Parliamentary Committees (Petitions) Amendment Bill

Second Reading

Adjourned debate on second reading.

(Continued from 16 May 2019.)

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Leader of the Opposition) (18:15): I rise to speak on this bill and to indicate my support. This is a very important bill for the proper workings of democracy and I congratulate the member for Florey in the other place for bringing this bill before the other place and for our chance to vote on it here.

It allows those who sign petitions to rest assured that their voices will be acted upon and require, under certain instances, for reasons for action being taken or not being taken in relation to petitions. I think it is a very good step forward and, again, I congratulate the member for Florey, Frances Bedford, in the other place for bringing this before us.

The Hon. M.C. PARNELL (18:16): The Greens are very pleased to support the bill for the reasons just enunciated by the Leader of the Opposition.

The Hon. C. BONAROS (18:16): I rise to support the bill. I commend the member for Florey, Frances Bedford, in the other place for taking this initiative, which has created the admirable aim of creating increased engagement of South Australians with the democratic process. I welcome the positive change and look forward to further, similarly positive changes in this place in times to come.

The Hon. T.J. STEPHENS (18:17): I thank honourable members for their indications of support and wish a speedy passage.

Bill read a second time.

Committee Stage

Bill taken through committee without amendment.

Third Reading

The Hon. T.J. STEPHENS (18:20): I move:

That this bill be now read a third time.

Bill read a third time and passed.

At 18:21 the council adjourned until Tuesday 2 July 2019 at 14:15.