Andrew Murray (WA, Australian Democrats) Share this | Hansard source

The Democrats support the government’s proposal. In my view this outcome exposes the Senate committee system at its best. We experienced concerted and admirable advocacy by the outworker representatives that was considered, objective and passionate, but not political. They made a great impression upon committee members, and the committee members unanimously supported changes to the government’s originally intended provisions. Of course the chair of the committee played a particular role because it is important for the chair to carry the campaign into the ranks of the government itself, so she is to be congratulated on her efforts in this.

With respect to outworkers, this chamber on all sides has generally speaking had a strong and positive approach in the 10½ years I have been in this chamber. So I am pleased that these proposals have come forward, and we fully support them.