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

I do not mind what the shadow minister suggests, although I must say that I rather like the minister’s approach. While we know what is going on, it is useful for those hearing who might not read Hansard. Providing it is short, I quite like the explanation.

It is time for the minister to get a figurative pat on the back. I want to commend you, as I would commend any government, for in fact reacting to the evidence that was put to the inquiry quickly and well and producing technical and some non-technical—in fact, some quite substantive—amendments. The worst thing that can happen to a government is for them not to listen to evidence put forward by credible and reputable witnesses from all sides of the argument. I notice that your amendments include propositions put forward by employer organisations, employee organisations—unions—and by academics. I make these remarks because I want to encourage your government to continue to do this. Governments are not perfect. Governments do not know everything, and nor do their bureaucracies. It is very encouraging when there is a rapid and positive response to good evidence given in committees of review. There you are: you have had your pat on the back for today. I will leave it at that.