Customs Tariff Amendment (Australia-United Arab Emirates Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement Implementation) Bill 2025

Stage by Stage

Summaries in reported speech - not a transcript. In date order, both chambers.

1. Thursday 24 July 2025 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading

   The debate concerned the implementation of preferential customs duty rates for goods originating from the United Arab Emirates under a new free trade agreement. The Assistant Minister for Citizenship, Customs and Multicultural Affairs moved the second reading, explaining that the bill amends the Customs Tariff Act 1995 to insert a new schedule of duty rates. The legislation aims to reduce duties on most UAE goods to free status while maintaining excise-equivalent duties on specific products like fuel and tobacco. The debate was adjourned without further discussion or opposition recorded in the transcript.

   Outcome: The debate was adjourned.

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2. Tuesday 29 July 2025 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading

   The debate concerned two bills implementing the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between Australia and the United Arab Emirates. Kevin Hogan moved the second reading, outlining the legislative changes to customs duties and rules of origin. He noted broad stakeholder support and commended the government for finalising the agreement, while also highlighting the Coalition's historical role in initiating trade negotiations. Hogan raised concerns regarding the government's ban on live sheep exports but ultimately supported the bills. The debate concluded with the motion being adjourned.

   Outcome: The debate was adjourned.

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3. Tuesday 29 July 2025 · House of Representatives

   Reference to Federation Chamber
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4. Wednesday 30 July 2025 · House of Representatives

   Third Reading
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5. Thursday 31 July 2025 · Senate

   Second Reading

   The Senate debated legislation to implement the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between Australia and the United Arab Emirates. Government members highlighted the agreement's role in removing duties on more than 99 per cent of Australian exports and strengthening economic ties with a key Middle Eastern partner. Opposition members supported the trade deal but criticised the government's broader industrial policy, specifically arguing against industry subsidisation and referencing past trade achievements. The bills were passed after second reading.

   Outcome: The bills were read a second time.

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6. Thursday 31 July 2025 · Senate

   Third Reading
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7. Thursday 31 July 2025 · Senate

   First Reading
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