Nick Xenophon (SA, Independent) Share this | Hansard source

I am grateful to both the minister and the shadow minister for their contributions and putting their positions forward. I can summarise my position as this. I will support the opposition’s amendments but I want to make it clear that I do so because I do have some concerns in relation to the matters that the opposition is seeking to deal with with respect to the analog switch-off readiness criteria in terms of the level of consultation and the processes involved. I note the minister’s concerns as to the impact this will have on the rollout.

The second substantive amendment relates to the reports of transmission black spots. I note Senator Conroy says that could be used as an excuse for the government to be touched up by the industry to get some more money, but I still think it is important that the whole issue of transmission black spots is out there, is reportable and is subject to public commentary and debate. The flip side of that, if I can put this to the minister, is that if there are significant black spots it raises questions as to what the television networks and channels are doing, and they should be held to account. I see it as a glass half full rather than a glass half empty amendment. So I do support these amendments. I note the government’s position. I more strongly support the transmission black spots amendment but I would like to have an opportunity to have discussions with the minister and the shadow minister, and indeed my colleagues in the Greens and Senator Fielding, in relation to the first amendment. But for the purpose of moving on with the debate I support these amendments.