Senator HERRON (Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs)(12.29 p.m.) —I thank the opposition, the Democrats and the other parties in particular for the consensus that has been reached in relation to this bill. It is an example of what can be achieved in consultation. It is a win-win situation where the government has achieved the outcome that is desired. The review that was conducted into the previous elections, as I said, will be undertaken again. I also undertake to refer the issue of the size of regional councils to the review panel I am required by the ATSIC Act to convene after each round of zone elections.

In particular, the panel will be asked to look expeditiously at measures to ensure that there is fair and balanced representation of community interests on regional councils. I would also welcome the input of the opposition parties on the appointment of the next chairman of ATSIC. I invite them and the indigenous people themselves to consult with me on the issue at the appropriate time.

So I thank the opposition, the Democrats, the Independents and the Greens for their input on this occasion and assure them that it will be my role as minister to consult as widely as possible in the interests of the indigenous people because I believe that what we have achieved today will be in their best interests. I know that I have the support of the opposition in that regard. I thank honourable senators for their contributions. I table the supplementary explanatory memoranda in relation to the bill.