Andrew Gee (Calare, Independent) Share this | Hansard source

As I was saying, varroa mite was so invasive that New South Wales abandoned its eradication efforts and shifted instead to management strategies, and the mite's presence now poses ongoing economic, ecological and agricultural challenges across New South Wales. In fact, I was at the Australian National Field Days only recently, over the weekend, and a honey producer was telling me of the shocking impact the mite has had on their businesses.

Fire ants were first detected in Australia in 2001 in Brisbane. These infestations came in through international shipping, and their rapid spread has been a real challenge. Fire ants have been detected in new locations in New South Wales, posing a severe risk to our native biodiversity and biosecurity.

As the member for Kennedy pointed out, we've also got the looming threat of H5N1 bird flu. Australia is the only continent that has not reported an outbreak of this highly contagious flu. It's a reminder that we must be vigilant and that our biosecurity can't be taken for granted, so this motion brought by the member for Kennedy is a wonderful example of the crossbench leading the way on policy.

As we look across the aisle to the pain and, sometimes, dysfunction that may be being experienced by some on this side of the House or even on the other side of the aisle, we on the cross bench say that there is a better way for you. Bring us your tired, bring us your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, because a better life awaits you on the crossbench.

I know the member for Kennedy joins me in extending that invitation to anyone who is seeking a better life and a better way and a better future. I support the member for Kennedy's motion, and I commend it to the House.

See this speech in context