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--英文原件-- 
PARLIAMENT UPDATE: 2-5th dec. 2019
This week, Parliament sat for the last time this year. It was pleasing to note that the data from the National Accounts for the September Quarter released earlier this week, demonstrate that the Australian economy has remained resilient despite global headwinds, with growth at a rate of 1.7 per cent. Australia remains one of only ten countries to maintain a AAA credit rating, with the budget returning to surplus this year for the first time in twelve years.
Importantly, growth in the jobs market has also remained strong, with more than 1.4 million jobs created since we came to government in 2013, meaning welfare dependency is at its lowest level in 30 years.
Also this week, we've taken further steps to respond to the threat of terrorism in Australia. We've passed legislation that will make it significantly harder for terrorists and their supporters to get bail or parole. The bill also closes a loophole that could have prevented some high-risk terrorists from being kept in custody after their sentences expired on what are known as continuing detention orders.
When I was Chair of the Joint Parliamentary Committee on Intelligence & Security, evidence clearly showed that continuing detention orders were necessary for some bloodthirsty terrorists.
As we were sadly reminded by the most recent London terrorist knife attack - perpetrated by a convicted terrorist given early parole - we cannot risk the lives of innocent people by allowing these killers back on the streets.
We are also continuing to deal with foreign terrorist fighters as far away from our shores as possible, including by stripping Australian citizenship from those who have left Australia to rape and kill with ISIS, who would pose an unacceptable risk if they ever returned.
Finally, in Question Time this week, I was asked about the government's plans to help first home buyers get into the property market sooner, including through our First Home Loan Deposit Scheme which commences in less than a months time - on the 1st of January next year.
videos of my speeches in Parliament by either clicking on the articles below or by visiting www.michaelsukkar.com.au.
Best regards
The Hon Michael Sukkar MP
Federal Member for Deakin
Minister for Housing & Assistant Treasurer
