QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Senator AYRES (New South Wales—Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science) (14:26): What we do is not use people as props. What we do is support the construction of new housing. The evidence in relation to rent caps is very strong.

What it does is hold back construction of new homes. It's not an effective measure. It's an effective slogan but not an effective measure, in policy terms, for delivering real homes for people.

That is the activity that this government has set about doing, with $47 billion in measures for home construction in the private market, through to social and affordable housing. I know that doesn't suit the Greens political party's hyperventilating rhetoric. Senator Shoebridge interjecting— The PRESIDENT: Senator Wong, on a point of order?

Senator Wong: I just wonder if it would be possible for Senator Shoebridge to at least pause in his interjections. Honourable senators interjecting— The PRESIDENT: Order! Senator Wong: You can't help yourself.

I've known lots of blokes like you—you and George Brandis. Senator Shoebridge interjecting— Senator Wong: He's the Senate genius! The PRESIDENT: Minister Wong, order!

Senator AYRES: One does wonder how he continues to do it. Senator Shoebridge breathes through his ears. (Time expired)