Eric Abetz (Tasmania, Liberal Party, Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

right—living in hope that I might actually get an answer, but we will see—in relation to the civil remedies in the legislation and in particular on the right of entry. I understand penalties may be sought by a person affected by the contravention. That means, if you are an ordinary worker, not a union member, who has proof that your personnel file was dealt with improperly, you as the individual aggrieved person would actually have to take the court action against the trade union movement or the trade union official. Could you clarify that for me. What would be the filing cost of such an action, which I understand would have to be pursued in the Federal Court or the Federal Magistrates Court?

Could we also be given an update as to the process of consulting with the Australian Federal Police in relation to interactions with this legislation. That was a matter that came up during Senate hearings and I was told in a written answer that there will be a process of consulting with the Australian Federal Police. You have got to love it—governments are always into ‘processes’. I would just like to know what this process actually entails for the benefit of the Australian Federal Police and what appropriate amendments—whatever that might mean—to the Australian Federal Police Act are being sought to preserve the current arrangements. Basically, Minister, I do not need an answer in relation to the Australian Federal Police matters this evening, but could I be provided with a written and, on this occasion, detailed response and not just be told that ‘appropriate amendments’ and ‘a process of consulting’ will take place. I would like to know with whom you actually did consult and what amendments are actually being considered to ensure that there is no difficulty for people in the Australian Federal Police and state police forces who do a very good job for all of us.