Electoral Legislation Amendment (Electoral Reform) Bill 2024
Senator FARRELL (South Australia—Minister for Trade and Tourism, Special Minister of State and Deputy Leader of the Government in the Senate) (21:10): I reject the suggestion I'm rude and arrogant. I took the trouble to fly up to Brisbane, to make an appointment to come and see you, to sit down with you and to invite you to come on board with some much-needed electoral reform in this country.
When you said, 'Look, I want a briefing from the department on this legislation,' I facilitated that briefing. Senator Waters: Two months ago! Senator FARRELL: Well, I facilitated the briefing.
It would have been earlier had you been available earlier. Senator Waters interjecting— Senator FARRELL: I'm sorry, Senator Waters, it would have been available if you had been available earlier. Senator Waters interjecting— Senator FARRELL: Senator, you're complaining about a 400-page document.
You've had that document now for months. Senator Waters: I'm asking about the individual— Senator FARRELL: No, you were also asking about the 400-page— Senator Waters: You're not answering! Senator FARRELL: With respect, Senator Waters, I am answering.
The TEMPORARY CHAIR ( Senator Grogan ): Senator Waters, that's enough! Senator FARRELL: I am answering your question. We've provided you with a briefing.
As you know, we were going to meet last week and talk about the legislation. That didn't happen. I then approached you and said, 'Look, is there going to be an opportunity for us to discuss what you would like changed in this legislation?' You reiterated to me your earlier— The TEMPORARY CHAIR: Minister, resume your seat.
Senator Lambie, do you have a point of order? Senator Lambie: I do. I'm confused, and I too would like to know what the eight amendments that the Liberal and National parties have just put in do.
That's all we're asking. Could you please explain to us what those eight amendments do? The TEMPORARY CHAIR: Thank you; please resume your seat.
Minister, if you could attend to the question. Senator FARRELL: I've said everything I needed to say on that point. The TEMPORARY CHAIR: Senator Lambie, before you start, can I ask you to stick to the point.
There's a lot of emotion in here; that's fine, but let's be clear about the questions we're asking.