Federal Biosecurity Levies

The Hon. B.R. HOOD (15:03): My question is to the Minister for Regional Development and Primary Industries on biosecurity. I will ask for leave before I start the question.

Members interjecting:

The PRESIDENT: Order!

Leave granted.

The PRESIDENT: Thank you, the Hon. Mr Hood, because you must ask for leave before you give an explanation.

The Hon. B.R. HOOD: Thank you, Mr President. I am just so eager to ask this question. The Albanese government last week tabled new laws to establish a biosecurity production levy, which will raise $50 million from farmers to bankroll activities that assist importers and other risk creators. The National Farmers' Federation has labelled this move as utterly staggering, given the level of opposition to the policy from farming groups. My question to the minister is:

1. Does the minister support the new biosecurity protection levy laws?

2. If so, what statement would she like to make to our struggling farmers regarding this additional financial burden that the levy will place on them?

3. What discussions has she had with her federal counterpart to advocate on behalf of South Australian primary producers?

The Hon. C.M. SCRIVEN (Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, Minister for Forest Industries) (15:04): The topic relates to the federal government, as was outlined in the member's first line. I suggest that that is the appropriate place for the discussion.

Members interjecting:

The PRESIDENT: Order! The Hon. Ben Hood, you are going to attempt to ask a supplementary question arising from that very brief answer. I will listen to it.