After one of the closest elections in our nation's history followed by 17 days of negotiations, I know Australians are ready to see our Government get down to business.
I believe Australians want to see this Parliament get work done.
It's important to remember that the last minority government - the Curtin-Chifley Government in 1941 - went on to become arguably the greatest Government in the history of our Commonwealth.
In his ninth and last Budget Speech in 1949, Chifley called out to the nation as it stood at the threshold of the second half of the twentieth century, saying:
"We should not be afraid to set our goals high".
That is my appeal to the new Parliament as we embark on the first sitting.
Our goal is to improve the future of all Australians to make us a stronger, smarter, fairer nation.
It requires us to deliver changes that will improve the lives of Australians for years to come.
Changes like the National Broadband Network.
Changes like a new approach to regional development.
Changes like national health reform.....
...As well as the continuation of the education revolution, a continued focus on keeping people in jobs and the transition to a low carbon economy.
These changes are big and daunting.
They will require determination and persistence.
To succeed we will have to both consult and collaborate - to seek consensus and build new partnerships...
But I am optimistic.
I am confident that, led by Labor, this unique Parliament can deliver strong, stable and effective government that also delivers real change for all Australians.
I look forward to sharing our achievements with you.
Thank you.