QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Senator WONG (South Australia—Minister for Foreign Affairs and Leader of the Government in the Senate) (14:59): I spoke earlier in this question time about the action we are taking in relation to the Middle East crisis. You are correct that fertiliser is one of the supply chains that is affected. It is not the only one, obviously.

What I can say to you is that Minister Collins has been engaging closely on this. We understand the importance of ensuring farmers continue to produce our food and fibre, and that freight and supply chains remain critical. I'm advised that Australia utilises lower levels of fertiliser than other comparable countries, so we are already efficient users.

Much of the input products for the— Senator O'Sullivan: That's the resources sector. Senator WONG: I'm just giving you the advice I've been provided with. If you don't like it, I'm happy to pass it on.

Much of the input products for the upcoming planting season, including the majority of fertiliser required, are already on the water or in the country. Obviously, if the conflict does continue, this supply chain, along with others, will come under more pressure. The government will continue to work, including with industry, on seeking to ensure our resilience in such a circumstance.

The PRESIDENT: Senator Paterson, first supplementary?