Senator XENOPHON (9:56 AM) —I do wish to be recognised, thank you.

Senator Bernardi —I recognise you.

Senator XENOPHON —Senator Bernardi recognises me as well, Mr Temporary Chairman, so that is all that matters.

The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN —I am sure that is absolutely true, Senator Xenophon.

Senator XENOPHON —The proposed amendment standing in my name that has been circulated in the chamber relates to making the advice of ANPHA public:

This is very much about transparency. Initially there was a proposal that this be published within 14 days. I acknowledge that 14 days is too short a period of time and that there needs to be an adequate period of time for the government to consider recommendations made by the agency. But I also think it is important that those recommendations be made public. It is very much in the public interest that those recommendations are out there after a reasonable period of time.

I note that my colleague Senator Siewert from the Australian Greens will be proposing that the period of time be increased from six months to 12 months, and I am quite comfortable about that. I have had discussions with the government about that longer time frame. I think it is fair in the context of this legislation that there is a longer time frame. I have had discussions with Dr Southcott, the member for Boothby, in relation to this. I think it is important that we get the full recommendations. I do not believe that having a summary of recommendations or a precis of recommendations would be adequate. It is important that we see the full recommendations that this body would give to government. Twelve months will be very much in the public interest and will give the government an adequate time frame in which to consider and, if necessary, to act on those recommendations.

So I commend this amendment but I indicate that Senator Siewert may be moving an amendment to increase the period from six months to 12 months.

The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN —Are you seeking to move the amendment, Senator Xenophon?

Senator XENOPHON —There are two ways of doing it, I guess. I will take advice from you, Mr Temporary Chairman, as to whether I move this amendment and Senator Siewert amends it to 12 months. I am in your hands in relation to that.

The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN —I think it would be simplest if you amended and moved your own amendment.

Senator XENOPHON —I move amendment (1) as amended:

11A  Publication