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

Senator Scarr requested that I look at a second reading amendment that was moved yesterday evening. Yesterday evening, Senator Scarr raised a point of order in relation to the second reading amendment moved by Senator McKim in relation to the Social Services and Other Legislation Amendment (Australia's Engagement in the Pacific) Bill 2023. Acting Deputy President Senator Hughes agreed to refer the matter to me.

In relation to the second reading amendment, Odgers' Australian Senate Practice, at page 312, says that the requirement for relevance is 'interpreted liberally' and any 'amendment is accepted if it relates in any way to the subject matter of the bill'. This gives the Senate:

… maximum freedom to determine its course of action and express its view in relation to a proposed law.

It is quite common for second reading amendments to deal with the context in which a bill is considered rather than directly addressing the text of the bill. In this case, the minister's second reading speech explained that the bill forms part of a broader program to strengthen Australia's ties with Pacific Island nations. It is in order for senators to comment on that aspect of the bill in debate and by way of second reading amendments. Senator McKim's amendment is in order.