COMMITTEES

The PRESIDENT (11:14): Yesterday, I informed the Senate that I had received nominations from Senator David Pocock and Senator Shoebridge seeking appointment to a single crossbench position on the Joint Select Committee on Artificial Intelligence. In accordance with standing orders, a ballot will be held to determine which of the two senators is to be appointed to the committee.

Before proceeding to a ballot, the bells will be rung for four minutes. The bells having been rung— The PRESIDENT: The Senate will now proceed to a ballot. Ballot papers will be distributed to all senators, who are requested to write the name of the candidate they wish to vote for.

The candidates are Senator David Pocock and Senator Shoebridge. Senator Sheldon? Senator Sheldon: I wonder whether both the candidates would like to give a short speech about why we should be voting for them.

The PRESIDENT: Candidates are able to give a short speech if they wish to do so. Senator Ruston? Senator Ruston: I just wonder what the length of time will be.

The PRESIDENT: Minister Gallagher has suggested a minute, which is what we use for formal motions. As that is the agreement of the Senate, we will do one-minute statements. I remind the Senate that Senator Shoebridge and Senator David Pocock need to be heard in silence.