QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Senator AYRES (New South Wales—Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science) (14:06): Senator Cash just makes my case. The idea that your—when I say 'your' I mean it collectively—behaviour in relation to this set of national challenges is anything but contemptuous— Senator Cash interjecting— Senator Wong: On a point of order, Senator Cash has interjected throughout the entire set of answers.

I have left it until the last set, but I would ask her, if she possibly could, to desist. The PRESIDENT: Senator Cash, as you know, it's my way to allow leaders some leverage, but you have overstepped the mark, so I ask you to please listen quietly. Senator AYRES: The truth is that a respectful and in-the-national-interest response is precisely what this government has done.

We have taken action over time—not just in the last five minutes but over time—to increase national resilience. We have moved to appoint a coordinator general. Senator Henderson interjecting— The PRESIDENT: Senator Henderson, you have been constantly interjecting— Senator McKenzie interjecting— The PRESIDENT: And now, Senator McKenzie, you have joined in.

Senator AYRES: We have undertaken all this practical action. The alternative of what Mr Taylor and Senator Canavan led over the miserable period that they were in government on these questions was shameful, against the national interest and a hands-off-the-wheel approach that made Australia weaker. (Time expired)