On indulgence, on behalf of the coalition, we would like to associate ourselves with the remarks of the minister on the passing of Don Lane. He is certainly, although not a native-born Australian, someone who made a very marked impact on Australian cultural life. Many millions of Australians would recognise the amazing contribution he made. Having been born in New York City to a Catholic mother and a Jewish father, he certainly grew up with a lifestyle and in a family that was, although not unique, perhaps interesting coming into Australia.

His early work as a nightclub performer and a singer, doing a mix of comedy and singing, certainly boded well for his subsequent years on the Don Lane Show. Of course, he worked very closely with a number of famous Australians, including Bert Newton. The various national Logie awards that he received—including the Gold Logie; Most Popular Male Personality; Most Popular Male, in Victoria; and Most Popular Show—were all a testament to his fine contribution to Australian culture. He will certainly be missed.