Division Description Changes — Bills — Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012, Clean Energy (Charges — Excise) Amendment Bill 2012, Clean Energy (Charges — Customs) Amendment Bill 2012, Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-Tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012, Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-Tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012, Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-Tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012, Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge — Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012; Second Reading — 26th Nov 2012

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senate vote 2012-11-26#6 Edited by system on 2014-10-07 16:18:05	Title Description ~~The majority voted in favour of a [http://www.openaustralia.org/senate/?gid=2012-11-26.203.14 motion] to read the bills a second time.~~ ~~This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.~~ ~~The seven bills are:~~ * [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895 Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012] * [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894 Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012] * [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893 Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012] * [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897 Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012] * [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898 Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012] * [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899 Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012] * [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896 Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012] ~~''Background to the bills''~~ The seven bills are designed to link Australia’s [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_pricing_in_Australia carbon pricing mechanism] to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.(For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s [http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx website].) This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability. ~~References~~ The majority voted in favour of a [motion](http://www.openaustralia.org/senate/?gid=2012-11-26.203.14) to read the bills a second time. This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail. The seven bills are: - [Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012](http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895) - [Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012](http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894) - [Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012](http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893) - [Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012](http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897) - [Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012](http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898) - [Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012](http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899) - [Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012](http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896) _Background to the bills_ The seven bills are designed to link Australia’s [carbon pricing mechanism](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_pricing_in_Australia) to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.(For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s [website](http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx).) This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability. References
senate vote 2012-11-26#6 Edited by system on 2014-10-07 16:16:05	Title Description The majority voted in favour of a [http://www.openaustralia.org/senate/?gid=2012-11-26.203.14 motion] to read the bills a second time. This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail. The seven bills are: * [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895 Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012] * [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894 Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012] * [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893 Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012] * [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897 Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012] * [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898 Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012] * [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899 Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012] * [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896 Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012] ''Background to the bills'' The seven bills are designed to link Australia’s [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_pricing_in_Australia carbon pricing mechanism] to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.[1] The seven bills are designed to link Australia’s [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_pricing_in_Australia carbon pricing mechanism] to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.(For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s [http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx website].) This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability. References * [1] For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s [http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx website].
senate vote 2012-11-26#6 Edited by mackay staff on 2014-02-13 17:25:43	Title Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012 and related bills - Second Reading - Link Australia to overseas emissions trading schemes Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012 and related bills - Second Reading - Read a second time Description The majority voted in favour of a [http://www.openaustralia.org/senate/?gid=2012-11-26.203.14 motion] to read the bills a second time. This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail. <p>The Aye-voters succeeded in passing <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0168;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0000%22">a motion</a> that the bills be read a second time. The motion was moved by Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kate_Lundy&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Kate Lundy</a>.</p> <p>This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.</p> ~~<p>The seven bills were:</p>~~ <ul><li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895">Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894">Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893">Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897">Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896">Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li></ul> ~~<p><b>Summary of debate in Parliament</b></p>~~ ~~<p>In the debate in the Senate for this division:~~ <ul> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Simon_Birmingham&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Simon Birmingham</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0191;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">argued</a> that the legislation effectively handed over complete control of the price of carbon to Europe and accused the Government of “backflipping” on their promises.</li> <li>Greens Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Christine_Milne&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Christine Milne</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0192;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">criticised</a> Senator Birmingham’s “disgraceful performance” and reminded him that the “whole point of the emissions trading scheme ... is to try to reduce greenhouse emissions”. She argued that “the link with the EU improves the carbon price”.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Matt_Thistlethwaite&mpc=Kingsford_Smith&house=representatives">Matt Thistlethwaite</a>, now an MP, <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0193;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">emphasised</a> the importance of “taking action on climate change” and of Australia “doing its part”. He <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0097;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">reminded</a> the Senate that Australia is not acting alone.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Hon._Lisa_Singh&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Lisa Singh</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0210;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> that “emissions trading is the preferred method of carbon reduction” because of its efficiency, effectiveness and low cost. It is also “the easiest for business”.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Alan_Eggleston&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Alan Eggleston</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0211;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> he was concerned about the effectiveness of the proposed internationally linked emissions trading scheme and about “the international governance” of the scheme.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Ian_Macdonald&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Ian Macdonald</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0212;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">cited</a> figures that showed the volatility of the European carbon emissions trading scheme.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Ron_Boswell&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Ronald Boswell</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> that the “carbon tax” and renewable energy target are making electricity more expensive.</li> <li>Independent Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Nick_Xenophon&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Nick Xenophon</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0214;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">called</a> the bills “bad policy”. He agreed that “anthropogenic climate change is a real issue” but said that the carbon emissions scheme does not address it adequately and that the bills “will just make a bad situation much worse”.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Bridget_McKenzie&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Bridget McKenzie</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0215;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Xenophon and referred to the costs associated with the “carbon tax” in her home state of Victoria.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Fiona_Nash&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Fiona Nash</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0216;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> it was “absolutely gobsmacking” that “Australian farmers have been excluded from selling carbon credits to Europe until 2018” while Europe has “a monopoly selling carbon credits to us—to Australia—from 2015”.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Helen_Kroger&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Helen Kroger</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0217;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Nash and condemned the legislation.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=John_Williams&mpc=Senate&house=senate">John Williams</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0218;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">focussed</a> on the negative economic impacts of the “carbon tax” on electricity prices and on industries such as the transport industry.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Mathias_Cormann&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Mathias Cormann</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0219;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">highlighted</a> the inconsistencies between the Australian and the European carbon trading schemes and the problems these will cause.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Joe_Ludwig&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Joe Ludwig</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0220;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">refuted</a> the opposition's claim that Australia is acting alone as well as their claim that the bills would allow the EU to set the price on carbon. He argued that the price will be set by the international market, as it is in the case of coal or oil.</li></ul> ~~<p><b>Background to the bills</b></p>~~ <p>The seven bills were designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.</p> <p>This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.</p> <p>However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate. It will be replaced by a <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/reducing-carbon/carbon-pricing-policy">Direct Action Plan</a>.</p> <p>For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.</p> The seven bills are: * [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895 Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012] * [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894 Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012] * [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893 Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012] * [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897 Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012] * [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898 Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012] * [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899 Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012] * [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896 Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012] ''Background to the bills'' The seven bills are designed to link Australia’s [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_pricing_in_Australia carbon pricing mechanism] to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.[1] This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability. References * [1] For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s [http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx website].
senate vote 2012-11-26#6 Edited by mackay staff on 2013-11-14 15:32:22	Title Description <p>The Aye-voters succeeded in passing <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0168;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0000%22">a motion</a> that the bills be read a second time. The motion was moved by Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kate_Lundy&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Kate Lundy</a>.</p> <p>This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.</p> <p>The seven bills were:</p> <ul><li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895">Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894">Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893">Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897">Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896">Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li></ul> <p><b>Summary of debate in Parliament</b></p> <p>In the debate in the Senate for this division: <ul> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Simon_Birmingham&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Simon Birmingham</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0191;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">argued</a> that the legislation effectively handed over complete control of the price of carbon to Europe and accused the Government of “backflipping” on their promises.</li> <li>Greens Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Christine_Milne&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Christine Milne</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0192;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">criticised</a> Senator Birmingham’s “disgraceful performance” and reminded him that the “whole point of the emissions trading scheme ... is to try to reduce greenhouse emissions”. She argued that “the link with the EU improves the carbon price”.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Matt_Thistlethwaite&mpc=Kingsford_Smith&house=representatives">Matt Thistlethwaite</a>, now an MP, <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0193;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">emphasised</a> the importance of “taking action on climate change” and of Australia “doing its part”. He <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0097;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">reminded</a> the Senate that Australia is not acting alone.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Hon._Lisa_Singh&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Lisa Singh</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0210;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> that “emissions trading is the preferred method of carbon reduction” because of its efficiency, effectiveness and low cost. It is also “the easiest for business”.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Alan_Eggleston&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Alan Eggleston</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0211;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> he was concerned about the effectiveness of the proposed internationally linked emissions trading scheme and about “the international governance” of the scheme.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Ian_Macdonald&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Ian Macdonald</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0212;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">cited</a> figures that showed the volatility of the European carbon emissions trading scheme.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">Ronald Boswell</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> that the “carbon tax” and renewable energy target are making electricity more expensive.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Ron_Boswell&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Ronald Boswell</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> that the “carbon tax” and renewable energy target are making electricity more expensive.</li> <li>Independent Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Nick_Xenophon&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Nick Xenophon</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0214;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">called</a> the bills “bad policy”. He agreed that “anthropogenic climate change is a real issue” but said that the carbon emissions scheme does not address it adequately and that the bills “will just make a bad situation much worse”.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Bridget_McKenzie&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Bridget McKenzie</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0215;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Xenophon and referred to the costs associated with the “carbon tax” in her home state of Victoria.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Fiona_Nash&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Fiona Nash</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0216;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> it was “absolutely gobsmacking” that “Australian farmers have been excluded from selling carbon credits to Europe until 2018” while Europe has “a monopoly selling carbon credits to us—to Australia—from 2015”.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Helen_Kroger&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Helen Kroger</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0217;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Nash and condemned the legislation.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=John_Williams&mpc=Senate&house=senate">John Williams</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0218;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">focussed</a> on the negative economic impacts of the “carbon tax” on electricity prices and on industries such as the transport industry.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Mathias_Cormann&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Mathias Cormann</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0219;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">highlighted</a> the inconsistencies between the Australian and the European carbon trading schemes and the problems these will cause.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Joe_Ludwig&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Joe Ludwig</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0220;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">refuted</a> the opposition's claim that Australia is acting alone as well as their claim that the bills would allow the EU to set the price on carbon. He argued that the price will be set by the international market, as it is in the case of coal or oil.</li></ul> <p><b>Background to the bills</b></p> <p>The seven bills were designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.</p> <p>This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.</p> <p>However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate. It will be replaced by a <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/reducing-carbon/carbon-pricing-policy">Direct Action Plan</a>.</p> <p>For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.</p>
senate vote 2012-11-26#6 Edited by mackay staff on 2013-11-14 15:29:47	Title Description <p>The Aye-voters succeeded in passing <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0168;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0000%22">a motion</a> that the bills be read a second time. The motion was moved by Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kate_Lundy&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Kate Lundy</a>.</p> <p>This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.</p> <p>The seven bills were:</p> <ul><li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895">Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894">Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893">Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897">Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896">Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li></ul> <p><b>Summary of debate in Parliament</b></p> <p>In the debate in the Senate for this division: <ul> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Simon_Birmingham&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Simon Birmingham</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0191;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">argued</a> that the legislation effectively handed over complete control of the price of carbon to Europe and accused the Government of “backflipping” on their promises.</li> <li>Greens Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Christine_Milne&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Christine Milne</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0192;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">criticised</a> Senator Birmingham’s “disgraceful performance” and reminded him that the “whole point of the emissions trading scheme ... is to try to reduce greenhouse emissions”. She argued that “the link with the EU improves the carbon price”.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Matt_Thistlethwaite&mpc=Kingsford_Smith&house=representatives">Matt Thistlethwaite</a>, now an MP, <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0193;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">emphasised</a> the importance of “taking action on climate change” and of Australia “doing its part”. He <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0097;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">reminded</a> the Senate that Australia is not acting alone.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Hon._Lisa_Singh&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Lisa Singh</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0210;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> that “emissions trading is the preferred method of carbon reduction” because of its efficiency, effectiveness and low cost. It is also “the easiest for business”.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Alan_Eggleston&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Alan Eggleston</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0211;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> he was concerned about the effectiveness of the proposed internationally linked emissions trading scheme and about “the international governance”.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Alan_Eggleston&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Alan Eggleston</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0211;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> he was concerned about the effectiveness of the proposed internationally linked emissions trading scheme and about “the international governance” of the scheme.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Ian_Macdonald&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Ian Macdonald</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0212;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">cited</a> figures that showed the volatility of the European carbon emissions trading scheme.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">Ronald Boswell</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> that the “carbon tax” and renewable energy target are making electricity more expensive.</li> <li>Independent Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Nick_Xenophon&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Nick Xenophon</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0214;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">called</a> the bills “bad policy”. He agreed that “anthropogenic climate change is a real issue” but said that the carbon emissions scheme does not address it adequately and that the bills “will just make a bad situation much worse”.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Bridget_McKenzie&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Bridget McKenzie</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0215;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Xenophon and referred to the costs associated with the “carbon tax” in her home state of Victoria.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Fiona_Nash&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Fiona Nash</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0216;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> it was “absolutely gobsmacking” that “Australian farmers have been excluded from selling carbon credits to Europe until 2018” while Europe has “a monopoly selling carbon credits to us—to Australia—from 2015”.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Helen_Kroger&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Helen Kroger</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0217;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Nash and condemned the legislation.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=John_Williams&mpc=Senate&house=senate">John Williams</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0218;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">focussed</a> on the negative economic impacts of the “carbon tax” on electricity prices and on industries such as the transport industry.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Mathias_Cormann&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Mathias Cormann</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0219;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">highlighted</a> the inconsistencies between the Australian and the European carbon trading schemes and the problems these will cause.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Joe_Ludwig&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Joe Ludwig</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0220;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">refuted</a> the opposition's claim that Australia is acting alone as well as their claim that the bills would allow the EU to set the price on carbon. He argued that the price will be set by the international market, as it is in the case of coal or oil.</li></ul> <p><b>Background to the bills</b></p> <p>The seven bills were designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.</p> <p>This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.</p> <p>However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate. It will be replaced by a <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/reducing-carbon/carbon-pricing-policy">Direct Action Plan</a>.</p> <p>For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.</p>
senate vote 2012-11-26#6 Edited by mackay staff on 2013-11-14 15:29:04	Title Description <p>The Aye-voters succeeded in passing <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0168;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0000%22">a motion</a> that the bills be read a second time. The motion was moved by Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kate_Lundy&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Kate Lundy</a>.</p> <p>This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.</p> <p>The seven bills were:</p> <ul><li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895">Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894">Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893">Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897">Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896">Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li></ul> <p><b>Summary of debate in Parliament</b></p> <p>In the debate in the Senate for this division: <ul> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Simon_Birmingham&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Simon Birmingham</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0191;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">argued</a> that the legislation effectively handed over complete control of the price of carbon to Europe and accused the Government of “backflipping” on their promises.</li> <li>Greens Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Christine_Milne&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Christine Milne</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0192;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">criticised</a> Senator Birmingham’s “disgraceful performance” and reminded him that the “whole point of the emissions trading scheme ... is to try to reduce greenhouse emissions”. She argued that “the link with the EU improves the carbon price”.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Matt_Thistlethwaite&mpc=Kingsford_Smith&house=representatives">Matt Thistlethwaite</a>, now an MP, <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0193;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">emphasised</a> the importance of “taking action on climate change” and of Australia “doing its part”. He <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0097;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">reminded</a> the Senate that Australia is not acting alone.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Hon._Lisa_Singh&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Lisa Singh</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0210;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> that “emissions trading is the preferred method of carbon reduction” because of its efficiency, effectiveness and low cost. It is also “the easiest for business”.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Alan_Eggleston&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Alan Eggleston</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0211;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">cited</a> UBS Investment Research that found that “the European Union carbon-trading scheme has so far cost no less than $287 billion for almost zero impact when it comes to reducing carbon pollution”. He said he was concerned about the effectiveness of the proposed internationally linked emissions-trading scheme and about “the international governance”.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Alan_Eggleston&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Alan Eggleston</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0211;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> he was concerned about the effectiveness of the proposed internationally linked emissions trading scheme and about “the international governance”.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Ian_Macdonald&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Ian Macdonald</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0212;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">cited</a> figures that showed the volatility of the European carbon emissions trading scheme.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">Ronald Boswell</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> that the “carbon tax” and renewable energy target are making electricity more expensive.</li> <li>Independent Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Nick_Xenophon&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Nick Xenophon</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0214;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">called</a> the bills “bad policy”. He agreed that “anthropogenic climate change is a real issue” but said that the carbon emissions scheme does not address it adequately and that the bills “will just make a bad situation much worse”.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Bridget_McKenzie&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Bridget McKenzie</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0215;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Xenophon and referred to the costs associated with the “carbon tax” in her home state of Victoria.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Fiona_Nash&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Fiona Nash</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0216;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> it was “absolutely gobsmacking” that “Australian farmers have been excluded from selling carbon credits to Europe until 2018” while Europe has “a monopoly selling carbon credits to us—to Australia—from 2015”.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Helen_Kroger&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Helen Kroger</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0217;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Nash and condemned the legislation.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=John_Williams&mpc=Senate&house=senate">John Williams</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0218;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">focussed</a> on the negative economic impacts of the “carbon tax” on electricity prices and on industries such as the transport industry.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Mathias_Cormann&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Mathias Cormann</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0219;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">highlighted</a> the inconsistencies between the Australian and the European carbon trading schemes and the problems these will cause.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Joe_Ludwig&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Joe Ludwig</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0220;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">refuted</a> the opposition's claim that Australia is acting alone as well as their claim that the bills would allow the EU to set the price on carbon. He argued that the price will be set by the international market, as it is in the case of coal or oil.</li></ul> <p><b>Background to the bills</b></p> <p>The seven bills were designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.</p> <p>This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.</p> <p>However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate. It will be replaced by a <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/reducing-carbon/carbon-pricing-policy">Direct Action Plan</a>.</p> <p>For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.</p>
senate vote 2012-11-26#6 Edited by mackay staff on 2013-11-14 15:26:13	Title Description <p>The Aye-voters succeeded in passing <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0168;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0000%22">a motion</a> that the bills be read a second time. The motion was moved by Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kate_Lundy&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Kate Lundy</a>.</p> <p>This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.</p> <p>The seven bills were:</p> <ul><li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895">Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894">Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893">Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897">Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896">Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li></ul> <p><b>Summary of debate in Parliament</b></p> <p>In the debate in the Senate for this division: <ul> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Simon_Birmingham&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Simon Birmingham</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0191;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">argued</a> that the legislation effectively handed over complete control of the price of carbon to Europe and accused the Government of “backflipping” on their promises.</li> <li>Greens Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Christine_Milne&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Christine Milne</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0192;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">criticised</a> Senator Birmingham’s “disgraceful performance” and reminded him that the “whole point of the emissions trading scheme ... is to try to reduce greenhouse emissions”. She argued that “the link with the EU improves the carbon price”.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Matt_Thistlethwaite&mpc=Kingsford_Smith&house=representatives">Matt Thistlethwaite</a>, now an MP, <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0193;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">emphasised</a> the importance of “taking action on climate change” and of Australia “doing its part”. He <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0097;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">reminded</a> the Senate that Australia is not acting alone.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Hon._Lisa_Singh&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Lisa Singh</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0210;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">echoed</a> Senator Thistlethwaite’s comments. She said that “emissions trading is the preferred method of carbon reduction” because of its efficiency, effectiveness and low cost. It is also “the easiest for business”.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Hon._Lisa_Singh&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Lisa Singh</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0210;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> that “emissions trading is the preferred method of carbon reduction” because of its efficiency, effectiveness and low cost. It is also “the easiest for business”.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Alan_Eggleston&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Alan Eggleston</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0211;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">cited</a> UBS Investment Research that found that “the European Union carbon-trading scheme has so far cost no less than $287 billion for almost zero impact when it comes to reducing carbon pollution”. He said he was concerned about the effectiveness of the proposed internationally linked emissions-trading scheme and about “the international governance”.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Ian_Macdonald&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Ian Macdonald</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0212;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">cited</a> figures that showed the volatility of the European carbon emissions trading scheme.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">Ronald Boswell</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> that the “carbon tax” and renewable energy target are making electricity more expensive.</li> <li>Independent Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Nick_Xenophon&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Nick Xenophon</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0214;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">called</a> the bills “bad policy”. He agreed that “anthropogenic climate change is a real issue” but said that the carbon emissions scheme does not address it adequately and that the bills “will just make a bad situation much worse”.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Bridget_McKenzie&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Bridget McKenzie</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0215;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Xenophon and referred to the costs associated with the “carbon tax” in her home state of Victoria.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Fiona_Nash&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Fiona Nash</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0216;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> it was “absolutely gobsmacking” that “Australian farmers have been excluded from selling carbon credits to Europe until 2018” while Europe has “a monopoly selling carbon credits to us—to Australia—from 2015”.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Helen_Kroger&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Helen Kroger</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0217;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Nash and condemned the legislation.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=John_Williams&mpc=Senate&house=senate">John Williams</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0218;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">focussed</a> on the negative economic impacts of the “carbon tax” on electricity prices and on industries such as the transport industry.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Mathias_Cormann&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Mathias Cormann</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0219;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">highlighted</a> the inconsistencies between the Australian and the European carbon trading schemes and the problems these will cause.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Joe_Ludwig&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Joe Ludwig</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0220;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">refuted</a> the opposition's claim that Australia is acting alone as well as their claim that the bills would allow the EU to set the price on carbon. He argued that the price will be set by the international market, as it is in the case of coal or oil.</li></ul> <p><b>Background to the bills</b></p> <p>The seven bills were designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.</p> <p>This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.</p> <p>However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate. It will be replaced by a <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/reducing-carbon/carbon-pricing-policy">Direct Action Plan</a>.</p> <p>For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.</p>
senate vote 2012-11-26#6 Edited by mackay staff on 2013-11-14 15:25:10	Title Description <p>The Aye-voters succeeded in passing <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0168;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0000%22">a motion</a> that the bills be read a second time. The motion was moved by Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kate_Lundy&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Kate Lundy</a>.</p> <p>This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.</p> <p>The seven bills were:</p> <ul><li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895">Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894">Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893">Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897">Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896">Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li></ul> <p><b>Summary of debate in Parliament</b></p> <p>In the debate in the Senate for this division: <ul> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Simon_Birmingham&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Simon Birmingham</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0191;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">argued that</a> the legislation effectively handed over complete control of the price of carbon to Europe and accused the Government of “backflipping” on their promises.</li> <ul> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Simon_Birmingham&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Simon Birmingham</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0191;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">argued</a> that the legislation effectively handed over complete control of the price of carbon to Europe and accused the Government of “backflipping” on their promises.</li> <li>Greens Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Christine_Milne&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Christine Milne</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0192;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">criticised</a> Senator Birmingham’s “disgraceful performance” and reminded him that the “whole point of the emissions trading scheme ... is to try to reduce greenhouse emissions”. She argued that “the link with the EU improves the carbon price”.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Matt_Thistlethwaite&mpc=Kingsford_Smith&house=representatives">Matt Thistlethwaite</a>, now an MP, <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0193;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">emphasised</a> the importance of “taking action on climate change” and of Australia “doing its part”. He <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0097;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">reminded</a> the Senate that Australia is not acting alone.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Hon._Lisa_Singh&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Lisa Singh</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0210;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">echoed</a> Senator Thistlethwaite’s comments. She said that “emissions trading is the preferred method of carbon reduction” because of its efficiency, effectiveness and low cost. It is also “the easiest for business”.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Alan_Eggleston&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Alan Eggleston</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0211;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">cited</a> UBS Investment Research that found that “the European Union carbon-trading scheme has so far cost no less than $287 billion for almost zero impact when it comes to reducing carbon pollution”. He said he was concerned about the effectiveness of the proposed internationally linked emissions-trading scheme and about “the international governance”.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Ian_Macdonald&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Ian Macdonald</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0212;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">cited</a> figures that showed the volatility of the European carbon emissions trading scheme.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">Ronald Boswell</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said that</a> the “carbon tax” and renewable energy target are making electricity more expensive.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">Ronald Boswell</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> that the “carbon tax” and renewable energy target are making electricity more expensive.</li> <li>Independent Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Nick_Xenophon&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Nick Xenophon</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0214;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">called</a> the bills “bad policy”. He agreed that “anthropogenic climate change is a real issue” but said that the carbon emissions scheme does not address it adequately and that the bills “will just make a bad situation much worse”.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Bridget_McKenzie&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Bridget McKenzie</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0215;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Xenophon and referred to the costs associated with the “carbon tax” in her home state of Victoria.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Fiona_Nash&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Fiona Nash</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0216;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> it was “absolutely gobsmacking” that “Australian farmers have been excluded from selling carbon credits to Europe until 2018” while Europe has “a monopoly selling carbon credits to us—to Australia—from 2015”.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Helen_Kroger&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Helen Kroger</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0217;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Nash and condemned the legislation.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=John_Williams&mpc=Senate&house=senate">John Williams</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0218;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">focussed</a> on the negative economic impacts of the “carbon tax” on electricity prices and on industries such as the transport industry.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Mathias_Cormann&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Mathias Cormann</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0219;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">highlighted</a> the inconsistencies between the Australian and the European carbon trading schemes and the problems these will cause.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Joe_Ludwig&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Joe Ludwig</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0220;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">refuted</a> the opposition's claim that Australia is acting alone as well as their claim that the bills would allow the EU to set the price on carbon. He argued that the price will be set by the international market, as it is in the case of coal or oil.</li></ul> <p><b>Background to the bills</b></p> <p>The seven bills were designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.</p> <p>This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.</p> <p>However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate. It will be replaced by a <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/reducing-carbon/carbon-pricing-policy">Direct Action Plan</a>.</p> <p>For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.</p>
senate vote 2012-11-26#6 Edited by mackay staff on 2013-11-14 15:24:08	Title Description <p>The Aye-voters succeeded in passing <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0168;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0000%22">a motion</a> that the bills be read a second time. The motion was moved by Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kate_Lundy&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Kate Lundy</a>.</p> <p>This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.</p> <p>The seven bills were:</p> <ul><li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895">Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894">Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893">Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897">Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896">Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li></ul> <p><b>Summary of debate in Parliament</b></p> <p>In the debate in the Senate for this division: <ul> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Simon_Birmingham&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Simon Birmingham</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0191;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">argued that</a> the legislation effectively handed over complete control of the price of carbon to Europe and accused the Government of “backflipping” on their promises.</li> <li>Greens Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Christine_Milne&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Christine Milne</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0192;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">criticised</a> Senator Birmingham’s “disgraceful performance” and reminded him that the “whole point of the emissions trading scheme ... is to try to reduce greenhouse emissions”. She argued that “the link with the EU improves the carbon price”.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Matt_Thistlethwaite&mpc=Kingsford_Smith&house=representatives">Matt Thistlethwaite</a>, now an MP, <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0193;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">called</a> emphasised the importance of “taking action on climate change” and of Australia “doing its part ... in concert with other nations and the international community”. He <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0097;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">reminded</a> the Senate that Australia is not acting alone.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Matt_Thistlethwaite&mpc=Kingsford_Smith&house=representatives">Matt Thistlethwaite</a>, now an MP, <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0193;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">emphasised</a> the importance of “taking action on climate change” and of Australia “doing its part”. He <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0097;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">reminded</a> the Senate that Australia is not acting alone.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Hon._Lisa_Singh&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Lisa Singh</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0210;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">echoed</a> Senator Thistlethwaite’s comments. She said that “emissions trading is the preferred method of carbon reduction” because of its efficiency, effectiveness and low cost. It is also “the easiest for business”.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Alan_Eggleston&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Alan Eggleston</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0211;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">cited</a> UBS Investment Research that found that “the European Union carbon-trading scheme has so far cost no less than $287 billion for almost zero impact when it comes to reducing carbon pollution”. He said he was concerned about the effectiveness of the proposed internationally linked emissions-trading scheme and about “the international governance”.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Ian_Macdonald&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Ian Macdonald</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0212;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">cited</a> figures that showed the volatility of the European carbon emissions trading scheme.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">Ronald Boswell</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said that</a> the “carbon tax” and renewable energy target are making electricity more expensive.</li> <li>Independent Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Nick_Xenophon&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Nick Xenophon</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0214;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">called</a> the bills “bad policy”. He agreed that “anthropogenic climate change is a real issue” but said that the carbon emissions scheme does not address it adequately and that the bills “will just make a bad situation much worse”.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Bridget_McKenzie&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Bridget McKenzie</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0215;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Xenophon and referred to the costs associated with the “carbon tax” in her home state of Victoria.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Fiona_Nash&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Fiona Nash</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0216;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> it was “absolutely gobsmacking” that “Australian farmers have been excluded from selling carbon credits to Europe until 2018” while Europe has “a monopoly selling carbon credits to us—to Australia—from 2015”.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Helen_Kroger&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Helen Kroger</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0217;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Nash and condemned the legislation.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=John_Williams&mpc=Senate&house=senate">John Williams</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0218;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">focussed</a> on the negative economic impacts of the “carbon tax” on electricity prices and on industries such as the transport industry.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Mathias_Cormann&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Mathias Cormann</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0219;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">highlighted</a> the inconsistencies between the Australian and the European carbon trading schemes and the problems these will cause.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Joe_Ludwig&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Joe Ludwig</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0220;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">refuted</a> the opposition's claim that Australia is acting alone as well as their claim that the bills would allow the EU to set the price on carbon. He argued that the price will be set by the international market, as it is in the case of coal or oil.</li></ul> <p><b>Background to the bills</b></p> <p>The seven bills were designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.</p> <p>This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.</p> <p>However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate. It will be replaced by a <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/reducing-carbon/carbon-pricing-policy">Direct Action Plan</a>.</p> <p>For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.</p>
senate vote 2012-11-26#6 Edited by mackay staff on 2013-11-14 15:21:58	Title Description <p>The Aye-voters succeeded in passing <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0168;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0000%22">a motion</a> that the bills be read a second time. The motion was moved by Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kate_Lundy&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Kate Lundy</a>.</p> <p>This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.</p> <p>The seven bills were:</p> <ul><li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895">Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894">Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893">Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897">Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896">Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li></ul> <p><b>Summary of debate in Parliament</b></p> <p>In the debate in the Senate for this division: <ul> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Simon_Birmingham&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Simon Birmingham</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0191;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">said that</a> the bills introduced “significant changes” and showed the Labor Government’s “absolute policy chaos”. He argued that the legislation effectively handed over complete control of the price of carbon to Europe and accused the Government of “backflipping” on their promises.</li> <li>Greens Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Christine_Milne&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Christine Milne</a> supported the bills. She <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0192;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">criticised</a> Senator Birmingham’s “disgraceful performance” and reminded him and the rest of the Senate that the “whole point of the emissions trading scheme ... is to try to reduce greenhouse emissions”. She argued that “the link with the EU improves the carbon price”.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Matt_Thistlethwaite&mpc=Kingsford_Smith&house=representatives">Matt Thistlethwaite</a>, now an MP, <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0193;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">called</a> the Coalition Opposition’s approach to the bills “irresponsible”. He emphasised the importance of “taking action on climate change” and of Australia “doing its part ... in concert with other nations and the international community”. He <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0097;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">reminded</a> the Senate that Australia is not acting alone “despite the coalition's attempt to convince Australians otherwise”.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Hon._Lisa_Singh&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Lisa Singh</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0210;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">echoed</a> Senator Thistlethwaite’s comments. She said that “emissions trading is the preferred method of carbon reduction across most of the world” because of its efficiency, effectiveness and low cost. It is also “the easiest for business”.</li> <ul> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Simon_Birmingham&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Simon Birmingham</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0191;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">argued that</a> the legislation effectively handed over complete control of the price of carbon to Europe and accused the Government of “backflipping” on their promises.</li> <li>Greens Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Christine_Milne&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Christine Milne</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0192;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">criticised</a> Senator Birmingham’s “disgraceful performance” and reminded him that the “whole point of the emissions trading scheme ... is to try to reduce greenhouse emissions”. She argued that “the link with the EU improves the carbon price”.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Matt_Thistlethwaite&mpc=Kingsford_Smith&house=representatives">Matt Thistlethwaite</a>, now an MP, <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0193;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">called</a> emphasised the importance of “taking action on climate change” and of Australia “doing its part ... in concert with other nations and the international community”. He <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0097;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">reminded</a> the Senate that Australia is not acting alone.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Hon._Lisa_Singh&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Lisa Singh</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0210;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">echoed</a> Senator Thistlethwaite’s comments. She said that “emissions trading is the preferred method of carbon reduction” because of its efficiency, effectiveness and low cost. It is also “the easiest for business”.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Alan_Eggleston&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Alan Eggleston</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0211;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">cited</a> UBS Investment Research that found that “the European Union carbon-trading scheme has so far cost no less than $287 billion for almost zero impact when it comes to reducing carbon pollution”. He said he was concerned about the effectiveness of the proposed internationally linked emissions-trading scheme and about “the international governance”.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Ian_Macdonald&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Ian Macdonald</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0212;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">cited</a> figures that showed the volatility of the European carbon emissions trading scheme.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">Ronald Boswell</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">focussed</a> on electricity prices and argued that the “carbon tax” and renewable energy target are making electricity more expensive.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">Ronald Boswell</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said that</a> the “carbon tax” and renewable energy target are making electricity more expensive.</li> <li>Independent Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Nick_Xenophon&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Nick Xenophon</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0214;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">called</a> the bills “bad policy”. He agreed that “anthropogenic climate change is a real issue” but said that the carbon emissions scheme does not address it adequately and that the bills “will just make a bad situation much worse”.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Bridget_McKenzie&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Bridget McKenzie</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0215;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Xenophon and referred to the costs associated with the “carbon tax” in her home state of Victoria.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Fiona_Nash&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Fiona Nash</a> focussed her criticism on “one of the parts of this mess”, the Carbon Farming Initiative. She <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0216;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> it was “absolutely gobsmacking” that “Australian farmers have been excluded from selling carbon credits to Europe until 2018” while Europe has “a monopoly selling carbon credits to us—to Australia—from 2015”.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Helen_Kroger&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Helen Kroger</a> gave further comments in line with her Liberal Party and National Party colleagues, particularly Senator Nash. She <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0217;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">condemned</a> the legislation.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=John_Williams&mpc=Senate&house=senate">John Williams</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0218;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">focussed</a> on the negative economic impacts of the “carbon tax” and these latest bills on electricity prices and on industries such as the transport industry.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Mathias_Cormann&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Mathias Cormann</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0219;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> that the “Labor-Greens carbon tax” is “the world's biggest, most expensive carbon tax” and is bad for families, business, jobs, international competitiveness and the economy. He also highlighted the inconsistencies between the Australian and the European carbon trading schemes and the problems they will cause.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Joe_Ludwig&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Joe Ludwig</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0220;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">described</a> the opposition’s comments as “nothing but a series of false and misleading claims as part of their ongoing scare campaign”. He refuted their claim that Australia is acting alone and their claim that linking to the European carbon market would mean that the EU would set the price on carbon. He argued that the price will be set by the international market, as it is in the case of coal or oil.</li></ul> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Fiona_Nash&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Fiona Nash</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0216;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> it was “absolutely gobsmacking” that “Australian farmers have been excluded from selling carbon credits to Europe until 2018” while Europe has “a monopoly selling carbon credits to us—to Australia—from 2015”.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Helen_Kroger&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Helen Kroger</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0217;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Nash and condemned the legislation.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=John_Williams&mpc=Senate&house=senate">John Williams</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0218;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">focussed</a> on the negative economic impacts of the “carbon tax” on electricity prices and on industries such as the transport industry.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Mathias_Cormann&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Mathias Cormann</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0219;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">highlighted</a> the inconsistencies between the Australian and the European carbon trading schemes and the problems these will cause.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Joe_Ludwig&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Joe Ludwig</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0220;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">refuted</a> the opposition's claim that Australia is acting alone as well as their claim that the bills would allow the EU to set the price on carbon. He argued that the price will be set by the international market, as it is in the case of coal or oil.</li></ul> <p><b>Background to the bills</b></p> <p>The seven bills were designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.</p> <p>This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.</p> <p>However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate. It will be replaced by a <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/reducing-carbon/carbon-pricing-policy">Direct Action Plan</a>.</p> <p>For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.</p>
senate vote 2012-11-26#6 Edited by mackay staff on 2013-11-14 15:14:12	Title Description <p>The Aye-voters succeeded in passing <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0168;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0000%22">a motion</a> that the bills be read a second time. The motion was moved by Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kate_Lundy&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Kate Lundy</a>.</p> <p>This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.</p> <p>The seven bills were:</p> <ul><li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895">Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894">Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893">Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897">Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896">Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li></ul> <p><b>Summary of debate in Parliament</b></p> <p>In the debate in the Senate for this division: <ul> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Simon_Birmingham&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Simon Birmingham</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0191;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">said that</a> the bills introduced “significant changes” and showed the Labor Government’s “absolute policy chaos”. He argued that the legislation effectively handed over complete control of the price of carbon to Europe and accused the Government of “backflipping” on their promises.</li> <li>Greens Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Christine_Milne&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Christine Milne</a> supported the bills. She <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0192;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">criticised</a> Senator Birmingham’s “disgraceful performance” and reminded him and the rest of the Senate that the “whole point of the emissions trading scheme ... is to try to reduce greenhouse emissions”. She argued that “the link with the EU improves the carbon price”.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Matt_Thistlethwaite&mpc=Kingsford_Smith&house=representatives">Matt Thistlethwaite</a>, now an MP, <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0193;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">called</a> the Coalition Opposition’s approach to the bills “irresponsible”. He emphasised the importance of “taking action on climate change” and of Australia “doing its part ... in concert with other nations and the international community”. He <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0097;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">reminded</a> the Senate that Australia is not acting alone “despite the coalition's attempt to convince Australians otherwise”.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Hon._Lisa_Singh&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Lisa Singh</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0210;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">echoed</a> Senator Thistlethwaite’s comments. She said that “emissions trading is the preferred method of carbon reduction across most of the world” because of its efficiency, effectiveness and low cost. It is also “the easiest for business”.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Alan_Eggleston&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Alan Eggleston</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0211;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">cited</a> UBS Investment Research that found that “the European Union carbon-trading scheme has so far cost no less than $287 billion for almost zero impact when it comes to reducing carbon pollution”. He said he was concerned about the effectiveness of the proposed internationally linked emissions-trading scheme and about “the international governance”.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Ian_Macdonald&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Ian Macdonald</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0212;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">cited</a> figures that showed the volatility of the European carbon emissions trading scheme.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">Ronald Boswell</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">focussed</a> on electricity prices and argued that the “carbon tax” and renewable energy target are making electricity more expensive.</li> <li>Independent Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Nick_Xenophon&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Nick Xenophon</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0214;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">called</a> the bills “bad policy”. He agreed that “anthropogenic climate change is a real issue” but said that the carbon emissions scheme does not address it adequately and that the bills “will just make a bad situation much worse”.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Bridget_McKenzie&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Bridget McKenzie</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0215;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Xenophon and referred to the costs associated with the “carbon tax” in her home state of Victoria.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Fiona_Nash&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Fiona Nash</a> focussed her criticism on “one of the parts of this mess”, the Carbon Farming Initiative. She <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0216;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> it was “absolutely gobsmacking” that “Australian farmers have been excluded from selling carbon credits to Europe until 2018” while Europe has “a monopoly selling carbon credits to us—to Australia—from 2015”.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Helen_Kroger&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Helen Kroger</a> gave further comments in line with her Liberal Party and National Party colleagues, particularly Senator Nash. She <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0217;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">condemned</a> the legislation.</li> <li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=John_Williams&mpc=Senate&house=senate">John Williams</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0218;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">focussed</a> on the negative economic impacts of the “carbon tax” and these latest bills on electricity prices and on industries such as the transport industry.</li> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Mathias_Cormann&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Mathias Cormann</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0219;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> that the “Labor-Greens carbon tax” is “the world's biggest, most expensive carbon tax” and is bad for families, business, jobs, international competitiveness and the economy. He also highlighted the inconsistencies between the Australian and the European carbon trading schemes and the problems they will cause.</li> <li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Joe_Ludwig&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Joe Ludwig</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0220;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">described</a> the opposition’s comments as “nothing but a series of false and misleading claims as part of their ongoing scare campaign”. He refuted their claim that Australia is acting alone and their claim that linking to the European carbon market would mean that the EU would set the price on carbon. He argued that the price will be set by the international market, as it is in the case of coal or oil.</li></ul> <p><b>Background to the bills</b></p> <p>The seven bills were designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.</p> <p>This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.</p> <p>However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate. It will be replaced by a <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/reducing-carbon/carbon-pricing-policy">Direct Action Plan</a>.</p> <p>For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.</p>
senate vote 2012-11-26#6 Edited by mackay staff on 2013-11-14 11:38:06	Title Description <p>The Aye-voters succeeded in passing <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0220;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">a motion</a> that the bills be read a second time. The motion was moved by Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kate_Lundy&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Kate Lundy</a>.</p> <p>The Aye-voters succeeded in passing <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0168;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0000%22">a motion</a> that the bills be read a second time. The motion was moved by Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kate_Lundy&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Kate Lundy</a>.</p> <p>This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.</p> <p>The seven bills were:</p> <ul><li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895">Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894">Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893">Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897">Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896">Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li></ul> <p><b>Background to the bills</b></p> <p>The seven bills were designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.</p> <p>This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.</p> <p>However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate. It will be replaced by a <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/reducing-carbon/carbon-pricing-policy">Direct Action Plan</a>.</p> <p>For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.</p>
senate vote 2012-11-26#6 Edited by mackay staff on 2013-11-14 11:37:16	Title Description <p>The Aye-voters succeeded in passing <a href"http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0220;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">a motion</a> that the bills be read a second time. The motion was moved by Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kate_Lundy&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Kate Lundy</a>.</p> <p>The Aye-voters succeeded in passing <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0220;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">a motion</a> that the bills be read a second time. The motion was moved by Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kate_Lundy&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Kate Lundy</a>.</p> <p>This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.</p> <p>The seven bills were:</p> <ul><li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895">Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894">Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893">Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897">Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896">Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li></ul> <p><b>Background to the bills</b></p> <p>The seven bills were designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.</p> <p>This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.</p> <p>However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate. It will be replaced by a <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/reducing-carbon/carbon-pricing-policy">Direct Action Plan</a>.</p> <p>For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.</p>
senate vote 2012-11-26#6 Edited by mackay staff on 2013-11-14 11:36:57	Title Description ~~<p>The Aye-voters succeeded in passing a motion that the bills be read a second time.</p>~~ <p>The Aye-voters succeeded in passing <a href"http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0220;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">a motion</a> that the bills be read a second time. The motion was moved by Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kate_Lundy&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Kate Lundy</a>.</p> <p>This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.</p> <p>The seven bills were:</p> <ul><li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895">Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894">Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893">Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897">Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896">Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li></ul> <p><b>Background to the bills</b></p> <p>The seven bills were designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.</p> <p>This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.</p> <p>However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate. It will be replaced by a <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/reducing-carbon/carbon-pricing-policy">Direct Action Plan</a>.</p> <p>For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.</p>
senate vote 2012-11-26#6 Edited by mackay staff on 2013-11-07 13:13:25	Title Description <p>The Aye-voters succeeded in passing a motion that the bills be read a second time.</p> <p>This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.</p> ~~<p>The seven bills are:</p>~~ ~~<ul><li>Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012</li>~~ ~~<li>Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012</li>~~ ~~<li>Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012</li>~~ ~~<li>Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</li>~~ ~~<li>Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</li>~~ ~~<li>Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</li>~~ ~~<li>Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012</li></ul>~~ <p>The seven bills were:</p> <ul><li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895">Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894">Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893">Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897">Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896">Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li></ul> <p><b>Background to the bills</b></p> <p>These bills are designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.</p> <p>The seven bills were designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.</p> <p>This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.</p> <p>However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate.</p> <p>However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate. It will be replaced by a <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/reducing-carbon/carbon-pricing-policy">Direct Action Plan</a>.</p> <p>For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.</p>
senate vote 2012-11-26#6 Edited by mackay staff on 2013-09-11 14:22:08	Title Bills - Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012, Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012, Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012, Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012, Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012, Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012, Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012; Second Reading Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012 and related bills - Second Reading - Link Australia to overseas emissions trading schemes Description <p>The Aye-voters succeeded in passing a motion that the bills be read a second time.</p> <p>This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.</p> <p>The seven bills are designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.</p> <p>The seven bills are:</p> <ul><li>Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012</li> <li>Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012</li> <li>Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012</li> <li>Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</li> <li>Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</li> <li>Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</li> <li>Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012</li></ul> <p>These bills are designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.</p> <p>This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.</p> <p>However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate.</p> <p>For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.</p> <p>For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.</p>
senate vote 2012-11-26#6 Edited by mackay staff on 2013-09-11 08:17:42	Title Description <p>The Aye-voters succeeded in passing a motion that the bills be read a second time.</p> <p>This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.</p> <p>The seven bills are designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.</p> <p>This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.</p> <p>However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate.</p> <p>For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.</p>
senate vote 2012-11-26#6 Edited by mackay staff on 2013-09-05 14:57:32	Title Description <p>The Aye-voters succeeded in passing a motion that the bills be read a second time.</p> ~~<p>This means that the senators have agreed to the bills in principle and will now discuss them in detail.</p>~~ <p>This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.</p> <p>The seven bills are designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.</p> <p>This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.</p> <p>This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.</p>
senate vote 2012-11-26#6 Edited by mackay staff on 2013-09-05 14:37:51	Title Bills — Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012, Clean Energy (Charges — Excise) Amendment Bill 2012, Clean Energy (Charges — Customs) Amendment Bill 2012, Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-Tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012, Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-Tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012, Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-Tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012, Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge — Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012; Second Reading Bills - Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012, Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012, Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012, Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012, Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012, Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012, Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012; Second Reading Description ~~<p class="speaker">Lisa Singh</p>~~ <p>I rise to speak to this package of legislation that collectively provides for the linking of Australia's carbon emissions-trading system to the European Union. Carbon pricing is one of the most significant changes to the Australian economy and will have an important and enduring effect on the way businesses calculate the environmental cost of their activities. It is amongst the most significant changes we have ever seen in environmental regulation in this country and is part—arguably the most effective and central part—of dealing with one of the most significant challenges the world faces.</p> <p>For a long time it has been clear that the response to dangerous climate change needs to be coordinated, comprehensive and international. Much of the criticism of Australia's action on climate change has either been misinformed or has completely missed the point. Some critics have asserted that Australia would be going it alone, ignoring both the existing international frameworks for climate action such as Kyoto and Kyoto 2, in which we have recently announced Australia's involvement, and the huge amount of domestic and regional action in other parts of the world.</p> <p>From 2013, 850 million people will live in a place where emitters pay for their pollution. Some of this action includes seeking targeted efficiencies or taxes of particular emissions-intensive sectors such as coal taxes or penalties on inefficient housing or transport, but emissions trading is the preferred method of carbon reduction across most of the world because it is the easiest for business, the most efficient and effective policy lever and the cheapest way to identify and undertake emissions reduction.</p> <p>The European Union Emissions Trading System was the first international carbon market and has been in place since as early as 2005. Emissions trading schemes have been legislated in New Zealand, India and the Republic of Korea and are operating or being developed in 11 US states, China and South Africa. Action in Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam signals the beginnings of a future Asia-Pacific carbon market. So the assertion that Australia is ahead of the pack is completely misguided if not disingenuous.</p> <p>But, of course, it is important not only that this action is taking place but also that the international community takes part. Each of these individual mitigation activities must form part of a broader, integrated effort to reduce global emissions. Some critics have attempted to use the lack of total global consensus around defined reductions policies to argue that Australia should stall its efforts to respond to climate change. What they misunderstand is, firstly, the considerable shared vision achieved in a series of international forums through the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change; and secondly, the enormous foundational power and the flexibility of a domestic emissions-trading system to be integrated into current or future regional and global systems.</p> <p>To prevaricate and invent excuses for not taking action on the basis that this action is not from first blush a fully developed global solution is to put the cart well before the horse. It is to ignore the significant preparation that needs to be done not just by government but also by businesses and community to understand and adapt to the inevitable development of an international emissions-trading system inclusive of our trading partners and competitors. If we are going to be able to adapt to a carbon constrained global trading environment, we need to foster innovation in this country and we need to embed the carbon costs of doing business into the thinking of our entrepreneurs and job-creators. And we need to do that now. We need to deepen our capacity to produce high-quality, low-emissions goods and services that we can sell to the world, especially in the century of opportunity created by our nearest neighbours—the Asian century.</p> <p>What the Gillard Labor government has consistently pursued since prior to 2007 is a flexible emissions-trading scheme for Australia that is capable of being integrated into the international system. At the same time as promoting domestic innovation and emissions reduction, it would enable Australian businesses to contribute to emissions reduction efforts across the world simply by acting in a rational way, locating the cheapest forms of abatement across the system and including those costs in their core business and they should do. The Gillard Labor government has now been vindicated in its pursuit of this emissions-trading policy. The carbon price commenced on 1 July 2012 and, despite the very worst predictions of economic catastrophe propagated by advocates not of conservatism but of regression—that towns would be wiped off the map and investors would flee from Australia—what we have actually seen is the carbon price quietly, efficiently and cheaply doing what it is meant to do.</p> <p>It is encouraging businesses to innovate and rewarding those businesses that operate with a good social and environmental conscience. To the extent that households have been affected, they have been compensated; indeed, the changes made complementary to the introduction of carbon pricing have reduced the tax burden on many Australians, particularly those on low incomes. And the revenues that we have dedicated to investment in the technologies and the opportunities that will create a better future for Australia—renewable energy projects, smart grid technologies, and energy efficiency initiatives—are also receiving the support they need.</p> <p>But most importantly on this particular legislative package, the Gillard Labor government has been vindicated in creating a robust scheme that also acts as the foundation for an international system. From 1 July 2015 our emissions-trading scheme will link with a carbon market that comprises over three-quarters of the world's carbon trading, creating the first intercontinental carbon market.</p> <p>At the end of the transitional fixed price arrangement on 1 July 2015, Australia will move into a variable-pricing mechanism that operates in the largest emissions market in the world. This one-way, interim link with the EU emissions-trading system will enable Australian businesses to access the fullest range of mitigation opportunities and to achieve the most accurate abatement price of any market. That emissions unit price will be set dynamically on the basis of a cap-and-trade system that, like Australia's, reflects a high degree of integrity and a genuine and serious emissions reduction effort. It will be a price that requires businesses to change their behaviour and to reduce their emissions profile at the same time as they can fairly compete for the lowest priced abatement options.</p> <p>From August this year, Australian businesses which are liable entities under the carbon price have been able to buy European carbon permits for future compliance with the Australian emissions trading scheme dating from 1 July 2015. Australian businesses will be able to use international emissions units for up to 50 per cent of their carbon liability, with up to 12.5 per cent to include the use of Kyoto units such as those generated under the UN's Clean Development Mechanism, the CDM. This new market will be the clearest example yet of a comprehensive and international response to climate change, not only setting standards and providing ideas about the best way to organise action of climate change but actually undertaking it.</p> <p>Indeed, the Australia and EU link is an example of the aspiration of many of those who believe that climate change is real and does require urgent action now, not just by us but by the broader international community. It will help to shape the expectations for states to participate in any global emissions-trading system. Indeed, in the words of the World Wildlife Fund:</p> <p class="italic">Linking with countries and regions, such as Europe, where equally strong provisions are in place will help to ensure these environmental integrity provisions become the global standard.</p> ~~<p>That is a very good and important quote indeed.</p>~~ <p>It is certainly not true that Australia is acting alone, when so many other countries are taking steps to address their own emissions' profile. This is something being addressed by so many countries because, like us, they realise that we have to act on climate change and that we have to act on the fact that we have global warming as a result of human activity. Australia is not, at least in that sense, ahead of the global community at all, but Australia is leading the world by helping to shape a carbon market that will, for the first time, stretch the length of the globe and provide a template for global action.</p> <p>There is a reason that Australia has always been a supporter of multilateral and international institutions, whether it is in security, trade or environmental protection. As a middle power with a seat at the table, we have the opportunity to lead by example and to influence the emergence of a new, rules-based order capable of avoiding the most dangerous consequences of climate change. Indeed, as a middle power in our own region we have an opportunity to lead and to set that example. I know that a number of countries look up to Australia, and the action and the leadership that we are taking on this issue of climate change is just one good example.</p> <p>Opponents of domestic climate action and opponents of this linking agreement with the European Union profoundly underestimate the capacity of Australia to generate change, forgetting that we presided over the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; we formed the Cairns Group to advocate for agricultural exporters; APE, of course, was born of our efforts—most notably by former foreign minister, Gareth Evans; and we have just been elected to the UN Security Council in the first round of voting. And it is our initiative and our support for carbon pricing that will, again, precipitate an information cascade that will prompt global action.</p> <p>The linking of Australia's emission-trading scheme with the European Union's is an important step towards what the world needs to do together to prevent serious climate change. And it has been made possible by a government and by a party that has had the courage to advance a positive, forward-looking agenda despite the tremendous and overwhelming amount of fear mongering from those who place politics above policy.</p> <p>I have no doubt that there will come a time in the not-so-distant future where accounting for pollution will be a matter of course in every business and community across the world. There will come a time in the not-so-distant future when we will look back on these debates with incredulity at the time, the energy and the courage it has taken to put such a system in place, and with amazement at the naivety and the recklessness of the climate sceptics. This legislation is a large, large step towards that time, and it is a large step towards a better, cleaner, healthier planet. I support the legislation.</p> <p class='motion-notice motion-notice-truncated'>Long debate text truncated.</p> <p>The Aye-voters succeeded in passing a motion that the bills be read a second time.</p> <p>This means that the senators have agreed to the bills in principle and will now discuss them in detail.</p> <p>The seven bills are designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.</p> <p>This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.</p>

Change

Division

senate vote 2012-11-26#6

Edited by system

on 2014-10-07 16:18:05

Title

Description

~~The majority voted in favour of a [http://www.openaustralia.org/senate/?gid=2012-11-26.203.14 motion] to read the bills a second time.~~
~~This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.~~
~~The seven bills are:~~
* [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895 Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012]
* [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894 Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012]
* [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893 Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012]
* [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897 Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012]
* [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898 Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012]
* [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899 Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012]
* [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896 Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012]
~~''Background to the bills''~~
The seven bills are designed to link Australia’s [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_pricing_in_Australia carbon pricing mechanism] to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.(For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s [http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx website].)
This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.
~~References~~
The majority voted in favour of a [motion](http://www.openaustralia.org/senate/?gid=2012-11-26.203.14) to read the bills a second time.
This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.
The seven bills are:
- [Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012](http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895)
- [Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012](http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894)
- [Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012](http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893)
- [Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012](http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897)
- [Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012](http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898)
- [Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012](http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899)
- [Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012](http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896)
_Background to the bills_
The seven bills are designed to link Australia’s [carbon pricing mechanism](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_pricing_in_Australia) to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.(For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s [website](http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx).)
This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.
References

senate vote 2012-11-26#6

Edited by system

on 2014-10-07 16:16:05

Title

Description

The majority voted in favour of a [http://www.openaustralia.org/senate/?gid=2012-11-26.203.14 motion] to read the bills a second time.
This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.
The seven bills are:
* [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895 Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012]
* [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894 Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012]
* [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893 Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012]
* [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897 Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012]
* [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898 Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012]
* [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899 Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012]
* [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896 Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012]
''Background to the bills''
The seven bills are designed to link Australia’s [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_pricing_in_Australia carbon pricing mechanism] to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.[1]
The seven bills are designed to link Australia’s [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_pricing_in_Australia carbon pricing mechanism] to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.(For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s [http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx website].)
This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.
References
* [1] For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s [http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx website].

senate vote 2012-11-26#6

Edited by mackay staff

on 2014-02-13 17:25:43

Title

Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012 and related bills - Second Reading - Link Australia to overseas emissions trading schemes
Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012 and related bills - Second Reading - Read a second time

Description

The majority voted in favour of a [http://www.openaustralia.org/senate/?gid=2012-11-26.203.14 motion] to read the bills a second time.
This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.
The Aye-voters succeeded in passing <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0168;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0000%22">a motion</a> that the bills be read a second time. The motion was moved by Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kate_Lundy&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Kate Lundy</a>.
This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.
~~The seven bills were:~~
<ul><li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895">Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894">Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893">Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897">Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896">Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li></ul>
~~Summary of debate in Parliament~~
~~In the debate in the Senate for this division:~~
<ul> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Simon_Birmingham&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Simon Birmingham</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0191;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">argued</a> that the legislation effectively handed over complete control of the price of carbon to Europe and accused the Government of “backflipping” on their promises.</li>
<li>Greens Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Christine_Milne&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Christine Milne</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0192;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">criticised</a> Senator Birmingham’s “disgraceful performance” and reminded him that the “whole point of the emissions trading scheme ... is to try to reduce greenhouse emissions”. She argued that “the link with the EU improves the carbon price”.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Matt_Thistlethwaite&mpc=Kingsford_Smith&house=representatives">Matt Thistlethwaite</a>, now an MP, <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0193;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">emphasised</a> the importance of “taking action on climate change” and of Australia “doing its part”. He <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0097;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">reminded</a> the Senate that Australia is not acting alone.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Hon._Lisa_Singh&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Lisa Singh</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0210;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> that “emissions trading is the preferred method of carbon reduction” because of its efficiency, effectiveness and low cost. It is also “the easiest for business”.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Alan_Eggleston&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Alan Eggleston</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0211;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> he was concerned about the effectiveness of the proposed internationally linked emissions trading scheme and about “the international governance” of the scheme.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Ian_Macdonald&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Ian Macdonald</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0212;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">cited</a> figures that showed the volatility of the European carbon emissions trading scheme.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Ron_Boswell&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Ronald Boswell</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> that the “carbon tax” and renewable energy target are making electricity more expensive.</li>
<li>Independent Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Nick_Xenophon&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Nick Xenophon</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0214;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">called</a> the bills “bad policy”. He agreed that “anthropogenic climate change is a real issue” but said that the carbon emissions scheme does not address it adequately and that the bills “will just make a bad situation much worse”.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Bridget_McKenzie&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Bridget McKenzie</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0215;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Xenophon and referred to the costs associated with the “carbon tax” in her home state of Victoria.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Fiona_Nash&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Fiona Nash</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0216;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> it was “absolutely gobsmacking” that “Australian farmers have been excluded from selling carbon credits to Europe until 2018” while Europe has “a monopoly selling carbon credits to us—to Australia—from 2015”.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Helen_Kroger&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Helen Kroger</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0217;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Nash and condemned the legislation.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=John_Williams&mpc=Senate&house=senate">John Williams</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0218;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">focussed</a> on the negative economic impacts of the “carbon tax” on electricity prices and on industries such as the transport industry.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Mathias_Cormann&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Mathias Cormann</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0219;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">highlighted</a> the inconsistencies between the Australian and the European carbon trading schemes and the problems these will cause.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Joe_Ludwig&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Joe Ludwig</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0220;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">refuted</a> the opposition's claim that Australia is acting alone as well as their claim that the bills would allow the EU to set the price on carbon. He argued that the price will be set by the international market, as it is in the case of coal or oil.</li></ul>
~~Background to the bills~~
The seven bills were designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.
This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.
However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate. It will be replaced by a <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/reducing-carbon/carbon-pricing-policy">Direct Action Plan</a>.
For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.
The seven bills are:
* [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895 Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012]
* [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894 Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012]
* [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893 Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012]
* [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897 Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012]
* [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898 Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012]
* [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899 Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012]
* [http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896 Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012]
''Background to the bills''
The seven bills are designed to link Australia’s [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_pricing_in_Australia carbon pricing mechanism] to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.[1]
This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.
References
* [1] For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s [http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx website].

senate vote 2012-11-26#6

Edited by mackay staff

on 2013-11-14 15:32:22

Title

Description

The Aye-voters succeeded in passing <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0168;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0000%22">a motion</a> that the bills be read a second time. The motion was moved by Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kate_Lundy&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Kate Lundy</a>.
This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.
The seven bills were:
<ul><li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895">Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894">Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893">Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897">Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896">Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li></ul>
Summary of debate in Parliament
In the debate in the Senate for this division:
<ul> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Simon_Birmingham&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Simon Birmingham</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0191;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">argued</a> that the legislation effectively handed over complete control of the price of carbon to Europe and accused the Government of “backflipping” on their promises.</li>
<li>Greens Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Christine_Milne&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Christine Milne</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0192;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">criticised</a> Senator Birmingham’s “disgraceful performance” and reminded him that the “whole point of the emissions trading scheme ... is to try to reduce greenhouse emissions”. She argued that “the link with the EU improves the carbon price”.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Matt_Thistlethwaite&mpc=Kingsford_Smith&house=representatives">Matt Thistlethwaite</a>, now an MP, <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0193;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">emphasised</a> the importance of “taking action on climate change” and of Australia “doing its part”. He <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0097;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">reminded</a> the Senate that Australia is not acting alone.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Hon._Lisa_Singh&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Lisa Singh</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0210;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> that “emissions trading is the preferred method of carbon reduction” because of its efficiency, effectiveness and low cost. It is also “the easiest for business”.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Alan_Eggleston&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Alan Eggleston</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0211;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> he was concerned about the effectiveness of the proposed internationally linked emissions trading scheme and about “the international governance” of the scheme.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Ian_Macdonald&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Ian Macdonald</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0212;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">cited</a> figures that showed the volatility of the European carbon emissions trading scheme.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">Ronald Boswell</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> that the “carbon tax” and renewable energy target are making electricity more expensive.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Ron_Boswell&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Ronald Boswell</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> that the “carbon tax” and renewable energy target are making electricity more expensive.</li>
<li>Independent Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Nick_Xenophon&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Nick Xenophon</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0214;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">called</a> the bills “bad policy”. He agreed that “anthropogenic climate change is a real issue” but said that the carbon emissions scheme does not address it adequately and that the bills “will just make a bad situation much worse”.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Bridget_McKenzie&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Bridget McKenzie</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0215;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Xenophon and referred to the costs associated with the “carbon tax” in her home state of Victoria.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Fiona_Nash&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Fiona Nash</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0216;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> it was “absolutely gobsmacking” that “Australian farmers have been excluded from selling carbon credits to Europe until 2018” while Europe has “a monopoly selling carbon credits to us—to Australia—from 2015”.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Helen_Kroger&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Helen Kroger</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0217;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Nash and condemned the legislation.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=John_Williams&mpc=Senate&house=senate">John Williams</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0218;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">focussed</a> on the negative economic impacts of the “carbon tax” on electricity prices and on industries such as the transport industry.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Mathias_Cormann&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Mathias Cormann</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0219;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">highlighted</a> the inconsistencies between the Australian and the European carbon trading schemes and the problems these will cause.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Joe_Ludwig&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Joe Ludwig</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0220;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">refuted</a> the opposition's claim that Australia is acting alone as well as their claim that the bills would allow the EU to set the price on carbon. He argued that the price will be set by the international market, as it is in the case of coal or oil.</li></ul>
Background to the bills
The seven bills were designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.
This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.
However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate. It will be replaced by a <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/reducing-carbon/carbon-pricing-policy">Direct Action Plan</a>.
For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.

senate vote 2012-11-26#6

Edited by mackay staff

on 2013-11-14 15:29:47

Title

Description

The Aye-voters succeeded in passing <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0168;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0000%22">a motion</a> that the bills be read a second time. The motion was moved by Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kate_Lundy&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Kate Lundy</a>.
This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.
The seven bills were:
<ul><li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895">Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894">Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893">Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897">Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896">Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li></ul>
Summary of debate in Parliament
In the debate in the Senate for this division:
<ul> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Simon_Birmingham&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Simon Birmingham</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0191;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">argued</a> that the legislation effectively handed over complete control of the price of carbon to Europe and accused the Government of “backflipping” on their promises.</li>
<li>Greens Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Christine_Milne&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Christine Milne</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0192;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">criticised</a> Senator Birmingham’s “disgraceful performance” and reminded him that the “whole point of the emissions trading scheme ... is to try to reduce greenhouse emissions”. She argued that “the link with the EU improves the carbon price”.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Matt_Thistlethwaite&mpc=Kingsford_Smith&house=representatives">Matt Thistlethwaite</a>, now an MP, <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0193;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">emphasised</a> the importance of “taking action on climate change” and of Australia “doing its part”. He <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0097;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">reminded</a> the Senate that Australia is not acting alone.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Hon._Lisa_Singh&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Lisa Singh</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0210;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> that “emissions trading is the preferred method of carbon reduction” because of its efficiency, effectiveness and low cost. It is also “the easiest for business”.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Alan_Eggleston&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Alan Eggleston</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0211;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> he was concerned about the effectiveness of the proposed internationally linked emissions trading scheme and about “the international governance”.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Alan_Eggleston&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Alan Eggleston</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0211;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> he was concerned about the effectiveness of the proposed internationally linked emissions trading scheme and about “the international governance” of the scheme.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Ian_Macdonald&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Ian Macdonald</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0212;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">cited</a> figures that showed the volatility of the European carbon emissions trading scheme.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">Ronald Boswell</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> that the “carbon tax” and renewable energy target are making electricity more expensive.</li>
<li>Independent Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Nick_Xenophon&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Nick Xenophon</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0214;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">called</a> the bills “bad policy”. He agreed that “anthropogenic climate change is a real issue” but said that the carbon emissions scheme does not address it adequately and that the bills “will just make a bad situation much worse”.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Bridget_McKenzie&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Bridget McKenzie</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0215;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Xenophon and referred to the costs associated with the “carbon tax” in her home state of Victoria.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Fiona_Nash&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Fiona Nash</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0216;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> it was “absolutely gobsmacking” that “Australian farmers have been excluded from selling carbon credits to Europe until 2018” while Europe has “a monopoly selling carbon credits to us—to Australia—from 2015”.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Helen_Kroger&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Helen Kroger</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0217;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Nash and condemned the legislation.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=John_Williams&mpc=Senate&house=senate">John Williams</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0218;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">focussed</a> on the negative economic impacts of the “carbon tax” on electricity prices and on industries such as the transport industry.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Mathias_Cormann&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Mathias Cormann</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0219;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">highlighted</a> the inconsistencies between the Australian and the European carbon trading schemes and the problems these will cause.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Joe_Ludwig&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Joe Ludwig</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0220;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">refuted</a> the opposition's claim that Australia is acting alone as well as their claim that the bills would allow the EU to set the price on carbon. He argued that the price will be set by the international market, as it is in the case of coal or oil.</li></ul>
Background to the bills
The seven bills were designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.
This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.
However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate. It will be replaced by a <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/reducing-carbon/carbon-pricing-policy">Direct Action Plan</a>.
For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.

senate vote 2012-11-26#6

Edited by mackay staff

on 2013-11-14 15:29:04

Title

Description

The Aye-voters succeeded in passing <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0168;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0000%22">a motion</a> that the bills be read a second time. The motion was moved by Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kate_Lundy&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Kate Lundy</a>.
This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.
The seven bills were:
<ul><li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895">Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894">Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893">Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897">Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896">Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li></ul>
Summary of debate in Parliament
In the debate in the Senate for this division:
<ul> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Simon_Birmingham&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Simon Birmingham</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0191;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">argued</a> that the legislation effectively handed over complete control of the price of carbon to Europe and accused the Government of “backflipping” on their promises.</li>
<li>Greens Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Christine_Milne&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Christine Milne</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0192;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">criticised</a> Senator Birmingham’s “disgraceful performance” and reminded him that the “whole point of the emissions trading scheme ... is to try to reduce greenhouse emissions”. She argued that “the link with the EU improves the carbon price”.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Matt_Thistlethwaite&mpc=Kingsford_Smith&house=representatives">Matt Thistlethwaite</a>, now an MP, <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0193;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">emphasised</a> the importance of “taking action on climate change” and of Australia “doing its part”. He <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0097;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">reminded</a> the Senate that Australia is not acting alone.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Hon._Lisa_Singh&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Lisa Singh</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0210;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> that “emissions trading is the preferred method of carbon reduction” because of its efficiency, effectiveness and low cost. It is also “the easiest for business”.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Alan_Eggleston&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Alan Eggleston</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0211;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">cited</a> UBS Investment Research that found that “the European Union carbon-trading scheme has so far cost no less than $287 billion for almost zero impact when it comes to reducing carbon pollution”. He said he was concerned about the effectiveness of the proposed internationally linked emissions-trading scheme and about “the international governance”.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Alan_Eggleston&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Alan Eggleston</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0211;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> he was concerned about the effectiveness of the proposed internationally linked emissions trading scheme and about “the international governance”.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Ian_Macdonald&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Ian Macdonald</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0212;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">cited</a> figures that showed the volatility of the European carbon emissions trading scheme.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">Ronald Boswell</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> that the “carbon tax” and renewable energy target are making electricity more expensive.</li>
<li>Independent Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Nick_Xenophon&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Nick Xenophon</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0214;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">called</a> the bills “bad policy”. He agreed that “anthropogenic climate change is a real issue” but said that the carbon emissions scheme does not address it adequately and that the bills “will just make a bad situation much worse”.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Bridget_McKenzie&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Bridget McKenzie</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0215;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Xenophon and referred to the costs associated with the “carbon tax” in her home state of Victoria.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Fiona_Nash&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Fiona Nash</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0216;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> it was “absolutely gobsmacking” that “Australian farmers have been excluded from selling carbon credits to Europe until 2018” while Europe has “a monopoly selling carbon credits to us—to Australia—from 2015”.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Helen_Kroger&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Helen Kroger</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0217;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Nash and condemned the legislation.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=John_Williams&mpc=Senate&house=senate">John Williams</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0218;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">focussed</a> on the negative economic impacts of the “carbon tax” on electricity prices and on industries such as the transport industry.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Mathias_Cormann&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Mathias Cormann</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0219;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">highlighted</a> the inconsistencies between the Australian and the European carbon trading schemes and the problems these will cause.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Joe_Ludwig&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Joe Ludwig</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0220;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">refuted</a> the opposition's claim that Australia is acting alone as well as their claim that the bills would allow the EU to set the price on carbon. He argued that the price will be set by the international market, as it is in the case of coal or oil.</li></ul>
Background to the bills
The seven bills were designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.
This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.
However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate. It will be replaced by a <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/reducing-carbon/carbon-pricing-policy">Direct Action Plan</a>.
For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.

senate vote 2012-11-26#6

Edited by mackay staff

on 2013-11-14 15:26:13

Title

Description

The Aye-voters succeeded in passing <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0168;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0000%22">a motion</a> that the bills be read a second time. The motion was moved by Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kate_Lundy&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Kate Lundy</a>.
This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.
The seven bills were:
<ul><li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895">Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894">Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893">Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897">Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896">Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li></ul>
Summary of debate in Parliament
In the debate in the Senate for this division:
<ul> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Simon_Birmingham&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Simon Birmingham</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0191;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">argued</a> that the legislation effectively handed over complete control of the price of carbon to Europe and accused the Government of “backflipping” on their promises.</li>
<li>Greens Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Christine_Milne&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Christine Milne</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0192;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">criticised</a> Senator Birmingham’s “disgraceful performance” and reminded him that the “whole point of the emissions trading scheme ... is to try to reduce greenhouse emissions”. She argued that “the link with the EU improves the carbon price”.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Matt_Thistlethwaite&mpc=Kingsford_Smith&house=representatives">Matt Thistlethwaite</a>, now an MP, <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0193;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">emphasised</a> the importance of “taking action on climate change” and of Australia “doing its part”. He <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0097;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">reminded</a> the Senate that Australia is not acting alone.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Hon._Lisa_Singh&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Lisa Singh</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0210;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">echoed</a> Senator Thistlethwaite’s comments. She said that “emissions trading is the preferred method of carbon reduction” because of its efficiency, effectiveness and low cost. It is also “the easiest for business”.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Hon._Lisa_Singh&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Lisa Singh</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0210;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> that “emissions trading is the preferred method of carbon reduction” because of its efficiency, effectiveness and low cost. It is also “the easiest for business”.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Alan_Eggleston&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Alan Eggleston</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0211;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">cited</a> UBS Investment Research that found that “the European Union carbon-trading scheme has so far cost no less than $287 billion for almost zero impact when it comes to reducing carbon pollution”. He said he was concerned about the effectiveness of the proposed internationally linked emissions-trading scheme and about “the international governance”.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Ian_Macdonald&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Ian Macdonald</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0212;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">cited</a> figures that showed the volatility of the European carbon emissions trading scheme.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">Ronald Boswell</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> that the “carbon tax” and renewable energy target are making electricity more expensive.</li>
<li>Independent Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Nick_Xenophon&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Nick Xenophon</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0214;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">called</a> the bills “bad policy”. He agreed that “anthropogenic climate change is a real issue” but said that the carbon emissions scheme does not address it adequately and that the bills “will just make a bad situation much worse”.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Bridget_McKenzie&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Bridget McKenzie</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0215;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Xenophon and referred to the costs associated with the “carbon tax” in her home state of Victoria.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Fiona_Nash&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Fiona Nash</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0216;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> it was “absolutely gobsmacking” that “Australian farmers have been excluded from selling carbon credits to Europe until 2018” while Europe has “a monopoly selling carbon credits to us—to Australia—from 2015”.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Helen_Kroger&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Helen Kroger</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0217;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Nash and condemned the legislation.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=John_Williams&mpc=Senate&house=senate">John Williams</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0218;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">focussed</a> on the negative economic impacts of the “carbon tax” on electricity prices and on industries such as the transport industry.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Mathias_Cormann&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Mathias Cormann</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0219;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">highlighted</a> the inconsistencies between the Australian and the European carbon trading schemes and the problems these will cause.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Joe_Ludwig&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Joe Ludwig</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0220;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">refuted</a> the opposition's claim that Australia is acting alone as well as their claim that the bills would allow the EU to set the price on carbon. He argued that the price will be set by the international market, as it is in the case of coal or oil.</li></ul>
Background to the bills
The seven bills were designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.
This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.
However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate. It will be replaced by a <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/reducing-carbon/carbon-pricing-policy">Direct Action Plan</a>.
For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.

senate vote 2012-11-26#6

Edited by mackay staff

on 2013-11-14 15:25:10

Title

Description

The Aye-voters succeeded in passing <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0168;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0000%22">a motion</a> that the bills be read a second time. The motion was moved by Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kate_Lundy&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Kate Lundy</a>.
This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.
The seven bills were:
<ul><li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895">Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894">Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893">Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897">Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896">Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li></ul>
Summary of debate in Parliament
In the debate in the Senate for this division:
<ul> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Simon_Birmingham&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Simon Birmingham</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0191;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">argued that</a> the legislation effectively handed over complete control of the price of carbon to Europe and accused the Government of “backflipping” on their promises.</li>
<ul> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Simon_Birmingham&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Simon Birmingham</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0191;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">argued</a> that the legislation effectively handed over complete control of the price of carbon to Europe and accused the Government of “backflipping” on their promises.</li>
<li>Greens Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Christine_Milne&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Christine Milne</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0192;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">criticised</a> Senator Birmingham’s “disgraceful performance” and reminded him that the “whole point of the emissions trading scheme ... is to try to reduce greenhouse emissions”. She argued that “the link with the EU improves the carbon price”.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Matt_Thistlethwaite&mpc=Kingsford_Smith&house=representatives">Matt Thistlethwaite</a>, now an MP, <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0193;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">emphasised</a> the importance of “taking action on climate change” and of Australia “doing its part”. He <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0097;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">reminded</a> the Senate that Australia is not acting alone.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Hon._Lisa_Singh&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Lisa Singh</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0210;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">echoed</a> Senator Thistlethwaite’s comments. She said that “emissions trading is the preferred method of carbon reduction” because of its efficiency, effectiveness and low cost. It is also “the easiest for business”.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Alan_Eggleston&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Alan Eggleston</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0211;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">cited</a> UBS Investment Research that found that “the European Union carbon-trading scheme has so far cost no less than $287 billion for almost zero impact when it comes to reducing carbon pollution”. He said he was concerned about the effectiveness of the proposed internationally linked emissions-trading scheme and about “the international governance”.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Ian_Macdonald&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Ian Macdonald</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0212;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">cited</a> figures that showed the volatility of the European carbon emissions trading scheme.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">Ronald Boswell</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said that</a> the “carbon tax” and renewable energy target are making electricity more expensive.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">Ronald Boswell</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> that the “carbon tax” and renewable energy target are making electricity more expensive.</li>
<li>Independent Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Nick_Xenophon&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Nick Xenophon</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0214;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">called</a> the bills “bad policy”. He agreed that “anthropogenic climate change is a real issue” but said that the carbon emissions scheme does not address it adequately and that the bills “will just make a bad situation much worse”.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Bridget_McKenzie&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Bridget McKenzie</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0215;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Xenophon and referred to the costs associated with the “carbon tax” in her home state of Victoria.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Fiona_Nash&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Fiona Nash</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0216;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> it was “absolutely gobsmacking” that “Australian farmers have been excluded from selling carbon credits to Europe until 2018” while Europe has “a monopoly selling carbon credits to us—to Australia—from 2015”.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Helen_Kroger&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Helen Kroger</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0217;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Nash and condemned the legislation.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=John_Williams&mpc=Senate&house=senate">John Williams</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0218;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">focussed</a> on the negative economic impacts of the “carbon tax” on electricity prices and on industries such as the transport industry.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Mathias_Cormann&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Mathias Cormann</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0219;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">highlighted</a> the inconsistencies between the Australian and the European carbon trading schemes and the problems these will cause.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Joe_Ludwig&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Joe Ludwig</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0220;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">refuted</a> the opposition's claim that Australia is acting alone as well as their claim that the bills would allow the EU to set the price on carbon. He argued that the price will be set by the international market, as it is in the case of coal or oil.</li></ul>
Background to the bills
The seven bills were designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.
This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.
However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate. It will be replaced by a <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/reducing-carbon/carbon-pricing-policy">Direct Action Plan</a>.
For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.

senate vote 2012-11-26#6

Edited by mackay staff

on 2013-11-14 15:24:08

Title

Description

The Aye-voters succeeded in passing <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0168;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0000%22">a motion</a> that the bills be read a second time. The motion was moved by Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kate_Lundy&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Kate Lundy</a>.
This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.
The seven bills were:
<ul><li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895">Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894">Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893">Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897">Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896">Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li></ul>
Summary of debate in Parliament
In the debate in the Senate for this division:
<ul> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Simon_Birmingham&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Simon Birmingham</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0191;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">argued that</a> the legislation effectively handed over complete control of the price of carbon to Europe and accused the Government of “backflipping” on their promises.</li>
<li>Greens Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Christine_Milne&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Christine Milne</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0192;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">criticised</a> Senator Birmingham’s “disgraceful performance” and reminded him that the “whole point of the emissions trading scheme ... is to try to reduce greenhouse emissions”. She argued that “the link with the EU improves the carbon price”.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Matt_Thistlethwaite&mpc=Kingsford_Smith&house=representatives">Matt Thistlethwaite</a>, now an MP, <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0193;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">called</a> emphasised the importance of “taking action on climate change” and of Australia “doing its part ... in concert with other nations and the international community”. He <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0097;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">reminded</a> the Senate that Australia is not acting alone.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Matt_Thistlethwaite&mpc=Kingsford_Smith&house=representatives">Matt Thistlethwaite</a>, now an MP, <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0193;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">emphasised</a> the importance of “taking action on climate change” and of Australia “doing its part”. He <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0097;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">reminded</a> the Senate that Australia is not acting alone.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Hon._Lisa_Singh&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Lisa Singh</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0210;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">echoed</a> Senator Thistlethwaite’s comments. She said that “emissions trading is the preferred method of carbon reduction” because of its efficiency, effectiveness and low cost. It is also “the easiest for business”.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Alan_Eggleston&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Alan Eggleston</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0211;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">cited</a> UBS Investment Research that found that “the European Union carbon-trading scheme has so far cost no less than $287 billion for almost zero impact when it comes to reducing carbon pollution”. He said he was concerned about the effectiveness of the proposed internationally linked emissions-trading scheme and about “the international governance”.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Ian_Macdonald&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Ian Macdonald</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0212;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">cited</a> figures that showed the volatility of the European carbon emissions trading scheme.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">Ronald Boswell</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said that</a> the “carbon tax” and renewable energy target are making electricity more expensive.</li>
<li>Independent Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Nick_Xenophon&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Nick Xenophon</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0214;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">called</a> the bills “bad policy”. He agreed that “anthropogenic climate change is a real issue” but said that the carbon emissions scheme does not address it adequately and that the bills “will just make a bad situation much worse”.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Bridget_McKenzie&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Bridget McKenzie</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0215;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Xenophon and referred to the costs associated with the “carbon tax” in her home state of Victoria.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Fiona_Nash&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Fiona Nash</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0216;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> it was “absolutely gobsmacking” that “Australian farmers have been excluded from selling carbon credits to Europe until 2018” while Europe has “a monopoly selling carbon credits to us—to Australia—from 2015”.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Helen_Kroger&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Helen Kroger</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0217;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Nash and condemned the legislation.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=John_Williams&mpc=Senate&house=senate">John Williams</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0218;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">focussed</a> on the negative economic impacts of the “carbon tax” on electricity prices and on industries such as the transport industry.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Mathias_Cormann&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Mathias Cormann</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0219;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">highlighted</a> the inconsistencies between the Australian and the European carbon trading schemes and the problems these will cause.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Joe_Ludwig&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Joe Ludwig</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0220;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">refuted</a> the opposition's claim that Australia is acting alone as well as their claim that the bills would allow the EU to set the price on carbon. He argued that the price will be set by the international market, as it is in the case of coal or oil.</li></ul>
Background to the bills
The seven bills were designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.
This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.
However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate. It will be replaced by a <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/reducing-carbon/carbon-pricing-policy">Direct Action Plan</a>.
For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.

senate vote 2012-11-26#6

Edited by mackay staff

on 2013-11-14 15:21:58

Title

Description

The Aye-voters succeeded in passing <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0168;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0000%22">a motion</a> that the bills be read a second time. The motion was moved by Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kate_Lundy&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Kate Lundy</a>.
This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.
The seven bills were:
<ul><li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895">Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894">Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893">Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897">Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896">Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li></ul>
Summary of debate in Parliament
In the debate in the Senate for this division:
<ul> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Simon_Birmingham&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Simon Birmingham</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0191;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">said that</a> the bills introduced “significant changes” and showed the Labor Government’s “absolute policy chaos”. He argued that the legislation effectively handed over complete control of the price of carbon to Europe and accused the Government of “backflipping” on their promises.</li>
<li>Greens Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Christine_Milne&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Christine Milne</a> supported the bills. She <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0192;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">criticised</a> Senator Birmingham’s “disgraceful performance” and reminded him and the rest of the Senate that the “whole point of the emissions trading scheme ... is to try to reduce greenhouse emissions”. She argued that “the link with the EU improves the carbon price”.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Matt_Thistlethwaite&mpc=Kingsford_Smith&house=representatives">Matt Thistlethwaite</a>, now an MP, <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0193;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">called</a> the Coalition Opposition’s approach to the bills “irresponsible”. He emphasised the importance of “taking action on climate change” and of Australia “doing its part ... in concert with other nations and the international community”. He <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0097;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">reminded</a> the Senate that Australia is not acting alone “despite the coalition's attempt to convince Australians otherwise”.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Hon._Lisa_Singh&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Lisa Singh</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0210;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">echoed</a> Senator Thistlethwaite’s comments. She said that “emissions trading is the preferred method of carbon reduction across most of the world” because of its efficiency, effectiveness and low cost. It is also “the easiest for business”.</li>
<ul> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Simon_Birmingham&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Simon Birmingham</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0191;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">argued that</a> the legislation effectively handed over complete control of the price of carbon to Europe and accused the Government of “backflipping” on their promises.</li>
<li>Greens Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Christine_Milne&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Christine Milne</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0192;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">criticised</a> Senator Birmingham’s “disgraceful performance” and reminded him that the “whole point of the emissions trading scheme ... is to try to reduce greenhouse emissions”. She argued that “the link with the EU improves the carbon price”.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Matt_Thistlethwaite&mpc=Kingsford_Smith&house=representatives">Matt Thistlethwaite</a>, now an MP, <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0193;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">called</a> emphasised the importance of “taking action on climate change” and of Australia “doing its part ... in concert with other nations and the international community”. He <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0097;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">reminded</a> the Senate that Australia is not acting alone.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Hon._Lisa_Singh&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Lisa Singh</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0210;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">echoed</a> Senator Thistlethwaite’s comments. She said that “emissions trading is the preferred method of carbon reduction” because of its efficiency, effectiveness and low cost. It is also “the easiest for business”.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Alan_Eggleston&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Alan Eggleston</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0211;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">cited</a> UBS Investment Research that found that “the European Union carbon-trading scheme has so far cost no less than $287 billion for almost zero impact when it comes to reducing carbon pollution”. He said he was concerned about the effectiveness of the proposed internationally linked emissions-trading scheme and about “the international governance”.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Ian_Macdonald&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Ian Macdonald</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0212;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">cited</a> figures that showed the volatility of the European carbon emissions trading scheme.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">Ronald Boswell</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">focussed</a> on electricity prices and argued that the “carbon tax” and renewable energy target are making electricity more expensive.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">Ronald Boswell</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said that</a> the “carbon tax” and renewable energy target are making electricity more expensive.</li>
<li>Independent Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Nick_Xenophon&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Nick Xenophon</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0214;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">called</a> the bills “bad policy”. He agreed that “anthropogenic climate change is a real issue” but said that the carbon emissions scheme does not address it adequately and that the bills “will just make a bad situation much worse”.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Bridget_McKenzie&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Bridget McKenzie</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0215;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Xenophon and referred to the costs associated with the “carbon tax” in her home state of Victoria.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Fiona_Nash&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Fiona Nash</a> focussed her criticism on “one of the parts of this mess”, the Carbon Farming Initiative. She <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0216;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> it was “absolutely gobsmacking” that “Australian farmers have been excluded from selling carbon credits to Europe until 2018” while Europe has “a monopoly selling carbon credits to us—to Australia—from 2015”.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Helen_Kroger&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Helen Kroger</a> gave further comments in line with her Liberal Party and National Party colleagues, particularly Senator Nash. She <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0217;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">condemned</a> the legislation.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=John_Williams&mpc=Senate&house=senate">John Williams</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0218;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">focussed</a> on the negative economic impacts of the “carbon tax” and these latest bills on electricity prices and on industries such as the transport industry.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Mathias_Cormann&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Mathias Cormann</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0219;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> that the “Labor-Greens carbon tax” is “the world's biggest, most expensive carbon tax” and is bad for families, business, jobs, international competitiveness and the economy. He also highlighted the inconsistencies between the Australian and the European carbon trading schemes and the problems they will cause.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Joe_Ludwig&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Joe Ludwig</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0220;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">described</a> the opposition’s comments as “nothing but a series of false and misleading claims as part of their ongoing scare campaign”. He refuted their claim that Australia is acting alone and their claim that linking to the European carbon market would mean that the EU would set the price on carbon. He argued that the price will be set by the international market, as it is in the case of coal or oil.</li></ul>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Fiona_Nash&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Fiona Nash</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0216;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> it was “absolutely gobsmacking” that “Australian farmers have been excluded from selling carbon credits to Europe until 2018” while Europe has “a monopoly selling carbon credits to us—to Australia—from 2015”.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Helen_Kroger&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Helen Kroger</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0217;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Nash and condemned the legislation.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=John_Williams&mpc=Senate&house=senate">John Williams</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0218;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">focussed</a> on the negative economic impacts of the “carbon tax” on electricity prices and on industries such as the transport industry.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Mathias_Cormann&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Mathias Cormann</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0219;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">highlighted</a> the inconsistencies between the Australian and the European carbon trading schemes and the problems these will cause.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Joe_Ludwig&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Joe Ludwig</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0220;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">refuted</a> the opposition's claim that Australia is acting alone as well as their claim that the bills would allow the EU to set the price on carbon. He argued that the price will be set by the international market, as it is in the case of coal or oil.</li></ul>
Background to the bills
The seven bills were designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.
This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.
However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate. It will be replaced by a <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/reducing-carbon/carbon-pricing-policy">Direct Action Plan</a>.
For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.

senate vote 2012-11-26#6

Edited by mackay staff

on 2013-11-14 15:14:12

Title

Description

The Aye-voters succeeded in passing <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0168;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0000%22">a motion</a> that the bills be read a second time. The motion was moved by Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kate_Lundy&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Kate Lundy</a>.
This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.
The seven bills were:
<ul><li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895">Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894">Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893">Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897">Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896">Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li></ul>
Summary of debate in Parliament
In the debate in the Senate for this division:
<ul> <li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Simon_Birmingham&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Simon Birmingham</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0191;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">said that</a> the bills introduced “significant changes” and showed the Labor Government’s “absolute policy chaos”. He argued that the legislation effectively handed over complete control of the price of carbon to Europe and accused the Government of “backflipping” on their promises.</li>
<li>Greens Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Christine_Milne&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Christine Milne</a> supported the bills. She <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0192;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">criticised</a> Senator Birmingham’s “disgraceful performance” and reminded him and the rest of the Senate that the “whole point of the emissions trading scheme ... is to try to reduce greenhouse emissions”. She argued that “the link with the EU improves the carbon price”.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Matt_Thistlethwaite&mpc=Kingsford_Smith&house=representatives">Matt Thistlethwaite</a>, now an MP, <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0193;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdcbf3820-67a9-494a-bf57-5efe0c27f413%2F0000%22">called</a> the Coalition Opposition’s approach to the bills “irresponsible”. He emphasised the importance of “taking action on climate change” and of Australia “doing its part ... in concert with other nations and the international community”. He <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0097;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">reminded</a> the Senate that Australia is not acting alone “despite the coalition's attempt to convince Australians otherwise”.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Hon._Lisa_Singh&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Lisa Singh</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0210;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">echoed</a> Senator Thistlethwaite’s comments. She said that “emissions trading is the preferred method of carbon reduction across most of the world” because of its efficiency, effectiveness and low cost. It is also “the easiest for business”.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Alan_Eggleston&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Alan Eggleston</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0211;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">cited</a> UBS Investment Research that found that “the European Union carbon-trading scheme has so far cost no less than $287 billion for almost zero impact when it comes to reducing carbon pollution”. He said he was concerned about the effectiveness of the proposed internationally linked emissions-trading scheme and about “the international governance”.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Ian_Macdonald&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Ian Macdonald</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0212;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">cited</a> figures that showed the volatility of the European carbon emissions trading scheme.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">Ronald Boswell</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0213;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">focussed</a> on electricity prices and argued that the “carbon tax” and renewable energy target are making electricity more expensive.</li>
<li>Independent Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Nick_Xenophon&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Nick Xenophon</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0214;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">called</a> the bills “bad policy”. He agreed that “anthropogenic climate change is a real issue” but said that the carbon emissions scheme does not address it adequately and that the bills “will just make a bad situation much worse”.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Bridget_McKenzie&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Bridget McKenzie</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0215;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">agreed</a> with Senator Xenophon and referred to the costs associated with the “carbon tax” in her home state of Victoria.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Fiona_Nash&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Fiona Nash</a> focussed her criticism on “one of the parts of this mess”, the Carbon Farming Initiative. She <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0216;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> it was “absolutely gobsmacking” that “Australian farmers have been excluded from selling carbon credits to Europe until 2018” while Europe has “a monopoly selling carbon credits to us—to Australia—from 2015”.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Helen_Kroger&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Helen Kroger</a> gave further comments in line with her Liberal Party and National Party colleagues, particularly Senator Nash. She <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0217;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">condemned</a> the legislation.</li>
<li>Nationals Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=John_Williams&mpc=Senate&house=senate">John Williams</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0218;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">focussed</a> on the negative economic impacts of the “carbon tax” and these latest bills on electricity prices and on industries such as the transport industry.</li>
<li>Liberal Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Mathias_Cormann&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Mathias Cormann</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0219;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">said</a> that the “Labor-Greens carbon tax” is “the world's biggest, most expensive carbon tax” and is bad for families, business, jobs, international competitiveness and the economy. He also highlighted the inconsistencies between the Australian and the European carbon trading schemes and the problems they will cause.</li>
<li>Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Joe_Ludwig&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Joe Ludwig</a> <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0220;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">described</a> the opposition’s comments as “nothing but a series of false and misleading claims as part of their ongoing scare campaign”. He refuted their claim that Australia is acting alone and their claim that linking to the European carbon market would mean that the EU would set the price on carbon. He argued that the price will be set by the international market, as it is in the case of coal or oil.</li></ul>
Background to the bills
The seven bills were designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.
This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.
However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate. It will be replaced by a <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/reducing-carbon/carbon-pricing-policy">Direct Action Plan</a>.
For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.

senate vote 2012-11-26#6

Edited by mackay staff

on 2013-11-14 11:38:06

Title

Description

The Aye-voters succeeded in passing <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0220;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">a motion</a> that the bills be read a second time. The motion was moved by Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kate_Lundy&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Kate Lundy</a>.
The Aye-voters succeeded in passing <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0168;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2F17882b8a-dc1d-4551-8f35-099917c16db8%2F0000%22">a motion</a> that the bills be read a second time. The motion was moved by Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kate_Lundy&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Kate Lundy</a>.
This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.
The seven bills were:
<ul><li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895">Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894">Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893">Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897">Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896">Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li></ul>
Background to the bills
The seven bills were designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.
This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.
However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate. It will be replaced by a <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/reducing-carbon/carbon-pricing-policy">Direct Action Plan</a>.
For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.

senate vote 2012-11-26#6

Edited by mackay staff

on 2013-11-14 11:37:16

Title

Description

The Aye-voters succeeded in passing <a href"http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0220;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">a motion</a> that the bills be read a second time. The motion was moved by Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kate_Lundy&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Kate Lundy</a>.
The Aye-voters succeeded in passing <a href="http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0220;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">a motion</a> that the bills be read a second time. The motion was moved by Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kate_Lundy&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Kate Lundy</a>.
This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.
The seven bills were:
<ul><li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895">Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894">Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893">Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897">Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896">Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li></ul>
Background to the bills
The seven bills were designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.
This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.
However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate. It will be replaced by a <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/reducing-carbon/carbon-pricing-policy">Direct Action Plan</a>.
For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.

senate vote 2012-11-26#6

Edited by mackay staff

on 2013-11-14 11:36:57

Title

Description

~~The Aye-voters succeeded in passing a motion that the bills be read a second time.~~
The Aye-voters succeeded in passing <a href"http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;db=CHAMBER;id=chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0220;query=Id%3A%22chamber%2Fhansards%2Fdefd08bf-48a7-4cae-8483-5d9684bff160%2F0000%22">a motion</a> that the bills be read a second time. The motion was moved by Labor Senator <a href="http://publicwhip-test.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Kate_Lundy&mpc=Senate&house=senate">Kate Lundy</a>.
This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.
The seven bills were:
<ul><li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895">Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894">Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893">Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897">Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896">Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li></ul>
Background to the bills
The seven bills were designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.
This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.
However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate. It will be replaced by a <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/reducing-carbon/carbon-pricing-policy">Direct Action Plan</a>.
For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.

senate vote 2012-11-26#6

Edited by mackay staff

on 2013-11-07 13:13:25

Title

Description

The Aye-voters succeeded in passing a motion that the bills be read a second time.
This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.
~~The seven bills are:~~
~~<ul><li>Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012</li>~~
~~<li>Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012</li>~~
~~<li>Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012</li>~~
~~<li>Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</li>~~
~~<li>Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</li>~~
~~<li>Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</li>~~
~~<li>Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012</li></ul>~~
The seven bills were:
<ul><li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4895">Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4894">Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4893">Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4897">Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4898">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4899">Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/Bills_Search_Results/Result?bId=r4896">Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012</a></li></ul>
Background to the bills
These bills are designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.
The seven bills were designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.
This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.
However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate.
However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate. It will be replaced by a <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/reducing-carbon/carbon-pricing-policy">Direct Action Plan</a>.
For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.

senate vote 2012-11-26#6

Edited by mackay staff

on 2013-09-11 14:22:08

Title

Bills - Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012, Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012, Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012, Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012, Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012, Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012, Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012; Second Reading
Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012 and related bills - Second Reading - Link Australia to overseas emissions trading schemes

Description

The Aye-voters succeeded in passing a motion that the bills be read a second time.
This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.
The seven bills are designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.
The seven bills are:
<ul><li>Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012</li>
<li>Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012</li>
<li>Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012</li>
<li>Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</li>
<li>Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</li>
<li>Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012</li>
<li>Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012</li></ul>
These bills are designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.
This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.
However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate.
For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.
For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.

senate vote 2012-11-26#6

Edited by mackay staff

on 2013-09-11 08:17:42

Title

Description

The Aye-voters succeeded in passing a motion that the bills be read a second time.
This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.
The seven bills are designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.
This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.
However, as a result of the Coalition's election victory in 2013, it is likely that the carbon pricing mechanism will be <a href="http://www.liberal.org.au/scrapping-carbon-tax-and-reducing-cost-living">abolished</a> before these amendments begin to operate.
For more information on the carbon pricing mechanism and how it works, please see the Clean Energy Regulator’s <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/Carbon-Pricing-Mechanism/About-the-Mechanism/Pages/default.aspx">website</a>.

senate vote 2012-11-26#6

Edited by mackay staff

on 2013-09-05 14:57:32

Title

Description

The Aye-voters succeeded in passing a motion that the bills be read a second time.
~~This means that the senators have agreed to the bills in principle and will now discuss them in detail.~~
This means that the senators have agreed to the main idea of the bills and will now discuss them in detail.
The seven bills are designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.
This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.
This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.

senate vote 2012-11-26#6

Edited by mackay staff

on 2013-09-05 14:37:51

Title

Bills — Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012, Clean Energy (Charges — Excise) Amendment Bill 2012, Clean Energy (Charges — Customs) Amendment Bill 2012, Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-Tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012, Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-Tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012, Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-Tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012, Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge — Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012; Second Reading
Bills - Clean Energy Amendment (International Emissions Trading and Other Measures) Bill 2012, Clean Energy (Charges - Excise) Amendment Bill 2012, Clean Energy (Charges - Customs) Amendment Bill 2012, Excise Tariff Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012, Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Import Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012, Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (Manufacture Levy) Amendment (Per-tonne Carbon Price Equivalent) Bill 2012, Clean Energy (Unit Issue Charge - Auctions) Amendment Bill 2012; Second Reading

Description

~~Lisa Singh~~
I rise to speak to this package of legislation that collectively provides for the linking of Australia's carbon emissions-trading system to the European Union. Carbon pricing is one of the most significant changes to the Australian economy and will have an important and enduring effect on the way businesses calculate the environmental cost of their activities. It is amongst the most significant changes we have ever seen in environmental regulation in this country and is part—arguably the most effective and central part—of dealing with one of the most significant challenges the world faces.
For a long time it has been clear that the response to dangerous climate change needs to be coordinated, comprehensive and international. Much of the criticism of Australia's action on climate change has either been misinformed or has completely missed the point. Some critics have asserted that Australia would be going it alone, ignoring both the existing international frameworks for climate action such as Kyoto and Kyoto 2, in which we have recently announced Australia's involvement, and the huge amount of domestic and regional action in other parts of the world.
From 2013, 850 million people will live in a place where emitters pay for their pollution. Some of this action includes seeking targeted efficiencies or taxes of particular emissions-intensive sectors such as coal taxes or penalties on inefficient housing or transport, but emissions trading is the preferred method of carbon reduction across most of the world because it is the easiest for business, the most efficient and effective policy lever and the cheapest way to identify and undertake emissions reduction.
The European Union Emissions Trading System was the first international carbon market and has been in place since as early as 2005. Emissions trading schemes have been legislated in New Zealand, India and the Republic of Korea and are operating or being developed in 11 US states, China and South Africa. Action in Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam signals the beginnings of a future Asia-Pacific carbon market. So the assertion that Australia is ahead of the pack is completely misguided if not disingenuous.
But, of course, it is important not only that this action is taking place but also that the international community takes part. Each of these individual mitigation activities must form part of a broader, integrated effort to reduce global emissions. Some critics have attempted to use the lack of total global consensus around defined reductions policies to argue that Australia should stall its efforts to respond to climate change. What they misunderstand is, firstly, the considerable shared vision achieved in a series of international forums through the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change; and secondly, the enormous foundational power and the flexibility of a domestic emissions-trading system to be integrated into current or future regional and global systems.
To prevaricate and invent excuses for not taking action on the basis that this action is not from first blush a fully developed global solution is to put the cart well before the horse. It is to ignore the significant preparation that needs to be done not just by government but also by businesses and community to understand and adapt to the inevitable development of an international emissions-trading system inclusive of our trading partners and competitors. If we are going to be able to adapt to a carbon constrained global trading environment, we need to foster innovation in this country and we need to embed the carbon costs of doing business into the thinking of our entrepreneurs and job-creators. And we need to do that now. We need to deepen our capacity to produce high-quality, low-emissions goods and services that we can sell to the world, especially in the century of opportunity created by our nearest neighbours—the Asian century.
What the Gillard Labor government has consistently pursued since prior to 2007 is a flexible emissions-trading scheme for Australia that is capable of being integrated into the international system. At the same time as promoting domestic innovation and emissions reduction, it would enable Australian businesses to contribute to emissions reduction efforts across the world simply by acting in a rational way, locating the cheapest forms of abatement across the system and including those costs in their core business and they should do. The Gillard Labor government has now been vindicated in its pursuit of this emissions-trading policy. The carbon price commenced on 1 July 2012 and, despite the very worst predictions of economic catastrophe propagated by advocates not of conservatism but of regression—that towns would be wiped off the map and investors would flee from Australia—what we have actually seen is the carbon price quietly, efficiently and cheaply doing what it is meant to do.
It is encouraging businesses to innovate and rewarding those businesses that operate with a good social and environmental conscience. To the extent that households have been affected, they have been compensated; indeed, the changes made complementary to the introduction of carbon pricing have reduced the tax burden on many Australians, particularly those on low incomes. And the revenues that we have dedicated to investment in the technologies and the opportunities that will create a better future for Australia—renewable energy projects, smart grid technologies, and energy efficiency initiatives—are also receiving the support they need.
But most importantly on this particular legislative package, the Gillard Labor government has been vindicated in creating a robust scheme that also acts as the foundation for an international system. From 1 July 2015 our emissions-trading scheme will link with a carbon market that comprises over three-quarters of the world's carbon trading, creating the first intercontinental carbon market.
At the end of the transitional fixed price arrangement on 1 July 2015, Australia will move into a variable-pricing mechanism that operates in the largest emissions market in the world. This one-way, interim link with the EU emissions-trading system will enable Australian businesses to access the fullest range of mitigation opportunities and to achieve the most accurate abatement price of any market. That emissions unit price will be set dynamically on the basis of a cap-and-trade system that, like Australia's, reflects a high degree of integrity and a genuine and serious emissions reduction effort. It will be a price that requires businesses to change their behaviour and to reduce their emissions profile at the same time as they can fairly compete for the lowest priced abatement options.
From August this year, Australian businesses which are liable entities under the carbon price have been able to buy European carbon permits for future compliance with the Australian emissions trading scheme dating from 1 July 2015. Australian businesses will be able to use international emissions units for up to 50 per cent of their carbon liability, with up to 12.5 per cent to include the use of Kyoto units such as those generated under the UN's Clean Development Mechanism, the CDM. This new market will be the clearest example yet of a comprehensive and international response to climate change, not only setting standards and providing ideas about the best way to organise action of climate change but actually undertaking it.
Indeed, the Australia and EU link is an example of the aspiration of many of those who believe that climate change is real and does require urgent action now, not just by us but by the broader international community. It will help to shape the expectations for states to participate in any global emissions-trading system. Indeed, in the words of the World Wildlife Fund:
Linking with countries and regions, such as Europe, where equally strong provisions are in place will help to ensure these environmental integrity provisions become the global standard.
~~That is a very good and important quote indeed.~~
It is certainly not true that Australia is acting alone, when so many other countries are taking steps to address their own emissions' profile. This is something being addressed by so many countries because, like us, they realise that we have to act on climate change and that we have to act on the fact that we have global warming as a result of human activity. Australia is not, at least in that sense, ahead of the global community at all, but Australia is leading the world by helping to shape a carbon market that will, for the first time, stretch the length of the globe and provide a template for global action.
There is a reason that Australia has always been a supporter of multilateral and international institutions, whether it is in security, trade or environmental protection. As a middle power with a seat at the table, we have the opportunity to lead by example and to influence the emergence of a new, rules-based order capable of avoiding the most dangerous consequences of climate change. Indeed, as a middle power in our own region we have an opportunity to lead and to set that example. I know that a number of countries look up to Australia, and the action and the leadership that we are taking on this issue of climate change is just one good example.
Opponents of domestic climate action and opponents of this linking agreement with the European Union profoundly underestimate the capacity of Australia to generate change, forgetting that we presided over the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; we formed the Cairns Group to advocate for agricultural exporters; APE, of course, was born of our efforts—most notably by former foreign minister, Gareth Evans; and we have just been elected to the UN Security Council in the first round of voting. And it is our initiative and our support for carbon pricing that will, again, precipitate an information cascade that will prompt global action.
The linking of Australia's emission-trading scheme with the European Union's is an important step towards what the world needs to do together to prevent serious climate change. And it has been made possible by a government and by a party that has had the courage to advance a positive, forward-looking agenda despite the tremendous and overwhelming amount of fear mongering from those who place politics above policy.
I have no doubt that there will come a time in the not-so-distant future where accounting for pollution will be a matter of course in every business and community across the world. There will come a time in the not-so-distant future when we will look back on these debates with incredulity at the time, the energy and the courage it has taken to put such a system in place, and with amazement at the naivety and the recklessness of the climate sceptics. This legislation is a large, large step towards that time, and it is a large step towards a better, cleaner, healthier planet. I support the legislation.
Long debate text truncated.
The Aye-voters succeeded in passing a motion that the bills be read a second time.
This means that the senators have agreed to the bills in principle and will now discuss them in detail.
The seven bills are designed to link Australia’s carbon pricing mechanism to overseas emissions trading schemes from 1 July 2015, which is when the Australian carbon pricing mechanism is scheduled to transition to an emissions trading scheme.
This means that Australian "liable entities" (a group that includes companies that emit a high level of greenhouse gases) will be able to trade carbon units with credible overseas emissions trading schemes such as the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme. Such businesses will be able to use eligible international carbon units to meet up to 50 per cent of their annual liability.