Sussan Ley (Farrer, Liberal Party, Minister for Health) Share this | Hansard source

I thank the member for Perth and others who have spoken on the Gene Technology Amendment Bill 2015 for their very careful submissions. I am very pleased that I am here to sum up on this bill. As we have discussed, it amends the Gene Technology Act 2000 to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the genetically modified organisms regulatory scheme. The amendments do not significantly change the framework or policy settings of the act. These amendments were recommended by an independent review of the regulatory scheme, which concluded that the gene technology regulatory system is working well but that a number of changes would improve the operation of the scheme. The amendments decrease the regulatory burden for regulated organisations and help ensure that the regulatory burden remains commensurate with risk into the future. Australia's gene technology regulatory scheme is recognised throughout the world for its rigorous science-based risk assessments and open and transparent approach. The scheme also provides an efficient and effective system for the application of gene technology. These amendments maintain the scheme to ensure that these high standards continue into the future. I commend the bill once again to the House.

Question agreed to.

Bill read a second time.

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