Portfolio Media Releases

Last chance for Smith to correct the record

Article Categories: Portfolio Media Releases, Foreign Affairs

Statement by the Hon Andrew Robb AO MP

Before Australia’s Foreign Minister, Stephen Smith, leaves the United States today, he should explain to the many angry US-based Australian businessmen and women what he intends to do to correct the perception, created in his “inept” speech to over 200 US investors in New York, that Australia is not an attractive investment option.

Reportedly, Mr Smith’s comments effectively “warned off” potential investors, leaving many of those who were considering putting money into our country having second thoughts.

At a time of global economic uncertainty and with the Australian economy in very strong shape, Australia needs a Government that is putting the nation’s interests first and not trying to score cheap political points overseas at the expense of Aussie jobs and investment.

Media Contact: Stuart Eaton, 0433 298 620