Matt O'Sullivan (WA, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

I want to make a very brief contribution. I want to associate myself with the comments that Senator Canavan has just made and to make this point in addition: this is simply a referral to a committee. Senator McKim raises some concerns about it opening itself up to hurtful and hateful adverse reflections that presumably could come from submitters to that inquiry. The committee has processes and the powers to deal with submissions that would cause harm to people.

I think it is entirely appropriate for this issue to be referred to this committee to be looked at and to be examined. I note that the Greens actually chair this particular committee, the Community Affairs Legislation Committee. That committee has the capability to be able to deal with adverse reflections and, of course, provide protection if it was necessary. I think this is a sensible reference of a bill. It's an important bill that's worthy of debate, and this motion should be supported by the Senate.