Julie Collins (Franklin, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Small Business) Share this | Hansard source

I rise to indicate the government is not supporting this amendment. We understand the intent behind it, but we believe the current provisions adequately cover this. On page 13, section 22(2) suggests people cannot be appointed unless the minister is satisfied that the person has:

(a) substantial experience, expertise or qualifications; and

(b) significant standing;

in at least one of the following fields:

(c) economics;

(d) development;

(e) planning;

(f) residential construction;

(g) demography;

(h) social housing;

(i) social policy;

(j) housing and homelessness policy;

(l) the housing needs of Aboriginal persons and Torres Strait Islanders;

(k) regulation, taxation or government policy relating to housing.

We think it's adequately covered. The member would be aware that the current deputy chair of the interim council has the experience she's talking about.

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