PARLIAMENT OF NEW SOUTH WALES
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY
1993
THIRD SESSION OF THE FIFTIETH PARLIAMENT
___________________
QUESTIONS
AND
ANSWERS
No. 32
THURSDAY 14 OCTOBER 1993
___________________
[The Questions and Answers Paper published for the first sitting day in each week will contain, by number and title, all unanswered questions, together with questions to which answers have been received on the previous sitting and any new questions. On subsequent days, new questions are printed, as are questions to which answers were received the previous day. Consequently the full text of any question will be printed only twice: when notice is given; and, when answered.]
[Pursuant to the Sessional Order adopted by the House on 24 February 1993, Members shall be permitted to lodge 3 questions on notice per sitting day accumulative over one sitting week, provided that the Leader of the Opposition shall be permitted to lodge 4 questions on notice per sitting day. Ministers shall lodge answers to questions on notice within 15 sitting days after the question is first published and such answer shall be published forthwith.]
Page 2000
| DATE OF PUBLICATION OF QUESTION | ANSWER TO BE LODGED BY |
Q. & A. No. 17
(Including Question Nos 1110 to 1199) | 14 October 1993 |
Q. & A. No. 18
(Including Question Nos 1200 to 1224) | 18 October 1993 |
Q. & A. No. 19
(Including Question Nos 1225 to 1261) | 19 October 1993 |
Q. & A. No. 20
(Including Question Nos 1262 to 1328) | 20 October 1993 |
Q. & A. No. 21
(Including Question Nos 1329 to 1345) | 21 October 1993 |
Q. & A. No. 22
(Including Question Nos 1346 to 1387) | 26 October 1993 |
Q. & A. No. 23
(Including Question Nos 1388 to 1463) | 27 October 1993 |
Q. & A. No. 24
(Including Question Nos 1464 to 1524) | 28 October 1993 |
Q. & A. No. 25
(Including Question Nos 1525 to 1575) | 9 November 1993 |
Q. & A. No. 26
(Including Questions Nos 1576 to 1623) | 10 November 1993 |
Q. & A. No. 27
(Including Question Nos 1624 to 1672) | 11 November 1993 |
Q. & A. No. 28
(Including Question Nos 1673 to 1688) | 16 November 1993 |
Q. & A. No. 29
(Including Question Nos 1689 to 1708) | 17 November 1993 |
Q. & A. No. 30
(Including Question Nos 1709 to 1756) | 18 November 1993 |
Q. & A. No. 31
(Including Question Nos 1757 to 1787) | 23 November 1993 |
Q. & A. No. 32
(Including Question Nos 1788 to 1816) | 24 November 1993 |
Page 2001
(Answers required to be lodged by 14 October 1993)
Premier and Minister for Economic Development—1183, 1186, 1199.
Minister for the Environment representing the Attorney General and Minister for Justice—1126.
Minister for Health—1144.
Minister for Industrial Relations and Employment and Minister for the Status of Women—1118.
Minister for Police and Minister for Emergency Services—1192.
Notice of Question given on the date shown
28 APRIL 1993
(Paper No. 16)
*1088 BERESFIELD TRAFFIC LIGHTS—Mr Price asked the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
(1) When will the traffic lights recommended by Newcastle City Council for the intersection of Anderson Drive and Lawson Avenue, Beresfield, be installed?
(2) What is the anticipated cost of this project?
(1) The project is at the intersection of two local roads and is therefore primarily a matter for council. The project does not have a high priority among other more important works.
(2) Not applicable.
*1090 ORTHODONTIST SERVICES WAITING LIST—ILLAWARRA—Mr Rumble asked the Minister for Health—
(1) Currently how many children are on the waiting list for orthodontist services in the Illawarra area?
(2) How many children were on the waiting list 12 months ago for orthodontist services in the Illawarra area?
(3) To what extent will orthodontist services be improved for the ensuing 12 months?
(1) As at 30 September 1993 there were 195 children on the orthodontic waiting list.
(2) In September 1992 there were 198 children on the waiting list.
(3) In the next 12 months the area will introduce an orthodontic service at the Nowra Hospital Dental Clinic 1 day per week for the community of the Shoalhaven.
The area will continue to provide the service 2 days per week at the Port Kembla Hospital Dental Clinic with a Staff Dental Officer and continue using a locum orthodontist for assessing and prioritising patients and another for undertaking actual treatments 2 days per month.
Page 2002
29 APRIL 1993
(Paper No. 17)
*1114 ROOTY HILL RAILWAY STATION TICKET SALES—Mr Amery asked the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
What is the number of rail tickets sold at the Rooty Hill Railway Station for the years:
(a) 1992?
(b) 1991?
(c) 1990?
(d) 1989?
(e) 1988?
Ticket sales are shown below for the financial years 1988/89 to 1992/93. Unfortunately, figures for 1987/88 are not readily available.
(a) 1992/93 197,342
(b) 1991/92 194,250
(c) 1990/91 188,503
(d) 1989/90 171,939
(e) 1988/89 162,205
*1140 BATHURST RAILWAY STATION—Mr Clough asked the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
(1) How much is being spent on refurbishing Bathurst Railway Station?
(2) (a) Who is paying for the work?
(b) Who is doing the work?
(3) What is the future use of the station?
(4) How many station staff will be employed at the station?
(5) (a) How many of these will be CountryLink personnel?
(b) How many will be station staff?
(1) The total project cost is $493,000 for the station refurbishment and $250,000 for the car park and forecourt.
(2) (a) CountryLink, as part of the $36 million Station Upgrading Programme.
(b) Steve Watt Constructions and P. W. Hogan & Sons.
(3) To provide a modern passenger terminal including a travel centre and facilities for station staff.
(4) A total of 20 staff are employed at the station.
(5) (a) 3 CountryLink personnel.
*1141 WESTERN RAILWAY LINE—Mr Clough asked the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
(1) Why is the SRA reluctant to accept any additional freight from western New South Wales?
(2) What are the terms of the agreement with National Freight concerning track maintenance?
(3) Is the SRA deliberately avoiding a situation where they would become the major user of the railway line west of Bathurst?
Page 2003
(4) Why will the SRA not make a decision on the Oberon-Tarana line and the Blayney Container Terminal?
(5) Does the recent substitution of a bus service, because of track maintenance on the Blue Mountains, constitute a threat to the continued operation of the daily XPT to and from Dubbo?
(6) Will the Indian Pacific continue to go via Lithgow to Parkes and on to Perth?
(7) Will he instruct the SRA to actively seek freight business west of Lithgow and offer competitive rates to prospective users?
(1) State Rail welcomes the opportunity to carry any additional freight on a commercial basis and negotiations are underway to gain additional business in the container, timber and waste transport areas.
(2) State Rail does not have an agreement with National Rail concerning track maintenance.
(3) No.
(4) The Department of Transport is responsible for calling expressions of interest to reopen the Oberon-Tarana line and CRI and Silverton Tramways have been announced as the preferred proponents.
FCL has been announced as the successful proponent to operate the Blayney Container Terminal.
(5) No.
(6) As the Indian Pacific is fully operated and managed by Australian National, any questions about its future should be addressed to Australian National.
(7) State Rail actively seeks commercial business anywhere in the State. In addition, the Government provides CSO funds of $130 million for non-commercial freight in New South Wales.
*1149 READY POWER PROJECT—Mr Gaudry asked the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
(1) How many direct jobs will be created in Newcastle by the Ready Power project now being undertaken by Clyde Industries?
(2) What is the break-up of these jobs by contracting firm and job classification?
(3) Will there be additional jobs or jobs absorbed by existing staffing levels in Clyde and its subcontractors?
(4) How many jobs will be shed from Cardiff and Broadmeadow Workshops as a consequence of this move to Ready Power?
(1) It is understood that the short-term construction of the Kooragang Island Locomotive Maintenance Facility by Clyde Industries, from March 1993 to January 1994, will create an average of 60 positions during construction and that when the facility is fully operational, about 70 full-time positions will be created.
(2) This question should be directed to Clyde Industries.
(3) This question should be directed to Clyde Industries.
(4) Total job reductions resulting from the scaling down and closure of Broadmeadow and Cardiff locomotive facilities are:
Cardiff 100 positions.
Broadmeadow 230 positions.
Staff have known of the "Ready Power" impact for several years and staff numbers are being progressively reduced as the workload decreases.
Page 2004
*1152 AUTOMATIC TICKET MACHINES—ELECTORATE OF MOOREBANK—Mr Knowles asked the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
(1) Which railway stations in the electorate of Moorebank will see a reduction in staff as a result of the installation of automatic ticket machines?
(2) Where staff are retained, what shifts will they be required to work?
(3) Will there be any periods where any station in the electorate of Moorebank will be unattended?
(1) and (2) Staff reviews are to be carried out to determine staff levels and shifts required at Holsworthy, Glenfield, Macquarie Fields, Ingleburn and Minto Railway Stations.
(3) The hours during which stations are currently staffed will not change as a result of the introduction of automatic ticketing.
*1159 TRANSIT LANE POLICY—Mr Langton asked the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
Given that the RTA has changed the transit lane policy on Epping Road, Lane Cove, dropping the number of occupants required to travel on a vehicle from three to two—
(1) What is the rationale for the policy change relating to Epping Road, Lane Cove?
(2) Is the transit lane policy relating to numbers of occupants required in all areas of Sydney under review?
(3) (a) Is the RTA planning to significantly change transit lane policies in regard to number of occupants required in a private vehicle?
(b) What is the policy rationale for such changes?
(1) The two person (T2) transit lane on Epping Road was introduced to reduce traffic delays. The change has allowed more vehicles to use the transit lane and this has improved traffic flow generally, even on sections of the route beyond the T2 lane.
(2) The effectiveness of traffic management measures is kept under constant review by the RTA to ensure that the controls used at individual locations are best suited to current conditions.
In this regard, the introduction of the T2 transit lane provides greater flexibility for traffic control. The RTA intends to use T2 lanes at locations where a degree of high occupancy vehicles is needed but where three person (T3) lanes are not warranted.
(3) (a) There are no current plans to change significantly transit lane policy. However, the use of T2 or T3 lanes at specific locations will depend upon traffic conditions, which may change from time-to-time.
The lane category for a given road will be determined having regard to the need to achieve the best transport flow, balancing the priority for buses and other high occupancy vehicles against the competing needs of other vehicles.
(b) See (3) (a) above.
*1160 OLD PACIFIC HIGHWAY SEMINAR—Mr McBride asked the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
(1) What criteria was used by the RTA to determine who was eligible to attend and/or address a 2-day seminar in the week of 18 April to 25 April as part of value management study of the Old Pacific Highway's closure at Mooney Mooney?
(2) Which groups, organisations, representatives or individuals were invited to the seminar?
(3) When were these invitations issued?
(4) Who issued these invitations?
Page 2005
(5) Where was the meeting held and when?
(6) Which elected Local, State or Federal representatives or their nominees were invited to the seminar?
(7) Where should application be made to obtain the recommendations of the seminar referred to in local Central Coast newspapers?
(1) The criteria used for selecting invitees was based on the need to provide a study team which had sufficient knowledge to ensure that all relevant issues, including community concerns, could be covered in depth at the study.
(2) The invitation list included the following:
Community
Mayor of Gosford City Council (Alderman R. Bell).
Mr J. Lloyd.
Cheero Point Progress Association (represented by Mr J. Lloyd).
Gosford Chamber of Commerce.
Emergency Services
Police Service.
Fire Brigade.
Tourism
Gosford City Council Tourism Association.
Central Coast Tourist Board.
Local Government
Director, Technical Services, Gosford City Council.
Technical Experts
RTA, including the Manager, Newcastle Zone Consultants.
(3) From 25 March 1993.
(4) The RTA Zone Manager, Newcastle.
(5) Central Coast Leagues Club, Gosford, on 20 and 21 April 1993.
(6) The Mayor of Gosford City Council.
(7) The Zone Manager of the RTA at Newcastle.
*1161 CENTRAL COAST TOURISM PROMOTION SPENDING—Mr McBride asked the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads representing the Minister for Education, Training and Youth Affairs, Minister for Tourism and Minister Assisting the Premier—
(1) With regard to funds provided for tourist promotion on the Central Coast and its environs, to what promotion projects were the monies allocated to in:
(a) 1988?
(b) 1989?
(c) 1990?
(d) 1991?
(e) 1992?
(2) What promotional projects are being funded in 1993?
(3) What promotional projects are being considered for funding beyond 1993?
(4) What specific tourist promotion plans has the Government prepared for the Central Coast region of New South Wales?
Page 2006
(1) (a) The NSW Tourism Commission provided funds towards the operation of the Tourist Information Centres at Gosford and The Entrance.
(b) The NSW Tourism Commission provided funds towards the operation of the Tourist Information Centres at Gosford and The Entrance.
(c) The NSW Tourism Commission provided funds towards the operation of the Tourist Information Centres at Gosford and The Entrance.
(d) The NSW Tourism Commission provided funds towards the operation of the Tourist Information Centres at Gosford and The Entrance. The Commission also allocated funds towards the construction costs of the new Terrigal and The Entrance Tourist Information Centres.
(e) The NSW Tourism Commission provided funds towards the operation of the Tourist information Centres at Gosford and The Entrance. The Commission also allocated funds for the preparation of a Central Coast Region Tourism Development Strategy.
(2) The NSW Tourism Commission has provided $100,000 funding per annum to each of 11 strategic tourism marketing zones established for the State to develop and implement marketing strategies that will benefit the zone. The Central Coast is included in the Hunter/Central Coast zone. This represents a doubling of funding for regional tourism. The Commission also co-ordinates a strategic marketing program with industry operators to promote New South Wales, including the attributes of its regional centres, in intrastate, interstate and overseas markets.
(3) As (2) above.
(4) The NSW Government through the NSW Tourism Commission has established a Hunter/Central Coast Zone Marketing Committee to plan, prepare, present for endorsement, implement and review a Marketing Strategy for the zone. The Commission has allocated $100,000 to the Committee to undertake its plans.
The NSW Government has called for a Tourism Masterplan to be developed___to guide the industry over the next decade. The Central Coast will be an integral part of that Masterplan.
The largest ever promotional campaign for NSW Tourism is due to commence in the next month. The Central Coast will benefit from this television and newspaper blitz aimed at promoting New South Wales' diverse tourist product.
*1174 INTERSTATE FREIGHT SERVICES—Mr Martin asked the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
(1) Why does the SRA refuse to accept freight for consignment interstate?
(2) Are SRA staff advising people with interstate freight consignments they must approach private companies?
(3) Is it possible to consign freight to a border station and then have the freight reconsigned from that border station on an interstate rail authority?
(4) If so, would the consignee be required to pay freight charges in two amounts, as a component for New South Wales and for the other state rail authority?
(5) If so, is the consignee required to pay the interstate freight charge component direct to the interstate authority?
(6) Have other states stopped providing customers with interstate freight facilities?
(7) If not, why is New South Wales not providing such a service?
(1) Freight Rail is continuing to operate interstate services until the transfer of responsibility for interstate freight to the National Rail Corporation is finalised. However, TrackFast no longer operates an interstate service for small freight.
Page 2007
During 1992/93, TrackFast was restructured as a small freight service to the rural communities of New South Wales. Interstate services were withdrawn as they were incompatible with this and as they were a low volume, high cost component of TrackFast's business.
(2) TrackFast staff have been instructed to advise customers to contact private companies for interstate consignments.
(3) Yes.
(4) Yes.
(5) Yes.
(6) Western Australia and South Australia do not have interstate small freight facilities, while Queensland and Victoria use private contractors for the transportation of interstate freight.
(7) Not applicable.
*1189 OVER 60 HOMEFUND LOANS—Mr Page asked the Minister for Land and Water Conservation representing the Minister for Planning and Minister for Housing—
(1) How many people 60 years of age and over were given HomeFund loans?
(2) How many were for home purchase?
(3) How many were for renovation or updating purposes?
(4) What is the total value of the loans?
(5) How many are in arrears?
(6) How many have been terminated?
I have been advised by the Minister for Planning and Minister for Housing that the answers to the honourable member's questions are:
(1) Based on available recorded information relating to ages on FANMAC's database, 791 households, comprising one or more applicants of 60 years of age or over, were given HomeFund loans.
(2) 476.
(3) 315.
(4) $44.5 million.
(5) Arrears for reporting purposes are classified as three payments or more in arrears. 11 of the 791 loans were three or more payments in arrears as at 31 August 1993.
(6) 207 of the 791 loans have been discharged.
20 MAY 1993
(Paper No. 23)
*1425 DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION AND LAND MANAGEMENT
___SES UPGRADINGS
___ Mr Martin asked the Minister for Land and Water Conservation
___
(1) Has he approved of the upgrading of SES positions in the Department of Conservation and Land Management?
(2) What extra duties are undertaken by these SES officers to warrant the upgrading?
(3) How many SES officers have received an upgrading in positions since the creation of the Department in 1991?
(4) What are the names of the officers who have had their SES position upgraded?
(5) What are the SES positions that have been upgraded?
Page 2008
(1) to (5) The situation is that no SES positions have been upgraded since the SES positions in the new CALM structure were created.
In the case of the positions of Regional Director___Northern, Southern, Sydney/Hunter and Western, these positions were initially evaluated by the SES Unit, Premier's Department and formally created and gazetted as SES Level 2 (General Administration).
Following the appointment of the then Director-General, Mr A. J. Powell, he, in making the appointments to these four SES positions, determined that the initial contract appointment would be at SES Level 1 subject to review after an initial period. The Director-General, Premier's Department, approved of these positions being temporarily allocated back to SES Level 1.
In April 1993, Mr Powell, with the approval of the then Minister, approached the Premier's Department seeking the reinstatement of the four Regional Director positions to SES Level 2.
In a letter dated 28 July 1993, the Director-General, Premier's Department, advised that since the responsibilities of the Regional Director positions are as originally evaluated, approval is given to the positions of Regional Director___Northern, Southern, Sydney/Hunter and Western being restored to SES Level 2 (General Management).
This approval has been acted upon and the SES officers advised. They are as follows:
Regional Director, Northern Region Mr John Butcher
Regional Director, Southern Region Mr Axel Tennie
Regional Director, Sydney/Hunter Region Mr Ian Melville
Regional Director, Western Division Mr Peter Davey
and Western Lands Commissioner.
*1458 DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING
___ILLAWARRA EMPLOYEES—Mr Sullivan asked the Minister for Land and Water Conservation representing the Minister for Planning and Minister for Housing—
With regard to the Wollongong Regional Office and the Shellharbour, Dapto and Corrimal Offices of the Department of Housing—
(1) In each of those offices, how many staff are currently employed as:
(a) Permanent full-time employees and in what positions?
(b) Permanent part-time employees and in what positions?
(2) In each of those offices during the 6 months ended 31 March 1992:
(a) What was the total number of persons engaged as temporary and/or casual employees?
(b) In what positions did they work?
(c) What was the total number of hours worked by temporary and/or casual employees during this period?
(3) Will he forecast anticipated staffing levels in each of those offices for the year 1 July 1993 to 30 June 1994 in terms of:
(a) Permanent full-time employees and in what positions?
(b) Permanent part-time employees and in what positions?
(c) The total number of hours to be worked by temporary and/or casual employees?
I have been advised by the Minister for Planning and Minsiter for Housing that the answers to the honourable member's questions are:
(1) and (2) To provide the detailed information requested would impinge on the resources and time of many Department of Housing officers. As a consequence, the Minister for Housing is not willing to move resources to meet this request.
(3) Staffing levels are under investigation as part of the current restructuring of the Department of Housing.
Page 2009
21 MAY 1993
(Paper No. 24)
*1484 DEPARTMENTAL WAITING LIST—NEWCASTLE, HUNTER, NORTH COAST AND FAR NORTH COAST REGIONS—Mr Gaudry asked the Minister for Land and Water Conservation representing the Minister for Planning and Minister for Housing—
(1) How many persons are on Department of Housing waiting lists for 1, 2 and 3-bedroom accommodation in the following Department of Housing regions:
(a) Newcastle (Newcastle/Lake Macquarie)?
(b) Hunter area of Newcastle region?
(c) North Coast?
(d) Far North Coast?
(2) How many units of accommodation currently exist in each category for each region?
(3) What is the current staffing level of each of the regions?
(4) Given current demand and projected public housing budgets and building programs, which of the regions requires the greatest concentration of management and administrative expertise?
I have been advised by the Minister for Planning and Minister for Housing that the answers to the honourable member's questions are:
(1) As at 17 September 1993, the number of approved applicants on the Department's waiting lists is as follows:
1-bedroom 2-bedroom 3-bedroom
(a) Newcastle/Lake Macquarie 2,507 1,113 780
(b) Hunter 744 663 469
(c) North Coast 2,929 1,873 2,034
(d) Far North Coast* 1,397 912 922
* Incorporating Evans Head/Woodburn to Tweed Heads, Casino, Kyogle and Bonalbo.
(2) The number of units of accommodation in each of the categories requested is as follows:
1-bedroom 2-bedroom 3-bedroom
Newcastle/Lake Macquarie and Hunter 2,500 2,863 5,603
North Coast and Far North Coast 1,172 1,101 3,111
(3) Hunter and New England Regional Office___145.
North Coast Regional Office___72.
(4) The Hunter and North Coast regions of the Department of Housing cannot be compared in respect to the preferred concentration of management and administrative expertise as each has different characteristics and challenges. Staff in each region have specific skills and knowledge which are utilised for the benefit of the wider region as well as local areas. The provision of housing services in both regions cannot be solely addressed through increases in capital works expenditure.
*1490 LUNA PARK SITE WORKS—Mr Irwin asked the Minister for Land and Water Conservation—
(1) What is the total of Government expenditure on the Luna Park site?
(2) Are works carried out limited to the removal of existing structures and the restoration of the harbour foreshore?
(3) If not, what other works are to be carried out at no expense to the Luna Park Trust?
Page 2010
(1) The Government's commitment to the restoration of Luna Park is $25 million.
(2) No. The works include not only the removal of existing structures, but the replacement of all the heritage items of the Park___Crystal Palace, Cooney Island, the Palais de Danse, the Midway and the Face and Towers. In addition to improvements to the foreshore (including the SRA land at Lavender Bay), the works include basic site works and facilities required by the trust, public amenities, a new public wharf, a boardwalk around the site and a new stairway and associated public works to improve access to Milsons Point Station.
(3) All other works such as the provision of amusement rides, concessions and food outlets, such as restaurants, will be provided by the private sector.
*1502 NEWCASTLE SHOWGROUND AND ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE MANAGEMENT TENDER—Mr Price asked the Minister for Land and Water Conservation—
(1) How many companies tendered for the management of the Newcastle Showground and Entertainment Centre?
(2) What were the names of those companies tendering?
(3) (a) Has the successful tenderer a proven record in the field of entertainment and associated facility management?
(b) If so, what facilities are they currently responsible for?
(c) What has their past contract record included?
(d) What is the record of any associated company?
(4) How many people are employed by International Facilities Corporation (Newcastle) Pty Ltd in:
(a) Direct full-time positions by title?
(b) Part-time employees by title?
(c) Casual employees by title?
(5) (a) Is the successful tenderer subject to fringe benefit tax contributions?
(1) Three.
(2) (a) International Facility Corporation (Newcastle) Pty Ltd.
(b) Manford Pty Ltd.
(c) Rock City Promotions.
(3) (a) Yes. The IFC group of companies is widely regarded as the leading public assembly facility management company in Australia.
(b) IFC and its associate companies and major shareholders are directly involved in the management of:
•Newcastle Entertainment Centre and Showground Complex.
•Brisbane Entertainment and Exhibition Centre.
•Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.
•Ticketworld, Queensland.
•Brisbane Bullets NBL Franchise.
•Sydney Kings NBL Franchise.
•Brisbane ANZ Stadium (Management Advisory Services Program).
Page 2011
Additionally, IFC has provided varying levels of operational and management consultancy services for:
•Melbourne's National Tennis Centre.
•Adelaide Entertainment Centre.
•Singapore Entertainment Centre.
•Brisbane Cricket Ground Trust.
•New Hong Kong Stadium.
•Malaysian Commonwealth Games Stadium.
•Subiaco Oval, Perth.
•New facilities in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, New Zealand, and possible facilities in Geelong, Wollongong, Cairns and the Gold Coast, amongst others.
The Chairman of IFC, Mr Kevin Jacobsen, is Deputy Chairman of Arena Management Pty Ltd (Sydney Entertainment Centre); Convex (Qld) Pty Ltd (Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre); Queensland Leisure Pty Ltd (Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Ticketworld, Brisbane Bullets). Mr Jacobsen is a pre-eminent entertainment promoter in the Asia-Pacific region___as is Mr Michael Edgely who is also a director of both Queensland Leisure Pty Ltd and Arena Management Pty Ltd. Kevin Jacobsen and Michael Edgely were founding shareholders and directors of Queensland Leisure and also of Arena Management of which the NSW Government is a major shareholder. The Managing Director of IFC is Mr Harvey Lister who is also Managing Director of Queensland Leisure Pty Ltd___Brisbane Entertainment Centre.
(c) IFC, Queensland Leisure and Arena Management, together have pioneered successful private management of major public assembly facilities over the past decade. The companies continue to manage the facilities as detailed in 3 (b).
(d) See answer (3) (c) above.
(4) (a) 13 direct full-time positions:
Centre Manager.
Business Manager.
Concessions Manager.
Technical Manager.
Front of House Manager.
Executive Assistant.
Assistant Accountant.
Receptionist.
Ticketing Supervisor.
Cellarman/Storeman.
Leading Hand.
General Hand.
General Hand.
(b) Nil.
(c) 291 registered casual employees (casuals are only employed when events are in progress, of which approximately 100 would be employed for any specific event. Naturally this varies from event to event).
117 Food and beverage staff.
70 Front of house staff (ushers, ticket sellers, ticket takers, security).
39 Technical staff.
5 Cash counters.
38 Patron control officers.
22 Parking staff.
(5) (a) Yes.
(b) All fringe benefits taxes as per statutory requirements.
Page 2012
*1503 PUBLIC HOUSING UNITS—ELECTORATE OF WARATAH—Mr Price asked the Minister for Land and Water Conservation representing the Minister for Planning and Minister for Housing—
(1) How many units of new public housing will be completed for use within the electorate of Waratah this calendar year:
(a) Free standing houses (4, 3, 2 and 1-bedroom)?
(b) 3-bedroom units/town houses?
(c) 2-bedroom units/town houses?
(d) 1-bedroom units/town houses?
(2) Where are they located?
(3) What is the anticipated number of houses and units/town houses to be completed within the electorate in the 1994 calender year?
I have been advised by the Minister for Planning and Minister for Housing that the answers to the honourable member's questions are:
(1) (a) One 4-bedroom and six 3-bedroom free standing houses will be completed within the electorate of Waratah in the 1993/94 financial year.
(2) Maryland.
(3) Package deals have been called for 26 units of accommodation for General Housing (2 and 3-bedroom) and 30 units of Pensioner Housing (1-bedroom) to be completed in the 1994/95 financial year. Some of these units may be in the electorate of Waratah.
In addition, 55 units of accommodation for General Housing are to be built in the Waratah and Maryland areas and 18 Pensioner Housing units in Waratah during the 1994/95 financial year.
7 SEPTEMBER 1993
(Paper No. 25)
*1525 BUILDING CONTRACTS—Mr Amery asked the Minister for Land and Water Conservation representing the Minister for Planning and Minister for Housing—
(1) Is he aware of repeated calls by the "Building Action Review Group Inc." for the introduction of legislation to:
(a) Prohibit commercial arbitration clauses in home building contracts?
(b) Put into effect a compulsory home building contract with standard conditions to apply to all home building contracts?
(c) Introduce a privately operated insurance scheme for home owners to cover them for 100 per cent of losses related to financial failure of builders and the undertaking of defective work?
(2) What is his response to these issues?
(3) What action is he proposing in regard to these issues?
Page 2013
(2) (a) In late 1989 the Building Services Corporation prepared a report dealing with the operation of arbitration clauses in residential building contracts. This followed criticism from various sections of the community that building arbitrations are legalistic and costly and generally favour building contractors. The report recommended, among other things, that the Commercial Arbitration Act be amended to prohibit compulsory arbitration clauses in building contracts. The final report was referred by the former Minister for Housing to the then Attorney General in 1990.
The Attorney General advised that he did not support an amendment to the Commercial Arbitration Act because it is part of a national scheme of uniform legislation. Instead he favoured the adoption of a standard form of contract to accommodate the specific needs of residential building agreements.
The subject of building arbitration has since been dealt with in a number of other inquiries. Most recently, the Report by Dr Peter Dodd on the Inquiry into the BSC, published in March this year, made reference to arbitration of domestic building disputes and concluded that it is now widely accepted as being inappropriate for consumer disputes.
(b) The introduction of a compulsory residential building contract is not supported. There does not appear to be any compelling reason why the Government should attempt to dictate all the terms of an agreement between a builder and a consumer and it should resist the temptation to interfere unnecessarily in this area. However, the more limited approach of legislating for certain standard conditions which would apply to all contracts is a matter deserving of further consideration.
In that regard, the Report of the Inquiry into the BSC detailed a number of contract recommendations arising from other inquiries into the residential building industry. The recommendations are principally aimed at ensuring the rights of consumers are protected and that, as far as possible, any unfair conditions are avoided.
(c) The Report of the Inquiry into the BSC found that there is a continuing need for consumers to have access to insurance to fund the cost of having work rectified or completed. However, it was considered not to be in the best interest of consumers for the Government to exercise a monopoly in this area. The introduction of compulsory insurance provided by the market was therefore advocated with the Government establishing minimum standards for that market. Whether the private sector would be able to provide cover for 100 per cent of losses relating to the financial failure of builders and the undertaking of defective work will obviously depend on the cost involved. It is possible that cover beyond certain minimum levels may be provided as an option upon the payment of additional premiums.
(3) (a) The BSC is presently developing a plain English residential building contract for use in new dwellings and alterations and additions. The contract does not contain an arbitration clause but places emphasis on the use of informal dispute resolution procedures. The BSC is hopeful that the contract will overcome many of the objections expressed by consumers in the past. The contract will not be compulsory but will be promoted by the Corporation which is hopeful of achieving industry acceptance for its use.
The possible abolition of compulsory arbitration clauses, by amendment to the legislation, will be looked into as part of the program of research and consultation with consumer groups and the building industry for the development of a package of reforms flowing from the Inquiry into the BSC.
(b) The introduction of a compulsory residential building contract is not contemplated, however, the various contract recommendations referred to in the Report on the Inquiry into the BSC as well as other suggestions for reform will be the subject of further research and consultation with consumers and the industry.
(c) The Building Services Corporation has established a Steering Committee comprising a wide ranging membership to consider the privatisation of BSC Insurance. An issues paper on matters of significant importance has been prepared and a firm proposal for a private insurance scheme is to be developed for discussion with the insurance industry during October 1993.
Page 2014
*1529 SECOND SYDNEY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT—Mr A. S. Aquilina asked the Premier and Minister for Economic Development—
(1) Is he aware of the need for a second international airport for Sydney?
(2) Will he commit funds from the State Budget for the infrastructure required to assist the development of the Badgerys Creek Airport?
(3) If so, how much and when?
(4) If not, why not?
(1) The State Government supports the staged development of Badgerys Creek Airport to meet market demand, whether domestic or international as demonstrated by industry requirements.
(2) to (4) The future role of Badgerys Creek Airport is unclear. If the Federal Government commits to the airport's growth beyond the general aviation and limited freight role currently envisaged then an opportunity arises to focus complementary employment growth. This would inevitably lead to pressure for local residential development in the longer term. In this eventuality, close attention will need to be given to the strategic transport linkages between the airport and other activity centres. Any necessary State funding would be considered in that context.
I have written to the Prime Minister seeking the early establishment of Commonwealth/State liaison to progress consideration of development of the Airport beyond Stage One. Federal Government financial support for off-site infrastructure is essential to this development.
My Government has actively encouraged the involvement of the private sector in providing infrastructure that will complement the progressive development of Badgerys Creek Airport.
The Government is considering a number of private sector initiatives which will enhance Badgerys Creek Airport's accessibility and linkage to Kingsford-Smith Airport.
*1531 SCHOOL STAFF AND STUDENT SAFETY—Mr Beckroge asked the Minister for Industrial Relations and Employment and Minister for the Status of Women representing the Minister for Education, Training and Youth Affairs, Minister for Tourism and Minister Assisting the Premier—
In the event a student is readmitted by a Court Order___
(1) What assurance can be given that student and staff property will be safe?
(2) What value is placed on the right of law abiding student's rights to a free and unhindered education?
(3) What precautions will the Department of School Education take to ensure the safety and the rights of students and staff?
(4) What is to prevent a subsequent exclusion being overridden by a Court to overcome its own lack of options?
(5) When will the Department of School Education amend the law to insist that the education of the majority of the student population is its prime consideration and that the criminal individual has forfeited his/her right to consideration at the expense of other law abiding students?
(1) to (5) Schools make every effort to ensure that education is a rewarding and relevant experience for all students.
Discipline and anti-violence measures are designed to counteract violent behaviour through student welfare and curriculum programs and ensure schools remain safe places for students.
Page 2015
A number of new measures has recently been announced which target violent or disruptive behaviour by students. These measures include:
•provision of additional specialist staff and resources to address local violence issues;
•empowering school principals to act quickly and decisively in curbing violent and anti-social behaviour.
The administrative arrangements which allow schools to deal with violent behaviour have been strengthened to include the following:
•The expulsion, on the recommendation of the principal, of any student caught with a weapon on school premises, or at school activities conducted off school premises.
•A warning system for students repeatedly involved in violent incidents whereby principals may use their discretion on exclusion.
•Behaviour which threatens other students or teachers will be reported to the principal and then to the police for further action.
*1548 PORT KEMBLA COAL TERMINAL UPGRADING—Mr Markham asked the Premier and Minister for Economic Development—
(1) Why was a decision made to utilise the services of a consultant, Barlow Jonker Pty Ltd, in preparing the submission for the proposed upgrading of the Port Kembla Coal Terminal?
(2) What was the cost of the consultancy?
(3) Was the Office of Economic Development approached by a representative of the coal industry seeking support by way of a submission critical of the recommendation of Wollongong City Council that road haulage to Port Kembla be reduced?
(4) If so, what companies made the approach?
(5) Did the Office of Economic Development consider that rail haulage of South Western coal to Port Kembla could be subject to benefits under a Rail Freight Equalisation Scheme, similar to that of Western coal producers shipping coal via Port Kembla?
(6) Does the Office of Economic Development consider that Tahmoor coal is adversely affected by restricting its coal dispatches to Port Kembla to rail?
(7) If so, what form of coal dispatches does the Office of Economic Development favour?
(1) The Office of Economic Development utilised the professional expertise of an acknowledged mining industry consultant, Barlow Jonker Pty Ltd, to assist in providing economic and coal industry related advice for incorporation into the Office's submission to the Commission of Inquiry into the proposed expansion of the Port Kembla Coal Terminal.
Barlow Jonker has an established international reputation in the minerals and energy industries and provided the Office with specialised expertise on a range of matters which was not otherwise available to it.
(2) The cost of the Barlow Jonker consultancy was $9,450.
(3) The Office of Economic Development independently prepared its submission with the assistance of its consultant and not in response to any approach by a representative of the coal industry.
(4) Not relevant.
(5) The Office of Economic Development was well aware of the Rail Freight Equalisation Scheme which was introduced in November 1983 to compensate western coal producers aversely affected by the decision to locate the new coal terminal at Port Kembla rather than Port Botany.
The Scheme was terminated on 31 December 1992.
Presently, negotiations between Freight Rail and all coal producers in the south-western and western areas are negotiated on a commercial basis.
Page 2016
(6) The Office of Economic Development considers that coal haulage by rail should be maximised where economic and practicable. The Office is not aware that Tahmoor coal is being adversely affected by adopting rail haulage as its mode of transport for coal dispatches to the Port Kembla Coal Terminal.
(7) Not relevant.
*1552 SENIOR OFFICER DISMISSALS—Mr Martin asked the Minister for Land and Water Conservation—
(1) Why was the former Director-General dismissed from his position on 30 April 1993?
(2) What was the financial payout to the former Director-General?
(3) Was the then Director of Conservation, CALM, dismissed on 30 April 1993?
(4) Why was the Director of Conservation, CALM, dismissed?
(5) What was the financial payout to the former Director of Conservation, CALM, as a result of his dismissal?
(1) The then Director-General's contract was terminated on 30 April 1993. The then Minister, the Hon. Garry West, M.P., made it clear that he was not ". . . reflecting on the Director-General's professional approach to the duties of the position or his commitment to the Department". Differences had arisen ". . . in terms of our respective views concerning the basic role and direction of the organisation and the uncertainties this has continued to create at such a crucial time in the development of the new Department".
(2) Pursuant to section 42S of the Public Sector Management Act 1988, the Statutory and Other Offices Remuneration Tribunal determined that the former Director-General was entitled to compensation amounting to $175,000.
(3) The then Director of Conservation's contract was terminated on 8 April 1993.
(4) The Director of Conservation's contract was terminated due to departmental restructuring.
To overcome continuing difficulties in the current composition of program activities across the two Directorates, Land Management and Conservation and, more importantly, to further enhance the overall integration and coalescing of the Department in organisational and operational terms, the then Director-General decided, in consultation with the Minister, to merge these two Directorates into one, entitled Land and Conservation Services. A consequence of that action was that the position of Director, Conservation Directorate, was abolished.
(5) Pursuant to section 42S of the Public Sector Management Act 1988, the Statutory and Other Offices Remuneration Tribunal determined that the former Director of Conservation was entitled to compensation amounting to $111,975.
8 SEPTEMBER 1993
(Paper No. 26)
*1582 BUILDING ACTION REVIEW GROUP—Mr Amery asked the Minister for Land and Water Conservation representing the Minister for Planning and Minister for Housing—
(1) Has he met with the consumer group "Building Action Review Group", known as BARG, to discuss problems in the building industry, and the Building Services Corporation?
(2) Will he consider the appointment of a representative of this group to the Board of the Building Services Corporation?
Page 2017
(1) Every effort has been made to provide representatives of the "Building Action Review Group" (BARG) with the opportunity to discuss any issues in relation to the Building Industry and the Building Services Corporation. While I have not personally met with representatives of BARG I am aware of their concerns and both my Chief of Staff and Policy Advisor have discussed these issues with them through a number of forums including a meeting, written correspondence and numerous telephone conversations. Representatives of BARG have also previously had the opportunity of discussing these issues with officers of the Royal Commission into productivity in the Building Industry in New South Wales and Commissioner Peter Dodd during the Inquiry into the Building Services Corporation. In addition to this, representatives of BARG recently had a meeting with the new General Manager of the Building Services Corporation where all of these issues were discussed.
(2) No. The structure and role of the Board of the Building Services Corporation is an area currently under review as a consequence of the Dodd recommendations. In addition, the Board of the Building Services Corporation already has appointed to it a nominee of a recognised consumer group, the Australia Consumers Association.
*1583 BUILDING SERVICES CORPORATION—Mr Amery asked the Minister for Land and Water Conservation representing the Minister for Planning and Minister for Housing—
(1) Is he considering the disbandment of the Building Services Corporation?
(2) If so, will funds currently in the BSC be allocated for:
(a) An Independent Consumer Advisory Service?
(b) Compensation to assist consumers still left out of pocket with incomplete houses as a result of delayed insurance payouts from the BSC?
(1) It is too early to say exactly what changes will be made to the Building Services Corporation as a result of the Inquiry by Dr Peter Dodd into the Building Services Corporation. The Government is committed however, to reform of the Building Services Corporation and its role in the regulation of the residential building industry.
(2) (a) The core activities of the Building Services Corporation are currently subject to review. One of those core activities is consumer education and advice where a revised consumer strategy is currently being developed. A number of options are being considered, one of which is the possible establishment of an independent Consumer Advisory Service.
(b) In accordance with a recommendation made by Dr Dodd, an appropriate means for dealing with dissatisfied insurance claimants is currently being considered by the Building Services Corporation. The exact form of that assistance is still to be determined.
*1608 INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY SERVICES—ELECTORATE OF COOGEE—Mr Page asked the Minister for Community Services, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Minister for the Ageing—
What facilities and services, provided by the Area Health Service, are operating in the electorate of Coogee for people with an intellectual disability?
Area Health Services are provided by the Department of Health, not the Department of Community Services. Therefore, the question concerning Health Services should be referred to the Minister for Health.
Page 2018
The Department of Community Services does provide a range of services to people with an intellectual disability. These include:
•A children's respite house in Angelsea Street, Waverley.
•An adult respite hostel in Bondi.
•Permanent supported accommodation in group homes in Randwick, Bondi Junction and Charing Cross.
•A Day Programme Service for 25 students (adults) in Bondi.
•Community Support Services based at Birrell Street, Waverley, including:
Counselling. Diagnostic and Assessment Services (Adult/Children).
Information. Behaviour Management.
Occupational Therapy. Psychological Assessment.
Speech Therapy. Recreation Services.
Physiotherapy. Community Development.
Early Intervention. School Aged Therapy.
•A number of these services are provided in family homes as well as at Birrell Street, Waverley.
My departmental staff often work closely with their Health colleagues to provide services to people with an intellectual disability and this is shown by the joint funded Paediatric Diagnostic and Assessment Service at Tumbatin Clinic at the Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick.
9 SEPTEMBER 1993
(Paper No. 27)
*1624 DODD INQUIRY—Mr Amery asked the Minister for Land and Water Conservation representing the Minister for Planning and Minister for Housing—
What was the total cost of Commissioner Peter Dodd's inquiry into the NSW Building Services Corporation?
The total cost of Commissioner Peter Dodd's Inquiry into the NSW Building Services Corporation was some $236,667.
*1625 BUILDING DISPUTES TRIBUNAL—Mr Amery asked the Minister for Land and Water Conservation representing the Minister for Planning and Minister for Housing—
(1) How many referees of the Building Disputes Tribunal have resigned over the past 2 years?
(2) Did any of the these persons cite dissatisfaction with the impartiality of the Dispute Resolution process and lack of impartiality shown by other referees.
(3) Is he aware of consumer dissatisfaction with the alleged lack of impartiality of the Building Disputes Tribunal when disputes between Residential Builders are heard?
(1) to (3) Ministerial responsibility for the Building Disputes Tribunal rests with my colleague, the Hon. Wendy Machin, M.P., Minister for Consumer Affairs. The question asked by Mr Amery, M.P., should therefore be directed to Minister Machin for consideration and response.
Page 2019
*1639 PROPOSED WILTON SCHOOL—Mr Davoren asked the Minister for Industrial Relations and Employment and Minister for the Status of Women representing the Minister for Education, Training and Youth Affairs, Minister for Tourism and Minister Assisting the Premier—
(1) Does the Government have any plans to establish a school at Wilton?
(2) If not, why not?
(3) If so:
(a) When?
(b) How many students are expected to attend?
(c) How many teachers are expected to attend?
(d) What types of buildings will be constructed?
(4) What actual sites are being considered?
(5) Is it the case that no school will be constructed unless a section of the public reserve at Wilton is given over for this purpose?
(6) If so, why?
(7) Is it now State Government policy only to construct schools if public reserves are alienated?
Answer—
(1) The Department of School Education is investigating the establishment of a primary school at Wilton.
(2) Not applicable.
(3) (a) The Department will proceed with a timeline for the establishment of the school when investigation and consultation with the community is completed. This will also be dependent on the location and cost of the site.
(b) On present demographic information, there are approximately 90 potential students for a school at Wilton.
(c) Ninety students would attract three classroom teachers with additional support positions and administrative infrastructure.
(d) The supply of buildings will depend upon decisions taken by the Department concerning the site. Demountable accommodation would be used if the school is established in the short term. Normal building code provisions would apply if the school is established in the long term.
(4) Four potential school sites have been identified by Wollondilly Shire Council.
(5) No.
(6) Not applicable.
(7) No.
*1663 SYDNEY CASINO SURVEY—Mr Sullivan asked the Premier and Minister for Economic Development—
(1) Has the Government itself organised or contracted with another organisation or individual to survey community attitudes to the proposed Sydney Casino?
(2) If so, what is the cost to the Government?
(3) If the Government has not instigated such a survey, does he know who has been surveying community attitudes to the proposed Sydney Casino throughout New South Wales?
(1) No.
(2) Not applicable.
(3) No.
I understand that it is possible that one or more applicants for the casino licence may be undertaking marketing surveys or studies, but I have no knowledge of them.
Page 2020
*1667 SCHOOLS—ELECTORATE OF WOLLONGONG—Mr Sullivan asked the Minister for Industrial Relations and Employment and Minister for the Status of Women representing the Minister for Education, Training and Youth Affairs, Minister for Tourism and Minister Assisting the Premier—
In the electorate of Wollongong—
(1) How many school councils:
(a) Have been established?
(b) Are currently operating?
(2) How many schools have chosen not to form school councils?
(3) What support (financial and otherwise) is provided to schools:
(a) Which have established school councils and which have since abandoned the school council format?
(b) Which currently have school councils functioning?
(c) Which have chosen not to form school councils?
(1) In the electorate of Wollongong, seven schools have approved school councils. Four of these councils, in Wollongong Hospital School, Hayes Park Primary School, Coniston Primary School and Wollongong Primary School are fully operational. The remaining three schools, Windang Primary School, Berkeley West Primary School and Mount St Thomas Primary School have elections planned for October/November 1993.
(2) No schools have notified South Coast Regional Office of a decision not to form a school council. The Teachers Federation members in one school have voted against forming a school council.
(3) All schools are funded in the same way. The funding to schools is based on a formula which includes factors for size, school population, distance and historical data relating to issues like electricity and water. The formula was decided after consultation with the Federation of P. & C. Associations and representatives of the Primary and Secondary Principals' Councils.
When a school council constitution is approved, a grant of $1,000 is given to the school, to help with any costs incurred in establishing the council.
15 SEPTEMBER 1993
(Paper No. 29)
*1698 DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING TENANTS WITH PSYCHIATRIC ILLNESS—Mr Gaudry asked the Minister for Land and Water Conservation representing the Minister for Planning and Minister for Housing—
(1) Does the Department of Housing have a policy relating to the allocation of housing to tenants suffering from psychiatric illness?
(2) If so, does this policy include any liaison with the Department of Health to facilitate support services for those tenants?
(3) Is any consideration given to ensuring that these tenants are not placed in bed-sitter accommodation?
Page 2021
I have been advised by the Minister for Planning and Minister for Housing that the answers to the honourable member's questions are:
(1) and (2) The basis for the Department of Housing's policy regarding the allocation of housing to clients suffering from psychiatric illness is the Commonwealth State Housing Agreement. The Commonwealth State Housing Agreement states:
"In determining the eligibility of applicants for housing assistance under this agreement;
Assistance shall be available to all sections of the community irrespective of age, sex, marital status, race, religion, disability or life situation. Persons who need support to live in the community shall be eligible for assistance. It is recognised however that such support is not a responsibility under this agreement."
The Minister for Housing is aware that problems may arise when tenants with a psychiatric illness suffer an acute episode or where a chronic condition is not being adequately treated. Procedures have been instituted by the Department to assist clients in these circumstances. These procedures include liaison with officers of the Department of Health and are as follows:
•Assessment procedures which help to identify applicants for public housing with special needs including those with psychiatric illness. This will enable consideration to be given to the type of accommodation that might be required when the allocation of a dwelling is made.
•For tenants who have not self-identified as having a psychiatric illness but whose situation has been brought to the attention of staff, officers from the Department of Housing liaise with officers from the Department of Health to ensure that appropriate support is available to the tenant.
•At a local level, the Departments of Housing and Health have introduced procedures for sharing information about individual tenants with psychiatric illness. This ensures that instances of unacceptable behaviour resulting from the illness are identified and acted upon more quickly at the local level.
•Both Departments are also co-operating in the preparation of staff training programs to promote disability awareness and to provide staff with practical skills for dealing with people who have a psychiatric disability.
•An Inter-Departmental Committee comprising CEOs from the Departments of Housing, Health and Community Services has been formed to review and assess the provision of accommodation and other community services for people with psychiatric illness currently residing in public housing. A consultant has been engaged by the Committee to prepare a report on this matter.
(3) The Department of Housing has a flexible policy in relation to the allocation of bedsit accommodation. If there is little or no 1-bedroom accommodation in the nominated allocation zone, the applicant is informed of this and advised to change their nomination to another allocation zone if they do not wish to accept bedsit accommodation. If the nominated zone contains a mixture of bedsit and 1-bedroom accommodation, applicants have the right to refuse an offer of bedsit accommodation without jeopardising their position on the public housing waiting list. The flexibility of the one offer policy in relation to bedsit accommodation in most instances enables applicants, including those with psychiatric illness, to determine whether or not they wish to accept bedsit accommodation.
Page 2022
16 SEPTEMBER 1993
(Paper No. 30)
*1722 SEWERAGE SYSTEM—ELECTORATE OF CHARLESTOWN—Mr Face asked the Minister for Land and Water Conservation representing the Minister for Planning and Minister for Housing—
(1) How many homes in the electorate of Charlestown have fitted to their sewerage systems reflux non-return valves to prevent sewage entering into their homes during wet weather periods?
(2) How many instances of sewerage manhole covers lifting and spilling out raw sewage are reported each year during wet weather?
(3) Will this problem be exacerbated with further medium-density housing development of the area?
(4) What measures does the Hunter Water propose to overcome this problem?
Hunter Water is now a State-owned corporation, fully accountable and responsible for determiantion of operational matters such as this. All matters concerning its operations should therefore be referred to the Corporation.
*1730 DEPUTY DIRECTOR—CALM—Mr Martin asked the Minister for Land and Water Conservation—
(1) Who approved the establishment of the SES position of Deputy Director of CALM?
(2) Who was the chairperson of the selection panel that selected Ms FitzGerald for the position?
(3) Who were the members of that selection panel?
(4) Who directed that the services of Ms FitzGerald be terminated, and why?
(5) What was the length of service of Ms FitzGerald?
(6) What was the total payout figure for Ms FitzGerald?
(7) Was Ms FitzGerald engaged as a consultant prior to her appointment as Deputy Director- General of CALM?
(8) Who authorised her engagement as a consultant and what was the consultancy fee?
(9) Was the consultancy advertised?
(1) The Director-General, Premier's Department, advised the Department of the approval to establish the position of Assistant Director-General.
(2) Mr A. J. W. Powell was the Chairperson of the Selection Committee.
(3) Mr A. J. W. Powell, Director-General, CALM;
Mr M. J. Ockwell, Deputy Director-General, CALM;
Mr G. Mostyn, Office of Public Management, Premier's Department;
Ms J. Wright, Director of Public Libraries and Extension Services, State Library of New South Wales.
(4) Mr M. Ockwell in his capacity of Acting Director-General, terminated Ms FitzGerald's SES contract as a result of departmental restructuring proposals, which necessitated abolition of the position to which she was appointed. The restructure facilitated better co-ordination and integration of Crown land management and land information responsibilities under the Deputy Director-General.
(5) Ms FitzGerald was employed as the Assistant Director-General from 19 April 1993 to 4 June 1993
___7 weeks.
(6) The Statutory and Other Offices Remuneration Tribunal determined Ms FitzGerald's compensation amounting to $121,840 being the loss of remuneration relating to 1 year from 5 June 1993.
Page 2023
(7) The Department engaged Genasys II Pty Limited in a consultancy capacity. Ms FitzGerald was the consultant allocated by Genasys to undertake the project.
(8) Genasys II Pty Limited was engaged by the Deputy Director-General for a fixed fee of $20,000.
*1753 HOUSE REMOVALISTS—Mr Face asked the Minister for Land and Water Conservation representing the Minister for Planning and Minister for Housing—
(1) (a) Are house and building removalists in New South Wales required to be licensed or registered with the Building Services Corporation?
(2) If they are registered, how many of them are there, what are their names and locations of business?
(3) Has the Building Services Corporation had any complaints about house removalists or building removalists involving them in building work?
(4) If building removalists and house removalists are not registered or licensed in this State, will you instruct the Building Services Corporation to conduct inquiries into this section of the industry?
(5) Have any records been kept of the amount of people in New South Wales applying for home builder's permits for building work involving the removal, relocation and building work subsidiary to a domestic home that is removed by a house removalist in this State?
(1) (a) and (b) Yes. Individuals, companies and partnerships which undertake work associated with the removal and relocation of dwellings are required to be licensed by the Building Services Corporation where the reasonable cost of labour involved in such work exceeds $200. Licensing is required for the work of disconnection of services and the subsequent resiting of the dwelling concerned. The resiting work could range from simple restumping of brick piers and connection of plumbing and electrical services to the infilling of space to create a two-storey dwelling and all associated work.
(2) There are 17 licences issued for this type of work. Details of the names and location of these licence holders are as follows:
Scott, Peter Francis Church Point
Woolley, Graham Edward Merrylands
Maiurano, John Kemps Creek
Harvey, Edward John Cessnock
Stokes, Russell Sidney Weston
Markjul Pty Ltd Weston
Gadjazz Pty Ltd Sandy Beach
Earnes, Harry Kitchener Lawrence
Booker, William Arthur Lismore
Walker, Ronald James Lismore
Vryenhoek, Peter Koonorigan, via Lismore
S. H. & G. E. Penn Mullumbimby
K. & J. P. Zochan Queanbeyan
A. & J. A. & P. W. Miller Wagga Wagga
C. T. & A. M. Bennett Currawarna, via Wagga Wagga
G. & L. Faucett Mudgee
Wright, Edward Thomas Morayfield
It should be noted that in addition to the abovementioned contractors who are licensed for this type of work, all contractors holding full builders licences are also entitled to undertake work involving the resiting of dwellings.
Page 2024
(3) The Building Services Corporation has to date received a total of 17 complaints against 5 of those licence holders during the period since their licences were first issued. Of those 17 complaints, 15 have been resolved with the remaining 2 complaints currently under investigation.
(4) Not applicable.
(5) The Building Services Corporation does not keep records on the Owner Builder Permit System which allows an analysis to be undertaken of permits issued for work associated with the relocation of dwellings.
13 OCTOBER 1993
(Paper No. 32)
1788 MENTALLY DISABLED ACCOMMODATION
___ELECTORATE OF ST MARYS—Mr A. S. Aquilina to ask the Minister for Health—
(1) What type of accommodation is available to the mentally disabled in the electorate of St Marys?
(2) How much is allocated to assisting mentally disabled persons to find accommodation in the State?
(3) How much is provided to the mentally disabled in the electorate of St Marys?
1789 MENTALLY DISABLED PERSONS
___PUBLIC HOUSING
___ELECTORATE OF ST MARYS—Mr A. S. Aquilina to ask the Minister for Health—
(1) Is he aware of mentally disabled persons in the electorate of St Marys requiring public housing but not having yet been allocated?
(2) How many mentally disabled persons in the State are awaiting placement in public housing accommodation?
(3) How many mentally disabled persons in the electorate of St Marys are still awaiting public housing?
1790 STATEWIDE POLICE ROTATIONAL TRANSFERS—Mr Bowman to ask the Minister for Police and Minister for Emergency Services—
(1) (a) In light of the decision to apply rotational transfer to the Newcastle area, will he apply rotational transfers to the rest of the NSW Police Service?
(2) Is this policy discriminating against one section of the Police Service?
1791 ROTATIONAL TRANSFERS BY POLICE SERVICE OF NEWCASTLE OFFICERS—Mr Bowman to ask the Minister for Police and Minister for Emergency Services—
Was the policy of rotational transfer of Newcastle police officers initiated by:
(a) (i) The Government?
(ii) If so, did the matter go to Cabinet?
(b) (i) The Minister for Police and Minister for Emergency Services?
(ii) If so, was he fully apprised by whoever instigated such a policy of what was about to happen and its ramifications?
(c) (i) The Commissioner of Police?
(ii) If so, is he satisfied that the Commissioner has been objective?
(d) (i) Some other member of the Police Service or public servant?
(ii) If so, in the case of the police, what is their rank, and in the case of a public servant, what is their position?
Page 2025
1792 MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS ON POLICE ROTATIONAL TRANSFER
___NEWCASTLE HUNTER REGION—Mr Bowman to ask the Minister for Police and Minister for Emergency Services—
(1) Has he stated that police wives were part of the police family and were expected to make some sacrifices for the good of the Service?
(2) Does ministerial responsibility extend to the hardship, marriage break-ups, hurt in monetary terms and loss of equity in property of transferred police officers?
(3) Will the Police Service find job placements for those spouses, both male and female, who are to lose their work and income as a consequence of transfers?
(4) Is he aware of the alternatives put by the police and Police Association to the "Gill" plan?
1793 MAJOR ROADWORKS
___EMU PLAINS AND BATHURST—Mr Clough to ask the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
(1) Has the Commonwealth Government funded all major roadworks currently in progress or recently completed between Emu Plains and Bathurst?
(2) (a) If not, which projects are entirely State funded?
(b) What is the total cost of works in (a)?
1794 OBERON HARD ROCK QUARRY—Mr Clough to ask the Minister for Land and Water Conservation representing the Minister for Planning and Minister for Housing—
(1) Did he state on 11 October that he only signed the departmental recommendations to alter the approval conditions for the hard rock quarry at Oberon?
(2) Who then determined to water down Commissioner Clelands recommendations?
(3) Was this degree of delegation appropriate in this matter?
1795 DAVID MACKAY CASE—Mr Clough to ask the Minister for the Environment representing the Attorney General and Minister for Justice—
(1) Has a 17-year-old youth named David Mackay of Blayney been committed for trial on a charge of murder arising out of a fatal house fire?
(2) (a) Has the NSW Police a brief prepared on the matter?
(b) If so, has it been made available to the accused person or his mother?
(3) If not, will he take the necessary steps to ensure that a copy of the brief is provided to her?
(4) As David Mackay is unable to afford legal representation, will he receive legal assistance to defend this charge?
(5) (a) Has a barrister been appointed to him at this time?
(b) If so, who initiated the appointment?
(c) Has David Mackay been given legal aid?
1796 DEAN PISANI—Mr Clough to ask the Minister for Multicultural and Ethnic Affairs and Minister Assisting the Minister for Justice representing the Attorney General and Minister for Justice—
(1) On what date was a prisoner named Dean Pisani found dead in his cell at Bathurst Gaol?
(2) Which wing was he accommodated in?
(3) How many other prisoners were housed in that wing on that particular day?
(4) How many of the other prisoners were transferred to other gaols and on what dates?
(5) Why were the transfers necessary?
(6) When is it expected that a coronial inquiry into Pisani's death will be conducted?
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1797 GOVERNMENT CLEANING SERVICE
___ELECTORATE OF BATHURST—Mr Clough to ask the Chief Secretary and Minister for Administrative Services—
(1) How many staff are employed by the Government Cleaning Service in the electorate of Bathurst?
(2) How many are employed in cleaning:
(a) Schools?
(b) Police Stations?
(c) Other?
(3) Have all cleaners been guaranteed employment if the service is privatised?
(4) Will all recreation leave, long service leave and superannuation entitlements be paid to them prior to transfer to a new employer?
1798 ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER JARRETT AND SUPERINTENDENT CHRISTINE NIXON—Mr Gaudry to ask the Minister for Police and Minister for Emergency Services—
(1) Did police officers Jarrett, Nixon and Mahoney give assurances to many Newcastle Hunter based police that they would not be transferred from their present duties if they chose to defer promotions?
(2) What are the names, ranks and locations of police to whom officers Jarrett, Nixon and Mahoney made those statements?
(3) Did this take place at Forresters Beach and Morpeth in 1990/91?
(4) Has Mr David Gill now indicated on behalf of the Police Service that that was the policy then and assurances by former Commissioner John Avery were therefore not binding on the present Police Commissioner or the Service?
(5) (a) Does the advice form a contract?
(6) Will he test this form of contract in court?
1799 SHOALHAVEN PROCLAIMED PLACE—Mr Hatton to ask the Minister for Community Services, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Minister for the Ageing—
(1) Will he support the establishment of a proclaimed place in the Shoalhaven?
(2) Is he aware that recent statistics provided by the NSW Police in Shoalhaven clearly demonstrate the need for a proclaimed place to be established?
(3) Will this save police time and reduce domestic violence?
(4) Will he advise whether sufficient funding will be made available to purchase, manage and operate a proclaimed place for Shoalhaven?
(5) Will he review the work being done by the Nowra Family Support Service and provide additional funding to enable the Service to maintain its existing operations and create new Outreach Programmes to cover Sanctuary Point, Culburra and South Shoalhaven?
(6) Will he arrange for a review of Department of Community Services' child sexual abuse cases and create sufficient Sexual Assault Counsellors to manage these case loads?
1800 XPT TIMETABLING—Mr Langton to ask the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
(1) Is the SRA considering changes to the XPT timetable for the Sydney-Albury service?
(2) Is he aware that proposed changes would mean people travelling from Cootamundra and Tumut for business hours appointments in Sydney would require 2 nights stay in Sydney, where currently only a 1 night stay is required?
(3) Will he review the proposed changes in light of this?
Page 2027
1801 DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING APPLICANTS
___CENTRAL COAST ALLOCATION ZONES—Mr McBride to ask the Minister for Land and Water Conservation representing the Minister for Planning and Minister for Housing—
(1) How many applications for public housing are current by persons living in the allocation zones of:
(2) What is the classification of these applications?
(3) What are the allocation dates for Department of Housing applicants by classification from:
(a) The allocation zone of Gosford?
(b) The allocation zone of Wyong?
(c) The allocation zone of Northern Suburbs?
1802 ROAD FUNDING
___PORT STEPHENS—Mr Martin to ask the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
(1) For each financial year:
(a) 1993/94;
(b) 1994/95;
(c) 1995/96;
(d) 1996/97;
how much money will be allocated to the following roads in Port Stephens:
(i) Cabbage Tree Road (MR302)?
(ii) Nelson Bay Road (MR108)?
(iii) Richardson Road (MR617)?
(iv) Medowie Road (MR518)?
(v) Pacific Highway?
(vi) Tea Gardens Road?
(vii) Buckets Way to Booral?
(2) For each road each year, how much will be spent on:
(a) Maintenance?
(b) Planning?
(c) Re-routing?
1803 AIRPORT CHARGES—Mr Martin to ask the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—
(1) Does he support the Prices Surveillance Authority recommendation on charges at Sydney Airport and cross subsidisation arrangements recommended for the Federal Airports Corporation?
(2) When did he communicate his views to the Federal Authorities?
(3) Who did he contact?
(4) Will he make all correspondence available?
(5) What would such recommended changes to charges mean to flights from Bathurst, Canberra, Tamworth, Grafton, Dubbo, Wagga Wagga, Griffith, Brisbane and Perth?
(6) What action will he take?
1804 REHABILITATION RESEARCH
___NEWCASTLE—Mr Martin to ask the Minister for Industrial Relations and Employment and Minister for the Status of Women—
(1) Did the WorkCover Authority recently award a contract to the University of Sydney for research into the rehabilitation needs in the Hunter area of New South Wales?
(2) Was a programme titled "The identification of rehabilitation process variables which predict successful return to work following employment injury or illness"?
Page 2028
(3) What was the fee awarded to the University of Sydney for this research?
(4) (a) Were tender prices received from the University of Newcastle?
(b) If so, what was their tender price?
(5) Will the final research paper be made public unabridged or unaltered in any way?
(6) Does the WorkCover Authority believe that an 18-month time span, to complete this research, is reasonable considering the urgency of the subject?
(7) Will local people be employed in this research or will all the paid positions go to Sydney people?
(8) Was the $200,000, given to 80 long-term injured workers in the Newcastle area, cover a living wage to each of the 80 while they attend TAFE, or is it for training expenses only?
(9) What guarantee is offered that these 80 injured employees will receive employment at the end of the 3-month course?
(10) If these 80 injured employees fail to obtain employment, will the exercise be continued with other groups?
1805 POLICE ROTATIONAL TRANSFERS
___HUNTER DISTRICT—Mr Mills to ask the Minister for Police and Minister for Emergency Services—
(1) At the beginning of proposed rotational transfer of police, will the police being transferred from the Hunter District to the metropolitan area be replaced by police with equal service and experience?
(2) (a) What is the average service of those coming from the Metropolitan area to Newcastle?
(b) What is the minimum service of those leaving the Hunter District?
1806 POLICE ROTATIONAL TRANSFERS
___COSTS—Mr Mills to ask the Minister for Police and Minister for Emergency Services—
(1) What is the projected cost of the rotational transfer system up until the time it is stopped and the last person returns to their place of origin?
(2) What is the expected duration of the Hunter Police District's involvement in the rotational transfer policy?
(3) How will the rotational transfer policy be stopped once the Department's goals have been met?
(4) Would there not be a greater benefit to the Department if the actual strength of the Hunter District was increased in direct proportion to the overall estimated cost of the rotational transfer policy to its completion?
(5) If Hunter District Police, and those from the Central Coast and the Metropolitan area are locked into the rotational transfer policy, what effects will this have on their future promotional prospects by their not being able to transfer to country locations for experience?
1807 RACING CARS—Mr Mills to ask the Minister for Sport, Recreation and Racing—
With regard to the two Formula Brabham racing cars, Shrike and Reynard, transferred to Government ownership along with Eastern Creek Raceway___
(1) What was the book value of each of the cars at the time of transfer to Government ownership?
(2) What was the date of transfer of ownership?
(3) Who was the racing operation to whom the cars were subsequently leased for running?
(4) For what period were the cars leased?
(5) What income was received by the Government for each car leased?
(6) What was the sale price for each of the cars?
(7) When was each car sold?
(8) To which fund were the proceeds of the sales paid?
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1808 POLICE ROTATIONAL TRANSFERS
___UPPER HUNTER POLICE—Mr Neilly to ask the Minister for Police and Minister for Emergency Services—
When is it envisaged the Upper Hunter Police District will commence with their rotational transfer policy?
1809 POLICE ROTATIONAL TRANSFERS
___I.L.O. 156—Mr Neilly to ask the Minister for Police and Minister for Emergency Services—
(1) Why has the rotational transfers been called an operational decision of the Police Department when the Family Association of Australia has written to the Department stating that "would be ignoring the thrust of the recent employment initiatives to more strongly consider the family needs of employees"?
(2) Is this reflected in the obligations Australia has accepted as a signatory to I.L.O. 156 covering workers with family responsibilities?
1810 PRIVACY ASPECTS FOR REPORT ON ROTATIONAL TRANSFER POLICY—Mr Neilly to ask the Minister for Police and Minister for Emergency Services—
(1) As each of the reports against rotational transfer contained confidential information surrounding people's family circumstances, their private assets and a variety of other material, how widely circulated have these reports been?
(2) Will he contain them within the office to whom the reports were made?
(3) Will he under no circumstances have them distributed widely within the NSW Police Service?
(4) Will he maintain the privacy of each of the families of the police officers who reported, as some of them contain information of reprisals by other police?
1811 CIRCULAR TO SPOUSES OF POLICE OFFICERS—Mr Neilly to ask the Minister for Police and Minister for Emergency Services—
(1) What was the purpose behind the Commissioner's circular to spouses of police officers in the Police Service Weekly?
(2) What cost would be involved?
(3) What privacy safeguards are there on the information?
(4) Is the information intended to be dispersed to any other source?
(5) What is the time scale?
1812 TRANSFERS BACK TO NEWCASTLE ON ROTATIONAL TRANSFER—Mr Neilly to ask the Minister for Police and Minister for Emergency Services—
(1) Do all police persons being transferred back to the Newcastle Hunter area on rotation scheme have to furnish reports?
(2) If so, where are the reports held?
(3) (a) Was any checking mechanism of the circumstances of each of the applicants done?
(b) If not, why not?
(4) Is the information that was in each of the applications for transfer valid?
(5) What role did Mr David Gill play in these reports?
(6) (a) Were each of the applicants for transfer valid?
(b) If not, will he set up a mechanism so that they can be investigated for validity after a complaint is made?
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1813 HUNTER AND UPPER HUNTER POLICE DISTRICTS STRENGTH—Mr Price to ask the Minister for Police and Minister for Emergency Services—
(1) What was the authorised and actual strength of the Hunter District in the years 1991, 1992 and to June 1993?
(2) What was the authorised and actual strength of the Upper Hunter District in the years 1991, 1992 and to June 1993?
1814 NSW-QLD ELECTRICITY GRID—Mr Rogan to ask the Minister for Energy and Minister for Local Government and Co-operatives—
(1) Is Pacific Power proposing to build a 330 kV powerline between Lismore and Mullumbimby?
(2) Is this powerline proposed to also connect New South Wales and Queensland electricity grids?
(3) What is the timetable for interconnection of the grid systems of New South Wales and Queensland?
(4) What is the timetable for the construction of the powerline referred to in (1) above?
1815 ENERGY LABELLING—Mr Rogan to ask the Minister for Energy and Minister for Local Government and Co-operatives—
(1) Did the NSW Office of Energy contribute to the recently released Australian and New Zealand Minerals and Energy Council discussion paper on Householder Appliance Energy Labelling?
(2) Will the NSW Government be making a submission in response to this paper?
(3) If not, why not?
(4) What is the current position on Energy Labelling in New South Wales?
(5) How many employees are engaged in developing and oversighting this program?
1816 RAILWAY POLICE
___ILLAWARRA/CRONULLA/EAST HILLS LINES—Mr Thompson to ask the Minister for Police and Minister for Emergency Services—
(1) How many railway police travelled on late night trains on the Illawarra/Cronulla lines between Tempe and Kogarah in:
(a) 1991?
(b) 1992?
(c) 1993?
(2) How many railway police are allocated to late night trains on the Tempe to Kogarah line and Tempe to Kingsgrove line?
(3) What is the arrest rate?
(4) What is the conviction rate?
(5) What are the main charges laid against defendants?
(6) Will the State Rail Authority increase patrols on trains on the Illawarra/Cronulla and East Hills lines?
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Authorised by the Parliament of New South Wales