Response to states on competition issues

Question

Senator DEAN SMITH: In responding to a letter from states and territories, is the Commonwealth taking a narrow view in responding? You've alluded to the fact that you're going out across government to seek input. Is the possibility that the Commonwealth might respond with its own ideas and pathway for improving competition? Ms Barker: I think we're taking quite a broad look into potential options. Senator DEAN SMITH: I don't want to get ahead of myself, but that's a good first step. On notice, can you make a copy of that letter available to me? Ms Barker: Yes. Senator DEAN SMITH: For completeness, in the government's response to the Senate Economics References Committee report into microcompetition issues in the Australian economy, and it's first report was e-conveyancing. Its second report might be postal delivery services-just putting that out there. In the government's response, it said: The Government supports progress toward a more competitive, dynamic and resilient Electronic Conveyancing (eConveyancing) market that benefits consumer, practitioners, industry participants and the broader economy. Is that still the government's position? Ms Barker: Yes, I think I've made that point before. Senator DEAN SMITH: Does the government believe that competition improvements are necessary? Ms Barker: I wouldn't be in a position to say what the government position is on whether there are necessary- Senator DEAN SMITH: Would the Treasury characterise the e-conveyancing market as being a monopoly? Ms Barker: I think most people would agree it's a monopoly. Senator DEAN SMITH: I think I might just leave it there, and I eagerly await a copy of that letter and the response. Who will respond? You said that the letter was addressed to the Treasury, but who will respond to the states and territories? Will it be the Treasurer himself or the assistant minister? Ms Barker: I think I'd have to take that on notice. I'm not sure whether it's even been determined yet.

Answer

See attached response.

Documents

• Question with answer (PDF) (opens in a new tab)
• SQ26-000447 BET086 - Response to states on competition issues.pdf (opens in a new tab)