St Joseph's Nudgee College

October 15, 2010

Deputy Prime Minister and Federal Treasurer the Hon Wayne Swan today hosted an economics forum with local high school students at St Joseph’s Nudgee College.

During the ‘Why Economics Matters’ forum Mr Swan discussed with the Year 11 Economics and Business students Australia’s economic performance during the Global Financial Crisis, the impact key drivers of the economy have when trying to create a sustainable economy and used the government’s stimulus packages as an example of stimulatory macroeconomic policy.

“Australia was the only developed economy to grow in 2009 and is the only developed economy to have had 20 years of continuous growth,” Mr Swan said.

“During my recent trips overseas what stands out to the rest of the world is how strong Australia’s economy is. However the economy is not just about money or spreadsheets, it is how you will go about living your life,” he said.

Mr Swan also shared some of his educational experiences with the students including a school photo and one of his transcripts from his university days.

“I was not always focused on my studies when I was at school. There was always a party to go to or surf that needed my attention. I wasn’t the best student and didn’t graduate with distinctions or high distinctions. However, it is not just about the marks.

“Work hard and be passionate about what you do. As you know we don’t always get to do what we want to do in life. That’s why a good education is so important. A good education allows you to choose what you want to do,” he said.

Following Mr Swan’s address, students had the opportunity to ask questions during a Q&A session facilitated by Mr Swan before attending a morning tea where students were able to meet Economics students from other schools and spend some informal time with the Deputy PM.

Topics covered by the students included the strength of the Australian dollar, the Murray-Darling draft report, Australia’s financial aid budget, drought problems, the Queensland asset sell-off, the Australian housing market and mining and carbon taxes.

“I hope as students of Economics you get excited by some of the policies we’ve gone through today. Become passionate about your country and not just your own interests,” Mr Swan concluded.

Mr Swan encouraged students to engage with him on the issues discussed through the Lilley Youth Group he is establishing.

People interested in joining the Youth Group can find more information at www.swanmp.org.
 

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