Helen Coonan (NSW, Liberal Party, Manager of Opposition Business in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

I thank the minister for his comments in the second reading debate acknowledging the former government’s role in the genesis of this matter. I think it is a very good example of how, notwithstanding partisan approaches on many matters, there are a lot of aspects of superannuation affecting Australians on which the government and the opposition can work constructively because we see the point of what is to be achieved. I commend the minister’s efforts in this respect.

We will be supporting the government amendments. They are largely administrative amendments to ensure that the bills operate as intended. In respect of the deferred payments matter I simply note that where there are liquidity problems for funds under stress of course funds may withhold payment to the ATO. These are sensible amendments and we have no difficulty at all in indicating our support.