139-538: Prime Minister of Australia [REDACTED] The Australian Marriage Law Postal Survey was a national survey by the Australian Government designed to gauge support for legalising same-sex marriage in Australia . The survey was held via the postal service between 12 September and 7 November 2017. Unlike voting in elections and referendums , which is compulsory in Australia, responding to
278-453: A GST increase was "on the table", stating that any increase in the GST would be offset by tax breaks and Morrison indicated that superannuation tax would be reviewed. Through in to 2016, Morrison made the case for an increase in the GST. In February, Turnbull ruled out pursuing a GST increase. Two days before the 2016 Council of Australian Governments ' (COAG) meeting, Turnbull responded to
417-482: A conscience vote on same-sex marriage legislation until 2019. The Liberal Party pledged to hold a national vote of some kind before any change to the law, though the party had no official position on the survey question, hence MPs (including Cabinet members) were to free to campaign for either side. All politicians were entitled to use their electoral printing and communications budgets in the campaign. The campaign for supporting voting in favour of same-sex marriage in
556-437: A conscience vote on the legislation. The opposition Australian Labor Party supported the legislation, but exceptionally, also granted its parliamentarians a conscience vote. Many same-sex marriage proponents were critical of the postal survey, viewing it as a costly delaying tactic and an unnecessary hurdle to a conscience vote on same-sex marriage in the parliament . The survey was subject to two legal challenges questioning
695-727: A hung parliament . An example of this was the 2010–2015 coalition government in the United Kingdom , which was composed of the Conservative Party and the Liberal Democrats . The Conservatives won the most seats of any single party in the 2010 election, but fell short of an absolute majority. However, by combining with the Liberal Democrats a solid majority in the House of Commons was created. This
834-427: A legislature . Such a government can consist of one party that holds a majority on its own, or be a coalition government of multiple parties. This is as opposed to a minority government , where the government doesn't have a majority, and needs to cooperate with opposition parties to get legislation passed. A government majority determines the balance of power. A government is not a majority government if it only has
973-416: A "Yes" outcome. Had the survey returned a majority "No" result, the government said it would not allow a parliamentary debate or vote on legalising same-sex marriage. The Marriage Amendment (Definition and Religious Freedoms) Act 2017 , which legalised same-sex marriage, was debated in and passed by Parliament following publication of the survey results. The Coalition government allowed its parliamentarians
1112-639: A Human Rights Commission complaint by a 17-year-old boy, which was later withdrawn. More than 16 million letters were sent from 12 September over almost two weeks (with all delivered by 25 September) and silent electors' packages were sent by the AEC and delivered by the end of September. After several "Yes" respondents posted images of their complete forms on social media, the ABS cautioned participants to not photograph their form barcodes, so as to prevent any fraudulent conduct. Additionally, survey forms could be invalidated in
1251-481: A change of mind was not a valid reason for requesting a new form. Both the "Yes" and "No" campaigns provided 60 observers to the ABS counting process, who examined 606,991 survey results. Fewer than 500 survey forms were reported as issues to the ABS during the survey. On 28 September, the ABS announced that it would release weekly national estimates of the total number of survey responses received, beginning from 3 October 2017 and ending 7 November. The primary input to
1390-459: A conservative supporter of same-sex marriage. The bill contained various protections allowing the refusal of same-sex weddings by anyone who holds a religious or "conscientious belief" against same-sex marriage, including private service providers such as florists and bakers. Prime Minister Turnbull reacted negatively to Paterson's bill, saying the government "would not countenance" supporting a bill which discriminated against same-sex weddings and that
1529-528: A draft bill legalising same-sex marriage prior to the survey, which led to uncertainty over what form legislation would take in the event of a "Yes" verdict. The wording of an exposure draft of a same-sex marriage bill from early 2017, released by the Attorney-General's office , proposed to amend the definition of "marriage" and replace the terms "man" and "woman" with the gender neutral phrase "two people". The proposed wording "two people" differed from
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#17327733050461668-517: A fine of up to $ 12,600 for breaches. Furthermore, all campaign material was required to be properly authorised. By 26 September, marketing services group Ebiquity estimated that the lead "No" group ( Coalition for Marriage ) had spent about $ 3,975,872 on advertising, a figure higher than their estimate for the two lead "Yes" groups ( Australian Marriage Equality and the Equality Campaign), about $ 2,920,740. Two donations of note were made in
1807-478: A first term Liberal government". In his first press conference as Treasurer, Scott Morrison indicated a reduction in government expenditure, and stated that the Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook (MYEFO) and White Paper on tax reform would arrive on time. On 1 October 2015, Turnbull hosted an economic summit at Parliament House , which included representatives from industry, unions, government and
1946-600: A five-nation tour and attended major leaders' summits in Europe and Asia. The China–Australia Free Trade Agreement agreed by the Abbott government concluded its passage through Parliament in October 2015. The Turnbull government continued the Abbott government's negotiations for an India Free Trade deal. Turnbull also continued the Abbott government's moves to improve trade relations with Indonesia and Germany, and to establish
2085-657: A hostile reception in the Senate and media. Monarchist Abbott's decision to knight the Duke of Edinburgh brought heavy media criticism, and amid declining poll numbers for the Coalition, rumours of an intention by republican Malcolm Turnbull to challenge for the leadership continued. On 5 February, Fairfax reported that leadership speculation was at "fever pitch" after backbench Senator Arthur Sinodinos (a demoted-Minister) questioned Abbott's judgement on Sky News and refused to confirm if
2224-575: A leadership spill ahead of his 39th consecutive Newspoll loss, which he narrowly won against Peter Dutton . Turnbull resigned three days later after narrowly losing the confidence of his Party room. Turnbull blamed Abbott, Dutton and conservative media commentators. Malcolm Turnbull entered Parliament as the Member for Wentworth in 2004, and went on to serve as Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister from January 2006, and later Minister for
2363-399: A leaked report regarding his plans for reforms to income tax levying. At a press conference at a Penrith football field, Turnbull announced a plan to hand the states income taxing powers, which he explained would be "the most fundamental reform to the federation in generations". State and Territory leaders rejected the plan outright, and Turnbull withdrew the initiative two days later following
2502-512: A majority when counting parties outside the government that have a confidence agreement with it. A majority government is usually assured of having its legislation passed and rarely if ever, has to fear being defeated in parliament, a state also known as a working majority . In contrast, a minority government must constantly bargain for support from other parties in order to pass legislation and avoid being defeated on motions of no confidence . Single-party majority governments tend to be formed in
2641-652: A man and a woman to the exclusion of all others, voluntarily entered into for life." This definition was codified by the Marriage Amendment Act 2004 , which inserted it verbatim into the Marriage Act 1961 . At the time of the survey, same-sex unions in Australia were treated as de facto unions under federal law. These unions provide couples with most, though not all, of the legal rights of marriage, although those rights may be difficult to assert and are not always recognised in practice. Aside from
2780-650: A military invasion was needed for Syria. France announced that the Paris attacks were an act of war and secured a UN Security Council Resolution authorising the use of military force against the Islamic State and the al-Nusra Front . In the aftermath of the attacks, some of the Turnbull Cabinet criticised the Sunni Grand Mufti of Australia for offering an apparently equivocal condemnation of
2919-564: A passenger train on the Sydney Trains network was vandalised with messages encouraging "No" votes, including foul language and the Nazi swastika . The ABC created a digital news service designed to track incidents of violence and abuse throughout the survey, with both "Yes" and "No" voters/organisations being targeted on occasions. Turnbull government Prime Minister of Australia [REDACTED] The Turnbull government
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#17327733050463058-533: A plebiscite prior to any amendment to the Marriage Act to recognise same-sex unions as "marriages" under Australian law. Turnbull dropped Abbott, Joe Hockey , Eric Abetz , Ian Macfarlane , Kevin Andrews , Michael Ronaldson and Bruce Billson from his ministry, but increased the number of cabinet ministers from 19 to 21. Polling was initially favourable to Turnbull following the leadership change, but
3197-654: A protest vote. The Government of the Australian Capital Territory and several local governments such as the City of Sydney took official positions supporting the "Yes" campaign. Public servants in the ACT were warned against campaigning in the survey while in official uniform. The move to offer official support was criticised by the Liberal Party opposition in the ACT, and similar criticisms lead to
3336-426: A report on 18 May 2018, which was not publicly released until 13 December 2018, although the recommendations were leaked to Fairfax Media in October 2018. The government responded by proposing a religious discrimination act. Advertising by both sides was extensive for much of the survey period. The first television ad for the "No" campaign, revealed shortly after the campaign began, featured three women and focused on
3475-544: A survey form and enrolled Australians living overseas along with those in certain special categories were entitled to complete a survey using paperless methods. The AEC made a statement that provisionally-enrolled 16- and 17-year-olds would not be posted a survey form and an amended direction was later issued by the Government to the Australian Statistician making this clear. This direction was subject to
3614-466: A themed ad screened during the finale of popular television show The Bachelor . The "Yes" campaign were also responsible for a widespread SMS message to many Australian mobile phones which lead to some complaints over how people's numbers were obtained, however the campaign advised the numbers were generated through random dialling technology previously used in elections. Both of the "No" campaign's next most prominent advertisements concentrated mostly on
3753-687: The 2007 federal election by the Australian Labor Party led by Kevin Rudd . In the aftermath, Turnbull entered and lost in the ensuing ballot for the Liberal Party leadership , which was won by Brendan Nelson . Turnbull served as Shadow Treasurer, before toppling Nelson in the November 2008 Liberal leadership spill . The Godwin Grech Affair undermined Turnbull's authority, and amid extended poor polling, and disagreement within
3892-559: The 2013 federal election , returning to power after six years in opposition. Turnbull served as Minister for Communications in the Abbott government , and oversaw the National Broadband rollout. The Abbott government delivered its election promises of removing industry taxes on mining and carbon emissions, and halting unauthorised boat arrivals, but its first Budget 's expenditure cuts and surprise revenue proposals met with
4031-608: The 2016 federal election and resigned with immediate effect as Parliamentary Leader of the National Party of Australia . Truss announced that he would resign from the Ministry. On 12 February, it was reported that Stuart Robert was resigning from the ministry after an internal investigation, ordered by Turnbull, concluded that he had "acted inconsistently with the Statement of Ministerial Standards". The investigation
4170-626: The Australian Christian Lobby and the Marriage Alliance , formed the Coalition for Marriage to co-ordinate the "No" campaign. The Liberal Party of Australia did not hold a position either way in the survey. Opinion polls in Australia over several years in the lead-up to the survey indicated a comfortable majority of Australians supported same-sex marriage. A Guardian Essential poll conducted just prior to
4309-556: The Australian Commercial Television Code of Practice . As of mid-September, prominent "No" campaigner Lyle Shelton was mentioned across news outlets more times than the leading three "Yes" campaigners, Alex Greenwich, Tiernan Brady and Sally Rugg , combined. Legislation in effect for the duration of the survey made it illegal to vilify, intimidate, threaten or harm "on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, intersex status or religion", with
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4448-527: The Australian Psychological Society and Minus 18 unveiled material and mechanisms designed to offer support and relief for those affected by the debate, such as parents of young children and LGBTIQ teenagers who experienced difficulties dealing with the public discussion. The survey period was associated with increases in the number of LGBTIQ people requesting assistance for mental health issues. Reach Out Australia , which lead
4587-628: The Catholic Church raised freedom of religion concerns, citing the case of a Tasmanian archbishop , who was requested to appear at an anti-discrimination commission after having disseminated material supporting a Christian view of marriage. The veracity of the concerns over religious freedom was disputed heavily in the community. Some groups, such as the National Catholic Education Commission said they were unsure if Catholic schools could continue to teach
4726-503: The City of Darebin backing down on plans to restrict "No" campaigners from using council facilities. Several figures and institutions supporting a "No" vote raised the issue of religious freedom during the survey period. Former Prime Minister John Howard rejected the assurances of Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and requested that the government explicitly detail proposed religious freedom provisions to potentially be included in same-sex marriage legislation. Likewise several leaders in
4865-574: The Morrison government . In mounting his 2015 public challenge for the leadership, Turnbull cited extended poor polling in Newspoll by the Abbott government and said Australia needed a new style of "economic leadership". Turnbull appointed Morrison as Treasurer in an expanded ministry , promoting several key supporters. Julie Bishop remained as Minister for Foreign Affairs . Conservatives Tony Abbott, Eric Abetz and Kevin Andrews were sent to
5004-632: The Safe Schools education program. The "Yes" campaign promptly aired a rebuttal by Dr. Kerryn Phelps . A "No" supporter funded the skywritten message "Vote No" over Sydney in September, which was defended by Turnbull as an expression of free speech. In Melbourne, a giant "NO" was written in the sky in response to the survey. Subsequent "Yes" ads focused heavily on a concerted " get out the vote " effort, and featured high-profile figures such as Ian Thorpe and others posting their surveys, as well as
5143-560: The Sex Discrimination Act , to allow religious organisations to refuse their services for same-sex marriages. Smith's bill was formally backed by the Labor Party parliamentary caucus on 17 October 2017. However, conservative MPs in the government responded by suggesting up to 100 amendments to the bill may be needed if the "Yes" vote carried. A rival bill was released on 13 November by Liberal Senator James Paterson ,
5282-743: The Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP). Turnbull met with Indonesian president Joko Widodo and German Chancellor Angela Merkel on his November 2015 world tour and discussed trade. Andrew Robb signed the TPP in February 2016. Health minister, Sussan Ley sought feedback on private health insurance . Hepatitis C treatments were subsidised from March 2016 under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme . On 13 January 2017, Turnbull announced that Ley had resigned from
5421-450: The 151 seats in the House of Representatives at a federal election (this has happened three times, in 1975 , in 1996 and 2013 ). The largest majority government in Australia was elected in 1975, when the Coalition won 71.65% of the seats in a landslide victory . In electoral systems where one party usually wins a majority of seats on their own, such as first past the post , coalitions are rare, but may happen when an election returns
5560-555: The 2013 election campaign, Tony Abbott promised a "comprehensive tax white paper" to look at tax reform. In June 2014, Abbott launched the Reform of the Federation white paper, with an eye to clarifying "roles and responsibilities for states and territories so that they are as far as possible, sovereign in their own sphere". In March 2015, Joe Hockey launched the Abbott government's Tax White Paper titled "Re:think". After taking over
5699-639: The 2013 federal election but Abbott had not re-appointed him to the Ministry, and Brough was a backer of the Turnbull leadership push. Andrew Robb had served as Trade Minister in the Abbott government and oversaw free-trade negotiations for Abbott and Turnbull. He announced his retirement in February 2016, but remained assisting in the Trade portfolio. Steven Ciobo became Minister for Trade and Investment in his place. On 11 February 2016, Deputy Prime Minister, Warren Truss , announced his decision to retire at
Australian Marriage Law Postal Survey - Misplaced Pages Continue
5838-592: The ABS with the paperless options for the survey, though due to the compressed timescale of the survey, concerns were anonymously raised by staff that the normal processes were not completed, such as sufficient user testing . AWS was brought in on a tender process to assist in the security measures for the online survey. A telephone information hotline was established, and received 206,828 calls between 14 August 2017 and 7 November 2017. Unlike elections or referendums , there were no automatic special regulations relating to advertising requirements or prohibited content for
5977-403: The ABS, AEC, Australia Post, Department of Finance and Department of Human Services occurred on 7 September and 15 September 2017. The committee handed down the final report on 13 February 2018. The report recommended that the survey process should not be used again for matters of human rights, encouraged the government to further fund mental health and LGBTIQ organisations to mitigate the impact of
6116-416: The Abbott government, Turnbull had distanced himself from the policy emphasis of Abbott by downplaying the threat of Islamic State to the wider world, saying the group was "not Hitler's Germany, Tojo's Japan or Stalin's Russia". A 15-year-old Islamist shot and killed a police finance worker outside Parramatta Police Station on 2 October 2015. Turnbull called on Australians to show "mutual respect" following
6255-612: The Built Environment (Turnbull had initially dumped Briggs from the ministry, but when Bruce Billson declined to accept a demotion, Briggs was reinstated. Following a late-night incident involving a female DFAT staffer in a Hong Kong bar during an official visit in November, Turnbull prompted Briggs to resign and Briggs subsequently quit the Turnbull Ministry on 29 December 2015. The Australian Financial Review reported "government sources" claiming Briggs
6394-473: The COAG meeting. In the government's first major education policy decision, Education Minister Simon Birmingham announced that the Abbott government's proposed university deregulation plan would be postponed until at least 2017. Furthermore, Birmingham confirmed that any move to reform university funding would not be submitted to Parliament before the next election. In the 2017 Australian federal budget , it
6533-573: The Catholic view of marriage in the event same-sex marriage was legalised, however academics Marion Maddox and Carol Johnson challenged this by arguing that religious organisations would continue to be able to access exemptions from anti-discrimination laws and, consequently, remain free to refuse same-sex marriage if it is eventually introduced. The divisions extended to the governing Liberal Party , whose president rejected claims that religious freedom could be under threat, in direct contradiction to
6672-534: The Coalition faced internal tensions. By March 2016, Labor and the Coalition were back to 50–50 in Newspoll results. In his final address to the media as prime minister, Abbott expressed pride in the record of his government, but warned against a "poll-driven" political culture and unnamed media figures and politicians who would "connive at dishonour" by spreading anonymous, self-serving claims: "A febrile media culture has developed that rewards treachery" he said. In
6811-507: The Coalition over Turnbull's support for the Rudd government 's climate change taxation policies, Turnbull was replaced as leader of the Liberals by Tony Abbott following a 2009 leadership spill . The Coalition's position in the polls was improved by the leadership change, and Abbott went on to lead the Coalition to the 2010 federal election (which resulted in a hung parliament) and to win
6950-609: The Environment and Water Resources in the Liberal-National coalition led by Prime Minister John Howard . Before entering Parliament, Turnbull had previously worked as a journalist, a barrister and a merchant banker. He also headed the Australian Republican Movement , and had been active in the failed "Yes" campaign for the 1999 republic referendum. The Howard government was defeated at
7089-634: The German Chancellor agreed "Solutions have to be found to allow the European Union to better protect its external borders", but Turnbull did not endorse Abbott's view. News Limited reported that Turnbull "delivered a slap-down to Tony Abbott for lecturing European leaders over their refugee policies as he arrived in Berlin" to meet with Chancellor Angela Merkel . Turnbull said "I have no intention or desire to give advice on these matters to
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#17327733050467228-536: The German Chancellor". On the night of 13 November, a co-ordinated series of terrorist attacks were launched on Paris by IS sympathisers, and over 120 people were killed. Turnbull, still in Germany following his meeting with Merkel, expressed "resolute solidarity with people of France" and held a meeting of the National Security Committee of Cabinet . Turnbull said a political solution, not
7367-534: The Liberal Party rank and file and tensions continued in the parliamentary Party. Abbott said Turnbull supporters had plotted against him. The government reached the 30-consecutive-Newspoll-losses benchmark Turnbull had used to unseat Abbott, in April 2018. The Parliament faced a period of instability under the 2017–18 Australian parliamentary eligibility crisis , and the Turnbull government briefly lost its parliamentary majority and Deputy Prime Minister Joyce. Joyce
7506-725: The Liberal caucus to give him six months to improve the government's standing. The ABC reported that in the lead up to the motion, the Abbott government had been facing "leaks and growing media criticism". In the months after the failed spill motion, leaking and backgrounding against Abbott continued, but polling for the Coalition initially improved. Following the Second Hockey Budget in May 2015, Newspoll placed Abbott's approval rating at an eight-month high, and in front of Opposition leader Bill Shorten as better prime minister for
7645-538: The Liberal deputy position but losing 70–30. Prior to the ballot, the Deputy Prime Minister, Warren Truss , noted in a news conference that the Coalition agreement between the Liberal Party and the Nationals was negotiated with Abbott and that any change in leader would require it to be renegotiated. Political commentators stated that senior Nationals senators disliked the way that Turnbull handled
7784-464: The Paris attacks. Turnbull said he did not wish to "engage in a textual debate" from overseas. One of the reasons Turnbull gave for challenging for the Liberal leadership was dissatisfaction with the economic message and tone of the Abbott government. In his first press conference as Prime Minister-designate, Turnbull said the government needed to build confidence in the Australian economy amongst
7923-486: The Prime Minister would still hold his job in a week's time. The following day, the ABC's 7.30 reported that "The tensions between the Prime Minister and the colleagues campaigning to oust him are heading to a showdown." Liberal MPs Don Randall and Luke Simpkins called a February 2015 spill motion to spill the leadership positions of the party, though with no contender. The motion failed 61 to 39. Abbott reportedly asked
8062-541: The Prime Ministership, Turnbull intervened to delay the release of a tax green paper, and the Sydney Morning Herald reported: "According to bureaucrats, the green paper will now not be released until [2016], pending a full 'reset' on taxation policy and a rethink 'from the ground up'. In policy circles, that's regarded as code for the inclusion of the GST." Initially, Turnbull confirmed that
8201-539: The Queen was replaced by Advance Australia Fair as the Australian national anthem. The government announced the ABS would be assisted by having staff seconded from the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC), the organisation responsible for elections in Australia and managing the electoral roll . The cost of the survey to the Australian taxpayer was forecast to be $ 122 million, however
8340-677: The Review to Achieve Educational Excellence in Australian Schools, to examine evidence and make recommendations on how school funding should be used to improve school performance and student outcomes. This report, having followed an earlier report commissioned by the Gillard government and also chaired by Gonski between 2010 and 2013, was referred to as Gonski 2.0, and was published on 30 April 2018. Julie Bishop backed Turnbull's replacement of Tony Abbott as prime minister and retained
8479-671: The US-led air campaign against IS in Iraq and Syria. Turnbull replaced Abbott supporter Kevin Andrews with Senator Marise Payne , who became Australia's first female Defence Minister, amid Australia's deployment to the Mid-East. Shortly after Turnbull took office, Russia commenced a separate military intervention in Syria, against opponents of Syrian president Bashar al-Assad . US Secretary of State John Kerry , criticised Russia's tactics and told
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#17327733050468618-492: The United Nations in response that "we are now in position with France, Australia, Canada, Turkey, and other coalition partners joining the campaign, to dramatically accelerate our efforts". on 27 October, Abbott criticised the lack of progress of the US–led Coalition on the ground. Turnbull said there were no "current" plans to change the nature of Australia's deployment to the conflict. The ongoing threat of Islamist terrorism made its presence felt in Australia and abroad within
8757-449: The aftermath of strong election performances. The term "majority government" may also be used for a stable long-term coalition of two or more parties to form an absolute majority. One example of such an electoral coalition is in Australia , where the Liberal and National parties have run as an electoral bloc, known simply as the Coalition , for decades. The Coalition is the only party or coalition in Australia to have won at least 90 of
8896-521: The age discrimination complaint much more difficult to argue, because parliament had considered and rejected extending the vote to enrolled 16- and 17-year-olds. The High Court pronounced its orders in both cases on 7 September 2017. The court determined that the survey was lawful, allowing it to proceed as scheduled. The challengers were ordered to pay costs. The High Court handed down its unanimous reasons on 28 September 2017, finding that $ 295 million had been appropriated by parliament, and that whether
9035-415: The announcement of the postal survey indicated that 43% approved of a postal vote and 38% disapproved, whereas a week later, 39% approved of the postal survey and 47% disapproved of it. A small boycott movement existed, although most same sex marriage campaigners who were against a national vote on same-sex marriage urged participation in the postal survey. Some informal responses to the survey were intended as
9174-438: The authority of the ABS to conduct the survey and the government's right to fund the cost of the survey from funds designated by law for "urgent" and "unforeseen" circumstances. Both legal challenges failed and the High Court of Australia found that the survey was lawful. Marriage in Australia is the constitutional province of the federal parliament. Its original legal definition was established by common law as "the union of
9313-407: The backbench. Joe Hockey left Parliament. The Turnbull government continued a number of Abbott government initiatives, promising a plebiscite legalising same-sex marriage, concluding Abbott era initiatives on an anti-domestic violence campaign, funding the National Disability Insurance Scheme , signing a China free trade deal, and reforming Senate voting. The April 2016 refusal of the Senate to pass
9452-424: The bill would have "virtually no prospect of getting through the Parliament". It was dropped by Senator Paterson within hours of the "Yes" vote being released. Each of the political parties represented in the Australian Parliament held formalised positions on same-sex marriage and on the merits of the survey. The Australian Labor Party formally supported the legalisation of same-sex marriage, though offered its MPs
9591-466: The bureau noted that Australians could also authorise a "trusted person" to complete the survey on their behalf. While any person could be appointed a "trusted person", the Chief Minister of the ACT , Andrew Barr offered to fulfil the role for any citizen. Auditors and an external observer process were established to assure the integrity of the process, though the observers are subject to a lifetime confidentiality agreement . A quality and integrity report
9730-403: The business community. Stephen Koukoulas of the progressive Per Capita think tank wrote for The Guardian that "economic growth is sluggish, unemployment is high, real wages are falling and consumer and business confidence are weak" and that Turnbull therefore had "a year to inject confidence and strength into the economy or else he will be swept from office and condemned to history as a wrecker of
9869-488: The campaign for religious freedom exemptions as "a blatant attempt to unravel existing anti-discrimination laws which serve everyone in Australia well, not just LGBTI people". In response to a Newspoll question on the subject; "Do you think parliament should provide guarantees in law for freedom of conscience, belief and religion if it legislates for same-sex marriage?", 62% responded Yes, 18% responded No and 20% said they were "uncommitted". A poll conducted by Galaxy later in
10008-423: The carbon reduction policy in 2009, with other Nationals being "deeply upset" that Turnbull did not acknowledge the Nationals during his first press conference as Prime Minister-designate. Despite these very early tensions, the Nationals ultimately struck a new Coalition agreement with Turnbull on 15 September, shortly before Turnbull was sworn in as prime minister. As part of the agreement, responsibility for water
10147-435: The challenge posed by Islamist terrorism. Media critics accused Abbott of "sniping". In January 2016, Abbott announced his intention to recontest the seat of Warringah at the next election . He won the seat with 61.55% of the vote. On Turnbull's oft-cited key policy differences, climate change , republicanism and same-sex marriage , as well as wider policy generally, he stated his government would continue to follow
10286-730: The children in same-sex parented families. A number of helplines , counselling services and mental health strategies were made available to LGBTIQ people by several organisations, including the Australian Broadcasting Corporation . Similar services were available for Defence , Victorian local councils and health services such as Alfred Health. State governments in Western Australia , Victoria and Queensland all allocated additional funds, ranging from $ 60,000 to $ 500,000, to LGBTIQ mental health services. Other groups, such as Slater and Gordon ,
10425-479: The course of the survey; $ 1 million was personally donated by Qantas CEO Alan Joyce to the "Yes" campaign, and $ 1 million was donated by the Anglican Diocese of Sydney to the "No" campaign. Former Prime Minister Tony Abbott said in November that the "No" campaign had 20,000 donors who donated around $ 6 million to the campaign. At the 2017 NRL Grand Final , American rapper Macklemore
10564-451: The estimation method to use the counts of processed forms. This led to an increase in estimated turnout to 74.5% of the population, up 7.0% on the previous week, despite only 300,000 new responses, or 1.9% of the total, being received during that timeframe. The survey form asked respondents: "Should the law be changed to allow same-sex couples to marry?". The survey offered two one-word responses: "yes" or "no". The government did not release
10703-420: The event the question was rephrased by the participant or the barcode was obscured or removed. The ABS issued several examples of what constituted a valid and invalid response (such as marking both boxes "Yes" and "No" or crossing out one of the words on the form). The ABS advised Australians who received extra survey forms, addressed to the previous occupant who failed to update their electoral details, to write on
10842-467: The examples of the Syrian refugee intake and Roads to Recovery. Deloitte Access Economics estimates that the new spending totals $ 5 billion since May. The government said it would remove bulk-billing incentives for pathology services and reduce incentives for MRI services. The social security and welfare payment integrity measures from the previous budget would be broadened to increase revenue. In
10981-545: The expenditure was unforeseen was a matter for the Minister's satisfaction and there was no error of law in either his reasoning or his conclusion. The information to be collected was "statistical information" of matters prescribed in the Census and Statistics Regulation 2016 (Cth). As the court had considered and rejected the grounds of the application, there was no need to decide whether the plaintiffs had standing. The survey
11120-525: The federal electoral roll , asking the question "Should the law be changed to allow same-sex couples to marry?" The ABS established processes to ensure eligible Australians lacking access to post could participate. Prior to the survey, the Liberal–National Coalition government pledged to facilitate a private member's bill to legalise same-sex marriage in the Parliament in the event of
11259-581: The first months of the Turnbull government, with a shooting in Sydney, and major IS-inspired terror attacks in Paris, Beirut, Mali and elsewhere. Turnbull appointed Michael Keenan as Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for Counter Terrorism. Immigration Minister Dutton, an Abbott supporter, was excluded from the National Security Committee of Cabinet, reportedly over tensions between himself and Turnbull. As Communications Minister in
11398-422: The first six months of the Turnbull government, a number of senior ministers resigned. Jamie Briggs served as Assistant Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development in the Abbott government. An Abbott supporter, he reportedly injured his leg in a party in Abbott's office after Abbott was deposed as Prime Minister , and in which a table was damaged. Turnbull appointed Briggs Minister for Cities and
11537-462: The first three weekly estimates, issued at the National level only, was Australia Post 's assessment of the number of containers of sorted envelopes rather than counts of individual forms. Adjustments were made based on factors such as responses received through other channels and an allowance for forms that are damaged or invalid. From the fourth estimate, released on 24 October 2017, the ABS changed
11676-427: The first time in six months. On 14 September 2015, Turnbull announced that he would be challenging Abbott. Turnbull cited extended poor polling by the Abbott government and a need for a new style of "economic leadership" as reasons for mounting his challenge: "We have lost 30 Newspolls in a row. It is clear that the people have made up their mind about Mr Abbott's leadership", he said. In response, Abbott said that he
11815-425: The following day. The Act's provisions automatically expired on 15 November 2017. Neither the "Yes" or "No" campaign received public funding in the survey, as was envisioned for a compulsory attendance plebiscite. Prime Minister Turnbull also ruled out a ban on foreign donations for the survey. All Australians whose names are on the electoral roll or had applied to be put on the roll before 24 August 2017 were mailed
11954-521: The front of the envelope "return to sender" and send it back. In Australia, it is illegal to open mail addressed to another person. In the rare instance of multiple responses being received from an individual, the ABS noted that only the last valid response could expect to be counted. On 25 September, the ABS confirmed that all survey forms had been mailed to eligible voters and outlined the process for additional forms to be sent to people who did not receive, lost or spoilt their form. The ABS also confirmed that
12093-498: The funding for mental health services during the survey from the federal budget, but did not receive a response. The survey was accompanied by a variety of acts of vandalism and abuse by both parties. In September, a banner reading "Burn Churches, Not Queers" was unfurled at a Coalition for Marriage meeting, and in October several churches in Victoria and New South Wales were graffitied with messages criticising "No" voters. Similarly,
12232-479: The government's bill to re-establish a watchdog for the construction industry provided Turnbull with a double dissolution trigger. An election was held on 2 July, and the government was returned with its majority in the House of Representatives reduced to one seat. The 2016 election saw a resurgence of the right wing Pauline Hanson 's One Nation Party, and discontented conservative Liberal Senator Cory Bernardi left
12371-423: The government's commitment in mid-July. In August 2017, following an attempt by five Liberal Party MPs to change party policy and have a free vote in the parliament on same-sex marriage legislation, the government announced it would move for a voluntary postal survey to be held later that year. It stated that the postal vote would only occur in the event the government's (compulsory) referendum/plebiscite legislation
12510-400: The leader of the Nationals, served as deputy prime minister until he retired in 2016 and was replaced by Barnaby Joyce . Joyce resigned in February 2018 and the Nationals' new leader Michael McCormack became deputy prime minister. The Turnbull government concluded with Turnbull's resignation ahead of internal leadership ballot which saw him succeeded as prime minister by Scott Morrison and
12649-523: The legal aspects, de facto relationships do not have the same symbolic significance as marriage. Before the July 2016 federal election , the Malcolm Turnbull -led Coalition government promised to hold a national vote on same-sex marriage in the form of a compulsory attendance plebiscite . Opposition to this idea centred on its criticism as an expensive delaying tactic and that it was the duty of
12788-485: The legality of the survey with the High Court of Australia , both on the grounds of unlawful funding from legally-specified funds and unlawful operation by the ABS. The first was by same-sex marriage advocates Shelley Argent (national spokeswoman of Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays ) and Felicity Marlowe (member of Rainbow Families), along with independent MP Andrew Wilkie . They announced they would challenge
12927-467: The meeting of Liberal MPs plotting against Tony Abbott on the night before the spill" as Abetz and Dutton called on Bishop to explain. Former ministers Abetz and Andrews expressed some discontent at government direction, while Bruce Billson announced his retirement and Ian Macfarlane – with the support of Deputy Prime Minister Warren Truss – attempted to switch to the National Party, but the move
13066-434: The ministry, following an expenses scandal. Greg Hunt was appointed as Ley's replacement as the Minister for Health and Sport, and Ken Wyatt was appointed Assistant Minister for Health and Minister for Indigenous Health and Aged Care, both with effect from 24 January 2017. Majority government A majority government is a government by one or more governing parties that hold an absolute majority of seats in
13205-582: The modern awards system. Turnbull was sworn in as prime minister at around 1:30 pm AEST on 15 September 2015, by the Governor-General, Sir Peter Cosgrove , in a ceremony at Government House . Question Time for the House of Representatives was delayed until 2:30 pm AEST to accommodate this. Turnbull announced his new ministry on 20 September. In an extensive reshuffle, he dropped Joe Hockey , Eric Abetz , Ian Macfarlane , Kevin Andrews , Michael Ronaldson and Bruce Billson , increased
13344-499: The months following the leadership change, Coalition tensions remained. Liberal Party rank and file and backbench divisions emerged as a result of the replacement of an elected prime minister. Immigration Minister Dutton was excluded from the National Security Committee of Cabinet, reportedly over tensions between himself and Turnbull. In November, Fairfax reported: "Simmering tensions over the September leadership coup have flared up amid revelations Julie Bishop's chief of staff attended
13483-557: The murder. Amid the deteriorating Syrian Civil War and following Germany's decision to open its borders to large numbers of asylum seekers, Tony Abbott delivered the Margaret Thatcher Lecture in London on 28 October, and urged Europe to look to the Australian example of border management, and for the international community to do more to resolve the Syrian conflict. In a joint conference with Turnbull on 13 November,
13622-492: The notion of gender theory in school curriculum, one such ad focusing on the book The Gender Fairy and featuring two of the mothers from the original advertisement. The other advertisement included archive footage of one of the founders of the Safe Schools program and included material alleged to have been available for viewing by year seven students which was subsequently deemed inappropriate for unrestricted viewing by
13761-471: The number of liberals and decreased the number of conservatives in cabinet, female cabinet ministers rose from two to five, and Marise Payne was appointed as Australia's first female Minister for Defence . The number of cabinet ministers rose from 19 to 21. In addition to the Health and Sport portfolios which she held in the Abbott government, Sussan Ley was later appointed Minister for Aged Care. Within
13900-492: The parliament, rather than a matter related to the Australian Constitution . While the Coalition won 76 of the 150 seats in the lower house in the 2016 election and managed to form a majority government by one seat, they failed to pass the necessary legislation for a (compulsory attendance) referendum/plebiscite. The legislation passed the House of Representatives on 20 October 2016 by a vote of 76–67, but
14039-585: The party and established the Australian Conservatives soon after. The now elected Turnbull government secured passage of the Registered Organisations and Australian Building and Construction Commission legislation. In 2017, it announced Federal funds for expansion of Snowy Hydro . In June 2017, it introduced the "Gonski 2.0" reforms to schools funding. Factional strains continued. Turnbull's ousting of Abbott had divided
14178-926: The party's vice-president, who said that same-sex marriage would have consequences for freedom of speech , religion and association . Both Prime Minister Turnbull and Bill Shorten , leader of the Opposition , spoke in favour of religious freedom protections, with Turnbull stating he was an even "stronger believer" in freedom of religion than same-sex marriage. Shorten said the Labor Party would "make sure that concerns about religious freedom are met with and dealt with and are treated with respect". The prospect of additional religious freedom exemptions being added to existing Australian anti-discrimination law troubled some "Yes" advocates, who feared such provisions could allow service providers to discriminate on any basis, not just limited to couples' sex. Tiernan Brady described
14317-439: The post of Minister for Foreign Affairs in the Turnbull government. Andrew Robb supported Abbott, but remained Minister for Trade and Investment until announcing his retirement in February 2016. He was replaced by Steven Ciobo . Malcolm Turnbull's first overseas visit as prime minister was to New Zealand, in October 2015, where he met with Prime Minister John Key and discussed immigration rules. In November, he embarked on
14456-626: The postal survey in the High Court on 9 August 2017 and seek a temporary injunction. The second challenge was by Australian Marriage Equality and Greens Senator Janet Rice . An additional complaint was lodged by a 17-year-old boy with the Australian Human Rights Commission in August 2017, on the basis that the rules did not allow provisionally enrolled 16- and 17-year-old Australians the right to participate in
14595-684: The postal survey was related to increased levels of depressions, anxiety, and stress. The rights and welfare of children, particularly as it related to same-sex parenting , was occasionally discussed publicly through the survey. Organisations such as the Australian Catholic Bishops' Conference , the Presbyterian Church of Australia and the Australian National Imams Council all advocated strongly for nuclear family structures during
14734-469: The postal survey, and recommended that the Australian Electoral Commission increase its voter registration and education efforts in remote communities and work with Indigenous peak bodies to achieve greater participation. Key dates relating to the survey were: The results of the survey (including participation rates) were released at a national level, at a state and territory level and at an electorate level. Two legal challenges were lodged contesting
14873-504: The pro-same-sex marriage campaign by five mental health services, reported increases (variously at) 20, 30 and 40 per cent in clients during the survey period and crisis support service Lifeline noted a spike in calls about the impact of the survey. Mental health surveys conducted during this period showed that increased exposure to the 'no' campaign was related to increased levels of depression, anxiety, and stress among same-sex attracted Australians. Shorten wrote to Turnbull about increasing
15012-522: The responsibility of the Department of Environment, which was seen as a sign that the agencies were going to be retained. Australia attended the 2015 United Nations Climate Change Conference and adopted the Paris Agreement . The agreement includes a review of emission reduction targets every 5 years from 2020. During the term of the Abbott government, Australia had committed to supporting
15151-432: The roll achieved a record high with over 16 million Australians on the roll (an additional 90,000 people had joined with a further 165,000 transactions still to be processed). 65,000 of these new voters are between the ages of 18 and 24. With 933,592 enrolment transactions completed by the AEC at the end of processing, more than 98,000 people were added to the roll, and the total number of Australians eligible to participate in
15290-564: The same policies of the Abbott government . Reflecting a change in the Abbott government stance concerning the Australian honours system , on 2 November 2015, Turnbull announced that the Queen approved the government's request to amend the Order's letters patent and cease awards as Knights and Dames in the Order of Australia after Cabinet agreed that the titles were no longer appropriate in
15429-510: The scheduled performance of "Same Love", given its high-profile support for the "Yes" campaign during the voting period of the Australian Marriage Law Postal Survey. Macklemore acknowledged the controversy several days before the final, but vowed to "go harder" as a result. A nationwide study of lesbian, gay, and bisexual mental health found that increased exposure to negative, anti-LGBT media messages during
15568-412: The social sector. The three-hour meeting did not result in any policy commitments, but the participants agreed on the need for economic growth, returning to a budget surplus, increasing employment, investing in infrastructure and pushing for innovation and increased productivity. The MYEFO was expected to include savings measures, as Morrison had stated that "any new spending must be fully offset", giving
15707-518: The survey found 78% of respondents said Yes in response to the question; "If the majority vote 'yes' in the postal survey, should same-sex couples be treated the same under the law compared with other couples?" An inquiry into religious freedoms , headed by Philip Ruddock , was announced in November 2017. This has been interpreted as a way to allow the speedy passage of the Dean Smith bill and postpone discussions of religious freedom. It completed
15846-468: The survey of the kind found in the Electoral Act . Consequently, the Government and Opposition engaged in negotiations to introduce legislation designed to replicate these types of regulations, as well as create measures to prevent vilification, intimidation, or threats to cause harm on the basis of the sexual orientation, gender identity, intersex status or the religious convictions of someone during
15985-608: The survey period. On 13 September, the government introduced the Marriage Law Survey (Additional Safeguards) Bill 2017 for these purposes in the Senate . The bill passed the Senate, after an amendment moved by Greens leader Richard Di Natale to allow 16- and 17-year-olds the right to participate in the survey was defeated. The bill immediately proceeded to and was passed by the House of Representatives . The bill received royal assent on 13 September and went into effect
16124-515: The survey received support from Labor, the Liberals for yes campaign, and four minor political parties represented in the Federal parliament, and from prominent lobby groups including Australian Marriage Equality and GetUp! . The campaign advocating voting against changing the marriage laws in the survey was supported by the Nationals and three minor parties represented in the Federal parliament. Several groups opposed to same-sex marriage, including
16263-430: The survey was 16,005,998. However, after the results of the survey were released, the ABS revealed that in fact 16,006,180 surveys were mailed out to eligible Australians. The Senate Finance and Public Administration References Committee opened a Public Inquiry into the arrangements around the postal survey on 14 August with a submission made and evidence given by the ABS at hearings on 17 August. Further hearings involving
16402-484: The survey was voluntary. The results of the survey were published on 15 November 2017. The survey returned 7,817,247 (61.6%) "Yes" responses and 4,873,987 (38.4%) "No" responses. An additional 36,686 (0.3%) responses were unclear and the total turnout was 12,727,920 (79.5%). A survey form, instructions, and a reply-paid envelope were mailed out by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) to every person on
16541-454: The survey, $ 5.3 million on printing costs, and $ 600,000 for staff. The AEC reported that about 68,000 enrolment transactions were completed on 10 August, compared with an average of 4,000 per day. In the period 8–14 August over 16,000 people had enrolled, and over 200,000 had updated their details. By 20 August, over 36,000 had enrolled, and over 434,000 had updated their enrolment details. By 22 August, over 54,000 had enrolled. By 25 August
16680-630: The survey. A fact check article published in The Conversation , which was based on a review of the literature on outcomes for children of same-sex parents, showed equal or better outcomes for children raised by parents of the same gender. Likewise, a review published late in the survey period by the Medical Journal of Australia agreed with The Conversation's findings, but noted that the effects of being exposed to stigma and discrimination could lead to poorer public health outcomes for
16819-432: The survey. The complaint could have led to a federal court case to argue for the right of about 50,000 Australians aged 16 and 17 on the electoral roll to vote, however the boy dropped his complaint on 22 September, after a Greens amendment to the Marriage Law Survey (Additional Safeguards) Act 2017 was rejected by the Parliament earlier in the month. Legal counsel to the boy advised that the rejected amendment would make
16958-492: The total amount spent ended up being $ 80.5 million. This expense, as well as the notion that the debate would activate ideological extremists and that normal electoral rules would not apply, were criticised in Parliament. By 7 September, the date the high court challenges against the survey were heard , a total of $ 14.1 million had already been spent by the ABS on the postal survey – $ 8 million on advertising for
17097-557: The views on same-sex marriage of all Australians on the electoral roll. The government asserted that this proposal did not require legislative approval from the parliament, arguing that the provisions of the Appropriations Act and the law governing the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) enabled it to use the ABS for such a purpose. This was argued by the government to be similar to the process by which God Save
17236-440: The wording of the survey question, which referred explicitly to "same-sex couples". Liberal Senator Dean Smith , who drafted a same-sex marriage bill in August 2017, argued his bill struck a "fair balance" in protecting the rights of same-sex couples and the religious freedoms of celebrants . The bill allows current civil celebrants to become religious celebrants and refuse to perform same sex marriages, and incorporates parts of
17375-405: Was "dismayed by the destabilisation that's been taking place now for many, many months" and that Australia needed "strong and stable government and that means avoiding, at all costs, Labor's revolving-door prime ministership". A September 2015 leadership spill was called, with Turnbull challenging Abbott, and winning by 54 votes to 44, and Abbott supporter Kevin Andrews challenging Julie Bishop for
17514-542: Was accused of sexual harassment . Mal Brough was stood down from the ministry at the same time as Briggs resigned. Brough's standing down followed news that the Australian Federal Police were investigating him over an alleged copying of the diary of former speaker Peter Slipper . Brough had served as a Minister in the Howard government , but lost his seat in the 2007 election. He was re-elected at
17653-537: Was again rejected by the Senate. That occurred on 9 August 2017, when a government-initiated motion in the Senate to debate the Plebiscite (Same-Sex Marriage) Bill 2016 was tied at 31–31; resulting in the motion being defeated. Following the result in the Senate, the government directed the Australian Statistician (head of the Australian Bureau of Statistics ) to begin the process of surveying
17792-676: Was also levelled at issues of privacy, with the recent census problems of 2016 being cited. The ABS advised that survey responses would be anonymous and protected under the secrecy provisions of the Census and Statistics Act 1905. Prior to the survey commencing, former Privacy Commissioner Malcolm Crompton independently reviewed the ABS's privacy approaches and mitigations and announced he was suitably satisfied. The ABS also worked to address concerns with special strategies like paperless options (telephony and online form) and form drop off and pick up points in remote and capital city locations. Additionally,
17931-399: Was announced that university funding would be a reduced by 2.5%.; university fees would go up by $ 2,000 to $ 3,600 for a four-year course, an increase of 1.8% in 2018, and 7.5% by 2022; and from 1 July 2018, the income level at which HECS debt repayments start would be reduced, from $ 55,000 to $ 42,000. In 2017 the Turnbull government commissioned David Gonski to chair an independent panel,
18070-498: Was blocked by the Liberals. Hockey's seat of North Sydney went to a by-election, which saw a 12.84% swing against the Liberal Party. Abbott criticised the leaders of the effort to bring him down, and promised "no sniping" in his final speech as prime minister. On 16 September, it was reported that Abbott intended to stay in parliament. As a backbencher, Abbott continued his commentary on the record of his government and on world affairs, particularly in relation to national security and
18209-479: Was booked to perform several songs, including " Same Love ". The song topped the Australian charts in 2013 , and was regarded as an anthem for same-sex marriage advocates during the campaign in Macklemore's home state of Washington . In the days leading up to the grand final, the single returned to the top of the Australian iTunes charts. Several prominent conservative politicians voiced strong opposition to
18348-561: Was conducted on a voluntary basis, with no requirement on the part of the eligible Australian to mail back the survey form. This led to concerns over a potentially low voter turnout/response rate and the prospect of Indigenous Australians in remote communities being unable to complete a survey. Concern had been expressed regarding: electors whose addresses were not visible on the electoral roll (known as silent electors); disenfranchisement in remote communities; Australians overseas; prisoners; non-English speakers; and young people. Early criticism
18487-444: Was into a 2014 private trip to China during which Robert had met with a Chinese government minister at an agreement signing ceremony between Chinese and Australian companies. Following these retirements and resignations, a ministerial reshuffle was announced on 13 February 2016. The new ministry , including Barnaby Joyce , who had been elected as leader of the National Party on 11 February and therefore became deputy prime minister,
18626-549: Was published by the ABS alongside the release of the survey results. During the survey period, online sellers were contacted by the ABS asking them to remove ads by people offering to sell their postal survey or answer. The ABS advised that such an action would likely constitute an offence under the Census and Statistics Act 1905, the Commonwealth Criminal Code and the survey safeguards legislation passed by Parliament. The Digital Transformation Agency assisted
18765-453: Was re-elected, but in February 2018 Turnbull denounced him and forced his resignation after the press reported on an office affair he had been conducting with a staffer. By-election losses in July 2018 further diminished Turnbull's authority. Dissent from conservative MPs over issues such as energy prices and immigration levels grew during Turnbull's final months. On 21 August, Turnbull announced
18904-426: Was rejected by the Senate on 7 November 2016 by a vote of 33–29. The idea of a postal plebiscite was originally proposed by Liberal MP Warren Entsch and later endorsed by government ministers Peter Dutton and Mathias Cormann . Dutton pointed out that a postal vote would not need legislation to operate. A staffer of Attorney-General George Brandis came up with the idea of a survey as an alternative way to fulfil
19043-556: Was sworn in on 18 February 2016. Fiona Nash , who had been elected as Deputy Leader of the Nationals, Darren Chester and Steve Ciobo moved into the cabinet. A range of other appointees to the outer ministry were also sworn in. Turnbull confirmed that his government would keep the emissions reductions targets set by the Abbott government . Under Turnbull, the Australian Renewable Energy Agency and Clean Energy Finance Corporation were transferred to
19182-454: Was the federal executive government of Australia led by the 29th prime minister of Australia , Malcolm Turnbull , from 2015 to 2018. It succeeded the Abbott government , which brought the Coalition to power at the 2013 Australian federal election . The government consisted of members of Australia's Liberal - Nationals Coalition . Turnbull took office by challenging his leader, Tony Abbott , in an internal leadership ballot . Warren Truss ,
19321-440: Was transferred from Liberal Greg Hunt 's environment portfolio to Nationals Barnaby Joyce 's agriculture portfolio. The Nationals successfully negotiated a total of $ 4 billion worth of deals from Turnbull in exchange for a continued Coalition agreement. They also received assurances from Turnbull that he would maintain the policy positions of the Abbott government in relation to carbon pricing and in relation to requiring
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