Question Time AU

Bill Debate · Second Reading

Biosecurity Amendment (Improving Operational Efficiency) Bill 2026; Second Reading

House of Representatives · Wednesday 12 August 2026

Continued from Tuesday 11 August 2026.

Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia

At a glance

The debate focused on modernising Australia's border biosecurity system by replacing paper incoming passenger cards with a digital Australia Travel Declaration and improving procedural fairness for businesses under approved arrangements. Government members argued the reforms would increase efficiency and allow officers to target high-risk travellers without lowering biosecurity standards, citing successful pilot programs. The shadow minister raised concerns about the varroa mite outbreak, arguing it exposed weaknesses in the current system and called for better national frameworks for managing established pests. The bill was passed without amendment.

Outcome

The bill was read a second time and reported to the House without amendment.

Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.

How the debate unfolded

Continued the debate

Tom French (Moore) (Australian Labor Party) ALP

French argued the bill modernises the biosecurity system to handle increasing traveller volumes without compromising safety. French highlighted the Australia Travel Declaration, which allows digital submission of biosecurity information up to 72 hours before arrival, enabling earlier risk assessment. French noted the bill also establishes a notice-of-intention process for businesses facing refusal of approved arrangements, ensuring procedural fairness. French emphasised that accessibility measures, such as web forms, would ensure digital exclusion does not become a barrier. French stated the reforms support frontline officers and protect Australia's agricultural reputation.

Opposition response

Kevin Hogan (Page) (National Party) Nationals

Hogan focused on the varroa mite threat to commercial beekeepers and pollination services, arguing it revealed systemic weaknesses in border surveillance and response. Hogan contended that the current regulatory framework is fragmented and slow to adapt to emerging evidence, particularly regarding treatment access for beekeepers. Hogan called for a consistent national pathway for own-use varroa treatments supported by training and field trials. Hogan stressed that preventing future incursions requires a system capable of early detection and rapid adaptation to Australian conditions.