Jessica Collins (NSW, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I seek leave to make a personal explanation.

Leave granted.

Yesterday, in the chamber, speaking to Senator Hume's private senator's bill on superannuation, I misspoke, describing former senator Richard Alston AO, a good friend of mine, as the 'late' senator. I indeed exaggerated his death. I can confirm that the former senator Richard Alston AO is A-okay, having spoken to him immediately after my speech to apologise for my mistake. Former senator Alston was instrumental in the early days of superannuation, being appointed shadow minister for superannuation during his tenure. However, the late senator to whom I was referring was Senator John Watson AM—may God rest his soul.

I thank former senator Richard Alston for his good grace and his humour and for encouraging me by saying, 'If that's the worst mistake you make in parliament, you'll be doing okay.' My sincere apologies to anyone who I may have taken by surprise. Thank you, Acting Deputy President, for your indulgence in allowing me to make a personal explanation to amend the record.

Raff Ciccone (Victoria, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Thank you very much, Senator. I'm glad we clarified that and got that on the record. I'm sure Senator Alston is watching—hello!