The National Cabinet met today to discuss Australia’s current COVID-19 response, easing restrictions, helping Australians prepare to go back to work in a COVID-safe environment and getting the economy moving again.
The Acting Chief Medical Officer, Paul Kelly, provided an update on the measures underway, the latest data and medical advice in relation to COVID-19.
There have been over 9,000 confirmed cases in Australia and sadly 106 people have died.
Prime Minister: Good afternoon, everyone. Today I’m joined by Professor Paul Murphy - sorry, Professor Paul Kelly.
Prime Minister: Good afternoon. I’m pleased to be joined by the Acting Minister for Immigration Alan Tudge today.
The Australian Government remains deeply concerned about China’s imposition of a broad national security law on Hong Kong.
Australia and Hong Kong have always shared a close relationship.
I am pleased to announce that I will be joining the Prime Minister of Japan, His Excellency Abe Shinzo, for a Virtual Leaders’ Meeting on 9 July 2020.
The meeting will build on and reaffirm the importance of our Special Strategic Partnership in a time of global economic and strategic uncertainty. The meeting presents a timely opportunity to reaffirm the shared principles, values and global outlook that reinforce one of Australia’s closest regional partnerships.
Mr Morrison: (Cook—Prime Minister) (14:03): I rise, on indulgence, to acknowledge the recent passing of United States Senator John McCain. It is not the usual thing in this House to express condolences for overseas politicians who are not the heads of governments or heads of state, but I think all in this House would agree that Senator John McCain is a worthy exception. We honour him in this House today because of his service to the United States and his service to this country as well, through his friendship.
Mr Morrison: (Cook—Prime Minister) (14:01): On indulgence, I rise today to remember an Australian tragedy and to remember those who were lost. On this day 48 years ago, Australians watched in horror as the West Gate Bridge collapsed during construction. It's not a particular anniversary this year, just like it's the 16th anniversary this year since the terrible Bali bombings that were commemorated just a few days ago.
Mr Morrison: (Cook—Prime Minister) (14:00): I rise, on indulgence, to acknowledge the passing of Ian Kiernan AO. We learnt of his death earlier today. His untimely death is a reminder that being a great Australian is within the grasp of every citizen of this country; you just have to be willing to have a go. Ian's approach was always to empower others. When he founded a movement first to clean up Australia and then to clean up the world, he sought not to attract followers but to produce leaders.
Prime Minister of Australia
The Hon Scott Morrison MP