Senate Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Legislation Committee [Part 2]

Senate Estimates hearing,

Searchable transcript of the Senate Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Legislation Committee [Part 2], 12 Feb 2026 Senate Estimates hearing, with chapters: Introduction and Opening Remarks, EU-Australia FTA: Agricultural Market Access, Negotiation Confidentiality and Brussels Meetings, Industry…

Chapters

  1. Introduction and Opening Remarks (0:02)

    The committee welcomes Senator Murray Watt and representatives from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). The Chair notes the release of Export Finance Australia and confirms no opening statements.

  2. EU-Australia FTA: Agricultural Market Access (1:30)

    Senator Henderson questions officials on the Australia-EU Free Trade Agreement, specifically comparing potential beef, sugar, and dairy quotas to the EU's deal with Mercosur.

  3. Negotiation Confidentiality and Brussels Meetings (14:24)

    A debate ensues regarding the confidentiality of Australia's negotiating bottom lines while Minister Farrell meets with EU counterparts in Brussels. Officials reiterate they will not accept a 'bad deal'.

  4. Industry Consultations and Specific Tariffs (19:40)

    Senator Cadell asks about the depth of industry consultations and specific concerns regarding tariffs on engineered timber and the luxury car tax in the context of the EU FTA.

  5. Trade and Sustainable Development (TSD) Chapter (23:46)

    The committee discusses the Trade and Sustainable Development chapter of the EU FTA, focusing on labor and climate obligations and whether enforcement will follow the New Zealand model.

  6. Austrade: EMDG Program Review (32:02)

    Austrade CEO Paul Grimes discusses the independent review of the Export Market Development Grants (EMDG) program and addresses industry concerns regarding funding adequacy and tier design.

  7. Market Diversification and Middle East Trade (39:28)

    Officials outline the 'Accessing New Markets Initiative' (AMNI) and efforts to diversify Australian exports, highlighting growth in the Middle East and the success of the Gulfood trade show.

  8. Tourism Australia: Campaign Performance and KPIs (46:28)

    Managing Director Robin Mack provides an update on Tourism Australia's KPIs and the 'Come and Say G'Day' campaign, noting strong performance in the US, China, and UK markets.

  9. Regional Tourism Strategy and Adjournment (58:49)

    The hearing concludes with a discussion on regional dispersal strategies, the use of high-profile advocates like Robert Irwin, and the Aussie Specialist training program for travel agents.