It is necessary to hold a ballot for the crossbench position on the Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters. Before proceeding to a ballot, the bells will be rung.

The bells having been rung—

Order! It is now necessary to hold a ballot for the crossbench position on the Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters, and by agreement we're doing that before the first speeches. The bells have been rung; the Senate will now proceed to a ballot. Ballot papers will be distributed to senators. The candidates are indicated on the ballot paper. I invite Senators McKim and Babet to act as scrutineers.

A ballot having been taken

Order! The result of the ballot is: Senator Waters, 63 votes; and Senator Babet, eight votes. Therefore, Senator Waters will take the position on the Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters.