Parliament House Security Funding

The Hon. DON HARWIN: My question without notice is directed to the Treasurer. What is the Treasurer's justification for refusing the request by the Presiding Officers for funding to implement recommendations following the security review of Parliament House security by the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation? What is his reasoning for suggesting that the Parliament resubmit the proposal as part of the 2008-09 budget process? Further, given his statement that this would ensure it is "considered in the context of all of the Government's priorities for funding", does he consider that the security of the Parliament, members, staff and visitors, including schoolchildren, is not a funding priority?

The Hon. MICHAEL COSTA: Mr President, as you would be aware because you were involved in the meetings, the Government did not refuse any request. We made available initial funds and said that the rest should be dealt with in the normal budget process. The reason for that is fiscal responsibility, which is something the Opposition does not understand.