I am keen to ensure an inclusive process that encourages the participation of all stakeholders and can build confidence in the final decision by involving industry in the process. For this reason, my Department, in consultation with the Quarantine and Exports Advisory Council and stakeholders, is reviewing the IRA process. Particular attention is being given to ways of involving State and Territory governments more closely. The States and Territories have expertise that can be useful in assessing market access requests. At the same time, States and Territories can damage the national quarantine system by undermining public confidence.
States have legislative powers which can be used to undercut national arrangements.
In 1995, States and Territories agreed not to use these powers contrary to our international agreements but, as we have seen in the recent salmon case, a State government can renege on these commitments for parochial political gain. Such action exposes Australia to WTO action and cannot be accepted. We will seek to involve all stakeholders State and Territory governments, industry and applicants in a better process. On a broader front, we also need to stimulate an informed debate about Australia s Appropriate Level of Protection. This forum today can be part of that national debate.