Chris Ellison (WA, Liberal Party, Minister for Human Services) Share this | Hansard source

This is a fairly standard proposal by the Democrats, although it does have that aspect of the terms of the review which vary from those of the usual review that is proposed when we have a bill before the Senate. The government believes that it has consulted extensively with stakeholders in the area. It continues to do so. This is an area which enjoys a great deal of public scrutiny. This will continue to be an area where the government consults with insurers, healthcare service providers and consumers. To not do so would be at the government’s own peril. So really it is an ongoing work in progress, if you like, in dealing with the health sector.

The numerous amendments which have been commented on have come about as a result of further consultation in that interim period between when the bill was introduced into the House of Representatives and its arrival in the Senate. The government is of the view that this review is not necessary. There is an ongoing review which is in progress by virtue of the scrutiny applied to what is a very important area for all Australians and another review is not required. The government does not agree with the Democrat amendment.