Anthony Albanese (Grayndler, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the House) Share this | Hansard source

The government supports the amendment moved by the Leader of the Nationals. The government has been extremely active in expressing Australia's concerns and in opposing the measures that have been imposed in the European ETS system as it would apply to aviation. The government's position has been very clear with regard to aviation and shipping. As a global industry, they need to take action to address emissions, but the appropriate forums through which to do that are the global bodies—the International Maritime Organisation with regard to shipping and IATA with regard to aviation.

I had a meeting with the European Commissioner for Transport in Leipzig in May, while I was attending the International Transport Forum, at which I reiterated Australia's position, which has been consistent in all forums, including transport forums, the UNFCCC and other bodies. Australia will continue to put our position extremely strongly. It has the support of the Australian aviation industry.

I thank the shadow minister for amending his original proposition to recognise that it would have created issues which were not intended when the Leader of the Nationals moved that initial resolution. With the support of this amendment, the resolution will, I believe, now receive the unanimous support of the House. It is very important, as Australia participates in international affairs, that wherever possible we ensure there is bipartisanship, because that strengthens our negotiations at the international forums in which we participate.

Question agreed to.

Original question, as amended, agreed to.

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