Chris Evans (WA, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Government in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

Not only is honesty the best policy but it also allows the staff to respond quickly. I can provide the Senate with some more information although I reject the inappropriate assertion in his supplementary question. It is the case that the issue has been delayed. It is a significant and complex task. I understand that the minister has been working closely with the Attorney-General to resolve a number of difficult policy issues to enable the military court to best serve the military justice needs of the ADF, and I understand that the bills are planned to be introduced in the autumn sittings this year. Once the Military Court of Australia legislation has passed, it is the case that we think an implementation period of up to 10 months may be required to allow for court procedures, rules and judicial appointments to be made. But the government remains committed to the reforms that— (Time expired)