Simon Birmingham (SA, Liberal Party, Minister for Education and Training) Share this | Hansard source

I thank all members for their contributions to the debate on the Liquid Fuel Emergency Amendment Bill 2017 which, as the government's made clear, will enable it to work toward its goal of compliance with the International Energy Agency's requirement that Australia holds 90 days of oil stockholdings by authorising the Australian government to enter into oil stockholding contracts. I note a number of contributions in the debate. The government appreciates the intent from all senators, but appreciates in particular the general bipartisan approach to the handling of this legislation and support of the government's measures in this regard.

The government will not be supporting the second reading amendment moved by the Greens. The government has established a ministerial forum on vehicle emissions to consider possible reforms in three areas, namely fuel efficiency standards, fuel quality standards and noxious emissions standards. The government intends to encourage more efficient vehicles, which will reduce fuel use and mean cheaper petrol bills for families in the future. We are still working through the implementation of measures in all of these areas, particularly by consulting widely with stakeholders, which the government has done and continues to do, so as to ensure a balanced, evidence-based approach to this important area of public policy. I commend the bill to the Senate.