10th Aug 2021, 6:21 PM – Senate Committees - Economics References Committee - Refer

The majority voted against a motion introduced at the request of Victorian Senators Janet Rice (Greens) and Kim Carr (Labor)

Motion text

(1) That the Senate notes that the Legal and Constitutional Affairs References Committee inquiry into nationhood, national identity and democracy recommended that the Australian Government establish a Parliamentary Office of Science, modelled on the United Kingdom Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology, to provide independent, impartial scientific advice, evidence and data to the Parliament, and all members and senators.

(2) That the following matter be referred to the Economics References Committee for inquiry and report by 2 December 2021:

The current state of scientific advice to the Parliament, with particular reference to:

(a) the role of timely, independent scientific advice to the Parliament throughout the COVID-19 pandemic;

(b) the nature of information needed and adequacy of current sources to assist the Parliament in its consideration of matters related to science and technology;

(c) the relevance of approaches adopted in other countries, including the United Kingdom's Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology;

(d) opportunities to expand the availability of independent scientific advice to members of Parliament through the establishment of a Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (POST) with appropriate structure and resourcing, including:

(i) accountability and oversight,

(ii) protocols for requesting work from POST, and POST's relationship with other entities, and

(iii) resourcing and staffing levels; and

(e) any other related matters.

Notice of motion altered on 4 August 2021 pursuant to standing order 77.