Senator RUSTON (South Australia—Assistant Minister for International Development and the Pacific) (16:12): I seek leave to make a short statement. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Leave is granted for one minute. Senator RUSTON: The regulation of onshore mining activities is a state responsibility. The government recognises the importance of farmers' rights over their land but also the value and economic importance of secure rights to exploration and development. The government encourages states to balance all of these factors when legislating these matters. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: The question is that general business notice of motion No. 1271, standing in the names of Senators Hanson-Young and Waters be agreed to.