Senator SANDY MACDONALD (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Defence) (1:30 PM) —in reply—I thank the opposition for supporting this legislation. The National Cattle Disease Eradication Account Amendment Bill 2006 has played an important role in the fight against brucellosis and tuberculosis. The funds held in the NCDEA have been derived solely from cattle and buffalo industry levies and charges and from the interest on these moneys. We are aware that, although the threats posed by brucellosis and TB have been reduced, other diseases could have a significant impact on Australian cattle herds. Transfer of the NCDEA funds to a trust fund, the Cattle Disease Contingency Fund, will ensure that these moneys can be used for a wider range of purposes related to cattle health and diseases while still retaining the ability to fund any future activities related to bovine tuberculosis and brucellosis.

The bill enables any funds in excess of what will be required in the future for brucellosis and TB programs to be used in the ongoing work of building a strong biosecurity framework for Australian buffalo and cattle industries. It has the full support of these industries. I am delighted that it has the support of the opposition as well and will foster the industry’s ability to play an active role in maintaining Australia’s animal health status. I commend the legislation to the Senate.

Question agreed to.

Bill read a second time.