The House met, at 10 am, pursuant to adjournment. The Speaker (the Honourable M. Dick) took the Chair, made an acknowledgement of country and read Prayers.

PETITIONS—standing Committee —REPORT—STATEMENT BY MEMBER

Ms Templeman (Chair) presented the following documents:

Petitions—Standing Committee—Report 33: Petitions and Ministerial responses—

Report, 4 November 2024.

Petitions.

Ministers’ responses to petitions previously presented to the House.

Ms Templeman made a statement in connection with petitions.

APPOINTMENT OF Parliamentary Budget Officer

The Speaker informed the House that Ms Sam Reinhardt had been appointed Parliamentary Budget Officer from 18 November 2024.

Public Accounts and Audit—Joint Committee —STATEMENT BY MEMBER

In accordance with the Parliamentary Service Act 1999 , Ms Burney (Chair) made a statement concerning the committee’s decision on the appointment of the Parliamentary Budget Officer.

Public Accounts and Audit—Joint Committee —REPORTS—STATEMENT BY MEMBER

Ms Burney (Chair) presented the following documents:

Public Accounts and Audit—Joint Committee—

Report 505: Inquiry into policy and program design and implementation—Report, November 2024.

Report 506: Inquiry into Commonwealth financial statements 2022-23—Report, November 2024.

In accordance with standing order 39(e) the reports were made Parliamentary Papers.

Ms Burney made a statement in connection with the reports.

Accountability of Grants, Investment Mandates and Use of Public Resources Amendment (End Pork Barrelling) Bill 2024 [No. 2]

Dr Haines, pursuant to notice, presented a Bill for an Act to reform the governance, performance and accountability of grants, Investment Mandates and use of public resources, and for related purposes.

Document

Dr Haines presented an explanatory memorandum to the bill.

Bill read a first time.

Dr Haines moved—That the bill be now read a second time.

Debate adjourned and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Competition and Consumer Amendment (Tougher Penalties for Supermarket and Hardware Businesses) Bill 2024

Mr Taylor, pursuant to notice, presented a Bill for an Act to amend the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 , and for related purposes.

Document

Mr Taylor presented an explanatory memorandum to the bill.

Bill read a first time.

Mr Taylor moved—That the bill be now read a second time.

Debate adjourned and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Food and Grocery (Mandatory) Code of Conduct Bill 2024

Mr Littleproud, pursuant to notice, presented a Bill for an Act to apply the Food and Grocery Code of Conduct as a mandatory industry code for large retailers and wholesalers, and for related purposes.

Document

Mr Littleproud presented an explanatory memorandum to the bill.

Bill read a first time.

Mr Littleproud moved—That the bill be now read a second time.

Debate adjourned and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Corporations Amendment (Streamlining Advice Process) Bill 2024

Mr van Manen, pursuant to notice, presented a Bill for an Act to amend the Corporations Act 2001 , and for related purposes.

Document

Mr van Manen presented an explanatory memorandum to the bill.

Bill read a first time.

Mr van Manen moved—That the bill be now read a second time.

Debate adjourned and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Higher Education Support Amendment (Fair Study and Opportunity) Bill 2024

Ms Le, pursuant to notice, presented a Bill for an Act to amend the Higher Education Support Act 2003 , and for related purposes.

Document

Ms Le presented an explanatory memorandum to the bill.

Bill read a first time.

Ms Le moved—That the bill be now read a second time.

Debate adjourned and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Infrastructure investment

Ms Spender, pursuant to notice, moved—That this House:

(1) notes that:

(a) Australia is currently committed to a 10-year, $120 billion infrastructure investment pipeline;

(b) infrastructure investment is important but does compete directly with housing for materials and skills within the construction sector;

(c) two independent inquiries, namely the Independent Review of the National Partnership Agreement on Land Transport Infrastructure Projects and the Independent Strategic Review of the Infrastructure Investment Program, have been critical of the processes for determining Commonwealth Government infrastructure allocations; and

(d) Infrastructure Australia noted that in 2019 the construction sector was at capacity and since then infrastructure spending as a share of gross domestic product has increased 50 per cent while construction costs have increased by more than 30 per cent; and

(2) calls on the Government to:

(a) publish a response to the independent reviews;

(b) commit to implementing long-term investment strategies and publishing business cases for large-scale infrastructure projects; and

(c) identify and pause non-essential infrastructure projects until capacity has returned to the construction sector.

Debate ensued.

The time allotted for the debate having expired, the debate was interrupted, and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for a later hour this day.

Supermarket sector

Mr Rae, pursuant to notice, moved—That this House:

(1) acknowledges the Government is taking decisive action to help consumers get fairer prices at supermarkets, in stores and online, including:

(a) the release of an interim report from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), which looks at a wide range of concerns, from land banking to shrinkflation;

(b) making suppliers follow the Food and Grocery Code of Conduct, a mandatory code, following the recommendations of former competition minister Craig Emerson; and

(c) revitalising the National Competition Policy to boost productivity and living standards;

(2) notes the Government believes that alleged misconduct in the supermarket sector is unfair, unacceptable, and it makes cost of living pressures worse for Australians, so it is:

(a) providing a $30 million package of additional funding for the ACCC to crack down on misleading pricing practices and poor conduct; and

(b) funding CHOICE, the consumer organisation, over three years to report on supermarket prices across Australia; and

(3) recognises the Government’s number one priority is tackling the cost of living pressures facing hard working Australians and making sure they are paying a fair price at the checkout, and Australian farmers are getting a fair price for their goods.

Debate ensued.

The time allotted for the debate having expired, the debate was interrupted, and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Banking sector

Mr Hamilton, pursuant to notice, moved—That this House:

(1) notes that:

(a) on 15 November 2023, the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) announced it was investigating tighter liquidity and capital requirements for smaller Authorised Deposit‑Taking Institutions (ADIs);

(b) in making this announcement, APRA did not provide any evidence to justify this change, had failed to consult with industry, provided no evidence to support the change in policy, and did not consider the impacts on competition in the Australian banking sector;

(c) the Australian banking sector is subject to considerable prudential regulation and is intelligent in its approach to ensuring the banking sector’s resilience to financial market stress;

(d) the changes would have required smaller ADIs on the Minimum Liquid Holding (MLH) regime to change their liquidity and capital composition, and revalue liquidity risk over both short and longer periods;

(e) on 24 July 2024, APRA announced it would implement two of the three proposed changes;

(f) APRA will not proceed with changes to a phase-out of the bank debt securities, pending a holistic review of the MLH regime in 2025, ensuring smaller ADIs can continue to compete;

(g) these changes presented a real risk to the smaller banking sector, particularly those ADIs on the MLH regime which would have been subject to tighter liquidity requirements and reduced capital;

(h) the changes would have resulted in less competition, less access to capital and higher costs for consumers; and

(i) mutual banks and credit unions play an important role in our economy and communities; and

(2) acknowledges that:

(a) APRA’s proposed requirements will have a significant negative impact on smaller banks;

(b) competition in the banking sector is important for the economy, consumers and for strong markets; and

(c) unnecessary Government regulation will further erode competition in the banking sector and hinder efforts to bolster Australia’s economic dynamism, particularly at a time when banks are managing 130 new regulatory changes.

The time allotted for private Members’ business having expired, the debate was interrupted, and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for a later hour this day.

MESSAGE FROM THE GOVERNOR-GENERAL—ASSENT TO BILLS

A message from Her Excellency the Governor-General was announced informing the House that Her Excellency, in the name of His Majesty, had assented to the following bills:

24 October 2024 —Message No. 208 —

Australian Naval Nuclear Power Safety 2024 .

Australian Naval Nuclear Power Safety (Transitional Provisions) 2024 .

Crimes and Other Legislation Amendment (Omnibus No. 1) 2024 .

Customs Tariff Amendment (Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership Expansion) 2024 .

Nuclear Energy—Select Committee —MEMBERSHIP

The House was informed that the Chief Opposition Whip had nominated Members to be members of the Select Committee on Nuclear Energy (received by the Acting Speaker on 14 October 2024, pursuant to standing order 229(b)).

Mr J Wilson (Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy), by leave, moved—That Mr Chester be appointed a member, and Mr Kennedy be appointed a supplementary member, of the Select Committee on Nuclear Energy.

Question—put and passed.

Social Media and Australian Society—Joint Select Committee —REPORT—STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

Ms Claydon (Chair) presented the following document:

Social Media and Australian Society—Joint Select Committee—Second interim report: digital platforms and the traditional news media (received by the Speaker on 21 October 2024, pursuant to standing order 247)—Report, incorporating dissenting reports, October 2024.

In accordance with standing order 39(e) the report was made a Parliamentary Paper.

Ms Claydon and Ms Daniel, by leave, made statements in connection with the report.

National Broadband Network Companies Amendment (Commitment to Public Ownership) Bill 2024

The order of the day having been read for the resumption of the debate on the question—That the bill be now read a second time—

Debate resumed.

Debate adjourned (Mr J Wilson—Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy), and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for a later hour this day.

Nuclear Energy—Select Committee—MEMBERSHIP

The House was informed that the Chief Opposition Whip had requested that Mr Pitt be discharged from the Select Committee on Nuclear Energy (received by the Acting Speaker on 14 October 2024, pursuant to standing order 229(b)).

Mr J Wilson (Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy), by leave, moved—That Mr Pitt be discharged from the Select Committee on Nuclear Energy.

Question—put and passed.

Wage Justice for Early Childhood Education and Care Workers (Special Account) Bill 2024

The order of the day having been read for the resumption of the debate on the question—That the bill be now read a second time— And on the amendment moved thereto by Ms Bell, viz.— That all words after “That” be omitted with a view to substituting the following words:

“whilst not declining to give the bill a second reading, the House notes:

(1) the Government’s economic mismanagement and cost of living crisis has led to higher wage bills, and higher utility, rent and grocery bills for providers;

(2) the bill will place further administrative burden on providers, particularly small and medium providers;

(3) the bill will put further financial pressure on providers who will have to cover the majority of the on costs, cannot increase their fees and have to pay the wages upfront, whilst receiving reimbursement in arrears;

(4) the Government has done nothing to address child care deserts and thin markets around the country, and this bill will not increase access for parents who currently have none; and

(5) the bill is a one-off sugar hit, which will only increase inflation, further contributing to current cost of living pressures”—

Debate resumed.

Ms Chaney addressing the House—

It being 1.30 pm, the debate was interrupted in accordance with standing order 43, Ms Chaney was granted leave to continue her speech when the debate is resumed, and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for a later hour this day.

MEMBERS’ STATEMENTS

Members’ statements were made.

DEATH OF FORMER MEMBER ( Harry Vernon Quick )

The Speaker informed the House of the death, on 19 October 2024, of Harry Vernon Quick, a Member of this House for the Division of Franklin from 1993 to 2007.

As a mark of respect to the memory of the deceased, all Members present stood, in silence.

QUESTIONS

Questions without notice being asked—

Member directed to leave

At 2.13 pm the Member for O’Connor ( Mr R Wilson ) was directed, under standing order 94, to leave the Chamber for one hour for interjecting and he accordingly left the Chamber.

Questions without notice continuing—

Member directed to leave

At 3.06 pm the Member for McEwen ( Mr R Mitchell ) was directed, under standing order 94, to leave the Chamber for one hour for interjecting and he accordingly left the Chamber.

Questions without notice continued.

Retirement of Mr Russell Chafer —STATEMENT BY SPEAKER

The Speaker informed the House of the forthcoming retirement of Mr Russell Chafer, Clerk Assistant (Committees), paid tribute to Mr Chafer’s distinguished contribution to the Parliament and wished him well in his retirement.

Auditor-General’s Reports

The Speaker presented the following documents:

Auditor-General—Audit reports of 2024-25—

No. 5—Performance audit—Australian Government Crisis Management Framework: Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet; National Emergency Management Agency.

No. 6—Information report—COVID-19 pandemic—ANAO audit activity.

No. 7—Performance audit—Fraud control arrangements in the Department of Health and Aged Care: Department of Health and Aged Care.

No. 8—Information report—2023-24 Performance audit outcomes.

No. 9—Performance audit—Fraud control arrangements in the National Health and Medical Research Council: National Health and Medical Research Council.

No. 10—Performance audit—Fraud control arrangements in the Australian Skills Quality Authority: Australian Skills Quality Authority.

No. 11—Performance audit—Procurement by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade through its Australian Passport Office: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

The documents were made Parliamentary Papers.

Presiding Officers’ Statement

The Speaker presented the following document:

2024 Presiding Officers’ statement regarding the condition of Parliament House.

DOCUMENTS

The following documents were presented:

*Aboriginal Hostels Limited—Report for 2023-24.

*Administrative Appeals Tribunal—Report for 2023-24.

*Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission—Report for 2023-24.

*AgriFutures Australia—Report for 2023-24.

*Airservices Australia—Report for 2023-24.

*Army Amenities Fund—Report for 2023-24.

*Asbestos and Silica Safety and Eradication Agency—Report for 2023-24.

*ASC Pty Ltd—Report for 2023-24.

*Attorney-General’s Department—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Accounting Standards Board and Auditing and Assurance Standards Board—Reports for 2023-24.

*Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC)—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Bureau of Statistics—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC)—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Communications and Media Authority and the Office of the eSafety Commissioner—Reports for 2023-24.

*Australian Competition and Consumer Commission—Report for 2023-24, incorporating report of the Australian Energy Regulator.

*Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Digital Health Agency—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Electoral Commission—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Federal Police—Report for 2023-24, incorporating reports on the National Witness Protection Program, unexplained wealth investigations and proceedings, delayed notification search warrants, account takeover warrants, assumed identities and witness identity protection certificates.

*Australian Film, Television and Radio School—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Financial Security Authority—Report for 2023-24, incorporating reports on the operation of the Bankruptcy Act 1966 and Personal Property Securities Act 2009 .

*Australian Fisheries Management Authority—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Human Rights Commission—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Institute of Criminology—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Institute of Family Studies—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Institute of Health and Welfare—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Institute of Marine Science—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Law Reform Commission—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Livestock Export Corporation Limited (LiveCorp)—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Maritime Safety Authority—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian National Maritime Museum—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Naval Infrastructure Pty Ltd—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Office of Financial Management—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation Authority—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicine Authority—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Prudential Regulation Authority—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Public Service Commission—Report for 2023-24, incorporating the report of the Merit Protection Commissioner.

Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Act 1998 —Quarterly report of the Chief Executive Officer for the period 1 April to 30 June 2024.

*Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Rail Track Corporation Limited—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Reinsurance Pool Corporation (ARPC)—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Renewable Energy Agency—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Research Council—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Safeguards and Non-Proliferation Office—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC)—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Security Intelligence Organisation—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Signals Directorate—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA)—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Sports Commission—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Sports Foundation—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Statistics Advisory Council—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Submarine Agency—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade)—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC)—Report for 2023-24.

*Australian War Memorial—Report for 2023-24.

*Australia Post—Report for 2023-24.

*Australia’s Economic Accelerator Advisory Board—Report for 2023-24.

*Bundanon Trust—Report for 2023-24.

*Cancer Australia—Report for 2023-24.

*Central Land Council—Report for 2023-24.

*Civil Aviation Safety Authority—Report for 2023-24.

*Classification Board and Classification Review Board—Reports for 2023-24.

*Clean Energy Finance Corporation—Report for 2023-24.

*Clean Energy Regulator—Report for 2023-24.

*Climate Change Authority—Report for 2023-24.

*Coal Mining Industry (Long Service Leave Funding) Corporation—Report for 2023-24.

*Comcare and Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Commission—Reports for 2023-24.

*Commissioner of Taxation—Report for 2023-24.

*Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions—Report for 2023-24.

*Commonwealth Grants Commission—Report for 2023-24.

Commonwealth Ombudsman—

*Public Interest Disclosure Scheme—Report for 2023-24.

*Report for 2023-24.

*Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO)—Report for 2023-24.

Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation—

*Financial reports for the year end 30 June 2024.

*Report for 2023-24.

*Companies Auditors Disciplinary Board—Report for 2023-24.

*Cotton Research and Development Corporation—Report for 2023-24.

*Creative Australia—Report for 2023-24.

* Defence Force Discipline Act 1982— Judge Advocate General—Report for 2023.

*Defence Housing Australia—Report for 2023-24.

*Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry—Report for 2023-24.

*Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water—Report for 2023-24.

*Department of Defence—Report for 2023-24.

*Department of Education—Report for 2023-24.

*Department of Employment and Workplace Relations—Report for 2023-24.

*Department of Finance—Report for 2023-24.

*Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade—Report for 2023-24.

*Department of Health and Aged Care—Report for 2023-24.

*Department of Home Affairs—Report for 2023-24.

*Department of Industry, Science and Resources—Report for 2023-24.

*Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts—Report for 2023-24.

*Department of Parliamentary Services—Report for 2023-24.

*Department of Social Services—Report for 2023-24.

*Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet—Report for 2023-24.

*Department of the Treasury—Report for 2023-24.

*Digital Transformation Agency—Report for 2023-24.

*Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Commission—Report for 2023-24.

Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 —Review of the National Heritage List and Commonwealth Heritage List for the period 1 July 2018 to 30 June 2023.

*Export Finance Australia—Report for 2023-24.

*Fair Work Commission—Report for 2023-24.

*Fair Work Ombudsman—Report for 2023-24.

*Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia—Report for 2023-24.

*Federal Court of Australia—Report for 2023-24.

*Federal Court of Australia Listed Entity—Report for 2023-24.

*Financial Reporting Council—Report for 2023-24.

*Fisheries Research and Development Corporation—Report for 2023-24.

*Food Standards Australia New Zealand—Report for 2023-24.

*Future Fund—Report for 2023-24.

*Geoscience Australia—Report for 2023-24.

*Grains Research and Development Corporation—Report for 2023-24.

*Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority—Report for 2023-24.

* Healthcare Identifiers Act 2010 and My Health Records Act 2012— Australian Information Commissioner—Activities in relation to digital health—Report for 2023-24.

*Healthcare Identifiers Service—Report for 2023-24.

*Hearing Australia—Report for 2023-24.

*High Speed Rail Authority—Report for 2023-24.

*Housing Australia—Report for 2023-24.

*Independent Health and Aged Care Pricing Authority—Report for 2023-24.

*Independent National Security Legislation Monitor—Report for 2023-24.

*Independent Parliamentary Expenses Authority (IPEA)—Report for 2023-24.

*Infrastructure Australia—Report for 2023-24.

*Inspector-General of Aged Care—Report for 2023-24.

*Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security—Report for 2023-24.

*Inspector-General of Taxation and Taxation Ombudsman—Report for 2023-24.

*International Air Services Commission—Report for 2023-24.

*IP Australia—Report for 2023-24.

*Murray-Darling Basin Authority—Report for 2023-24.

*National Archives of Australia and National Archives of Australia Advisory Council—Report for 2023-24.

*National Australia Day Council—Report for 2023-24.

*National Blood Authority—Report for 2023-24.

*National Capital Authority—Report for 2023-24.

*National Competition Council—Report for 2023-24.

*National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA)—Report for 2023-24.

*National Emergency Management Agency—Report for 2023-24.

*National Film and Sound Archive—Report for 2023-24.

*National Gallery of Australia—Report for 2023-24.

*National Health and Medical Research Council—Report for 2023-24.

*National Health Funding Body—Report for 2023-24.

*National Health Funding Pool—Report for 2023-24.

*National Heavy Vehicle Regulator—Report for 2023-24.

*National Indigenous Australians Agency—Report for 2023-24.

*National Intermodal Corporation Limited—Report for 2023-24.

*National Library of Australia—Report for 2023-24.

*National Mental Health Commission—Report for 2023-24.

*National Museum of Australia—Report for 2023-24.

*National Offshore Petroleum Safety and Environmental Management Authority—Report for 2023-24.

*National Portrait Gallery of Australia—Report for 2023-24.

*National Reconstruction Fund Corporation—Report for 2023-24.

*National Rural Health Commissioner—Report for 2023-24.

*National Transport Commission—Report for 2023-24.

*NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission—Report for 2023-24.

*Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility—Report for 2023-24.

*Office of Parliamentary Counsel—Report for 2023-24.

*Office of the Australian Information Commissioner—Report for 2023-24.

*Office of the Gene Technology Regulator—Report for 2023-24.

*Office of the National Data Commissioner—Report for 2023-24.

*Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator—Report for 2023-24.

*Office of the Official Secretary to the Governor-General—Report for 2023-24.

*Office of the Special Investigator—Report for 2023-24.

*Old Parliament House (Museum of Australian Democracy)—Report for 2023-24.

*Parliamentary Workplace Support Service—Report for 2023-24.

*Productivity Commission—Report for 2023-24.

*Professional Services Review—Report for 2023-24.

*Public Lending Right Committee—Report for 2023-24.

*Regional Investment Corporation—Report for 2023-24.

Register of Foreign Ownership of Water or Agricultural Land Act 2015— Reports of registrations as at 30 June 2023—

Register of foreign ownership of agricultural land.

Register of foreign ownership of water entitlements.

*Repatriation Commission, Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Commission and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs—Reports for 2023-24.

*Reserve Bank of Australia—Report for 2023-24.

*Royal Australian Mint—Report for 2023-24.

*Safe Work Australia—Report for 2023-24.

*Screen Australia—Report for 2023-24.

*Seafarers Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Authority—Report for 2023-24.

*Services Australia—Report for 2023-24.

*Snowy Hydro Limited—Report for 2023-24.

*Special Broadcasting Service Corporation (SBS)—Report for 2023-24.

*Sport Integrity Australia—Report for 2023-24.

*Sydney Harbour Federation Trust—Report for 2023-24.

*Takeovers Panel—Report for 2023-24.

*Tax Practitioners Board—Report for 2023-24.

*Torres Strait Protected Zone Joint Authority—Report for 2023-24.

*Tourism Australia—Report for 2023-24.

Treaty— Text, together with associated documents —Amendments to the International Health Regulations (Geneva, 1 June 2024).

*Veterans’ Review Board—Report for 2023-24.

*Western Sydney Airport (WSA Co Limited)—Report for 2023-24.

*Wine Australia—Report for 2023-24.

*The documents were made Parliamentary Papers.

MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE

Message No. 363, 10 October 2024, from the Senate was reported informing the House that Senators Brockman, Chandler, Polley, Urquhart and Walsh had been appointed members of the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Parliamentary Standards.

Veterans’ Entitlements, Treatment and Support (Simplification and Harmonisation) Bill 2024

The order of the day having been read for the resumption of the debate on the question—That the bill be now read a second time—

Debate resumed.

Mr Burnell addressing the House—

ADJOURNMENT

It being 7.30 pm—The question was proposed—That the House do now adjourn.

Debate ensued.

The House continuing to sit until 8 pm—The Speaker adjourned the House until 12 noon tomorrow.

DOCUMENTS

The following documents were deemed to have been presented on 4 November 2024 (An explanatory statement has been presented with each instrument unless otherwise indicated by an asterisk):

A New Tax System (Family Assistance) Act 1999— Child Care Subsidy Amendment (Parent Pathways and Other Measures) Minister’s Rules 2024 [F2024L01384].

Acts Interpretation Act 1901— Statements relating to extension of time for presentation of periodic reports—

Australian Transport Safety Bureau—Report for 2023-24.

National Anti-Corruption Commission—Report for 2023-24.

Administrative Review Tribunal (Consequential and Transitional Provisions No. 1) Act 2024— Administrative Review Tribunal (Consequential and Transitional Provisions No. 1) Rules 2024 [F2024L01292].

Aged Care Act 1997— Aged Care (Subsidy, Fees and Payments) Amendment (Multi-Purpose Services Subsidy Increase No. 2) Determination 2024 [F2024L00709]—Supplementary explanatory statement.

Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Administration) Act 1992 and 73 other Acts — Administrative Review Tribunal Legislation Consequential Amendments (2024 Measures No. 1) Regulations 2024 [F2024L01299].

ASIC Supervisory Cost Recovery Levy Act 2017 and Corporations Act 2001— Corporations Legislation Amendment (Financial Market Infrastructure) Regulations 2024 [F2024L01357].

Australian Antarctic Territory Act 1954— Australian Antarctic Territory Weapons Amendment (Administrative Review Tribunal) Ordinance 2024 [F2024L01298].

Australian Bureau of Statistics Act 1975— General Social Survey—MS24-000026.

Australian Citizenship Act 2007— Exercise of ministerial discretion under subsection 22A(1A)—25 October 2024.

Australian Film, Television and Radio School Act 1973— Determination of Degrees, Diplomas and Certificates No. 2024/1 [F2024L01278].

Australian Meat and Live-stock Industry Act 1997, Australian Meat and Live-stock Industry (Repeals and Consequential Provisions) Act 1997, Competition and Consumer Act 2010, Customs Act 1901, Primary Industries Research and Development Act 1989, Wine Australia Act 2013 and Wool Services Privatisation Act 2000— Primary Industries Legislation (Repeals and Consequential Amendments) Regulations 2024 [F2024L01314].

Australian Research Council Act 2001— Ministerial Approval of Australian Research Council (ARC) Discovery Indigenous scheme—Determination No. 271.

Autonomous Sanctions Act 2011— Autonomous Sanctions Regulations 2011—Autonomous Sanctions (Designated Persons and Entities and Declared Persons—Iran) Amendment (No. 3) Instrument 2024 [F2024L01307].

Census and Statistics Act 1905— Census and Statistics Amendment (Statistical Information) Regulations 2024 [F2024L01356].

Christmas Island Act 1958— Christmas Island Motor Vehicle (Third Party Insurance) Legislation Amendment (Administrative Review Tribunal) Ordinance 2024 [F2024L01297].

Christmas Island Act 1958 and Cocos (Keeling) Islands Act 1955— List of Acts of the Western Australian Parliament for the period 2 March to 19 September 2024.

Civil Aviation Act 1988— Civil Aviation Safety Regulations 1998—

Amendment of CASA 62/20 (Multi-crew Pilot Training Endorsement) Instrument 2024—CASA 35/24 [F2024L01346].

Amendment of CASA EX32/24 (Application for Multi-crew Pilot Training Endorsement) Instrument 2024—CASA 41/24 [F2024L01347].

CASR Part 131—Exemptions and Directions Instrument 2024—CASA EX62/24 [F2024L01352].

Indoor Operation of RPA Near People and BVLOS—Training and Use—Renewal Exemption Instrument 2024—CASA EX64/24 [F2024L01343].

Part 131 MOS Amendment Instrument 2024 [F2024L01348].

Repeal of Airworthiness Directive AD/B737/352—CASA ADCX 007/24 [F2024L01305].

Cocos (Keeling) Islands Act 1955— Cocos (Keeling) Islands Motor Vehicle (Third Party Insurance) Legislation Amendment (Administrative Review Tribunal) Ordinance 2024 [F2024L01296].

Corporations Act 2001—

ASIC Corporations (Amendment) Instrument 2024/809 [F2024L01349].

ASIC Market Integrity Rules (Amendment) Instrument 2024/774 [F2024L01303].

Currency Act 1965—

Currency (Australian Coins) Amendment (2024 Royal Australian Mint No. 10) Determination 2024 [F2024L01318].

Currency (Australian Coins) Amendment (2024 Royal Australian Mint No. 11) Determination 2024 [F2024L01354].

Customs Act 1901—

Customs Amendment (International Sporting Event—FIFA) By-Law 2024—LIN 23/080 [F2024L01302].

Customs (Information Technology Requirements) Amendment (Australia Travel Declaration) Determination 2024—LIN 24/081 [F2024L01310].

Customs Act 1901 and Migration Act 1958— Home Affairs Legislation Amendment (Australia Travel Declaration and Other Matters) Regulations 2024 [F2024L01301].

Defence Act 1903—

Defence (Employer Support Payment Scheme) Amendment Determination 2024 (No. 1) [F2024L01351].

Woomera Prohibited Area Rule 2014—Determination of Exclusion Periods for Amber Zone 1 and Amber Zone 2 for Financial Year 2024-2025 Amendment Determination No.1 [F2024L01281].

Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999—

Amendment of List of Exempt Native Specimens—Queensland Coral Fishery, October 2024 [F2024L01379].

List of Specimens taken to be Suitable for Live Import Amendment (torpedo barb and featherfin catfish) Instrument 2024 [F2024L01396].

Export Control Act 2020—

Export Control Legislation Amendment (2024 Measures No. 2) Rules 2024 [F2024L01350].

Export Control Legislation Amendment (Administrative Review Tribunal—Consequential Amendments) Rules 2024 [F2024L01293].

Export Control (Organic Goods) Amendment (National Organic Standard) Rules 2024 [F2024L01306].

Fair Work Act 2009— Fair Work Amendment (Fixed Term Contracts—Exceptions Measures) Regulations 2024 [F2024L01371].

Federal Financial Relations Act 2009—

Federal Financial Relations (General Purpose Financial Assistance—2024-25 Payment No. 4) Determination 2024 [F2024L01313].

Federal Financial Relations (National Partnership Payments—2024-25 Payment No. 5) Determination 2024 [F2024L01400].

Financial Framework (Supplementary Powers) Act 1997—

Financial Framework (Supplementary Powers) Amendment (Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Measures No. 3) Regulations 2024 [F2024L01360].

Financial Framework (Supplementary Powers) Amendment (Attorney-General’s Portfolio Measures No. 2) Regulations 2024 [F2024L01359].

Financial Framework (Supplementary Powers) Amendment (Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water Measures No. 2) Regulations 2024 [F2024L01361].

Financial Framework (Supplementary Powers) Amendment (Defence Measures No. 3) Regulations 2024 [F2024L01362].

Financial Framework (Supplementary Powers) Amendment (Education Measures No. 4) Regulations 2024 [F2024L01363].

Financial Framework (Supplementary Powers) Amendment (Finance Measures No. 2) Regulations 2024 [F2024L00859]—Replacement explanatory statement.

Financial Framework (Supplementary Powers) Amendment (Finance Measures No. 3) Regulations 2024 [F2024L01364].

Financial Framework (Supplementary Powers) Amendment (Foreign Affairs and Trade Measures No. 4) Regulations 2024 [F2024L01365].

Financial Framework (Supplementary Powers) Amendment (Health and Aged Care Measures No. 4) Regulations 2024 [F2024L01366].

Financial Framework (Supplementary Powers) Amendment (Home Affairs Measures No. 4) Regulations 2024 [F2024L01367].

Financial Framework (Supplementary Powers) Amendment (Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts Measures No. 5) Regulations 2024 [F2024L01368].

Financial Framework (Supplementary Powers) Amendment (Social Services Measures No. 3) Regulations 2024 [F2024L01369].

Fisheries Management Act 1991—

Fisheries Management (Northern Prawn Fishery Seasonal Closures) Amendment Direction No. 1 2024 [F2024L01345].

Fisheries Management (Southern and Eastern Scalefish and Shark Fishery and Small Pelagic Fishery Closures) Amendment Direction No. 2 2024 [F2024L01344].

Food Standards Australia New Zealand Act 1991—

Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code—Schedule 20—Maximum residue limits Variation Instrument No. APVMA 4, 2024 [F2024L01358].

Food Standards (Application A1247—D-allulose as a novel food) Variation [F2024L01377].

Food Standards (Application A1284—Triacylglycerol lipase from GM Trichoderma reesei as a processing aid) Variation [F2024L01378].

Food Standards (Application A1287—Food derived from short-stature corn line MON94804) Variation [F2024L01312].

Food Standards (Proposal P1063—Code Revision (2024)—Added Sugar(s) Claims) Variation [F2024L01376].

Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act 1975— Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Amendment (Fisheries Reforms) Regulations 2024 [F2024L01290].

Health Insurance Act 1973— Health Insurance (Section 3C General Medical Services—Removal of Single Tumour, Lipoma or Cyst) Revocation Determination 2024 [F2024L01304].

Heard Island and McDonald Islands Act 1953— Heard Island and McDonald Islands Legislation Amendment (Administrative Review Tribunal) Ordinance 2024 [F2024L01295].

Hearing Services Administration Act 1997— Hearing Services Program (Voucher) Amendment (Administrative Review Tribunal and Other Matters) Instrument 2024 [F2024L01322].

Industry Research and Development Act 1986— Industry Research and Development (Streamlining External Dispute Resolution for Scams Program) Instrument 2024 [F2024L01311].

Jervis Bay Territory Acceptance Act 1915— Jervis Bay Territory Legislation Amendment (Administrative Review Tribunal and Other Matters) Ordinance 2024 [F2024L01294].

Marine Safety (Domestic Commercial Vessel) National Law Act 2012, Navigation Act 2012, Protection of the Sea (Harmful Anti-fouling Systems) Act 2006 and Protection of the Sea (Prevention of Pollution from Ships) Act 1983— Marine Orders Miscellaneous Amendment Order 2024—AMSA MO 2024/2 [F2024L01309].

Migration Act 1958—

Direction under section 499—Revocation of Direction No. 63—No. 104.

Migration Amendment (Family Violence Provisions for Skilled Visa Applications) Regulations 2024 [F2024L01286].

Migration Amendment (Immigration Clearance Exemption for Transiting Aircraft Crew) Regulations 2024 [F2024L01289].

Migration Amendment (Public Interest Criteria 4005 and 4007) Regulations 2024 [F2024L01288].

Migration Regulations 1994—Migration (Australia Travel Declaration—Passenger Card May Be Required) Instrument (LIN 24/075) 2024 [F2024L01320].

Notices under section 501(3)—

18 October 2024.

25 October 2024.

Report on Unauthorised Maritime Arrivals in Nauru under section 198AJ—2023-2024.

Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004— Military Rehabilitation and Compensation (Non‑warlike Service) Amendment Determination 2024 (No. 2) [F2024L01373].

National Health Act 1953—

National Health (Commonwealth Price and Conditions for Commonwealth Payments for Supply of Pharmaceutical Benefits) Amendment Determination 2024 (No. 10)—PB 113 of 2024 [F2024L01391].

National Health (Continued Dispensing) Amendment Determination 2024 (No. 3)—PB 114 of 2024 [F2024L01393].

National Health (Efficient Funding of Chemotherapy) Special Arrangement Amendment (November Update) Instrument 2024—PB 116 of 2024 [F2024L01397].

National Health (Highly Specialised Drugs Program) Special Arrangement Amendment (November Update) Instrument 2024—PB 115 of 2024 [F2024L01395].

National Health (IVF Program) Special Arrangement Amendment Instrument 2024 (No. 1)—PB 117 of 2024 [F2024L01398].

National Health Legislation Amendment (2024 Measures No. 1) Repeal Instrument 2024 [F2024L01382].

National Health (Listed Drugs on F1 or F2) Amendment Determination 2024 (No. 9)—PB 119 of 2024 [F2024L01392].

National Health (Listing of Pharmaceutical Benefits) Amendment (November Update) Instrument 2024—PB 111 of 2024 [F2024L01389].

National Health (Minimum Stockholding) Amendment Determination (No. 10) 2024—PB 121 of 2024 [F2024L01383].

National Health (Paraplegic and Quadriplegic Program) Special Arrangement Amendment Instrument 2024 (No. 2)—PB 118 of 2024 [F2024L01399].

National Health (Pharmaceutical benefits—early supply) Amendment Instrument 2024 (No. 10)—PB 112 of 2024 [F2024L01390].

National Health (Price and Special Patient Contribution) Amendment Determination 2024 (No. 9)—PB 120 of 2024 [F2024L01394].

National Health (Supply of Pharmaceutical Benefits—Under Co-payment Data and Claims for Payment) Amendment (ACSS Eligible Supplies) Rules 2024—PB 108 of 2024 [F2024L01280].

National Health (Take Home Naloxone) Amendment (2024 Measures No. 1) Special Arrangement 2024—PB 110 of 2024 [F2024L01381].

National Health Security Act 2007— National Health Security (National Notifiable Disease List) Amendment Instrument 2024 [F2024L01385].

Offshore Electricity Infrastructure Act 2021— Offshore Electricity Infrastructure (Declared Area OEI-02-2024) Declaration 2024 [F2024L00685]—Supplementary explanatory statement.

Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas Management Act 1989—

Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas Management Amendment (2024 Measures No. 1) Regulations 2024 [F2024L00730]—Supplementary explanatory statement.

Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas Management Regulations 1995—

Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas Management (Extinguishing Agent Handling Licences—Qualifications and Standards) Determination 2024 [F2024L00945]—Supplementary explanatory statement.

Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas Management (Refrigerant Handling Licences—Qualifications and Standards) Determination 2024 [F2024L00944]—Supplementary explanatory statement.

Parliamentary Business Resources Act 2017— Parliamentary Business Resources Regulations 2017—Advice of decision to pay assistance—10 October 2024.

Patents Act 1990 and Trade Marks Act 1995— Intellectual Property Laws Amendment (Regulator Performance) Regulations 2024 [F2024L00525]—Supplementary explanatory statement.

Primary Industries (Customs) Charges Act 2024— Primary Industries (Customs) Charges Regulations 2024 [F2024L01317].

Primary Industries (Excise) Levies Act 2024— Primary Industries (Excise) Levies Regulations 2024 [F2024L01316].

Primary Industries Research and Development Act 1989— Primary Industries Research and Development Regulations 2024 [F2024L01315].

Private Health Insurance Act 2007—

Private Health Insurance Legislation Amendment Rules (No. 7) 2024 [F2024L01330].

Private Health Insurance (Medical Devices and Human Tissue Products) Amendment (No. 3) Rules 2024 [F2024L01386].

Private Health Insurance (Medical Devices and Human Tissue Products) Rules (No. 2) 2024 [F2024L01355].

Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013—

Notices under section 72—

Commonwealth acquires shares in a company—

Australian Naval Infrastructure Pty Ltd—18 October 2024.

Australian Rail Track Corporation Limited—11 September 2024.

Marinus Link Pty Ltd—18 October 2024.

NBN Co Limited—4 November 2024.

Corporate Commonwealth entity acquires shares in a company—

Airthena Technology Development Company Pty Ltd—9 October 2024.

BHP Group Limited—9 October 2024.

Terria Pty Ltd—9 October 2024.

Corporate Commonwealth entity disposal of shares in a company—

Commonwealth Bank of Australia—9 October 2024.

National Australia Bank Limited—9 October 2024.

Public Governance, Performance and Accountability (Section 75 Transfers) Amendment Determination 2022-2023 (No. 14) [F2024L01283].

Public Governance, Performance and Accountability (Section 75 Transfers) Amendment Determination 2023-2024 (No. 8) [F2024L01284].

Public Governance, Performance and Accountability (Section 75 Transfers) Amendment Determination 2024-2025 (No. 1) [F2024L01285].

Public Service Act 1999— Public Service Amendment (2024 Measures No. 1) Regulations 2024 [F2024L01370].

Remuneration Tribunal Act 1973—

Remuneration Tribunal Amendment Determination (No. 5) 2024 [F2024L01279].

Remuneration Tribunal (Miscellaneous Provisions) Amendment (Holders of Judicial Office) Regulations 2024 [F2024L01287].

Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018— Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule) Twin Steer Amendments 2024 [F2024L01388].

Student Identifiers Act 2014— Student Identifiers Amendment (Authorised Collection, Use or Disclosure—Study Hubs Programs) Regulations 2024 [F2024L01372].

Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Act 1993— Superannuation (prudential standard) determination No. 6 of 2024 [F2024L01319].

Tax Agent Services Act 2009— Tax Agent Services Amendment (Register Information) Regulations 2024 [F2024L00856]—Replacement explanatory statement.

Taxation Administration Act 1953—

Commissioner of Taxation—

Class Rulings—

CR 2024/63, CR 2024/64, CR 2024/65, CR 2024/66, CR 2024/67, CR 2024/68.

Product Rulings—

PR 2022/10 (Addendum).

PR 2023/22 (Addendum).

PR 2023/24 (Addendum).

PR 2024/18.

Taxation Ruling—TD 2004/4 (Addendum).

Taxation Administration Amendment (Extending Tax Whistleblower Protections) Regulations 2024 [F2024L01291].

Telecommunications Act 1997— Telecommunications (Communications Security Coordinator) Specification 2024 [F2024L01387].

Telecommunications (Consumer Protection and Service Standards) Act 1999— Telecommunications (Emergency Call Service) Amendment Determination 2024 (No. 1) [F2024L01353].

Therapeutic Goods Act 1989—

Therapeutic Goods (Authorised Supply) Amendment (SAS Guidance) Rules (No. 2) 2024 [F2024L01321].

Therapeutic Goods (Medical Devices—Information that Must Accompany Application for Inclusion) Amendment Determination (No. 2) 2024 [F2024L01328].

Therapeutic Goods (Medical Devices—Specified Articles) Amendment Instrument 2024 [F2024L01282].

Veterans’ Entitlements Act 1986—

Statement of Principles concerning Achilles tendinopathy (Balance of Probabilities)—No. 87 of 2024 [F2024L01338].

Statement of Principles concerning Achilles tendinopathy (Reasonable Hypothesis)—No. 86 of 2024 [F2024L01337].

Statement of Principles concerning Merkel cell carcinoma (Balance of Probabilities)—No. 81 of 2024 [F2024L01332].

Statement of Principles concerning Merkel cell carcinoma (Reasonable Hypothesis)—No. 80 of 2024 [F2024L01331].

Statement of Principles concerning myelodysplastic neoplasm (syndrome) (Balance of Probabilities)—No. 77 of 2024 [F2024L01326].

Statement of Principles concerning myelodysplastic neoplasm (syndrome) (Reasonable Hypothesis)—No. 76 of 2024 [F2024L01325].

Statement of Principles concerning non-melanoma malignant neoplasm of the skin (Balance of Probabilities)—No. 79 of 2024 [F2024L01329].

Statement of Principles concerning non-melanoma malignant neoplasm of the skin (Reasonable Hypothesis)—No. 78 of 2024 [F2024L01327].

Statement of Principles concerning retrocalcaneal heel bursitis (Balance of Probabilities)—No. 89 of 2024 [F2024L01341].

Statement of Principles concerning retrocalcaneal heel bursitis (Reasonable Hypothesis)—No. 88 of 2024 [F2024L01339].

Statement of Principles concerning subcutaneous lipoma (Balance of Probabilities)—No. 83 of 2024 [F2024L01334].

Statement of Principles concerning subcutaneous lipoma (Reasonable Hypothesis)—No. 82 of 2024 [F2024L01333].

Statement of Principles concerning tooth decay (dental caries) (Balance of Probabilities)—No. 75 of 2024 [F2024L01324].

Statement of Principles concerning tooth decay (dental caries) (Reasonable Hypothesis)—No. 74 of 2024 [F2024L01323].

Statement of Principles concerning trigeminal neuralgia or trigeminal neuropathy (Balance of Probabilities)—No. 85 of 2024 [F2024L01336].

Statement of Principles concerning trigeminal neuralgia or trigeminal neuropathy (Reasonable Hypothesis)—No. 84 of 2024 [F2024L01335].

Statements of Principles concerning antiphospholipid syndrome (repeal)—No. 90 of 2024 [F2024L01342].

Veterans’ Entitlements (Non-warlike Service) Amendment Determination 2024 (No. 2) [F2024L01374].

Work Health and Safety Act 2011— Work Health and Safety (Managing Psychosocial Hazards at Work) Code of Practice 2024 [F2024L01380].

ATTENDANCE

All Members attended (at some time during the sitting) except Mr Hastie, Mr Khalil and Ms Mascarenhas.

Claressa Surtees

Clerk of the House of Representatives

The Federation Chamber met at 10.30 am.

MEMBERS’ CONSTITUENCY STATEMENTS

Members’ constituency statements were made.

Animal welfare

Mr Wilkie, pursuant to notice, moved—That this House:

(1) notes:

(a) that Australia has an animal welfare crisis, and that cruelty is commonplace in greyhound and horse racing, live exports, the industrial production of food and fibre, rodeos, and puppy and kitten farms;

(b) this cruelty has been on full display recently in:

(i) intensive commercial dog breeding facilities in Tasmania which operated under grossly inhumane and inadequate conditions, where female dogs were forced to breed at appalling rates;

(ii) the treatment of dogs in the greyhound racing industry, which results in unbearable cruelty, injury and even death, for example, in 2024 alone there have been almost 100 on‑track deaths and 8,449 injuries Australia-wide; and

(iii) overbreeding of retired racehorses, where the aim is to produce as many foals as possible that might one day generate a return on investment and sadly, as in the case of Black Caviar, this is poorly regulated and often involves almost constant pregnancy and birthing for so‑called ‘retired’ horses, dramatically increasing the risks of injury, infection and death; and

(c) that state and territory governments have not done enough to address this crisis; and

(2) therefore calls on the Government to:

(a) establish a statutory Independent Office of Animal Welfare which will take a leadership role on animal welfare matters at a federal level, including developing a national animal welfare strategy, conducting inquiries and reviews into the effectiveness and implementation of our animal welfare laws, and providing independent, science‑based advice to governments on animal welfare issues; and

(b) work with states and territories to improve, harmonise and implement strict animal welfare standards, guidelines and laws.

Debate ensued.

The time allotted for the debate having expired, the debate was interrupted, and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Education system

Ms Coker, pursuant to notice, moved—That this House acknowledges the Government’s commitment and actions to build a better and fairer school education system, by:

(1) putting an additional $16 billion of Commonwealth investment in public schools on the table as part of the Better and Fairer Schools Agreement, to deliver reforms focused on:

(a) lifting student outcomes;

(b) wellbeing for learning and engagement; and

(c) a strong and sustainable workforce;

(2) working to address the teacher shortage through the National Teacher Workforce Action Plan;

(3) delivering $284.3 million to schools to improve school infrastructure through the Schools Upgrade Fund; and

(4) providing $203.7 million in funding to support student wellbeing across every school in the country through the Student Wellbeing Boost.

Debate ensued.

Debate adjourned and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Paraquat and diquat usage

Dr Webster, pursuant to notice, moved—That this House:

(1) notes that:

(a) the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) is reviewing the approved usage levels of paraquat and diquat in Australia;

(b) the Australian Broadcasting Corporation ran a story titled ‘After the Harvest’ on 31 August 2024 and 1 September 2024 seeking to link paraquat use to the incidence of Parkinson’s Disease, claiming that children were being ‘coated head to toe in chemicals’ and spraying was occurring without gloves or a mask;

(c) the APVMA responded saying such practices were ‘historical’ and ‘do not meet current requirements for the use of agvet chemical products’; and

(d) three OECD-nation regulators in the past four years have found no causal link between paraquat and Parkinson’s Disease; and

(2) calls upon the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry to:

(a) listen to the voices of farmers who responsibly rely upon paraquat and diquat to control weeds, avoid heavy-tillage farming and retain soil and moisture in their cropping lands;

(b) listen to the science; and

(c) refrain from rewarding sensationalist journalism from the national broadcaster.

Debate ensued.

The time allotted for the debate having expired, the debate was interrupted, and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Workplace relations

The order of the day having been read for the resumption of the debate on the motion of Ms Stanley—That this House:

(1) notes that:

(a) the Government’s workplace relations policies are getting wages moving again, with annual real wages growing for the past three consecutive quarters;

(b) nominal real wages grew 4.1 per cent in the year to the June quarter 2024;

(c) annual real wages grew 0.3 per cent through the year to the June quarter 2024; and

(d) this result comes off the back of inheriting a real wage decline of 3.4 per cent at the time of the election; and

(2) recognises the Government is laying strong foundations for a better future for Australian workers, their families and communities, by:

(a) advocating for the wages of Australia’s low paid in three consecutive submissions to the Annual Wage Review that the real wages of low paid workers not go backwards;

(b) supporting pay rises for aged care workers of up to 28 per cent through submissions to the Fair Work Commission’s Aged Care Work Value Case;

(c) having a 15 per cent pay rise for early childhood education and care workers;

(d) getting almost half a million more workers covered by current enterprise agreements, boosting wages and conditions; and

(e) making gender equality an object of the Fair Work Act and narrowing the gender pay gap to 12 per cent, the lowest level on record—

Debate resumed.

Debate adjourned and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Agriculture sector

Ms Landry, pursuant to notice, moved—That this House:

(1) acknowledges that:

(a) agriculture is a cornerstone of Australia’s social, economic and environmental sustainability, and plays an essential role in our nation’s prosperity;

(b) in the 2023-24 financial year, the agriculture sector generated over $82 billion, driving Australia’s economy forward;

(c) the agriculture sector employs 257,000 Australians; and

(d) over 90 per cent of the fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, milk, and eggs available in Australia are produced locally, safeguarding our nation’s food security; and

(2) notes that:

(a) the Australian agriculture sector is facing increased pressure due to this Government’s destructive actions;

(b) this Government’s decision to scrap the dedicated agriculture visa has left the industry with severe and widespread workforce shortages;

(c) Australia’s water security is being jeopardised by this Government’s reckless slashing of over $7 billion from critical water infrastructure projects; and

(d) this Government’s misguided agriculture policies have driven food prices up by 12 per cent, piling even more financial strain on everyday Australians.

Debate ensued.

Debate adjourned and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Suspension of meeting

At 1.20 pm, the Deputy Speaker left the Chair.

Resumption of meeting

At 3.59 pm, the Deputy Speaker resumed the Chair.

MEMBERS’ STATEMENTS

Members’ statements being made—

Document

Dr Scamps, by leave, presented the following document:

25k Save the Aussie Bush—( Receipt of document as a petition subject to approval by the Standing Committee on Petitions ).

Members’ statements continued.

Infrastructure investment

The order of the day having been read for the resumption of the debate on the motion of Ms Spender ( see item No. 11, page 1950) —

Debate resumed.

The time allotted for the debate having expired, the debate was interrupted, and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Early childhood education and care educators

The order of the day having been read for the resumption of the debate on the motion of Mrs Phillips—That this House:

(1) recognises:

(a) the vital role early childhood education and care (ECEC) educators and teachers play in supporting young children’s early learning and development;

(b) properly valuing and recognising the ECEC profession, including through fair wages, is critical to reversing attrition and growing the workforce;

(c) paying ECEC workers fairly is a crucial step in charting the course to a truly universal ECEC system; and

(d) the Government’s historic announcement for a two-year, 15 per cent ECEC worker retention payment for ECEC workers, phased in from December 2024;

(2) notes that:

(a) one year on, the Government’s cheaper child care reforms are delivering real cost of living relief to household budgets;

(b) the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s child care inquiry found that out‑of-pocket costs dropped 11 per cent following the introduction of the Government’s cheaper child care measures; and

(c) the Government’s ECEC worker retention payment will be tied to a commitment from early learning services to limit fee increases to 4.4 per cent, an important condition that will keep downward pressure on fees for Australian families; and

(3) acknowledges that:

(a) since the election, there are 860 more ECEC services, around 68,000 more children in ECEC, and around 30,000 more ECEC workers; and

(b) between 2018 and 2022, fees under the previous Government increased by 22.8 per cent compared to the OECD adjusted average of 6.2 per cent—

Debate resumed.

Debate adjourned and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Genetic screening

Mr Pearce, pursuant to notice, moved—That this House:

(1) notes that:

(a) investment in equitable access to disease prevention is critical to tackle the major diseases of our time such as cancer and heart disease;

(b) genetic screening provides a novel opportunity for disease prevention, especially screening for genetic risk factors for certain types of hereditary cancer and heart disease that manifest in early adulthood;

(c) identifying people with medically actionable genetic risk for certain diseases can allow at‑risk individuals to take steps to reduce risk or in some cases, avoid developing disease altogether;

(d) in Australia, funded testing for these genetic risk factors is only available to individuals who meet narrow criteria, usually only after a person develops symptoms of disease, and this criteria-based testing fails to identify most high-risk individuals in the population, who remain unaware of their risk and are unable to access preventive measures until it is too late;

(e) investment in prevention will save significant downstream healthcare costs, as well as saving lives and improving the health of at-risk Australians; and

(f) the costs of genetic testing have decreased considerably, and health economic modelling now suggests it would be cost-effective in the Australian health system to offer DNA screening to all adults for such genetic risk factors, as part of a population screening program;

(2) acknowledges that:

(a) in August 2022, Monash University launched DNA Screen, a study funded by the Medical Research Future Fund and led by Professor Paul Lacaze and Dr Jane Tiller, which aimed to test 10,000 young adults (18 to 40 years of age) for genetic high risk of developing certain types of cancer (breast, ovarian, colorectal and others) and heart disease, that can be prevented or identified and treated early;

(b) the study was extremely popular, with almost 10,000 people registering their interest in the first 24 hours of the study launch, and over 30,000 people registering interest to date;

(c) the study has now completed testing of 10,263 young adults, finding 202 individuals at high, medically actionable risk of developing cancer or heart disease, and three in four of those high‑risk people would not have qualified for reimbursed genetic testing; and

(d) in May 2024, the Senate Standing Committee on Community Affairs’ inquiry into equitable access to diagnosis and treatment for individuals with rare and less common cancers specifically noted the potential of genetic testing for prevention and the high level of public interest and engagement in the DNA Screen study, and recommended that ‘the outcomes of the study should be monitored closely, and that further investment to gauge the effectiveness and appropriateness of such screening programs should be explored further’;

(3) recognises the:

(a) strain that population DNA screening could place on the current downstream risk management pathways; and

(b) need for genetics services and the health system to be prepared for population-scale DNA screening; and

(4) calls on the Government to:

(a) consider the urgent need to leverage the preventive potential of genomic testing for adults at high, medically actionable risk of developing conditions such as cancer and heart disease; and

(b) fund the next stage of DNA Screen to scale up testing for these medically actionable conditions, test the feasibility of a population-wide screening program, and develop and test methods for the delivery of downstream care and risk management at scale.

Debate ensued.

Debate adjourned and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Western Australia

Ms Lawrence, by leave, for Ms Mascarenhas, pursuant to notice, moved—That this House:

(1) recognises the commitment of the Government to Western Australia and its understanding of the specific needs of the Western Australian community;

(2) commends the Government for its investment in:

(a) the future of the critical minerals industry in Western Australia, noting its support for projects such as Pilbara Minerals’ Pilgangoora lithium project and International Graphite’s graphite battery anode material project, as well as the announcement of the $17 billion production tax incentive for critical minerals processing; and

(b) critical infrastructure, noting the support for the following major projects:

(i) Causeway Cyclist and Pedestrian Bridges;

(ii) Westport Project Development;

(iii) Metronet;

(iv) Tonkin Highway Corridor; and

(v) Outback Way;

(3) acknowledges the ongoing commitment of the Government to the goods and services tax deal for Western Australia;

(4) supports the Government as it continues to pay attention to the needs of Western Australia and respond to those needs strategically and responsibly; and

(5) calls on the Opposition to support the Government’s initiatives that will secure a future for all Western Australians.

Debate ensued.

Suspension of meeting

At 6.04 pm, a division having been called in the House, the proceedings were suspended.

Resumption of meeting

At 6.16 pm, the proceedings were resumed.

Debate continued.

Debate adjourned and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Ezidi people of Sinjar

Mr Hamilton, pursuant to notice, moved—That this House:

(1) notes:

(a) that 3 August 2024 marked 10 years since Islamic State (ISIS) militants attacked the Ezidi people of Sinjar;

(b) that the Ezidi people are one of the most ancient nations in the world, and their cultural identity, memories and practices are central to their ancient culture, yet many Ezidis have lived through unimaginable trauma and persecution;

(c) the important role played by former Prime Minister, the Hon Tony Abbott, in enabling the resettlement in Australia of 12,000 refugees escaping the Ezidi genocide in the northern parts of Syria and Iraq;

(d) that the electoral division of Groom is home to one of the largest groups of Ezidi people in Australia, and that their traditional language, the Ezidi language, is the second most spoken language in Groom, behind English;

(e) that by properly managing the immigration system, Australia was able to offer this important humanitarian assistance; and

(f) that by ensuring proper process, vetting and verification, the Government was able to reassure people on national security concerns and maintain social cohesion; and

(2) calls on the Government to:

(a) recognise the Ezidis as a significant minority religious group in Australia;

(b) denounce the continuing persecution of Ezidis by ISIS militants;

(c) continue to provide funding for programs such as the Toowoomba Refugee and Migrant Service program that provide support to refugees and migrants; and

(d) apologise to the Ezidis and other refugees and migrants for changing the rules to fast-track one group of people over another.

Debate ensued.

Debate adjourned and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day

Ms Stanley, pursuant to notice, moved—That this House:

(1) notes that:

(a) October was Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, and that Sunday 15 October 2024 marks Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day; and

(b) this day acknowledges the shared loss experienced by parents, friends, and healthcare workers of those little ones lost too soon whether through miscarriage, stillbirth, neonatal death or any other loss;

(2) acknowledges:

(a) that there is a significant impact on families who have lost a baby;

(b) that every year 110,000 Australians experience a miscarriage, more than 2,000 experience stillbirth, and almost 700 lose a baby within the first 28 days;

(c) that stillbirth occurrence is higher in Aboriginal and culturally diverse communities; and

(d) all the families who have experienced loss, either recently or over time; and

(3) commends the Government for providing $5.1 million to organisations to support women and families following stillbirth or miscarriage.

Debate ensued.

Debate adjourned and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

Banking sector

The order of the day having been read for the resumption of the debate on the motion of Mr Hamilton ( see item No. 13, page 1951)—

Debate resumed.

Debate adjourned and the resumption of the debate made an order of the day for the next sitting.

ADJOURNMENT

On the motion of Ms Fernando, the Federation Chamber adjourned at 7.21 pm, until 4 pm tomorrow.

Peter Banson

Clerk of the Federation Chamber