AUSTRALIAN Resources and Energy Group AREEA thanks the Hon. Kelly O’Dwyer for her service to the industry and the nation, following Saturday’s announcement she would leave politics at the next Federal Election.

Minister O’Dwyer has been a strong supporter of AREEA, its members and the Australian resources and energy industry since elected to Parliament in 2009 and particularly since 2015 from when she held a variety of Cabinet positions.

“Kelly should be extremely proud of all she has achieved in Parliament,” Tara Diamond, Acting Chief Executive of AREEA, said.

“Across various ministerial portfolios, including small business, assistant treasurer, revenue and financial services, women, jobs and industrial relations, Kelly O’Dwyer has been a great supporter of business and a great supporter of the resources and energy industry.

“She understands and appreciates that a strong and vibrant business community, underpinned by competitive government policies, is key to a strong and vibrant Australia.

“We particularly thank Kelly for her support as Minister for Women of AREEA’s initiatives and programs aimed at supporting and encouraging more women to join the resources and energy industry.

“Further, Kelly achieved a great deal in her short time as Minister for Industrial Relations, including:

• passing legislation to improve the enterprise agreement approval processes;
• providing clarity to employers and employees on rights and responsibilities regarding casual employment;
• bolstering the resources of the Australian Building and Construction Commission (ABCC) to address rising lawbreaking; and
• appointing much-needed additional tribunal members to the Fair Work Commission.

“AREEA and our members wish Kelly well in the remaining months of her public service and in the future beyond politics.”

MEDIA CONTACT: Brad Thompson, 0409 781 580

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