Senator FORSHAW(9.14 p.m.) —I am not sure that I have that running sheet in front of me but, as I understand it, this relates to the decision by the government not to proceed with the original proposal to reduce the age to 18.

Senator Ellison —That's right.

Senator FORSHAW —Thank you. As I outlined in the second reading debate, the opposition's position is that we are pleased the government has done a backflip on its original proposal and has recognised the error of its ways on this matter, so we will not be opposing this amendment or indeed the amendments as they relate to this issue of age. Of course, as I have made it clear, when we come to it later in the committee stage, we will be opposing that aspect of the bill which relates to the removal of eligibility for seniors health care cardholders and the legislation as a whole.

Amendment agreed to.

Bill, as amended, agreed to.

HEARING SERVICES AND AGHS REFORM BILL 1997

The bill.

Senator FORSHAW(9.17 p.m.) —The opposition opposes schedule 1, item 3.

   Question put:

   That Schedule 1, item 3 stand as printed.