Senator WONG (South Australia—Minister for Foreign Affairs and Leader of the Government in the Senate) (14:41): I do recall that there was a lot of discussion about the water trigger during one part of the campaign. I am advised that the Labor government's new environmental laws will include an expanded water trigger to cover all forms of non-conventional gas, including shale gas. Consultation on draft laws begins this month. We would welcome support across party lines. That might be more hopeful than realistic, but obviously these things are always better if they can be resolved with at least some cross-party support. In the meantime, the government has made available our Independent Expert Scientific Committee on Coal Seam Gas and Large Coal Mining Development to assist in assessing the impact of gas projects seeking their approval. This is the same committee that will assess water impacts of projects when the water trigger is legislated. Senator Hanson-Young, I think there were two parts to you question. I've partly answered them. You asked when. My advice obviously indicates it's still in the process of being consulted. You asked how we would ensure that this occurs by the end of the year. In part, that is in the hands of those in this chamber. Senator Duniam: You've got to introduce the laws first. Senator WONG: Well, that's true. I accept that, but I would make the point that, while we sometimes have cooperation on passage, I think those opposite have demonstrated that that's not how they wish to operate in this chamber, so— Senator Duniam: If the minister picked up the phone to me it would be a bit easier. Senator WONG: I would make the point: I think there was a fair bit of cooperation previously, but clearly they're not in a cooperative mood. (Time expired) The PRESIDENT: Senator Hanson-Young, first supplementary question?