Scott Morrison (Cook, Liberal Party, Minister for Social Services) Share this | Hansard source

In summing up the Defence Trades Control Amendment Bill 2015 on behalf of the minister responsible, I note that the bill will enable Defence to focus its regulatory attention on higher-risk activities with respect to the non-physical supply and transfer of defence control goods while dealing more efficiently with lower-risk activities.

The original act established a two-year transition period during which stakeholders had an opportunity to work with Defence to address concerns and provide feedback through the Strengthened Export Controls Steering Group chaired by Australia's Chief Scientist, Professor Ian Chubb AC.

The steering group has tested the legislation over the past two years and has advised the government on the amendments contained in this bill. The work of the steering group has been critical to the development of these amendments, and the government will seek to extend the steering group's appointments to cover the extended implementation period detailed in this bill.

I thank the opposition for their support of this important legislation and I commend the bill to the House.

Question agreed to.

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