Kelly O'Dwyer (Higgins, Liberal Party, Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasurer) Share this | Hansard source

The purpose of the Civil Law and Justice (Omnibus Amendments) Bill 2015 is to make minor technical and uncontroversial amendments to civil justice legislation in order to improve its operation and clarity. This bill further supports the amalgamation of four key Commonwealth merits review tribunals by amending the Administrative Appeals Tribunal Act to assist the administration of the Administrative Appeals Tribunal. The amendments to the Bankruptcy Act will reduce red tape, streamline certain review applications and clarify confidentiality requirements.

Amendments to the Evidence Act will provide conformity with national uniform legislation. Amendments to the Federal Circuit Court Act will clarify the powers that an authorised arrester may use to execute an arrest warrant. Amendments to the Federal Court Act will streamline the jury empanelment process, enhance the pre-trial process for indictable offences and improve the accuracy of the act.

Amendments to the International Arbitration Act will simplify provisions for enforcement of foreign arbitral awards, improve compliance with the New York Convention on the Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Arbitral Awards and apply confidentiality provisions to arbitral proceedings on an opt-out rather than opt-in basis.

In conclusion, this bill will make minor and technical amendments to improve the efficiency and operation of the civil justice system and provide individuals with greater access to justice.

Question agreed to.

Bill read a second time.

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