Joe O'Toole (Independent)

I agree with many of the critical comments. I have been a Member of this House for the past quarter of a century and have consistently sought reform but I do not believe the Government will bring it forward. One of the greatest disappointments for me is that every Government along the way has made such proposals but we have effectively missed the boat. There is no goodwill or support for this House among ordinary people, and fair points have been made about the position of the main Opposition party putting this proposal forward. I will support it because I do not have a problem with extending the franchise.

I agree with the criticisms and I could just as easily argue that we should have all the other changes before agreeing to one change. I could just as easily take that position. I recognise that the Bill has been put forward with the best of intentions from Senator Cummins and for that reason I will support it.