Joe Ludwig (Queensland, Australian Labor Party, Manager of Opposition Business in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

I welcome the comments by the minister. Like the minister, the opposition also has a high regard for the Federal Magistrates Court and their work. However, I maintain my opposition to his arguments against the amendment. It is an appropriate amendment and it will ensure that small business and others will have access to the Federal Magistrates Court in less complex matters, which was the reasoning behind the establishment of the Federal Magistrates Court in the first place.

It is disappointing to find that the government is still hiding behind the belief that all these matters will be complex and time consuming. That seems to be the main argument: that every matter under sections 46 or 46A will be complex and time consuming and will bog down the court. I reject that and Labor rejects that. I am sure that the Federal Magistrates Court would be able to discern whether cases should be and are simple and can be dealt with in their jurisdiction, or whether they are more complex and can be referred.

Question put:

That the amendment (Senator Ludwig’s) be agreed to.