I move:

That the following matter be referred to the Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport References Committee for inquiry and report by 3 December 2015:

The future role and contribution of regional capitals to Australia, including:

(a) current demographic trends and the role of regional capitals in this change;(b) the current Government funding provided to regional capitals;

(c) an analysis of the appropriate level of funding regional capitals should be receiving based on their population, demand for services and strategic importance;

(d) investment challenges and opportunities to maintain or grow regional capitals, including in areas such as telecommunication technology, transportation links, human services, energy and other infrastructure;

(e) incentives and policy measures required to sustainably grow regional capitals;

(f) the impact the changing environment and demand for water will have on regional capitals; and

(g) any other related matters.

I seek leave to make a short statement.

Leave not granted.

I seek leave to make a short statement.

Leave not granted.

The question is that the motion moved by Senator Whish-Wilson be agreed to.

I move:

That the following matters be referred to the Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport References Committee for inquiry and report by 26 April 2015:

(a) recent media reports on apparent breaches in airport and aviation security at Australian airports;

(b) consideration of the responses to those reports from the Government, regulators, airports and other key stakeholders, and the adequacy of those responses;

(c) whether there are further measures that ought to be taken to enhance airport security and the safety of the travelling public;

(d) the findings of, and responses to, reports undertaken into airport security issues since 2000; and

(e) any related matters.

Question agreed to.