For many Victorians, the past year has been a year like no other. From the drought to the bushfires and now the COVID pandemic, the Morrison government has been there every step of the way.

I rise to speak today about this important matter of public importance. While I thank Senator Walsh for the opportunity to highlight the great work of the Federal Government is doing to support communities hit be the summer bushfires, I also understand that she has not once sought a briefing from federal authorities on the recovery progress.

I rise to speak on the Offshore Petroleum and Greenhouse Gas Storage Amendment (Cross-Boundary Greenhouse Gas Titles and Other Measures) Bill 2019, and the Offshore Petroleum and Greenhouse Gas Storage (Regulatory Levies) Amendment (Miscellaneous Measures) Bill 2019.

Yesterday, I rose in this place to express our condolences to those who suffered loss in the recent devastating bushfires, and to thank those who have worked so hard to combat them.

It was not the time for partisan debate nor expressing outrage on the circumstances surrounding such tragedy, but rather a time for sombre reflection, rolling up our sleeves, or both.

I too rise today to express my condolences on the tragic loss of life and devastation caused by the recent fires right across Australia but, particularly in my home state of Victoria.

In this place, I offer my heartfelt grief for all of those who have lost loved ones, friends, livelihoods and homes.

I, too, thank Senator Gallagher for this opportunity to speak on this timely matter of public importance relating to the coalition's government's support for regional and rural Australia. One thing is extremely clear: the coalition government backs regional Australia. We don't just want our regions to succeed; we want them to thrive. Just like my beloved Collingwood Magpies, we as coalition senators stand side by side with our farmers and small businesses in regional Australia.