Senator FIFIELD (Victoria—Manager of Government Business in the Senate and Assistant Minister for Social Services) (16:27): Mr President, I seek leave to make a short statement. The PRESIDENT: Leave is granted for one minute. Senator FIFIELD: The government does recognise the Australian Electoral Commission's crucial role in safeguarding our democracy. The integrity of the AEC is paramount and it is vital that the organisation maintain the confidence of the community. The appointment of senior AEC officials is therefore an extremely important process. Positions such as the Electoral Commissioner, other members of the commission and Australian electoral officers in the states and territories must be filled by suitably qualified and experienced candidates. Above all, the government must make sound, considered decisions in relation to these appointments. This matter was fully canvassed in the Senate estimates hearing on 20 November. The government does not support the motion but will not be seeking to divide. Question agreed to.