QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Senator AYRES (New South Wales—Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science) (14:42): This government, as I've indicated, has taken action over the course of the period since the conflict and hostilities in the Middle East began. We've introduced new laws to double penalties for false and misleading conduct up to $100 million; convened National Cabinet; appointed a national Fuel Supply Taskforce, led by one of our most experienced energy officials; began the release of 20 per cent of Australia's fuel reserves so that shock absorber can get to work; changed petrol standards to get more fuel flowing; and made it easier for Australian refineries to access government funding when they run at a loss so that we're not seeing the closure of more Australian refinery capacity, which is what we saw under those opposite.

Senator Hanson: I raise a point of order on relevance. I asked a direct question about cutting the fuel excise and the GST. The PRESIDENT: The minister is being relevant to your question, Senator Hansen.

I will continue to listen carefully and, if he isn't, I'll draw his attention to your question. Senator AYRES: We've introduced new laws so that the Fair Work Commission can demand companies pay truckies fairly when fuel prices spike. I want to see what you and your colleagues do, Senator Hansen, in relation to those laws that mean truckies get a fair deal.

(Time expired)