Mary Fisher (SA, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I, and also on behalf of Senator Heffernan and Senator Xenophon, move:

That the following matter be referred to the Rural Affairs and Transport References Committee for inquiry and report by 2 November 2011:

Operational issues arising in the export grain storage, transport, handling and shipping network, with particular reference to:

(a)

any risks of natural, virtual or other monopolies discouraging or impeding competition in the export grain storage, transport, handling and shipping network, and any implications for open and fair access to essential grains infrastructure;

(b)

the degree of transparency in storage and handling of grain and the appropriateness of any consequent marketing advantages;

(c)

equitable access to the lowest cost route to market, including transport options;

(d)

competition issues arising from the redelivery of grain;

(e)

the absence of uniform receipt, testing and classification standards and practices and any implications for growers and/or for Australia’s reputation as a quality supplier;

(f)

equitable and efficient access to the shipping stem; and

(g)

any other related matters.

Question agreed to.