The second day of Senate estimates hearings is set to bring several key government departments and agencies under parliamentary scrutiny, with sessions scheduled across multiple committees throughout the day.
Regional Affairs Committee Focus on Communications and Agriculture
In the regional affairs committee, the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communication, Sport and the Arts will appear before Senators this morning. The primary focus of this session is expected to be on communications policy, a topic of ongoing national interest. Following this, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation is slated to present after the lunch break, where it may address questions regarding its operations and funding.
Later in the day, the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry will take the stand in the same committee for an extended period. This appearance is anticipated to cover a range of issues affecting Australia's primary industries and environmental management.
Finance Committee to Examine Indigenous Business and Gender Equity
Meanwhile, in the finance committee room, Indigenous Business Australia will be the first to answer questions from Senators. This session will likely explore the agency's role in supporting Indigenous economic development and entrepreneurship across the country.
Subsequently, the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet's office for women will appear, followed by the Workplace Gender Equity Agency. These appearances come at a time when gender equity in Australian workplaces remains a prominent policy discussion, with potential questions about progress on closing the gender pay gap and improving workplace conditions.
Environment Committee to Address Emergency Management
In the environment committee, the National Emergency Management Agency is scheduled to appear. Given recent flooding events that have affected multiple regions across Australia, this session is expected to focus on disaster response coordination, recovery efforts, and preparedness for future natural disasters.
The day will conclude with an evening appearance by the Special Envoy to Combat Antisemitism, reflecting ongoing parliamentary attention on social cohesion and discrimination issues.
These estimates hearings provide Senators with the opportunity to scrutinise government expenditure and policy implementation across various portfolios, offering transparency and accountability in the use of public funds.
