Mitch Fifield (Victoria, Liberal Party, Manager of Government Business in the Senate) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I move:

That leave of absence be granted to every member of the Senate from the end of the sitting today to the day on which the Senate next meets.

Glenn Sterle (WA, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

What would that date be, Mitch?

Mitch Fifield (Victoria, Liberal Party, Manager of Government Business in the Senate) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Good night and sweet dreams!

Penny Wong (SA, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Opposition in the Senate) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

On behalf of the opposition, I just wanted to thank all of the Senate staff—particularly for over the last few days, which have been a very heavy schedule. Also, if people would allow me to, I want to thank staff of the opposition. They have worked extraordinarily hard in these last days. I appreciate it. Thank you.

Stephen Parry (President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The question is that the motion moved by Senator Fifield be agreed to—I should say 'as amended'. Those of that opinion say 'aye', those against say 'no'. Oh, sorry, that was not amended. It has been a long 30-something hours. We have just agreed that we can all go home, I think—that was the motion. Everyone has agreed to that, I take it. There is no dissent.

Question agreed to.

Can I also add my thanks to staff. I want to echo, in particular, the words of Senator Rhiannon when she clearly articulated her thanks to a number of people in this building over the past 24 to 48 hours. Thank you. I bid all staff here and every senator safe travelling home.

Honourable senators: Hear, hear!

The Senate stands adjourned and will meet again on Tuesday, 10 May 2016 at 12.30 pm.

Senate adjourned at 14:26 (Friday)