Liberal senator aims to defends democracy

In his first speech to parliament on Tuesday, the Victorian also declared defending democracy was the great challenge of Australian politics.

Senator Van defended the government's "best form of welfare is a job" mantra.

"This goes beyond a mere slogan; it has truth in meaning," he said.

He said people who needed help should never be left behind, but helping people into jobs led to a range of more important outcomes through the dignity of work.

"This is why we believe that a job is indeed the best form of welfare as it provides these things and is not merely a monetary contribution."

Senator Van said much had been made of a loss of faith in politics after the election, with some suggestion democracy could be failing.

"What a sad state of affairs it would be if that declaration were true," Senator Van told parliament.

"The death of democracy could only mean one of two scenarios: the rise of autocracy with a reincarnation of totalitarianism via the rebirth of socialism; or I guess it could also mean a return to an oligarchy.

"But I am sure Her Majesty would be kind enough to send us a note first."

He said leading was about making hard choices, and people shouldn't expect government to solve all problems.

"I believe in free markets, freedom of speech, and most importantly in my view, getting government out of people's lives to the most practicable extent possible," he said.

The Victorian said Scott Morrison's "quiet Australians" like Robert Menzies' "forgotten people" and John Howard's "battlers" were the bedrock of Australia.

"Every generation has faced its own unique social, moral and economic challenges," he said.

"Quiet Australians look to good government to address these challenges on their behalf. "

Australian Associated Press