Environment and Communications References Committee

Sarah Hanson-Young

I move:

(1) That the following matters be re-referred to the Environment and Communications References Committee for inquiry and report by 25 June 2026:

(a) the National Cultural Policy released on 30 January 2023; and

(b) any other related matters.

(2) That the committee have the power to consider and use the records of the Environment and Communications References Committee appointed in the previous parliament.

Question agreed to.

Ralph Babet

I, and also on behalf of Senator Roberts, move:

That the following matter be referred to the Environment and Communications References Committee for inquiry and report by 31 October 2025:

The Internet Search Engine Services Online Safety Code (Class 1C and Class 2 Material), with particular reference to:

(a) the heads of authority provided by the Online Safety Act 2021 (the Act) for each provision of the code;

(b) the scope and accountability of the e-Safety Commissioner in administering the Act including the development of industry codes and standards;

(c) ensuring there are appropriate parliamentary oversight and scrutiny mechanisms for industry codes and standards;

(d) the operation of similar legislation in the United Kingdom and Europe as it relates to freedom of speech and freedom of the press; and

(e) any other related matters.

Sue Lines

The question is that general business of the Senate notice of motion No. 5, standing in the names of Senators Babet and Roberts, be agreed to.