Senator LEES (Deputy Leader of the Australian Democrats)(11.24 a.m.) —I move:

Clause 37, page 21 (after line 2), at the end of the clause, add:

(2) If:

   (a)   an advertisement solicits gifts or bequests for the purposes of the Reserve; and

   (b)   the advertisement is authorised by the Commonwealth; the advertisement must include a statement to the effect that the proceeds of the gift or bequest will be applied to a government program.

Note: The heading to clause 37 (page 20, line 25) is altered by omitting "Commonwealth not to accept conditional " and substituting "Acceptance of ".

This amendment relates to gifts and bequests which the government is encouraging, I presume, from business but also from individuals if they feel so moved. This intention has caused some concerns, particularly amongst those organisations that are already heavily reliant on gifts and bequests to undertake environment programs. I am sure we can all think of a range of environment groups that would be so worried.

All we are asking is that we make it very clear in large letters that the money is actually going to government programs. It is just a further clarification and it is making sure that the public, particularly individuals, know that this is a government fund and that is where the money will be spent.