House of Representatives

Second Reading Speech

Dr Nelson (Minister for Education, Science and Training)

I move:

That this bill be now read a second time.

This bill amends schedule 1 to the Administrative Decisions (Judicial Review) Act 1977 to include a reference to a decision to select a site for a Commonwealth radioactive waste management facility made by the responsible minister under section 7 of the proposed Commonwealth Radioactive Waste Management Bill 2005.

In introducing the Commonwealth Radioactive Waste Management Bill 2005 I spoke about the importance of proceeding with the establishment of a safe and secure facility for the management of the Commonwealth's radioactive waste.

It needs to be made absolutely clear. A number of existing state and territory jurisdictions have enacted legislation that purports to prohibit or regulate the Commonwealth's activities in establishing and operating a radioactive waste management facility and/or transporting radioactive material to a facility. State and territory jurisdictions may introduce further legislation purporting to prohibit or regulate the Commonwealth in these activities.

Recent statements from the Northern Territory government that it will attempt to obstruct and delay the project reinforce the need for this bill to ensure the Commonwealth can act with certainty and without undue interference from vexatious and wilfully obstructive parties to responsibly manage Commonwealth radioactive waste.

I commend the bill to the House and present the explanatory memorandum.

Debate (on motion by Mr Edwards) adjourned.