Mr SLIPPER (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Finance and Administration) (11:14 AM) —The government is resolutely committed to improving the integrity of the electoral system in Australia, and the bills we have brought into the chamber are directed to that end. The excellent advice that I have provided to the honourable member for Calwell—insofar as he should make a submission to the Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters—could equally be provided to the honourable member for Calare. I draw to his attention as well that the closing date for submissions to the two inquiries being conducted by the joint standing committee is Friday, 13 October.

Question put:

The House divided. [11.19 a.m.]

Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr Nehl)—Order! As there are fewer than five members on the side for the ayes in this division, I declare the question negatived in accordance with standing order 204. Also in accordance with that standing order, the names of those in the minority will be recorded in the Votes and Proceedings. The question now is that government amendment No. 2 be agreed to.

Amendment agreed to.

Question put:

The House divided. [11.21 a.m.]

Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr Nehl)—Order! As there are fewer than five members on the side for the noes in this division, I declare the question resolved in the affirmative in accordance with standing order 204. Also in accordance with that standing order, the names of those in the minority will be recorded in the Votes and Proceedings.

Bill, as amended, agreed to.