Mr ANTHONY SMITH (6:59 PM) —On behalf of all of the electors of Casey, in the outer east of Melbourne and the Yarra Valley, I would like to associate myself with this motion of condolence for the New Zealand earthquake tragedy and the remarks of all members who have spoken in the House and in the Main Committee. All the words have been poignant; all of them have made the point that the tragedy in New Zealand is something that we as Australians relate to as we would relate to a tragedy affecting our cousins. The Leader of the Opposition said that New Zealanders are our brothers and sisters, and that is true.

All of us recall the images as news came through earlier this year. We knew immediately that the situation had cost lives and we knew that our great friend and neighbour, New Zealand, was going through a terrible tragedy. The people of Christchurch, all of the families and all of those affected in every way know that in Australia they have their closest friend watching, helping and wishing them all the best in the recovery—a recovery which will take a long time. Of course, in Japan, the recovery will also take a long time. A separate motion was moved earlier regarding the Japanese tragedy that made clear the thoughts of honourable members who spoke in that debate.

In following your contribution, Mr Deputy Speaker, and those of the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition and other honourable members, I wish to associate myself with those remarks to extend, on behalf of my electorate, sympathies to all of those New Zealanders so deeply affected by the tragedy in their country.

The DEPUTY SPEAKER —I understand it is the wish of honourable members to signify at this stage their respect and sympathy by rising in their places.

Honourable members having stood in their places—

The DEPUTY SPEAKER —I thank the Committee.