23rd Sep 2014, 5:35 PM – Senate Committees — Certain Aspects of Queensland Government Administration — End debate on whether to debate the motion

An equal number of senators agreed and disagreed to end debate on whether they should be able to debate creating a select committee (in parliamentary jargon, an equal number voted 'aye' and 'no' to putting the question). This means that the debate on whether to keep debating can continue!

What will the committee do?

The select committee will inquire into and report on:

• what the Queensland Government has done with funds given to them by the Federal Government since 26 March 2012 (which is when Premier Campbell Newman took up his office);
• judicial independence and separation of powers;
• the approval process for development projects related to exporting resources or services;
• whether the Queensland Government's policies are consistent with Australia's obligations under international law, including environmental law and human rights instruments; and
• how appropriate it is for the Federal Minister for the Environment to delegate his approval powers to the Queensland Government under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.

But! Because of Australia's federal system of government, the committee can only look into these things if they in some way relate to the Commonwealth.

Background to the motion

Palmer United Party Senator Glenn Lazarus explained that he proposed to establish this select committee because "serious issues have been raised across the community regarding Queensland government appointments, judicial appointments, project approvals, use of funds, policies and practices, environmental degradation and various other matters" (see his full explanation).