Anne Ruston (SA, Liberal Party, Minister for Families and Social Services) Share this | Hansard source

There are a number of things I would say in response to that question from Senator Patrick. Firstly, nothing in the operation of the commercial world is without risk, but of course the government does whatever it can to mitigate against and minimise that risk. That is why the role of NOPSEMA is so important. It's because of their independence around safety and the environment and the oversight that they undertake. Certainly the role you just suggested that NOPSEMA should have been undertaking is not their role. They are the safety and environmental oversight body.

But, certainly, as I said, it is absolutely essential, when we're dealing with any commercial activities that are redeeming the assets of the Australian public, such as in the oil and gas area, that we understand there are risks and we operate to mitigate against those risks. I can absolutely guarantee this chamber that the safety of the Australian public— (Time expired)