Independent senator Rex Patrick believes there is little chance that the upper house will pass the federal government’s industrial relations omnibus bill in the next week. He says it could be passed in May or June, but only with substantial amendments.
Meanwhile, One Nation will push for 12 amendments to the bill in return for its support, while Jacqui Lambie has ruled out any negotiations with the government before Industrial Relations Minister Christian Porter returns from leave. The bill requires the support of at least three crossbenchers.
A Senate inquiry is due to present its findings on the bill later today and the cross-bench wants enough time to digest its findings before the government puts the bill to a vote next week.
