A net-zero target means net-zero development

We must smash through this artificial boundary because the growth of our nation helps the battlers in small towns who just want a better future for their families. While I am disappointed at the decision of my party room to adopt a net-zero emissions target, I will stay in the room because when you leave after losing an argument, the only people that win are those you oppose.

Australia is about to have a long lesson in the school of hard knocks. We can already see the calamity that is net zero in Europe, where they can't keep their lights on, they have lines at petrol stations and even food supplies are under stress. I wish we didn't have to suffer this experience before we regain common sense, but I will continue the fight to have us graduate from this punishing school as fast as possible.

About a year after the election I met Paul at the Grand Hotel in Clermont one night. Paul had a job driving trucks loaded with pipes for the Adani mine. He was struggling to find work beforehand. He praised Adani and loved his job. If the greenies had their way, he would probably be on the dole.

There are not many people left in Canberra fighting for the blue-collar workers of Australia. I will keep fighting for Paul and the many others who just want a job and to see their country prosper.