Janet Rice (Victoria, Australian Greens) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I move:

That the following bill be introduced: A Bill for an Act to repeal the Regional Forest Agreements Act 2002 and to amend the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, and for related purposes.

Jonathon Duniam (Tasmania, Liberal Party, Shadow Minister for Environment, Fisheries and Forestry) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I seek leave to make a short statement.

Sue Lines (President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Leave is granted for one minute.

Jonathon Duniam (Tasmania, Liberal Party, Shadow Minister for Environment, Fisheries and Forestry) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The coalition will allow the introduction of this bill, but we also want it to be noted that it appears to be the same bill as, or at least a bill very similar to, one already introduced by Senator Rice and defeated in this very place on 15 June this year. Accordingly, we assume that it's a reintroduction and nothing more than a stunt by the Greens in an attempt to again draw attention to their flawed and anti-Australian position on native forestry in this country. The time of the Senate should really not be wasted again on any attempts to re-prosecute or re-debate this bill. They should do the right thing by the environment, the economy and all Australians and drop this silly agenda.

Question agreed to.

Janet Rice (Victoria, Australian Greens) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I present the bill and move:

That this bill may proceed without formalities and be now read a first time.

Question agreed to.

Bill read a first time.