ACCI Zoom Conference with The Hon Richard Marles MP, Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Shadow Minister for National Reconstruction, Employment, Skills and Small Business, Shadow Minister for Science

Federal Deputy Labor Leader Richard Marles says it is “critically important” for Australia to improve its defence capabilities amid the recent announcement of the AUKUS trilateral partnership with the UK and US.

“I think improving Australia’s defence capability is also a critically important step in improving the stability of the region,” Mr Marles said.

However, in light of the cancellation of a $90 billion submarine agreement with France, Mr Marles believes it is “important” for Australia to work on its relationship with the country.

“This is a country with whom we have a lot of shared interest, and it’s really important in light of the decision which has been made here … that the government does everything it can to get that relationship in the right place.”

The Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry held a zoom conference with the Hon Richard Marles MP, Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Shadow Minister for National Reconstruction, Employment, Skills & Small Business, Shadow Minister for Science, Federal Member for Corio in Victoria.

At this session, the Deputy Leader of the Opposition provided ACCI members and guests an update on Labor’s focus during the current COVID19 crisis and other priorities from his shadow portfolios for Australian businesses.

Following his address the Deputy Leader answered many questions from business leaders from across Australia in the Q&A session.