1.1        Labor Senators note the Government has stated that the bill is intended to meet our potential obligations under the WTO GPA to provide a timely, effective, transparent and non-discriminatory review procedure that provides for rapid interim measures to preserve a supplier’s opportunity to participate in a procurement, and where a breach has occurred, for corrective action and compensation.

1.2        Labor Senators are concerned that it is premature to legislate a dispute resolution arrangement to meet international obligations in the GPA prior to negotiations on the agreement being finalised. Delaying consideration of this bill would ensure Parliament has the opportunity to consider the agreement in full.

1.3        The Joint Standing Committee on Government Procurement report Buying into our Future also expressed concerns that this bill should not be progressed until the GPA negotiations are finalised.

1.4        Labor is committed to improving Australia’s access to international markets in Australia's national interest.

Senator Jenny McAllister
Deputy Chair 

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