Mitch Fifield (Victoria, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister for Social Services) Share this | Hansard source

The government supports the intent to amend defence legislation for Woomera but is concerned about some aspects of this bill in its current form. In particular, the absence of a regulatory impact statement concerns the government. Unlike the former government, we have not waived this requirement. The government is in the process of preparing an amended version of the legislation for the autumn 2014 sitting. The Department of Defence has continued to undertake extensive consultation, including last week's Woomera advisory board meetings at Woomera. The amended version will include a number of points of particular concern to the South Australian and Northern Territory governments, including a clarification of existing users, including pastoralists, railways and local Indigenous groups. Noting the opposition of those opposite to the extension of hours and given the importance of other bills currently before this place, the government would suggest that introduction of this legislation be considered in the autumn sitting.

Debate adjourned.