Simon Birmingham (SA, Liberal Party, Minister for Trade) Share this | Hansard source

Senator Faruqi, I believe you will find that, in relation to the request made to Senator Reynolds, Senator Reynolds as the Minister for Defence did on 10 September provide a response. At that time, Senator Reynolds did indicate that portfolio responsibility for the coordination of the government's response to PFAS contamination and the Australian government's response to the inquiry sits with the Minister for the Environment, who I represent in this place. Senator Faruqi, I thank your office for notice of this today, which is why I had the information and Senator Reynolds was caught by surprise.

The government does recognise that managing PFAS contamination is a complex issue that requires an effective evidence based nationally consistent response, utilising the best available scientific evidence. Our government's action and investment to date in responding to PFAS contamination has been extensive, including regular contact with the communities affected. The government is carefully considering the recommendations of the parliamentary inquiry into the management of PFAS contamination in and around defence bases, and we will respond as soon as possible.

Senator, your order for the production of documents of that government response has been responded to by Senator Reynolds in the context of her letter. I can inform you that that response has not yet been finalised; therefore, we are not in a position to table a response.