QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Senator WONG (South Australia—Minister for Foreign Affairs and Leader of the Government in the Senate) (14:29): Thank you, Senator Cadell, for that question. You are correct. The Federal Court has handed down its judgement in this matter, and the minister has directed his department to work with all parties to move this forward.

Honourable senators interjecting— Senator WONG: I think he's sitting behind me, mate, so you could do that. I'll say what I can. I'm advised directly that that work has begun and that the minister will be seeking to resolve this matter as quickly as possible—obviously, in line with the law.

I would make that point again—there have been previous calls in this chamber in relation to particular matters which are before the minister. A minister is required to resolve— Senator WONG: A minister is required to consider applications before them in accordance with the law, and I have no doubt that that is what the minister will do. I know there have been a lot of— Senator WONG: As you know, this is a matter which has been before the courts for some time, and we think the handing down of the judgement is an important step.

The government recognises the need to give certainty both for industry and for First Nations communities.