Local Government Law Reform Bill (No 2)

I move, That Government Order of the Day No. 1 be discharged, and that the Local Government Law Reform Bill (No 2) be referred to the Local Government and Environment Committee for further consideration. I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. I had intended to move that the bill be referred back to the Government Administration Committee, subject to other parties supporting leave for parties not on that committee to be represented. ACT indicated that it would refuse that leave. I am therefore moving this bill to the Local Government and Environment Committee, which has all other parties on it.

As a matter of clarification; my understanding of our Standing Orders is that when we have a referral motion of that nature, the consideration of the select committee the bill is referred to is confined specifically and tightly to the matter contained within that bill—that it is confined exclusively to that matter and cannot be expanded to include other matters. Is the House quite clear that that is the situation?

Certainly the select committee is confined in that respect, subject to two considerations: firstly, I will be seeking leave after this motion is passed, if it is passed, to expand the scope; and, secondly, of course it is perfectly open for the Government, at some point, to move a motion in the House instructing the select committee.

💬 Mr SPEAKER: The member is correct.

Motion agreed to.

Instruction to Local Government and Environment Committee