Bundle 21 changes to trim red tape across government — back it or block it?
This bill packages 21 measures that amend 26 laws, repeal 2 laws and affect 19 government agencies. It aims to cut compliance costs and speed up dealings with government. Changes include a 'tell us once' approach so Services Australia (Centrelink, Medicare, child support) can reuse information it already holds; letting people cancel a Centrelink nominee arrangement without written notice; easing proof-of-life checks for older pensioners living overseas; giving the trademarks registrar more flexibility on legal costs and stopping IP attorneys dodging discipline by deregistering; a grace period for plant breeders' late renewal fees; and new tools and reporting rules to manage critical fuel shortages. Labor and an independent backed it; the Coalition raised broader concerns. The debate ran about 79 minutes and was adjourned — no vote yet.