Alannah Mactiernan (Perth, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Around Australia there is a great deal of interest in the proposed Trans-pacific Partnership currently being negotiated. It has become an issue of considerable controversy, even in the United States, which is generally thought to be the principal beneficiary of the process, with Congress agitating for more disclosure about the nature of the provisions being negotiated.

In Australia there are concerns about the impact that the agreement could have on our Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, copyright laws, environmental protection and labour rights. On the other hand, there are those who support what may be an opening up of trade opportunities. What is clear is that we need more opportunity for the community to have a real dialogue about this complex issue.

Labor's international and legal affairs committee is holding community forums around Australia to give people an opportunity to have input. Our next one is right here in Canberra, next Tuesday evening, at 6 PM, at the Griffith community hall. We urge all Canberrans to come forward and help us frame a solid policy in this area.