8th Sep 2015, 1:20 PM – Representatives Motions - Trade with China - Safeguards

The majority voted against an amendment to the motion introduced by Prime Minister Tony Abbott, which means it failed. The amendment was introduced by Leader of the Opposition Bill Shorten.

This division relates to the policy For a Free Trade Agreement with China.

Original motion text

That this House:

(1) record the enormous economic potential of the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to deliver Australian jobs, growth and investment;

(2) acknowledge that for benefits to flow to Australian businesses and workers without delay, it must be passed by the Parliament this year; and

(3) fully support the China-Australia FTA in its negotiated form.

Amendment text

That paragraph (3) be deleted and that the following be inserted:

(3) support the China-Australia FTA and call on the Government to work with the Parliament to legislate safeguards which:

(a) maximise job opportunities for Australian workers;

(b) protect overseas workers from exploitation and maintain Australian wages and conditions; and

(c) promote safety on Australian work sites by ensuring the skills and qualifications on temporary trades workers are of the highest standard