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

I am not intending to have a division. I am grateful that the opposition, the Greens and the government have indicated their positions. In relation to that ACMA report, there were criticisms about the methodology and the questions asked. I can tell you that, in the local communities of Mount Gambier, in the south-east and in the Riverland, there was a real sense of loss felt when those local bulletins went. It was not just political coverage—far from it—but sports and local coverage of issues of interest to the local communities. There was a powerful sense of loss of community. I do not think the ACMA survey was the be all and end all in its methodology and some of the questions asked.

Having said that, I am grateful for my colleagues indicating where they stand on this. I know the amendments will be defeated, but at least we have had that debate at this stage. But it will not go away. I still hope that Bruce Gordon one day will change his mind and bring back local content to the south-east and the Riverland.

Question negatived.

Bill agreed to.

Bill reported without amendments; report adopted.