Howard states fourth term agenda

Mr Howard was returned to power in October with a bigger majority

Australia's John Howard began his fourth term as Prime Minister on Tuesday, vowing to focus on defeating terrorism and reforming the economy.

At a ceremonial opening of the country's parliament, Governor-General Michael Jeffery read out a policy speech written by Mr Howard's office.

Following Australia's October election, Mr Howard now controls both upper and lower houses.

This makes him the most powerful Australian prime minister in 24 years.

The speech read by Mr Jeffery made it clear Mr Howard would use the platform to stress security and push through media reforms and a large telecoms privatisation.

"The government will maintain a strong stand against international terrorism and the threat of proliferation of weapons of mass destruction," he said, adding that Canberra would strengthen co-operation with regional governments to aid the fight.

Mr Howard's plans include deploying squads of Australian police officers in neighbouring countries, and establishing a joint intelligence training centre.

Mr Jeffery said that in addition to sustaining Australia's close relationship with the US, the government would build on its links with Japan, expand its ties with China and work for a peaceful resolution to the crisis on the Korean peninsula.

Telstra sell-off

Another key goal of Mr Howard's fourth term will be the liberalisation of the country's labour markets.

The speech confirmed the government's plans to sell its A$30bn (US$22.4bn) stake in communications giant Telstra.

Rival parties in the Senate have in the past blocked attempts at a full privatisation, which, opponents said, would endanger rural telecom services.

But Mr Howard's new majority in the upper chamber could now allow him to pass such legislation unhindered.

Analysts said proceeds from the sale of Telstra could go towards funding government infrastructure projects and meeting some future pension costs.

The government will also loosen media ownership laws, which currently bar cross-ownership of dominant television and newspaper interests in major Australian cities.

Opposition parties fear this could threaten media diversity.

Mr Jeffery's speech marked the official start of Mr Howard's fourth term. Earlier on Tuesday, newly elected members of the House of Representatives - the lower house - took their seats. The newly elected Senators will not take their oaths of office until next year.