Wednesday, 25 May 2022

Federal election

Mr MELHEM (Western Metropolitan)

Incorporated pursuant to order of Council of 7 September 2021:

Congratulations to Anthony Albanese and the Australian Labor Party on their victory in Saturday’s federal election. This victory is a great thing for the people of Australia and especially for the people of Victoria.

The Albanese Labor government will end the attacks on our healthcare system by making it easier to see a doctor. They will establish 50 medical urgent care clinics, which will be critical in taking pressure off emergency departments. The maximum cost of medications on the PBS will be reduced to $30 per script.

Federal Labor will invest in the skills that Australians need to gain meaningful employment, building on the great work of the Andrews Labor government. This will include 465 000 free TAFE places, 20 000 additional university places and an increase in the number of apprentices and trainees on public projects.

An expansion of the childcare subsidy rate and eligibility will reduce the cost of child care for working families. Childcare costs put significant strain on families and discourage parents, particularly women, from entering the workforce. This policy will increase access to child care, while also boosting the economy.

An Albanese Labor government will also make Australia a country that makes things again. The coronavirus pandemic highlighted the consequences of the Liberals abandoning our local manufacturing industry and capabilities. Federal Labor will invest $15 billion of capital into local projects for more local jobs.

Federal Labor will also get serious in the fight against climate change. Australia will reduce emissions by 43 per cent by 2030 by upgrading the electricity grid, making electric vehicles cheaper, and investing in renewable energy alternatives. This plan will lower emissions, while creating good jobs and cutting power bills.

And, importantly, an Albanese Labor government will ensure that Victoria is no longer short-changed on federal infrastructure funding. Mr Albanese’s pledge of $2.2 billion for the Suburban Rail Loop will help make this massive project, which will revolutionise public transport in Melbourne, a reality.

I look forward to seeing this new government improve the lives of Victorians.