Resource industry optimistic over collaboration with ALP frontbench

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Image credit: Wikimedia Commons

AMMA (Australian Mines and Metals Association) has released a statement on Monday congratulating ALP parliamentarians on their appointment to Opposition leader Bill Shorten’s frontbench.

Image credit: Wikimedia Commons
Image credit: Wikimedia Commons

In the statement issued by Steve Knott, chief executive of AMMA, the Association voiced its optimism and hopefulness regarding the pending changes in the government policies.

Mr. Knott expressed his backing for Bill Shorten’s newly appointed frontbench, stating his hope that the future collaboration between the Association and ALP will yield positive results for the resource industry.

The statement also welcomed the appointment of new shadow ministers in the ALP government.

Mr. Knott warmly welcomed the retainment of Shadow Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Gary Gray in his portfolio.

Adertisement

“We look forward to what Mr. Gray can achieve in Opposition and through working with the government to support growth and job contribution in Australia’s resource industry.”

“In recent years the resource industry has benefited from the political leadership of both ministers and shadow ministers with a strong understanding and appreciation for our sector. This includes Ian Macfarlane in resuming his former Howard Government responsibilities, Mr. Gray retaining the role in Opposition, and the exemplary work of his predecessor Martin Ferguson.”

Mr. Knott said Shadow Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Brendan O’Connor should be able to fundamentally reset Labor policy and his approach to his responsibilities.

“Mr. O’Connor is an experienced parliamentarian who takes on one of the Opposition’s biggest challenges in trying to restore confidence in Labor’s workplace relations credentials.”

“His challenge is to throw off his existing trade union shackles and harness the spirit of creativity and foresight that saw the Hawke/Keating government fundamentally reform our system and deliver lasting economic and jobs growth.”

Finally Mr. Knott also commended Shadow Minister for Immigration and Border Protection, Richard Marles for his exceptional experience and impartiality.

“Mr. Marles is well known and highly respected by AMMA and the wider business community, particularly for his work with Australia’s Pacific neighbors, and takes on a significant challenge in the immigration portfolio regarding skilled migration.”

“After a year marred by unfortunate rhetoric, misguided re-regulation and divisive union campaigns, we look forward to working with Mr. Marles as he rebuilds Labor’s credibility on skilled migration through a positive new approach based on facts and its contribution to Australia.”

Steve Knott this week presented the resource industry’s perspective and policy priorities on skilled migration to an AMMA member forum. Click here for a synopsis, the full speech and slides.