Kim Carr (Victoria, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research) Share this | Hansard source

I thank the Senate for its consideration of the Tradex Scheme Amendment Bill 2008. This is an urgent matter that requires the attention of the chamber and I thank the opposition for their consideration in ensuring that this matter is treated as non-controversial. With regard to the matters that Senator Abetz has raised with me, quarters that know a great deal about these questions have suggested to me that in terms of the ‘Louis Vuitton issue’, where tourist shopping operators are able to use the scheme, the decoupling of Tradex from the drawback regulations will clarify these circumstances and the eligibility of other tourist shopping operators for Tradex refunds without impacting on that eligibility. The changes apply to existing Tradex users. They will be able to ensure that the new arrangements will have no material effect on existing operators and that the eligibility will become more certain. I am advised that the requirements of this scheme allow for the secretary to approve the concessions that are available and to ensure that requirements are met to the best interests of the users of the scheme. Again, I thank the Senate for its consideration of the bill.

Question agreed to.

Bill read a second time.