THE Joint Standing Committee on Implementation of the National Redress Scheme has launched an inquiry into the continuing operation of the scheme and is inviting submissions to guide its findings.

With the scheme scheduled to conclude on June 30, 2028, the inquiry will primarily examine the outstanding case management load, the availability and effectiveness of support services for applicants, and the transition arrangements as the scheme approaches its end.

The committee will also assess whether the scheme is achieving its intended objectives and meeting the expectations of survivors and the broader community.

Committee Chair, Jodie Belyea MP, said, "We know the scheme matters to many people. As we move closer to its scheduled conclusion, the committee is focused on assessing its effectiveness and exploring what a thoughtful, well-managed transition looks like.

"This inquiry is an opportunity to explore how the scheme can better support survivors now and into the future."

The committee is welcoming submissions in response to the inquiry terms of reference by Friday, February 6, 2026. Submissions are encouraged from a wide range of stakeholders, including government, legal and support bodies, researchers, and survivors.

Full details of the inquiry, including the terms of reference, are available on the committee’s website.

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The Subcommittee will discuss uncrewed and autonomous systems and their integration into the Joint Force.

Chair of the Defence Subcommittee, Senator Deborah O’Neill, said, "Expert testimonies are essential to ensuring the subcommittee is best informed on contemporary and emerging issues that relate to the defence of Australia.

‘The perspectives of expert witnesses enhance the subcommittee’s ability to develop evidence-based recommendations and improve inquiry outcomes," Senator O’Neill said.

"The Subcommittee greatly appreciates the support of expert witnesses who have taken the time to appear before the inquiry."

Further information, including the full Terms of Reference, is available on the inquiry webpage.

Public Hearing Details

Date: Tuesday, 4 November 2025
Time: 5.40pm–7.30pm (AEDT)
Location: Committee Room 2R1, Parliament House, Canberra

The hearing will be broadcast live at aph.gov.au/live.

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THE Joint Standing Committee on Migration has launched a new inquiry into the value of skilled migration to Australia.

Skilled migration has played a central role in shaping Australia’s economic success. Skilled migrants address labour shortages, meet in-demand skills, and foster innovation to boost productivity, drive economic growth, and improve living standards. They also contribute significantly by enriching the cultural diversity that is fundamental to Australian society.

The inquiry will seek to better understand the enduring economic, social and cultural value of skilled migration to Australia, as well as examine the program’s effectiveness in addressing skills gaps and supporting the ongoing needs of Australian businesses. It will also consider the requirements of the states and territories, while recognising the continuing need for housing and infrastructure.

Committee Chair, Steve Georganas MP said, “Skilled migration makes a vital contribution to Australia’s economy and local communities. It is important to ensure the skilled migration program is operating effectively and that we have the right settings to support Australia’s current and future needs.

"The committee also wants to hear what could be done to better build public awareness and understanding about the important role of skilled migration in Australia.”

Interested individuals, businesses and organisations have been encouraged to make a submission addressing one or more of the terms of reference by Monday, January 5, 2026.

For more information about the inquiry, people can visit the inquiry webpage where they can make a submission to the inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. People can also track the committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right-hand corner of the page.

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TODAY (October 31), the Defence subcommittee of the Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade will hear from the Department of Defence for its inquiry into the Department of Defence Annual Report 2023–24.

The subcommittee will discuss the following topics with Defence:

• Uncrewed/Autonomous Systems and their integration into the Joint Force;
• Progress on the transformation to an integrated focused force;
• Australian international defence cooperation and competition.

Chair of the Defence subcommittee, Senator Deborah O’Neill, said, "It is a good opportunity for the Defence subcommittee to hear from the Department of Defence on these matters.

"The Department of Defence often appears as a witness to Parliamentary Committees, providing a forum to scrutinise its activities and contribute to their mission in safeguarding the nation.

"The subcommittee is keen to support the Australian Defence Force as it embarks on a major transformation to meet the challenges of a changing security environment."

Further information, including the full Terms of Reference, is available on the inquiry webpage.

Public hearing details

Date: Friday, 31 October 2025
Time: 1pm–3pm (AEDT)
Location: Committee Room 2R1, Parliament House, Canberra

The hearing will be broadcast live at aph.gov.au/live.

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