Senator TAMBLING (12:28 PM) —The Commonwealth is keen to insist on, and to obtain, high consistent standards. At the same time, we recognise the important role and function of the state and territory laws in this regard, and what is correctly their prerogative in dealing with that area. In order to achieve high consistent standards, with appropriate accountability mechanisms, it would of course be one of the issues that would subsequently be addressed through regulation.

The debate here of course is one largely of how we achieve this. Senator Harradine did not indicate whether, if we proceed with Senator Evans's amendments, he would be forgoing his subsequent amendment or whether we are going to revisit the debate.

Senator Harradine interjecting—

Senator TAMBLING —Okay, I accept that. I believe that it is an issue and accept that there will be a will of the Senate in this regard.