Federal Treasurer Wayne Swan has defended his governments attempts to boost jobs and skilled labour.
The mining boom is the first phase in the shifting of the global economy in Australia's favour, Mr Swan said at the National Press Club.
And he said that growth in Asia, in particular China and India, is turning hundreds of millions across the continent into middle class citizens
'The implications for Australia are huge, Mr Swan said.
'This budget is about securing for Australians a prosperous future in this immense economic zone.'
Getting people into work was essential, Mr Swan said, but although jobs were the government's focus, it was not all that was needed.
'Recognising the role that education and training can play' were also crucial, and it was down to governments, he said.
Australia has always been at its best when embracing the forces of change, rather than resisting them, he said. This included implementing the carbon tax.
He said it was a budget based on his and the prime minister's firmest convictions and Labor values.
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