Question Time AU

Bill Debate · Second Reading

Law and Justice Legislation Amendment (New South Wales Local Court) Bill 2026; Second Reading

Senate · Monday 2 March 2026

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

At a glance

The Senate debated a bill to update Commonwealth legislation following New South Wales reforms that replaced magistrates with judges in the Local Court. The government and opposition supported the technical amendments to ensure continuity of federal jurisdiction. The Greens did not oppose the bill but criticised the government for debating it separately rather than including it in a miscellaneous amendments package. The bill was passed on second reading.

Outcome

The bill was read a second time.

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

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Nita Green (QLD) (Australian Labor Party) ALP

Green moved the second reading, explaining that the bill makes consequential amendments to align Commonwealth law with the New South Wales Local Court and Bail Legislation Amendment Act 2025. Green stated that the legislation ensures judges of the Local Court can validly exercise federal powers previously held by magistrates, while preventing them from exceeding their intended scope. Green emphasised that concurrent commencement with the state act would prevent disruption to the federal justice system. Green concluded that the bill supports the court's critical role in handling civil and criminal matters under Commonwealth law.

Opposition response

Michaelia Cash (WA) (Liberal Party) Liberal

Cash described the bill as an uncontroversial and necessary technical measure to reflect recent reforms in the New South Wales legal system. Cash argued that the legislation provides a clear mechanism for judges to exercise federal jurisdiction without confusion or disruption. Cash noted that the bill maintains jurisdictional clarity and supports the efficient operation of the Local Court. Cash commended the bill to the Senate, stating the coalition supported the seamless transition.