Senator LUDLAM (10:31 AM) —That is correct. We will withdraw amendment (19) in recognition that the government has taken up that recommendation. We felt it was important to ensure that the word ‘independent’ was included in the title of the monitor. I believe that, with the amendments the government has been persuaded to pass by the work of the committee and with the amendments that have been proposed and passed by the Senate with the support of the Greens and coalition senators, we will actually introduce real independence into the functions of the office. I very much look forward to this bill passing into law and to seeing this office up and running.

Bill, as amended, agreed to.

Bill reported with an amendment; report adopted.