John,
Parliament has just passed a wage subsidy – something Labor has spent weeks calling for. Support is on the way for millions of Australians – and as a result, millions of Australians will stay in work and out of Centrelink.
I know this package isn’t perfect. I’m disappointed that the Government didn’t accept our practical suggestions to improve it – to protect casuals, visa holders and other vulnerable workers. Labor won’t stop fighting for them.
But while it might not be perfect, this package is good. It will make a difference to people’s lives. It will save livelihoods. It’s the direct result of the constructive role that unions, businesses, community leaders and Labor have played – together.
And in an unprecedented crisis like this one, Labor won’t stand in the way of support that millions of Australians and their families desperately need.
Our approach stands in stark contrast with the negative approach taken by the Coalition in response to the Rudd Labor Government’s economic stimulus plan in 2009 – a plan that saved hundreds of thousands of jobs.
One day we will conquer this virus. But we will be feeling its effects for years to come.
Each day has us reflecting on what really counts. On what sort of society we will be after this.
As we rebuild, we should be guided by the principle of an economy that works for people, not the other way around.
We should reflect on the fact that so many of our essential frontline workers – supermarket workers, cleaners, childcare workers, teachers, nurses, health workers – are also our poorest paid.
And we should be reminded of just how much we rely upon each other – and how much stronger we all are when we all work together. No one held back. No one left behind.
If we do that, I know we will emerge from this crisis stronger, more united, and with a greater sense of confidence in who we are – and who we can be. I know we will do that together.
Thanks for reading. Stay healthy. Stay safe.
Albo