Don Farrell (SA, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Trade and Tourism) Share this | Hansard source

Thank you, Senator Birmingham, for that question. I am aware of the statement by the Deputy Prime Minister in respect of the events in relation to HMAS Toowoomba. I am not aware of the date that the Prime Minister was advised about the matter. I'm assuming—I'm trying to think back over the period of time—it would have been when he was at the APEC meeting in the United States, which I also attended. But I would have to seek some advice on that, Senator Birmingham, and come back to you with a response.

As you say, the Deputy Prime Minister made a statement. He did express the Australian government's serious concerns to the Chinese government following what we believe to be an unsafe and unprofessional interaction with the People's Liberation Army destroyer. That was on 14 November 2023. HMAS Toowoomba was in international waters, inside Japan's exclusive economic zone en route to commence a scheduled port visit. But as to the specifics of your question, I would have to seek further advice on that.