Ken O'Dowd (Flynn, National Party) Share this | Hansard source

Due to the unique circumstances that we've found ourselves in because of the COVID-19 pandemic, this is my first presentation of petitions since I was appointed chair of the committee in March this year. I would like to sincerely thank those members of the committee who have presented the petitions on my behalf in that time. It was a priority of the committee to ensure that the petition process would continue with minimum interruption, and through these presentations and regular meetings via teleconference we have been able to uphold that process.

Much has happened in the last few months which has impacted on us all in different ways. The numerous petitions I present today regarding COVID-19 are indicative of genuine concern felt through our nation, our neighbours, our loved ones and ourselves. Many requests that the petitioners have made for the House to take action on the pandemic matters have already been addressed through the government's responses, but these petitions will nevertheless be referred to the ministers responsible for each matter with a request for a formal response in the usual way.

These petitions aren't all about COVID-19. Petitions continue to request action on longstanding issues such as taxation, climate, energy and communications. This serves as a good reminder that, through the pandemic that has been at the forefront of our minds, there are other genuine concerns that persist, and our committee will continue to facilitate the passage of petitions. I look forward to updating the House on the work of the committee in future addresses.

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