01:59
You never know who you will run into with Senate estimates on this week.You never know who you will run into with Senate estimates on this week.
Updated at 10.59am AESTUpdated at 10.59am AEST
10.57am AEST01:5710.57am AEST01:57
Penny Wong is questioning finance minister Mathias Cormann on the leak of an audit on the eve of the launch of the first Air Warfare Destroyer last week. Wong said the strategic leak of the audit, which showed the ships cost three times more to build in Australia than a comparable ship in Spain, was designed to torpedo (pardon) jobs in South Australia.Penny Wong is questioning finance minister Mathias Cormann on the leak of an audit on the eve of the launch of the first Air Warfare Destroyer last week. Wong said the strategic leak of the audit, which showed the ships cost three times more to build in Australia than a comparable ship in Spain, was designed to torpedo (pardon) jobs in South Australia.
Cormann rejected the assertion. The finance minister has said previously that as a result of the audit the government would begin a limited tender to ensure there was a managing contractor placed into the Australian shipbuilder, the ASC.Cormann rejected the assertion. The finance minister has said previously that as a result of the audit the government would begin a limited tender to ensure there was a managing contractor placed into the Australian shipbuilder, the ASC.
Cormann says under the previous government, the project was in bad shape...Cormann says under the previous government, the project was in bad shape...
And we are off to morning tea. End of questions.And we are off to morning tea. End of questions.
10.32am AEST01:3210.32am AEST01:32
The ABC chief, Mark Scott, is up now in front of Senate estimates hearings.The ABC chief, Mark Scott, is up now in front of Senate estimates hearings.
Updated at 10.53am AESTUpdated at 10.53am AEST
10.31am AEST01:3110.31am AEST01:31
Here is a bit more from immigration minister Peter Dutton on how to decide who is a terrorist risk. He is responding to a question on Khaled Sharrouf on AM.Here is a bit more from immigration minister Peter Dutton on how to decide who is a terrorist risk. He is responding to a question on Khaled Sharrouf on AM.
This is why it’s important for there to be a ministerial discretion as opposed to an operation of law, so that if there was a blackletter provision which said that every(one) coming back including children would face revocation of their citizenship, I think that would be something people would want to debate.This is why it’s important for there to be a ministerial discretion as opposed to an operation of law, so that if there was a blackletter provision which said that every(one) coming back including children would face revocation of their citizenship, I think that would be something people would want to debate.
What we have said here and again it operates in the UK, there is the ability for ministers to assess individually the cases that come before them. I am not going to comment individually on this matter (Sharrouf family) but people face very serious consequences when they return to this country if they have broken Australian law and if they’re in prescribed areas and don’t have a reason for being there. If they’ve been involved in terrorist activities they will face the full force of the law when they return to Australia.What we have said here and again it operates in the UK, there is the ability for ministers to assess individually the cases that come before them. I am not going to comment individually on this matter (Sharrouf family) but people face very serious consequences when they return to this country if they have broken Australian law and if they’re in prescribed areas and don’t have a reason for being there. If they’ve been involved in terrorist activities they will face the full force of the law when they return to Australia.
Updated at 10.54am AESTUpdated at 10.54am AEST
10.17am AEST01:1710.17am AEST01:17
Fiona Nash, get a backbone.Fiona Nash, get a backbone.
The host of the Sunrise program, David Koch, has resigned in protest as chairman of the Organ and Tissue Authority advisory council after he was not informed of a government review.The host of the Sunrise program, David Koch, has resigned in protest as chairman of the Organ and Tissue Authority advisory council after he was not informed of a government review.
He has delivered a scathing editorial on a “rich lobby group”, pressuring the assistant health minister Fiona Nash in relation to organ donation.He has delivered a scathing editorial on a “rich lobby group”, pressuring the assistant health minister Fiona Nash in relation to organ donation.
Fiona Nash, get a backbone. You didn’t even ring me ... ‘This leaves me no choice but to resign from the position and actively counter the tripe dished up by rich lobbyists.Fiona Nash, get a backbone. You didn’t even ring me ... ‘This leaves me no choice but to resign from the position and actively counter the tripe dished up by rich lobbyists.
Updated at 10.55am AESTUpdated at 10.55am AEST
10.04am AEST01:0410.04am AEST01:04
What do you get for 7c? 5cWhat do you get for 7c? 5c
In other news...In other news...
Best story in today's papers. It costs 7c to make a 5c piece @theheraldsun pic.twitter.com/U37b958uA3Best story in today's papers. It costs 7c to make a 5c piece @theheraldsun pic.twitter.com/U37b958uA3
9.57am AEST00:579.57am AEST00:57
Next cab off the rank is the national health amendment (pharmaceutical benefits) bill 2015 via health minister Sussan Ley. She will be speaking to media at 1.30pm today to explain the the deal which governs 5,000 community pharmacies and how they dispense PBS medicines and deliver pharmacy programs and services.Next cab off the rank is the national health amendment (pharmaceutical benefits) bill 2015 via health minister Sussan Ley. She will be speaking to media at 1.30pm today to explain the the deal which governs 5,000 community pharmacies and how they dispense PBS medicines and deliver pharmacy programs and services.
It’s worth $19bn.It’s worth $19bn.
The government has been negotiating with the Pharmacy Guild – one of Canberra’s most powerful lobby groups – over the shape of the next community pharmacy agreement.The government has been negotiating with the Pharmacy Guild – one of Canberra’s most powerful lobby groups – over the shape of the next community pharmacy agreement.
The fifth such agreement, which expires at the end of June, was worth $15.7bn over five years. In March the Australian National Audit Office (ANAO) warned of “persistent shortcomings” in the Department of Health’s record-keeping during negotiations on the fifth agreement signed in 2010, including a failure to keep formal records of its meetings with the Pharmacy Guild.The fifth such agreement, which expires at the end of June, was worth $15.7bn over five years. In March the Australian National Audit Office (ANAO) warned of “persistent shortcomings” in the Department of Health’s record-keeping during negotiations on the fifth agreement signed in 2010, including a failure to keep formal records of its meetings with the Pharmacy Guild.
Updated at 11.02am AESTUpdated at 11.02am AEST
9.35am AEST00:359.35am AEST00:35
We have had a few lighter moments in the political tsunami this morning.We have had a few lighter moments in the political tsunami this morning.
Labor’s Ed Husic and assistant treasurer Josh Frydenberg are friends across the divide and they are sparring partners on Sky. Mike Bowers caught them in the corridors of glower. Husic saw Bowers’ lens and did what he does so well – hammed it up.Labor’s Ed Husic and assistant treasurer Josh Frydenberg are friends across the divide and they are sparring partners on Sky. Mike Bowers caught them in the corridors of glower. Husic saw Bowers’ lens and did what he does so well – hammed it up.
Updated at 10.57am AESTUpdated at 10.57am AEST
9.30am AEST00:309.30am AEST00:30
Greg Hunt comes to the contentious use of native wood waste, which has been included as an eligible energy source as a way to meet the renewable energy target.Greg Hunt comes to the contentious use of native wood waste, which has been included as an eligible energy source as a way to meet the renewable energy target.
He says the bill reinstates native forest wood waste on the same conditions as were previously in place under Labor. It contains safeguards to ensure wood waste is harvested in a responsible way.He says the bill reinstates native forest wood waste on the same conditions as were previously in place under Labor. It contains safeguards to ensure wood waste is harvested in a responsible way.
Hunt says that provision has been made because there’s no evidence the practice is unsustainable.Hunt says that provision has been made because there’s no evidence the practice is unsustainable.
This is about use of wood waste, its not about cutting down biomass to burn.This is about use of wood waste, its not about cutting down biomass to burn.
9.20am AEST00:209.20am AEST00:20
Bill to cut the renewable energy target introducedBill to cut the renewable energy target introduced
The environment minister, Greg Hunt, is introducing the renewable energy (electricity) amendment bill 2015.The environment minister, Greg Hunt, is introducing the renewable energy (electricity) amendment bill 2015.
The bill adjusts the renewable energy target from 41,000 gigawatt hours of energy to be delivered from renewable sources by 2020 to 33000 gigawatt hours in the same time.The bill adjusts the renewable energy target from 41,000 gigawatt hours of energy to be delivered from renewable sources by 2020 to 33000 gigawatt hours in the same time.
It will be maintained at 33,000 per annum 2021-2030.It will be maintained at 33,000 per annum 2021-2030.
The new target “is achievable”.The new target “is achievable”.
Lenore Taylor has written on this many times, but this was her most recent story.Lenore Taylor has written on this many times, but this was her most recent story.
Updated at 11.01am AESTUpdated at 11.01am AEST
9.11am AEST00:119.11am AEST00:11
Medical Research Future Fund comes to parliamentMedical Research Future Fund comes to parliament
Joe Hockey has just introduced the medical research future fund bill 2015 into the lower house.Joe Hockey has just introduced the medical research future fund bill 2015 into the lower house.
The treasurer is talking about Australia’s excellent record on medical advances and this funding is all about maintaining that record.The treasurer is talking about Australia’s excellent record on medical advances and this funding is all about maintaining that record.
He also mentions the late Matt Price, the press gallery journalist at the Oz who passed away of brain cancer during the 2007 election. “Everyone at the time” said something needed to be done.He also mentions the late Matt Price, the press gallery journalist at the Oz who passed away of brain cancer during the 2007 election. “Everyone at the time” said something needed to be done.
That’s one of the things to come out of this legislation.That’s one of the things to come out of this legislation.
Updated at 11.01am AESTUpdated at 11.01am AEST
9.05am AEST00:059.05am AEST00:05
Labor on citizenship: We kinda like it but we might notLabor on citizenship: We kinda like it but we might not
Shalailah MedhoraShalailah Medhora
Opposition leader Bill Shorten agrees with the stripping of dual citizenship in principle, but wants to see the legislation.Opposition leader Bill Shorten agrees with the stripping of dual citizenship in principle, but wants to see the legislation.
I don’t believe that if you’re a dual citizen and you’re fighting for a terrorist organisation you should automatically assume that you can have the rights of Australian citizenship. But let’s work through the detail.I don’t believe that if you’re a dual citizen and you’re fighting for a terrorist organisation you should automatically assume that you can have the rights of Australian citizenship. But let’s work through the detail.
He was less forthcoming on the proposal to strip sole citizens of their Australian nationality where they can apply for other citizenship, saying there is an important role for courts in interpreting the laws.He was less forthcoming on the proposal to strip sole citizens of their Australian nationality where they can apply for other citizenship, saying there is an important role for courts in interpreting the laws.
9.00am AEST00:009.00am AEST00:00
Just so you know the nature of plate-spinning job here at #politicslive, we also have today:Just so you know the nature of plate-spinning job here at #politicslive, we also have today:
It’s all coming. Strap yourself in.It’s all coming. Strap yourself in.
Updated at 10.59am AESTUpdated at 10.59am AEST
8.52am AEST23:528.52am AEST23:52
Marriage equality is also under discussion after Bill Shorten and Tanya Plibersek have brought forward a bill to use the momentum of the Irish referendum.Marriage equality is also under discussion after Bill Shorten and Tanya Plibersek have brought forward a bill to use the momentum of the Irish referendum.
Shorten is asked why the sudden sense of urgency around the debate, given there have been private members bills coming through the parliament for the past few years.Shorten is asked why the sudden sense of urgency around the debate, given there have been private members bills coming through the parliament for the past few years.
I voted for the legislation back in 2012 and last year I advised the Australian Christian Lobby at their forum that I believe it was entirely possible for someone of Christian views to also support marriage equality. There’s no doubt, though, that the Irish referendum on the weekend has again renewed debate in Australia and my view is that we should grab the opportunity to have the parliament introduce marriage equality and legalise it in Australia.I voted for the legislation back in 2012 and last year I advised the Australian Christian Lobby at their forum that I believe it was entirely possible for someone of Christian views to also support marriage equality. There’s no doubt, though, that the Irish referendum on the weekend has again renewed debate in Australia and my view is that we should grab the opportunity to have the parliament introduce marriage equality and legalise it in Australia.
The prime minister was also asked, including the call from Alan Jones for marriage equality. Abbott noted Jones was a friend, whom he had known for 30 years, but repeated his line about the ability of people to have different views. Like his own family, for example. But then swung off to his small business policy, which is developing into a habit.The prime minister was also asked, including the call from Alan Jones for marriage equality. Abbott noted Jones was a friend, whom he had known for 30 years, but repeated his line about the ability of people to have different views. Like his own family, for example. But then swung off to his small business policy, which is developing into a habit.
I’m sure at that time we’d have a very full and frank and candid and decent debate inside the party room but I do have to say that my absolute priority, the government’s absolute priority right now and for the next few weeks will be helping small business.I’m sure at that time we’d have a very full and frank and candid and decent debate inside the party room but I do have to say that my absolute priority, the government’s absolute priority right now and for the next few weeks will be helping small business.
8.37am AEST23:378.37am AEST23:37
Abbott: You don't get off scot free because you say I've seen the error of my waysAbbott: You don't get off scot free because you say I've seen the error of my ways
Tony Abbott is asked about the possibility of allowing foreign fighters back into the country for de-radicalization programs.Tony Abbott is asked about the possibility of allowing foreign fighters back into the country for de-radicalization programs.
Q: If there’s an opportunity to use their experience for preventing others from following that path, though, isn’t that something worth considering?Q: If there’s an opportunity to use their experience for preventing others from following that path, though, isn’t that something worth considering?
I’m absolutely delighted when a criminal comes out of jail, reformed and rehabilitated for that criminal or former criminal to go and spread a message of obeying the law to others who might be tempted to disobey the law. But I’m afraid you don’t get off scot-free just because you say “I’ve seen the error of my ways.” If you commit serious crimes you should face serious punishment and as far as I’m concerned that will always be the case.I’m absolutely delighted when a criminal comes out of jail, reformed and rehabilitated for that criminal or former criminal to go and spread a message of obeying the law to others who might be tempted to disobey the law. But I’m afraid you don’t get off scot-free just because you say “I’ve seen the error of my ways.” If you commit serious crimes you should face serious punishment and as far as I’m concerned that will always be the case.
8.32am AEST23:328.32am AEST23:32
Tony Abbott was asked about the return of Khaled Sharrouf’s wife Tara Nettleton and their five children.Tony Abbott was asked about the return of Khaled Sharrouf’s wife Tara Nettleton and their five children.
We’ve seen the beheadings, the crucifixions, the mass executions, the sexual slavery and people who are involved in that are doing evil things,evil things and criminal things and if criminals come within the reach of our law, whether they’re male or female, they will face the full severity of our law. That’s what the Australian public expect. Crime will be punished.We’ve seen the beheadings, the crucifixions, the mass executions, the sexual slavery and people who are involved in that are doing evil things,evil things and criminal things and if criminals come within the reach of our law, whether they’re male or female, they will face the full severity of our law. That’s what the Australian public expect. Crime will be punished.
8.27am AEST23:278.27am AEST23:27
Tony Abbott was asked about Sharrouf’s children, given one of them appeared to have been “radicalised”, given he was holding a severed head. The kid was seven.Tony Abbott was asked about Sharrouf’s children, given one of them appeared to have been “radicalised”, given he was holding a severed head. The kid was seven.
Abbott: the children ...will be dealt with in the same way that the children of criminals are normally dealt with. http://t.co/J8Emt0QyHgAbbott: the children ...will be dealt with in the same way that the children of criminals are normally dealt with. http://t.co/J8Emt0QyHg
8.21am AEST23:218.21am AEST23:21
Tony Abbott talking about Khaled Sharrouf’s family when a small business person intervenes, chiding the media for asking questions about national security. Abbott is at a small business function.Tony Abbott talking about Khaled Sharrouf’s family when a small business person intervenes, chiding the media for asking questions about national security. Abbott is at a small business function.
(It’s going to be one of those days.)(It’s going to be one of those days.)
Abbott notes the man’s point, delivering a neat combination on the importance of small business providing economic security, “which is just as important as economic security”.Abbott notes the man’s point, delivering a neat combination on the importance of small business providing economic security, “which is just as important as economic security”.
And then finishes up the press conference without answering any more details about the citizenship laws.And then finishes up the press conference without answering any more details about the citizenship laws.
I should say he answered a fair few questions before that while I was publishing. I will bring to you shortly.I should say he answered a fair few questions before that while I was publishing. I will bring to you shortly.
8.15am AEST23:158.15am AEST23:15
Morning politics: No one will be left stateless, says DuttonMorning politics: No one will be left stateless, says Dutton
It’s a difficult day when you can’t get through the corridor to the office for a government minister and media scrum.It’s a difficult day when you can’t get through the corridor to the office for a government minister and media scrum.
The keeper of the message this morning is Peter Dutton. There are many questions for the immigration minister about the proposed citizenship laws and remember, no details of the laws - like a bill - have been released.The keeper of the message this morning is Peter Dutton. There are many questions for the immigration minister about the proposed citizenship laws and remember, no details of the laws - like a bill - have been released.
As far as we know, the new laws involve stripping dual nationals of their Australian citizenship at the minister’s discretion, if the government suspects the person has been involved in terrorism. The minister said given the difficulty of getting evidence in overseas war-torn countries, his decision would be informed by Asio. The Abbott government has committed to this measure.As far as we know, the new laws involve stripping dual nationals of their Australian citizenship at the minister’s discretion, if the government suspects the person has been involved in terrorism. The minister said given the difficulty of getting evidence in overseas war-torn countries, his decision would be informed by Asio. The Abbott government has committed to this measure.
A second element, reflecting the UK laws, involves stripping Australians of their citizenship if they have the option to a second citizenship. This measure, which caused uproar in the cabinet discussion, will be considered in the discussion paper. Philip Ruddock was appointed as captain of that discussion yesterday, with Concetta Fierravanti-Wells.A second element, reflecting the UK laws, involves stripping Australians of their citizenship if they have the option to a second citizenship. This measure, which caused uproar in the cabinet discussion, will be considered in the discussion paper. Philip Ruddock was appointed as captain of that discussion yesterday, with Concetta Fierravanti-Wells.
The key points from the government are these:The key points from the government are these:
Thanks to Shalailah Medhora for this little snippet from Dutton on AM:Thanks to Shalailah Medhora for this little snippet from Dutton on AM:
Q: If the boot was on the other foot, would we take them back?Q: If the boot was on the other foot, would we take them back?
Yes we would if they were an Australian citizen. That’s the constitutional obligation.”Yes we would if they were an Australian citizen. That’s the constitutional obligation.”
“They would be rendered stateless, which we are not going to allow.”“They would be rendered stateless, which we are not going to allow.”
Already, the example delivered for debate through The Age is the case of Khaled Sharrouf and his wife and five children. This is the case where one of the children was pictured holding a severed head in the national daily.Already, the example delivered for debate through The Age is the case of Khaled Sharrouf and his wife and five children. This is the case where one of the children was pictured holding a severed head in the national daily.
Marriage equality is also front and centre today. Bill Shorten and Tanya Plibersek have been out already. Tony Abbott is taking questions now. My head is spinning.Marriage equality is also front and centre today. Bill Shorten and Tanya Plibersek have been out already. Tony Abbott is taking questions now. My head is spinning.
However I will try to stay calm and deliver all the political news. Join me @gabriellechan and @mpbowers for the parliamentary sitting day.However I will try to stay calm and deliver all the political news. Join me @gabriellechan and @mpbowers for the parliamentary sitting day.