Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 78

LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL

QUESTIONS AND

ANSWERS

No. 78

TUESDAY 25 NOVEMBER 2008

(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.)

Notice given on date shown

2699PROOF

Publication of Questions Answer to be lodged by

Q & A No. 68 (Including Question Nos 2167 to 2191) 25 November 2008



Q & A No. 71 (Including Question Nos 2230 to 2253) 02 December 2008








2700Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 78— Tuesday 25 November 2008

21 OCTOBER 2008(Paper No. 68)

*2167 HEALTH—AUDIT OF PADP LODGEMENT CENTRES—Ms Ficarra asked the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) Why has the audit report conducted by the Department of Health in December 2006 regarding the operations of the Program of Appliances for Disabled People (PADP) lodgement centres and their delivery of essential appliances for disabled people not been released? (a) Do you intend to make the report public?

(i) If so when?(ii) If not, why not?

Answer— I am advised: The final report of the audits of the PADP lodgement centres undertaken in 2007 was provided to the Legislative Council on 1 October 2008 in response to an Order for Papers by Mr Ian Cohen MLC.

*2168 HEALTH—DRUG INJECTING PROGRAMS—Ms Ficarra asked the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) Will the Department of Health obtain reasons as to why Norway's one drug injecting room closed? (a) If not, why not?

(2) How do the results and conclusions from such a closure influence the continuing operation of the Kings Cross drug injecting program?

(3) When will evaluation or operational statistics on the Kings Cross Drug Injecting Program be made publicly available?

Answer— I am advised:(1) The 2007 evaluation of the Norwegian service was conducted by the Norwegian Institute for Drug

and Alcohol Research – SIRUS and may be accessed at: www.sirus.no⁄internett⁄narkotika⁄publication⁄397.html.

(2) Decisions about the Medically Supervised Injecting Centre in Kings Cross are informed by the evidence base arising from the ongoing evaluation and monitoring of the Trial itself.

(3) The First Evaluation Report of the Medically Supervised Injecting Centre is available on the NSW Government Druginfo website: www.druginfo.nsw.gov.au. The Second Evaluation Reports on the Centre, which include detailed operational statistics, are publically available on the website of the National Centre in HIV Epidemiology and Clinical Research: www.nchecr.unsw.edu.au. Reports prepared by the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research in 2006 and 2008, which study trends in illicit drug-related crime in the Kings Cross area, are available at www.bocsar.nsw.gov.au.

*2169 HEALTH—CHLAMYDIA TESTING—Ms Ficarra asked the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) What resources have been provided in order to increase the rate of Chlamydia testing in New South Wales?

(2) What public health education is there for young people in the public school system and for the wider community in relation to raising awareness of Chlamydia?

(3) How can Chlamydia screening rates be increased?(4) What specific resources are being directed to regional and rural New South Wales?

Answer—

2701

Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 78— Tuesday 25 November 2008

(1) to (4). I am advised that General Practice units are the primary setting for increasing the rate of Chlamydia testing and its management. Area Health Services across NSW work closely with General Practitioners to support the effective testing and management of young people at risk of Sexually Transmissible Infections (STIs), including Chlamydia. Area Heath Services also provide free and confidential specialist sexual health services which include Chlamydia testing. A new state-wide NSW Health initiative, the STI Programs Unit, based at South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Area Health Service has been established to support General Practitioners. The Unit is working closely with General Practice organisations such as the Royal Australasian College of General Practitioners and GP NSW to develop tools and resources for General Practitioners. These include tools to guide clinicians around the range of tests to order for STI's such as Chlamydia, and for follow up management. In addition, NSW Health is working closely with sexual health experts and general practitioners on the development of a major new social marketing campaign to increase the rate of STI testing, particularly for Chlamydia in young people. The campaign will include a range of media campaigns that are targeted at young people, such as web-based resources and mobile phone technology. It is anticipated the campaign will be launched in 2009. NSW Health also works closely with the NSW Department of Education and Training to ensure that young people in NSW have access to appropriate information in the school system on STI's such as Chlamydia and sexual health generally. The NSW Sexual Health Education in Schools Project is a joint project of NSW Health and the NSW Department of Education and Training was established in 2006. The aim of this initiative is to work with school principals and to implement sexual health teacher training programs across NSW. Since the project was introduced nearly three hundred Personal Development Health and Physical Education teachers have been trained across two hundred and thirty secondary schools in NSW. Currently online teacher support resources on sexual health are also being finalised. These resources and initiatives are statewide and are available to regional and rural New South Wales as well as metropolitan Sydney.

*2170 HEALTH—CERVICAL CANCER SCREENING—Ms Ficarra asked the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) Has consideration been given to the use of liquid cytology for cervical cancer screening programs for women who reside in rural and remote areas, as well for indigenous women, in order to decrease the level of unsatisfactory and inconclusive results and subsequent repeat visits? (a) If so,

(i) what was the result?(ii) are there plans to introduce the technology to such women?

(b) If not, why not?

Answer— I am advised by the Chief Executive Officer of the Cancer Institute NSW that the National Cervical Screening Program (NCSP) does not currently recommend the use of Liquid Based Cytology for women. The NCSP determines the policies of the NSW Cervical Screening Program. Individual States and Territory governments provide state-based management of the Program in their jurisdictions in line with national policy. Any change to the existing recommended screening test is a matter for the NCSP.

*2171 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—PUBLIC SCHOOL MAINTENANCE—Ms Ficarra asked the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1) When will carpet be replaced at Leumeah High School?(2) Are you aware of the multitude of carpet sections patched with masking tape creating an

occupational health and safety hazard?(3) Are you aware this carpet has not been replaced since the school's commencement in the early

1970's?


(4) Has the Department of Education and Training undertaken an inventory of New South Wales public schools with respect to the condition of floor coverings? (a) If so, will this information be made public?(b) If not, why not?

(5) How many of the State's schools are without an assembly hall? (a) Of those schools without an assembly hall,

(i) where are the located?(ii) how many are in metropolitan Sydney?(iii) how many are in regional and rural locations?

(b) What plans exist to address this deficiency and what is the time-frame involved?

Answer— (1) to (4). The Department of Education and Training will be replacing carpet in selected rooms at Leumeah High School during the summer holidays later this year to minimise any potential disruption to the school. All Department of Education and Training Regional Asset Management Units are currently completing condition assessments of all schools, in consultation with school Principals and will have a complete inventory of maintenance issues, including the condition of floor coverings, by the end of December 2008. The condition assessments will then be used by the Department of Education and Training in the formulation of future maintenance programs. Schools are advised each financial year what maintenance will be undertaken at their schools.(5). The priority of the Government is for the provision of a communal hall in primary schools with over 500 students without a suitable communal space and no site limitations. Under the Building Better Schools Program 27 school halls will be constructed during this term of government.

*2172 LOCAL GOVERNMENT—AGEING STRATEGIES AND SENIOR IMPACT STATEMENTS—Ms Ficarra asked the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services representing the Minister for Local Government, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health)—

(1) What consideration has been given to assisting councils in New South Wales, especially those in coastal locations and other popular centres for retirement, to be able to plan and provide the appropriate housing, infrastructure and services to cater for their rapidly ageing populations?

(2) Will there be guidelines and⁄or directives to ensure that ageing strategies and senior impact statements are implemented by local councils? (a) If so,

(i) in what time frame will this be achieved(ii) what support will be provided?


Answer— I am advised:(1) All councils are required under the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 to prepare a social

and community plan for their area every five years. Considering the needs of target population groups is an essential component of this plan, and older people are a mandatory target group. Some councils choose to develop a stand-alone ageing strategy for their community, but most incorporate this into their broader social and community plan. The Department of Local Government has issued a Social and Community Planning and Reporting Guide and Manual to assist councils in their development of these plans. Councils are required to consider the recommendations of the Social and Community Plan when determining activities to be included in their Management Plan. Revised planning and reporting requirements of councils, due for implementation early next year, will better integrate councils' social planning with the other planning activities they undertake.

2703


(2) There will be no guidelines and⁄or directives about ageing strategies. As councils are autonomous bodies, it is a decision for them, in consultation with their community, as to how and when they implement any ageing strategies they have developed. The current legislation provides councils with the opportunity to apply for special variations to their general income to enable them to increase their revenue base and to address critical infrastructure and service delivery needs. Very few applications have been rejected in recent years.

*2173 LOCAL GOVERNMENT—COUNCIL HOME BUILDING REGULATIONS—Ms Ficarra asked the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services representing the Minister for Local Government, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health)—

(1) What is your response to the article published in the Australian on 18 October 2008, which outlined the additional costs New South Wales residents are incurring as a result of stricter building regulations being imposed by certain councils?

(2) Has your department examined these claims in a report by the Australian Building Codes Board? (a) If so, what is your response?(b) If not, why not?

(3) Are there plans to introduce ministerial approval for such costly building codes or rules, as is the case in Victoria, to ensure consistency across the State? (a) If so, when?(b) If not, why not?

Answer— I am advised:Councils' powers to regulate planning and development within their areas are governed by the provisions of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 and associated Regulations. As this legislation is administered by the Minister for Planning, the Honourable Member may wish to direct her questions to the Minister representing the Minister for Planning.

*2174 LOCAL GOVERNMENT—ARE COUNCILS SUSTAINABLE REPORT—Ms Ficarra asked the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services representing the Minister for Local Government, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health)—

(1) When will the Percy Allan AM report 'Are Councils Sustainable' be made publicly available? (2) Why has there been a delay of 2.5 years in releasing this report?(3) Has your department analysed the financial and social impacts of cost shifting to councils for each of

the following? (a) Private certification provisions?(b) Environmental protection?(c) Public health provisions?(d) Occupational health and safety?(e) Abandoned vehicles?(f) Contaminated lands?(g) Brothel legislation compliance?(h) Companion animal compliance?(i) Food inspection provisions?(j) Heritage management ? Waster service provision?(k) Energy and Water resource management?(l) Rural Fire services?(m) Pensioner rates rebates?(n) Educational services?(o) Roads infrastructure?

(i) If so, when will this information be made public and the Local Government Association


informed?(ii) If not, why not?

(4) Are there plans to increase funding to local councils severely impacted by the above? (a) If so, when?(b) If not, Why not?

Answer— I am advised:(1) The report was publicly released around May 2006.(2) See answer (1).(3) Councils are relatively autonomous bodies and responsible for their own decision making. The areas

referred to, generally speaking, fall within the Charter for local councils as outlined in section 8 of the Local Government Act 1993.

(4) The NSW Government and councils are required to provide services within available resources. The NSW Government abides by the Inter-Governmental Agreement Establishing Principles Guiding Inter-Governmental Relations on Local Government Matters, signed by all three tiers of Government on 12 April 2006.

*2175 PLANNING—PLANNING FOR FUTURE AGEING DEMOGRAPHICS—Ms Ficarra asked the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services representing the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

(1) What planning and appropriate policy measures have been put in place to manage the provision of services, housing needs and infrastructure for our ageing population trends expected over the next 10 to 20 years?

(2) Is there interaction or communication with government departments to ensure a coordinated response? (a) If so, can you provide details?(b) If not, why not?

Answer— (1) On 20 October 2008 the NSW Government released new data concerning the projected growth of the

State's population. Population projections determine what type of services and infrastructure will be needed for a growing and changing population. These projections form the basis of key policy and planning documents including the Metropolitan Strategy, draft subregional strategies and key regional strategies for high growth coastal areas and the Sydney-Canberra corridor.

(2) The NSW Government works and interacts across Agencies and will continue to work with the Federal Government, local government and the private sector to achieve service and infrastructure outcomes commensurate with growth projections. In 2007, the NSW Government released the Towards 2030 strategy which focused on the changes that population ageing will bring for New South Wales and the need for governments, business and the community to work together to plan long-term responses that meet the future challenges of population ageing. Within NSW, interaction at all levels of Government is evident in the State Plan, and, in terms of infrastructure delivery, the State Infrastructure Strategy. The State Infrastructure Strategy links the planning embedded in the Metropolitan Strategy and other regional planning strategies with the budget. The NSW Government has therefore been able to achieve an integration of landuse planning and planning for transport, housing estates and other infrastructure, and we will continue to deliver on that achievement. More information on population projections is available at the following Department of Planning web link - www.planning.nsw.gov.au⁄programservices⁄population.asp.

*2176 PLANNING—SEPP 1—Ms Ficarra asked the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services representing the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

(1) What guidelines, reporting and other regulatory measures are in place to avoid misuse or inappropriate use of Councils' abilities to issue development approval related dispensations?

2705


(2) Can you provide information on how many councils and which councils have breached their guidelines regarding the application of SEPP1 since its introduction? (a) What action was taken in each respect?

(3) Will you be reviewing the operation and success of SEPP 1 and other state planning policies? (a) If so,

(i) when?(ii) how?


Answer— (1) The Department issued guidelines for the use of SEPP 1 in March 1989. The currency of these

guidelines was confirmed in a Departmental circular to all councils in May 2008. Councils are required to report to the Department every three months on variations to development standards using State Environmental Planning Policy No. 1 — Development Standards where the Director-General's concurrence may be assumed. The Departmental circular reminds councils of these reporting obligations. The Director General will soon be writing to all councils to again re-iterate these obligations and to advise that their delegations are likely to be revoked if they do not meet their reporting obligations.

(2) The Department uses the reporting data provided by councils to monitor the use of SEPP 1 by councils and to take action where inappropriate use is apparent. In cases where it has become clear a Council has continually misused powers to vary a development standard under SEPP 1, the Department has acted to revoke these delegated powers, e.g. in the case of Wollongong Council.

(3) The Department does, from time to time, review the operation of all State Environmental Planning Policies, including SEPP 1. SEPP 1 is progressively being replaced with a standard LEP clause which provides for the variation of development standards, where justified.

*2177 ROADS—TIMBER BRIDGES—Ms Ficarra asked the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Roads—

(1) What information exists regarding the structural condition of timber bridges in New South Wales?(2) Is there an inventory of where such bridges are located and their age?

(a) If so, can this information be made public?(b) If not, why not?

(3) What assessment has been made about safety risks to pedestrians and motorists?(4) What plans exist for the maintenance of these timber bridges?(5) What is the time frame and funding for such maintenance?(6) What support is being given to relevant local councils to assist them to maintain such timber bridges?

(a) Could you please provide the the following information? (i) Type of assistance?(ii) Time frame for assistance?(iii) Funding amount?

(7) What plans exist for such assistance to local councils in the future?(8) Has contact been made with the head of civil and environmental engineering, Professor Bijan Samali

from Sydney University of Technology regarding his study into the structural condition of over 200 timber bridges in New South Wales? (a) If so, what was the outcome?(b) If not, why not?

Answer— (1) The RTA is responsible for nine timber bridges on State Roads, 26 on Regional Roads and 28 on

Local Roads. The RTA regularly assesses the structural condition of these bridges and undertakes repairs as required.


As at 30 September 2008, Local Councils managed 242 timber bridges on Regional Roads and 2195 timber bridges on their Local Roads. Councils are responsible for the inspection and maintenance of these bridges.

(2) Yes. (a) These inventories would be held by the respective maintaining authorities. The majority of the

bridges maintained by the RTA are heritage structures. Information relating to these bridges is published in the RTA Section 170 Register available on the RTA website, with condition information published annually in the RTA Annual Report. The availability of inventory and condition information relating to those bridges maintained by local councils is a matter for individual councils. (

(b) See (2a) above.

(3) The RTA regularly assesses the structural condition of these bridges and undertakes repairs as required. Councils are responsible for the inspection and maintenance of Council controlled bridges.

(4) The RTA has an annual program of maintenance works that addresses the repair of the timber bridges under its control.The maintenance of council managed timber bridges is a matter for those councils.

(5) The maintenance of the RTA maintained bridges is carried out under an annual program of works. Annual maintenance costs are in the order of $35 million per annum. In respect of council managed bridges on Regional Roads, maintenance funding is available from the Annual Block Grant provided to assist councils to manage their Regional Roads. The Block Grant formula has a component that takes into account the length of timber bridges in each council area. In October 2006, the then Premier announced the $60 million Timber Bridge Partnership to address the 285 timber bridges on Regional Roads that existed at that time, on a dollar for dollar basis with local councils. To date, 157 of these bridges have been announced for replacement under this Partnership. As at 30 September 2008, 38 of these bridges have been completed, and a further 29 were under construction. The Timber Bridge Partnership was recently extended by a further twelve months to June 2010. With regards to the bridges on Local Roads, Councils have the option of funding the maintenance and replacement of these bridges from a number of sources, such as the Federal Government's Financial Assistance Grants and the Roads to Recovery Program, as well as their own rates. Councils have considerable flexibility as to how they allocate the funds that are made available, and it is a matter for individual councils to determine their own priorities. Councils have used these funding sources to replace 232 bridges on local roads over the past four years.

(6) The Institute of Public Works Engineering of Australia (IPWEA), which represents local government engineers, is preparing a timber bridge inspection and maintenance methodology for use by local council engineers. As part of its partnership with Local Government, the RTA has been working with IPWEA on inspection and condition rating procedures to ensure consistent practices across the State.

(7) No change to current practice is envisaged.(8) No.

(a) Not applicable.(b) Professor Somali's study only concerned issues associated with council managed bridges as part

of his work with IPWEA.

*2178 TRANSPORT—POPULATION GROWTH AND PUBLIC TRANSPORT USAGE—Ms Ficarra asked the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services representing the Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs—

(1) What are you doing to address the recent findings of the Bureau of Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Economics that found Sydney, although having a population increase of 4.1% over the past 5 years, had static bus travel patronage and only a 1.8% increase in heavy rail usage during the same period; in contrast public transport usage grew by 31.5% in Melbourne, 27.5% in Brisbane?

2707


Answer— I am advised: The BITRE figures are not the latest growth figures for Sydney. Sydney's bus patronage has in fact increased by 2.7% in 2006-07 and 2.4% in 2007-08, well ahead of Sydney's population growth of 1.1% per year. I am also advised that in the last two years, Sydney's rail patronage has grown by 3.1% in 2006-07 and 5.2% in 2007-08, well ahead of population growth. I am advised that the BITRE figures refer to the five years to 2006-07 and reveal the relative size of the public transport task in Sydney compared to other Australian cities. For example in 2006-07:

• Sydney's buses carried 54 million more passengers than Melbourne's bus fleet and trams, and carried 231 million more passengers than Brisbane's buses.

• Sydney's trains carried over 100 million more passengers than Melbourne's.• Sydney's trains carried 223 million more passengers than Brisbane's.

*2179 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—BARRINGTON PUBLIC SCHOOL—Dr Kaye asked the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1)(a) How many students are enrolled at Barrington Public School?(b) Is this school at or close to full enrolment capacity?

(2) How many school children who live closer to Rookhurst Public School than Barrington Public School are attending Barrington Public School?

Answer— (1)

(a) Sixty students are currently enrolled at Barrington Public School.(b) The school is close to full enrolment capacity. The school can accommodate the students from

Rookhurst Public School and does so every Friday.

(2) Six students from the Rookhurst Public School drawing area are currently attending Barrington Public School.

*2180 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—ROOKHURST PUBLIC SCHOOL—Dr Kaye asked the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1)(a) What is the minimum number of students required for Rookhurst Public School to remain open?(b) Has that number been increased?

(i) If so, (i) when?(ii) by what?

(c) What was the previous minimum number of students required for the school to remain open?

Answer— (1)

(a) There is no minimum number required for Rookhurst Public School or any other public school to remain open. Each situation is considered on its own merits.

(b) Not applicable.(c) Not applicable.


*2181 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—BARRINGTON PUBLIC SCHOOL AND SOCIALISATION—Dr Kaye asked the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1)(a) Did the Department of Education and Training persuade parents of children at Rookhurst Public

School to send their children to Barrington Public School one day a week for the purpose of enhancing the childrens' socialisation?

(b) Is the Department now using the consequent reduced attendance hours at Rookhurst Public School as an argument in support of closure of the school?

Answer— (1)

(a) Parents of children at Rookhurst Public School agreed to allow their children to attend Barrington Public School one day a week for the purpose of enhancing their children's education, including widening curriculum options and socialisation with peers.

(b) No.

*2182 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—POPULATION GROWTH FOR GLOUCESTER SHIRE—Dr Kaye asked the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1)(a) What are the current predictions for population growth for the Gloucester Shire?(b) What are the current predictions for population growth for Rookhurst?

(2) Has the number of students enrolled at Rookhurst Public School decreased over the last three years? (a) If so, by what number?

Answer— (1)

(a) The most current population projections for Gloucester Shire indicate only a slight increase from an estimate of 4,980 people in 2006 to 5,050 people in 2031.

(b) The population of Rookhurst locality is not anticipated to grow.

(2) Yes. (a) School mid-year census figures for Rookhurst Public School are as follows:

2006 – 12 students 2007 – 8 students 2008 – 3 students

*2183 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—ROOKHURST PUBLIC SCHOOL CLOSURE—Dr Kaye asked the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1) Does the Department of Education and Training have any plans to close Rookhurst Public School? (a) If so,

(i) why?(ii) what are the details of those plans?

Answer— (1) The Department of Education and Training plans to suspend operations at Rookhurst Public School

in 2009. (a)

(i) Greater educational opportunities are available to students in schools larger than Rookhurst Public School, which currently has an enrolment of three students.

2709


(ii) Operations will be suspended for 2009. School closure will be considered in the future if numbers of school-age children in the area remain low and can be accommodated at other local schools.

*2184 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—ENROLMENT AND CLOSURE OF ROOKHURST PUBLIC SCHOOL—Dr Kaye asked the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1)(a) In the last 12 months has any Department of Education and Training employee contacted any

parents and advised them not to enrol their children in Rookhurst Public School in the Gloucester Shire because it may be closed? (i) If so, why did this happen?

Answer— (1)

(a) One parent who was considering moving to the area was contacted in September and advised of the likely suspension of operations at Rookhurst Public School in 2009.

(i) This was done in order to allow the parent to make an informed decision about enrolment in Term 4, 2008. The parent has not yet moved to the area.

*2185 COMMERCE—PROMOTION OF WIANAMATTA REGIONAL PARK OPEN DAY—Dr Kaye asked the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

(1) Is the Minister aware of an advertisement that appeared in the Penrith Star on 14 October 2008 promoting the Wianamatta Regional Park open day on Sunday 19 October?

(2) Can the Minister confirm that the advertisement was half paid for by the National Parks and Wildlife Service?

(3) Can the Minister confirm that the remaining cost of the advertisement was paid for by the developers of the former ADI site (Ropes Crossing), Delfin Lend Lease?

(4) Can the Minister advise if the arrangement between the National Parks and Wildlife Service and the developer of the former ADI site (Ropes Crossing), Delfin Lend Lease conforms to the NSW Government Advertising Guidelines?

(5) Is the Minister aware of any other arrangements between government agencies and developers that involve taxpayers' money being used to help to promote land sales at housing developments in New South Wales?

Answer— The advertisement was a public awareness advertisement, partly funded by industry⁄event partners, which conforms to the NSW Government Advertising Guidelines. The advertisement advised the public of the first opportunity to experience the natural and cultural heritage of the new Wianamatta Regional Park, not promote land sales. At the first Open Day for Wianamatta Regional Park, National Parks staff, experienced local birdwatchers and Aboriginal community members showcased the local wildlife and highlighted the importance to the community of conservation and Aboriginal cultural values.

*2186 PRIMARY INDUSTRIES—ANIMAL DERIVED FOOD PRODUCTS—Dr Kaye asked the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for State Development—

(1) Is the Minister aware that neither New South Wales nor Commonwealth laws specify the labelling of animal derived food products which would disclose the farming production method used?

(2) Is the Minister aware that neither New South Wales nor Commonwealth laws specify definitions of farm production methods for animal derived food products, such as "free-range" or "bred free-range"?


(3) Is the Minister aware that a growing number of consumers are seeking food produced in ways that minimise the harm and suffering to animals and avoid intensive animal farming methods?

(4) Is the Minister aware that the absence of regulations specifying the labelling of farm production methods disadvantages many small and medium sized farmers, by failing to protect their market from unscrupulous branding that misleads consumers seeking products derived from less intensive animal farming methods?

Answer— (1) In terms of method of production there are no specific labelling requirements in either the Australia

New Zealand Food Standards Code or the Food Act 2003. However, there are legal protections which ensure the integrity around method of production claims. All food businesses in New South Wales must comply with the Food Act 2003 regarding false description. Trade Practices legislation may also apply in these situations.

(2) See 1.(3) The over-arching principle in food labelling under the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code

is the provision of information relating to its safety, and Government's role in protecting public health. However the provision of information to consumers in order for them to make good decisions about the food they buy is also a consideration. I acknowledge that Australians are becoming increasingly interested in how their food is produced. The Australia and New Zealand Food Regulation Ministerial Council shares this sentiment and at its meeting of 24 October 2008 agreed in principle to commission an independent, comprehensive review of food labelling law and policy.

(4) See 1. In addition, standards defining farm production methods are currently being developed by industry groups. Such agreed industry standards assist enforcement around false description. The more such standards are developed, the less room there is for "unscrupulous" operators.

*2187 PRIMARY INDUSTRIES—REGULATION FOR FOOD LABELLING—Dr Kaye asked the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for State Development—

(1) What steps has the Minister taken to investigate the benefits of a consistent and rigorous system of labelling for all animal derived food products for those farmers and food processors who minimise harm and suffering to animals in their care?

(2) What steps is the Minister taking to develop consistent and comprehensive regulation for food labelling disclosing the farming production method of animal derived food products?

(3) What action is the Minister taking to prevent unscrupulous labelling that misleads consumers seeking food produced in ways that minimise the harm and suffering to animals and avoid intensive animal farming methods?

Answer— (1) NSW maintains comprehensive animal welfare legislation which includes farm animal welfare. The

welfare of all animals, including livestock, is covered under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979. This Act also references a number of national Model Codes of Practice that set out welfare standards for the husbandry and welfare of farmed livestock species such as cattle, sheep and poultry. The labelling provisions of all Australian foods are governed by the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (the Food Standards Code). The Food Standards Code is developed by Food Standards Australia New Zealand on a national level through a transparent process involving high levels of public consultation. The Australia and New Zealand Food Regulation Ministerial Council at its meeting of 24 October 2008 agreed in principle to commission an independent, comprehensive review of food labelling law and policy.

(2) See 1.(3) There are no specific labelling requirements regarding animal derived food production. However,

there are legal protections which ensure the integrity around method of production claims. All food businesses in New South Wales must comply with the Food Act 2003 with respect to product descriptions. Trade Practices legislation may also apply in cases of false labelling. In addition, standards defining farm production methods are currently being developed by industry groups. Such agreed industry standards assist enforcement around false description. The more such standards are developed, the less room there is for "unscrupulous" operators.

2711


*2188 WATER—HUNTER WATER'S STORAGES—Dr Kaye asked the Treasurer representing the Minister for Water, Minister for Rural Affairs, and Minister for Regional Development—

(1) On what basis were the future inflows to Hunter Water's storages de-rated in its planning studies used to justify the construction of Tillegra dam?

(2) Can the Minister identify the scientific research which justified this de-rating?(3) Will the Minister release the data on which this decision was based?

(a) If not, why not?

Answer— (1) I am advised that Hunter Water has not de-rated the volume which can be reliably extracted from its

water storages.(2) 3) & 3a). Not Applicable

*2189 WATER—TILLEGRA DAM—Dr Kaye asked the Treasurer representing the Minister for Water, Minister for Rural Affairs, and Minister for Regional Development—

(1) What is the projected increase in the water bills of Hunter residents attributed to the cost of constructing Tillegra Dam?

(2) Is the statement by Hunter Water Corporation MD Kevin Young that 60% of the cost of Tillegra Dam is to be recovered from future development true? (a) If so, what is the additional cost burden per development lot on future development?

(3) Has the Minister studied the impacts on the cost implications of Tillegra Dam for existing Hunter residents (cost per bill) and for future development (cost per lot) of a failure of the projected population growth of 160,000 over the next 25 years to occur? (a) If so, what are those implications?(b) If not, will the Minister cause such studies to be undertaken and the results to be published?

(4) What dividends and tax equivalents did the Hunter Water Corporation pay to the state government for the last 10 years?

(5) Is Hunter Water Corporation going to reduce the size of the dividend and tax equivalents that they pay to the Government to reduce the cost burden of the Tillegra Dam on Hunter residents or is the size of the dividend going to increase because the asset base will increase and Treasury want a fixed return on assets?

Answer— (1) I am advised by Hunter Water Corporation that it estimates the increase to be $33 per annum per

customer. This, however, is subject to IPART's final determination in June 2009, which may well result in a revised price.

(2)(a) In its price submission to IPART, Hunter Water has included a proposal where the costs of

Tillegra Dam are allocated 40% to existing customers and 60% to future customers. IPART will review this proposal and is due to make a final determination in June 2009.

(3)(a) & b. Hunter Water advises the cost for existing residents will not be impacted by growth, and

that if growth is lower than forecast, Tillegra Dam will have capacity for growth over a longer time frame.

(4) This information is available from Hunter Water's annual reports.(5) This is a matter for the Shareholding Ministers.

*2190 FINANCE—SAFETY SOLUTIONS REBATE PROGRAM—Dr Kaye asked the Treasurer representing the Minister for Finance, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Regulatory Reform, and Minister for Ports and Waterways—

(1) In relation to the $500 Safety Solutions Rebate Program which is available to small business


employers in New South Wales could you please provide the following information: (a) Describe the eligibility requirements?(b) How long has the program been operating?(c) How many small businesses have applied for the rebate?(d) How many rebate applications have been successful?(e) How much money in total has been spent on these rebates?(f) How much money was budgeted for the rebate program in each of the last five years (including

2008-09)?

Answer— (1)

(a) To qualify for the rebate of up to $500, businesses must first attend a free WorkCover Safety Workshop, or have a business advisory officer or inspector visit their workplace. The business must complete an action plan based on the information obtained from the workshop or advisory visit, and submit an application and copies of relevant tax invoices to WorkCover for consideration. Eligible businesses must also have in place a valid workers compensation policy.

(b) The Program commenced in March 2007.(c) 95(d) 67(e) $32,000(f) Funding of $2,078,265 has been allocated from 2006⁄07 to 2008⁄09.

*2191 FINANCE—SAFE WORK AUSTRALIA BILL—Dr Kaye asked the Treasurer representing the Minister for Finance, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Regulatory Reform, and Minister for Ports and Waterways—

(1) What communication has the Minister had with Federal Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Julia Gillard, in respect to the Safe Work Australia Bill?

(2) Does the Minister support employee representation on the Safe Work Australia Authority?(3) Does the Minister support amending the Safe Work Australia Bill to include provision for:

(a) Outlining the objects of the new body?(b) Restoring effective levels of representation employee representatives (social partners)?(c) Ensuring workers and industry are effectively and ably represented by peak representative

groups?(d) Freeing peak representative groups from ministerial interference when appointing their own

representatives?(e) Freeing the CEO of Safe Work Australia from excessive Ministerial interference in the

management of new body?(f) Establishing an audit committee to examine the finances and expenditure of Safe Work

Australia?

(4) Will the Minister lobby the Federal Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Julia Gillard, to include the proposed amendments in the Safe Work Australia Bill?

Answer— The Workplace Relations Ministers Council met on 5 November 2008 and a Communiqué was subsequently released. This is available publicly on the WRMC website, http:⁄⁄www.workplace.gov.au⁄workplace⁄Publications⁄PolicyReviews⁄WorkplaceRelationsMinistersCouncil.htm The NSW Government has signed the Inter-Governmental Agreement for Regulatory and Operational Reform in Occupational Health and Safety and remains committed to working cooperatively with the states, territories and Commonwealth to achieve the harmonization of OHS laws.


2713


2192 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—HIGHER SCHOOL CERTIFICATE STUDENTS—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2193 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—PLAN-IT YOUTH PROGRAM—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2194 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—MACQUARIE BOYS HIGH SCHOOL—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2195 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—LACHLAN MACQUARIE COLLEGE IN 2008—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2196 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—SPECIAL EXAMINATION PROVISIONS—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2197 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—LACHLAN MACQUARIE COLLEGE AND INTENSIVE COURSES—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2198 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—STUDENTS SITTING THE HSC—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2199 HEALTH—OUT OF HOSPITAL HEALTH CARE SERVICES—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

*2200 LANDS—APPLICATIONS FOR LAND CLAIMS—Mr Cohen asked the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services—

(1) How many cases is the Department for Lands aware of, whereby applications for land claims by Aboriginal communities were refused on the basis that the land was "lawfully used and occupied by the Department in preparing the land for sale"?

(2) How many land claims are currently before the Department where the position is taken that the land subject to the claim is being lawfully used and occupied by the department in preparation for sale?

Answer— (1) The Department of Lands does not record the number of refused land claims for the reason that the

land was "lawfully used and occupied by the Department in preparing the land for sale".(2) It is not possible to determine this number until the particular claim has been investigated.

*2201 LANDS—OFFICE OF BIOFUELS—Mr Cohen asked the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services—

(1) What is this year's budget for the Office of Biofuels?(2) Does the office provide assistance or guidance to companies seeking to make development

applications to the Department of Planning?(3) Does the Office of Biofuels have a research budget?

(a) If so, what are the funds spent on?


(4) The previous Minister stated that in a case of severe drought he would use his powers under Section 13 of the Biofuel (Ethanol Content) Act 2007 to suspend the mandate. What objective criteria evidencing 'severe drought' would be required to invoke the power under this Section? (a) Would grain biofuel industry producers be entitled to compensation if a suspension of the

mandate were invoked?(b) Would grain shortages be a basis for suspension of the mandate?

(5) As a regional development initiative, how will a volumetric ethanol mandate boost agricultural production, enhance ecosystem services and connectivity and address the impacts of climate change on regional New South Wales?

(6) How does a fixed demand for grain from a grain biofuel industry fit with an increasingly variable feedstock supply?

(7) Is the Minister confident that the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act is an appropriate and adequate forum to address sustainability issues such as water interception and usage relating to a ethanol project or would a more tailored sustainability assessment within the Biofuels Act be more appropriate?

(8) The E10 Taskforce recommended that the Government develop a 10 year vision for biofuels in New South Wales. What progress has the Government made towards developing this vision?

(9) Has the Commonwealth Government discussed with the Department or the Minister the percentage of the total Commonwealth expenditure on the ethanol excise rebate that New South Wales operators receive?

Answer— (1) $82,000(2) Yes.(3) No.(4) Any decision to suspend the mandate would be based on the advice of the Biofuels Expert Panel. The

Director General of the Department of Primary Industries is a member of the Expert Panel and would be the primary source of such advice in the event of severe drought. The criteria on which such advice is to be based would include the projected NSW and Australian crops of feedstocks; and the possible impacts of the ethanol mandate on food security, food prices, and other grain-using industries. (a) No.(b) Yes.

(5) First generation biofuels provide new, stable domestic grain markets for farmers and produce high quality stock food for the livestock, poultry, and aquaculture industries. Second generation biofuels will add enormous value to regional agriculture and forestry industries. New energy crops will offer sustainable agricultural potential in marginal farmlands where poor soils or unreliable rainfall limit traditional cropping. Novel energy crops such as native mallee may be grown for multiple purposes such as reducing soil salinity and maintaining wildlife habitats. Being able to turn different biomass sources into fuel means that we may be able to avoid vast monocultures, growing a diversity of native species that will help sustain biodiversity.

(6) A strong local market for grain for biofuels will assist in maintaining more stable prices for farmers in good seasons or when global prices are low.

(7) Yes.(8) The Government is currently in the process of considering its next steps to encourage greater

renewable fuel use throughout the community.(9) No.

*2202 LANDS—CENTRAL COAST VISIT—Mr Gallacher asked the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services—

(1) Did the Minister visit the Central Coast on 12 August 2008?(2) Prior to that date when was the last time the Minister visited the Central Coast?

2715


Answer— (1) Yes(2) 8 August 2008

2203 CENTRAL COAST—CENTRAL COAST ELECTORATE VISITS—Mr Gallacher to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

2204 HUNTER—HUNTER ELECTORATE VISITS—Mr Gallacher to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Minister for Tourism, and Minister for the Hunter—

*2205 POLICE—CLASS 1A LICENCE—Mr Gallacher asked the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services—

In response to the answer provided in May 2008 to the Legislative Council Question on Notice number 1641, what legislation does the Security Industry Registry and the Minister rely upon to interpret the wording of Section 11, subsection (1)(a) of the Security Industry Act 1997 so as to provide advice that the holder of a Class 1 Licence can undertake "general escorting duties" as part of their security duties?

Answer— I refer the Honourable Member to the former Minister's comprehensive answer to his previous Question on Notice No. 1641 on the same subject.

*2206 PRIMARY INDUSTRIES—FOOD SAFETY INSPECTIONS—Dr Kaye asked the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for State Development—

(1) What is the most recent date food safety inspections were conducted by either the NSW Food Authority or relevant Council enforcement agency for each: (a) McDonald's restaurant in New South Wales?(b) Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant in New South Wales?(c) Red Rooster restaurant in New South Wales?(d) Hungry Jack's restaurant in New South Wales?(e) Michel's Patisserie in New South Wales?(f) Domino's Pizza take-away food premises in New South Wales?

Answer— Food Regulation in NSW provides for robust compliance and enforcement arrangements. The specific information requested is held respectively by "Enforcement Agencies" under the Food Act 2003 which includes each of the 152 NSW Councils. Any particular queries in relation to certain local council areas or particular food businesses ought to be directed appropriately to the relevant "Enforcement Agency" under the Food Act. I would also suggest careful consideration of the scope of such queries to ensure the avoidance of unnecessary diversion of valuable resources away from front line services. As previously outlined in my response to Question on Notice 2131, under the Food Regulation Partnership, Councils classify their local food businesses, including fast food outlets, according to food safety risks and routine inspections are commensurate with that risk. Under the Food Regulation Partnership, twice a year each Council has to submit a report to the NSW Food Authority, outlining details of the number of food businesses in their area, a break-down of the risk classification of those food businesses and a report of the inspections carried out for medium and high risk businesses.The NSW Food Authority will publish a summary of Council activity data collected from the Councils' bi-annual reports.

2207 ROADS—CASH BACK PAYMENTS AND FEDERAL GOVERNMENT GRANTS—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Roads—


2208 HEALTH—NSW INTERAGENCY PLAN TO TACKLE CHILD SEXUAL ASSAULT IN ABORIGINAL COMMUNITIES: 2006-2011—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

2209 HEALTH—NEW FORENSIC UNIT AT LONG BAY—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

2210 HEALTH—MOUNT DRUITT HOSPITAL—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

2211 CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE ENVIRONMENT—EDEN CHIPMILL—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—


2212 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—AUDITOR GENERAL'S REPORT—IMPROVING LITERACY AND NUMERACY IN NSW PUBLIC SCHOOLS—Ms Ficarra to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2213 LOCAL GOVERNMENT—GENERAL MANAGER AND ASSISTANT GENERAL MANAGER OF WOLLONDILLY COUNCIL—Ms Hale to ask the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services representing the Minister for Local Government, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health)—

*2214 HOUSING—AFFORDABLE HOUSING FOR MINTO AND BONNYRIGG PRIVATE HOMEOWNERS—Ms Hale asked the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for State Development representing the Minister for Housing, and Minister for Western Sydney—

Tanya Gadiel MLA on 22 October 2008 announced to the Legislative Assembly that "Bonnyrigg will deliver 833 brand-new homes for people in need and 1,500 new, affordable homes for private homeowners".(1) Given these houses will be built privately and sold privately, how can the Government claim them as

'affordable' housing given there is no control the Government can exercise on the price they are sold for and who buys them?

(2) Will there be any requirement that any of these new 'affordable' homes the Government claims to be facilitating at Minto and Bonnyrigg be sold to first home buyers only?

Answer— (1) & 2. The Concept Development Plan, which forms part of the PPP contract, sets out the ranges of

design types and sizes of properties. Prices for the private housing will range from an affordable $300,000 to around $500,000.

*2215 ENERGY—SNOWY HYDRO LTD ASSISTANCE—Dr Kaye asked the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for State Development—

What action will the Minister take to assist Snowy Hydro Ltd to concentrate on its core responsibilities to the public of carefully managing water and energy resources, rather than having to meet demands for shareholder dividends and engage in other business activities?

Answer—

2717


This is a matter for the Treasurer.

*2216 ENERGY—SNOWY HYDRO LTD DIVIDENDS—Dr Kaye asked the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for State Development—

(1) Has Snowy Hydro Ltd withheld dividends from the NSW Government? (a) If so,

(i) why?(ii) what is the value of those dividends?

Answer— This is matter for the Treasurer.

*2217 ENERGY—SNOWY HYDRO LTD INCOME—Dr Kaye asked the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for State Development—

(1) Is it true that Snowy Hydro Ltd derives approximately 60% of its income from insurance products including derivatives? (a) (b) If not, what percentage of Snowy Hydro Ltd's income is derived from insurance products?

Answer— This is a matter for the Treasurer.

*2218 ENERGY—SNOWY HYDRO LTD— PAYMENT FOR WATER—Dr Kaye asked the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for State Development—

(1) Does Snowy Hydro Ltd pay for the water it uses from Kosciusko National Park? (a) If so, how much does it pay?(b) If not, why not?

Answer— This question does not fall within my portfolio and should be referred to the Minister for Water.

*2219 ENERGY—APPOINTMENT OF A NATIONAL INDEPENDENT WATER MANAGER—Dr Kaye asked the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for State Development—

(1) With the drought creating low water inflows to the Snowy River, will the Minister take action to bring about the appointment of a national independent water manager, who does not have any pecuniary interest in the water or the energy sector, and who has the power to make appropriate decisions on water use by Snowy Hydro Ltd? (a) If not, why not?


*2220 ENERGY—SNOWY HYDRO LTD CORPORATE STRUCTURE—Dr Kaye asked the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for State Development—

What steps has the Government taken to explore alternatives to the current corporate structure of Snowy Hydro Ltd?



*2221 ENERGY—SNOWY WATER LICENCE—Dr Kaye asked the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for State Development—

When will the Minister release the results of the Review of the Snowy Water Licence?


*2222 ENERGY—TRUENERGY—Dr Kaye asked the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for State Development—

(1) Is it correct that TRUenergy paid a deposit for the Tallawarra power station and lands site at Lake Illawarra?

(2) Is it correct that the rest of the purchase and construction costs are financed by an interest free state government loan?

(3) How much is this interest free loan costing the tax payers of New South Wales in lost revenue from loss of interest on the loan?

Answer— This matter falls within the portfolio responsibilities of the Treasurer.

*2223 ENERGY—TRUENERGY—TAX INCENTIVES AND SUBSIDIES—Dr Kaye asked the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for State Development—

(1) Were any tax incentives or subsidies offered by the Government to TRUenergy to establish a power station at Tallawarra at Lake Illawarra?

(2) What is the cost of any tax subsidies or incentives provided to TRUenergy to New South Wales taxpayers?

(3) Have there been any other costs to the Government in respect of the development of this power station? (a) If so, how much?

(4) What steps has the Government taken to ensure that this investment is cost-effective?

Answer— This matter falls within the portfolio responsibilities of the Treasurer.

*2224 ENERGY—PUBLIC OWNERSHIP OF SNOWY HYDRO—Dr Kaye asked the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for State Development—

(1) Does the Government have any plans to relinquish public ownership of the Snowy Hydro either by selling or leasing Snowy Hydro Ltd or any of its undertakings or facilities without the approval of both Houses of Parliament?


2225 CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE ENVIRONMENT—OFFICIAL EMISSIONS—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

2226 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—GOVERNMENT GRANTS—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2719


2227 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—GRANTS TO COMMUNITY COLLEGES—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2228 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—COMMUNITY COLLEGE ENROLMENTS—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2229 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—GOVERNMENT GRANTS 2008/2009—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—


2230 COMMERCE—RED HAT LINUX—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

2231 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—MAINTENANCE OF PUBLIC SCHOOLS—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2232 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—COMPUTERS IN SCHOOLS PROGRAM—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2233 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE AND CONDUCT UNIT—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2234 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—PROPOSED CHANGES TO HSC EXAMINATION AND SCHOOL ASSESSMENT—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2235 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—EVIDENCE SUPPORTING PROPOSED CHANGES TO HSC EXAMINATIONS AND SCHOOL ASSESSMENT—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2236 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—SUBMISSIONS RECEIVED IN RESPECT TO PROPOSED CHANGES TO HSC EXAMINATIONS AND SCHOOL ASSESSMENT—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2237 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—LINUX-BASED LAPTOPS—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2238 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—NATIONAL DECLARATION OF EDUCATIONAL GOALS FOR YOUNG AUSTRALIANS—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—


2239 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—NATIONAL CURRICULUM—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2240 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—NATIONAL CURRICULUM ROLL OUT—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2241 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—PRIMARY SCHOOL CURRICULUM AND HSC—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2242 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—PRIORITY ACTION SCHOOLS PROGRAM—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2243 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—PRIORITY ACTION SCHOOLS PROGRAM FUNDING—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2244 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—PRIORITY ACTION SCHOOLS PROGRAM—TOTAL FUNDING—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2245 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—MAINTENANCE BACKLOG IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

*2246 HOUSING—SOUTH-WESTERN SYDNEY PUBLIC HOUSING—Ms Ficarra asked the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for State Development representing the Minister for Housing, and Minister for Western Sydney—

(1) Is the Minister aware that NSW Housing's Campbelltown office is informing disabled people in South-Western Sydney that there is an 8 -10 month wait to get them into appropriate public housing?

(2) Why is there an 8 - 10 month wait in such circumstances?(3) What is the Minister doing to ensure that disabled members of the community have access to public

housing which can cater for their disability in a timely fashion?

Answer— 1. & 2. Waiting times for clients with a disability vary on a case by case basis, depending on the individual's circumstances. This means that clients with a significant disability generally require accommodation designed to cater for their specific needs and in locations which provide access to appropriate supports. Clients with a disability approved for Priority Housing Assistance or who have reached their turn on the housing register may receive Housing NSW's Special Assistance Subsidy (Disability) to rent in the private sector while they wait for a suitable Housing NSW property. These clients pay the same amount of rent as they would if living in a home owned by Housing NSW.3. In April 2005, as part of the Reshaping Public Housing reforms, Housing NSW adopted a long term asset planning approach to realign its assets to better meet the needs of clients, including people with a disability. Housing NSW has a number of modified dwellings and in 2007⁄08, $9.75 million was spent on disability modifications. Much of the new capital stock being built is also either purpose-built for specific people with disabilities or constructed to be suitable for people with a wide range of disabilities.

2721


2247 POLICE—POLICE PROSECUTORS—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services—

2248 ROADS—MOTORCYCLE TOLLS—Ms Ficarra to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Roads—

*2249 HOUSING—HOUSING REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE—Mr Gallacher asked the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for State Development representing the Minister for Housing, and Minister for Western Sydney—

(1) In the 2008⁄2009 Budget year what is the total budgeted figure for maintenance and repairs to Department of Housing housing properties?

(2) Are employees of the Department of Housing tasked to undertake repairs and maintenance, or are these functions contracted to external parties?

(3) What process is undertaken by the Department of Housing in awarding contracts to external parties for repairs and maintenance of departmental housing properties?

(4) Are regular audits undertaken of repairs and maintenance schedules to ensure that works are completed as per requested works? (a) If so,

(i) who undertakes such audits?(ii) what percentage of works are not undertaken according to the schedule of works?

(5) Are random visits undertaken to housing properties to check on works that should have been undertaken?

(6) What is the total value of works estimated by the Department not to have been undertaken but to have been invoiced to the Department as undertaken?

(7) Are instances of charging for works not undertaken dealt with internally or are they referred to the Police for investigation?

(8) What was the total value of works in 2007⁄2008 that were found to have been paid for by the Department of Housing but not undertaken?

(9) If a Department of Housing tenant makes a complaint that works have not been undertaken, what process is undertaken to determine the validity of such complaints?

(10) How many such complaints were made in the past year and how many were upheld?

Answer— (1) Information concerning repairs and maintenance is available in Housing NSW's Annual Report.(2) No, all maintenance work is contracted to external parties.(3) Tender Process.(4) Yes

(a)(i) Housing NSW staff and contractors. The Housing Contact Centre rings tenants who have

had urgent repairs and maintenance work carried out to ensure all the work was completed. Approximately 97% of tenants confirmed that the contractor attended the property to complete the work.

(ii) All maintenance work is scheduled on a works order that lists the type of work and any schedule of rates that may apply to the items listed.

(5) Yes.(6) Housing NSW has a continuous Quality Assurance system to ensure there is reconciliation between

work undertaken and work claimed.(7) Dealt with internally.(8) Housing NSW has a continuous Quality Assurance system to ensure there is reconciliation between

work undertaken and work claimed.


(9) For urgent repairs, tenants are called to check if work has been completed. If there is a deficiency for non-urgent repairs and maintenance, a site inspection is generally undertaken and the contractor is required to rectify it.

(10)(a)

(i) 55 complaints(ii) 33 upheld

2250 LANDS—YASMAR ESTATE—Ms Hale to ask the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services—

2251 PLANNING—BROUGHTON HALL AND CALLAN PARK—Ms Hale to ask the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services representing the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

2252 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—CARINGBAH HIGH SCHOOL—Ms Hale to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2253 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—PRIORITY ACTION SCHOOLS PROGRAM AND SCHOOL NUMBERS—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—


2254 CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE ENVIRONMENT—ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION LICENCES—Mr Cohen to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

2255 CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE ENVIRONMENT—CATCHMENT MANAGEMENT AUTHORITIES—Mr Cohen to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

2256 EMERGENCY SERVICES—NSW FIRE COMMISSIONER—Mr Cohen to ask the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services—

2257 TRANSPORT—RAIL CARRIAGES AND MX PUBLICATIONS—Mr Cohen to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

2258 ROADS—AUSTRALIAN ROAD RULES MANAGEMENT GROUP—Ms Ficarra to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Roads—

2259 HEALTH—GENERAL PRACTITIONERS AND TRAINING—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

2723


2260 LOCAL GOVERNMENT—REMOVING RESCUED ANIMALS FROM POUNDS—Ms Hale to ask the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services representing the Minister for Local Government, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health)—


2261 HEALTH—SHOALHAVEN RADIOTHERAPY CLINIC—Revd Mr Nile to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

2262 LANDS—MANAGEMENT OF TRAVELLING STOCK ROUTES—Ms Hale to ask the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services—

2263 COMMERCE—EMISSIONS FROM INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY EQUIPMENT—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

2264 WATER—STARBUCKS' POLICY IN RELATION TO WATER USAGE—Dr Kaye to ask the Treasurer representing the Minister for Water, Minister for Rural Affairs, and Minister for Regional Development—

2265 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—REDUCTION IN CLASS SIZES—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2266 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—MEADOWBANK EDUCATION TRUST SCHOOL—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2267 WATER—KURNELL DESALINATION PLANT—TECHNICAL CONSTRAINTS—Dr Kaye to ask the Treasurer representing the Minister for Water, Minister for Rural Affairs, and Minister for Regional Development—

2268 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—NEW BELMORE JUNIOR CAMPUS—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2269 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—CAMPUS DEFINITION—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2270 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—TAFE DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2271 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—SCHOOL TEACHER'S INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2272 ENERGY—RENEWABLE GENERATORS—Dr Kaye to ask the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for State Development—


*2273 PLANNING—BELMORE JUNIOR CAMPUS—Dr Kaye asked the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services representing the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

Is the Minister aware that the Belmore Junior Campus of All Saints Grammar School is operating despite not all Development Consent conditions having been met?

Answer— Canterbury City Council issued the development consent for this development and is the responsible authority to enforce any non compliance with condition of a development consent it has issued.

2274 WATER—KURNELL DESALINATION PLANT—COMMERCIAL CONSTRAINTS—Dr Kaye to ask the Treasurer representing the Minister for Water, Minister for Rural Affairs, and Minister for Regional Development—

2275 PRIMARY INDUSTRIES—ROYALTY RATES FOR PULPLOGS—Mr Cohen to ask the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, and Minister for State Development—

11 NOVEMBER 2008(Paper No. 74)

2276 PLANNING—TRALEE AND GOOGONG RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENTS—Ms Hale to ask the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services representing the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

2277 COMMERCE—GOVERNMENT ARCHITECT'S REPORT—Ms Hale to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

2278 FAIR TRADING—GOVERNMENT ARCHITECT'S REPORT—Ms Hale to ask the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development, and Acting Minister for Small Business representing the Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Citizenship, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

2279 FAIR TRADING—GUTTERING INSTALLATION—Ms Hale to ask the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development, and Acting Minister for Small Business representing the Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Citizenship, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—


2280 TRANSPORT—BUS SERVICES—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

2281 TRANSPORT—GOULBURN STREET CAR PARKING STATION—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

2725


2282 TRANSPORT—BOSTON CONSULTING GROUP—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

2283 TRANSPORT—CASINO TO MURWILLUMBAH RAIL LINE CORRIDOR—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

2284 TRANSPORT—HURSTVILLE STATION—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

2285 TRANSPORT—WYNYARD STATION—CROWD MANAGEMENT—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

2286 TRANSPORT—TOWN HALL STATION—CROWD MANAGEMENT—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

2287 TRANSPORT—COUNTRY RAIL INFRASTRUCTURE—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

2288 TRANSPORT—OLYMPIC PARK SPRINT TRAIN SERVICE—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

2289 PLANNING—CUMBERLAND CONSERVATION CORRIDOR—Ms Hale to ask the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services representing the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

2290 HEALTH—FLUORIDATION—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

2291 HEALTH—KEMPSEY DISTRICT HOSPITAL—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

2292 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—HURLSTONE AGRICULTURAL HIGH SCHOOL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2293 TRANSPORT—COUNTRY REGIONAL NETWORK SERVICES—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

2294 PLANNING—REZONING OF LAND IN THE CESSNOCK LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA—Ms Hale to ask the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services representing the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

13 NOVEMBER 2008


(Paper No. 76)

2295 HEALTH—PROPOSED SITE OF THE NEW NORTHERN BEACHES HOSPITAL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

2296 CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE ENVIRONMENT—HOUSEHOLD CHEMICAL CLEANOUT PROGRAM—Mr Cohen to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

2297 COMMUNITY SERVICES—DEATH OF MELODY ROSE CONWAY—Mr Cohen to ask the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development representing the Minister for Community Services—

2298 PREMIER—MINISTERIAL STAFF—PAY RISES AND CAR PARKING LEVIES—Ms Cusack to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Premier, and Minister for the Arts—

2299 ENERGY—STREET LIGHTING—Dr Kaye to ask the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—


2300 FINANCE—WORKCOVER CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Treasurer representing the Minister for Finance, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Regulatory Reform, and Minister for Ports and Waterways—

2301 ATTORNEY GENERAL—ATTORNEY GENERAL'S DEPARTMENT DIRECTOR GENERAL—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations—

2302 PREMIER—DEPARTMENT OF PREMIER AND CABINET DIRECTOR GENERAL—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Premier, and Minister for the Arts—

2303 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—DIRECTOR GENERAL—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2304 LOCAL GOVERNMENT—DIRECTOR GENERAL—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services representing the Minister for Local Government, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health)—

2305 AGEING, DISABILITY SERVICES—DIRECTOR GENERAL—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services representing the Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs—

2306 HEALTH—DIRECTOR GENERAL—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

2727


2307 GAMING AND RACING, SPORT AND RECREATION—DIRECTOR GENERAL—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development representing the Minister for Gaming and Racing, and Minister for Sport and Recreation—

2308 ATTORNEY GENERAL—ANTI-DISCRIMINATION BOARD PRESIDENT—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations—

2308 ATTORNEY GENERAL—ANTI-DISCRIMINATION BOARD PRESIDENT—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations—

2309 COMMUNITY SERVICES—OFFICE FOR CHILDREN DIRECTOR GENERAL—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development representing the Minister for Community Services—

2310 COMMUNITY SERVICES—DIRECTOR GENERAL—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development representing the Minister for Community Services—

2311 ABORIGINAL AFFAIRS—DIRECTOR GENERAL—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services representing the Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs—

2312 COMMERCE—DIRECTOR GENERAL—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

2313 JUSTICE—CORRECTIVE SERVICES COMMISSIONER—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations—

2314 CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE ENVIRONMENT—DIRECTOR GENERAL—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

2315 HOUSING—DIRECTOR GENERAL—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development representing the Minister for Housing, and Minister for Western Sydney—

2316 JUVENILE JUSTICE—DIRECTOR GENERAL—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services representing the Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Volunteering, and Minister for Youth—

2317 LANDS—DIRECTOR GENERAL—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services—

2318 PLANNING—DIRECTOR GENERAL—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services representing the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—


2319 PRIMARY INDUSTRIES—DIRECTOR GENERAL—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—

2320 STATE DEVELOPMENT—DEPARTMENT OF STATE AND REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR GENERAL—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Treasurer representing the Minister for Water, Minister for Rural Affairs, and Minister for Regional Development—

2321 ENERGY—DEPARTMENT OF WATER AND ENERGY DIRECTOR GENERAL—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Treasurer representing the Minister for Water, Minister for Rural Affairs, and Minister for Regional Development—

2322 EMERGENCY SERVICES—OFFICE OF EMERGENCY SERVICES DIRECTOR—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services—

2323 EMERGENCY SERVICES—NSW FIRE BRIGADES COMMISSIONER—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services—

2324 FAIR TRADING—COMMISSIONER—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development representing the Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Citizenship, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

2325 PRIMARY INDUSTRIES—NSW FOOD AUTHORITY DIRECTOR GENERAL—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—

2326 EMERGENCY SERVICES—NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE COMMISSIONER—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services—

2327 TRANSPORT—SYDNEY FERRIES CORPORATION CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

2328 HEALTH—HEALTH CARE COMPLAINTS COMMISSION—COMMISSIONER—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

2329 ATTORNEY GENERAL—JUDICIAL COMMISSION OF NSW CHIEF EXECUTIVE—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations—

2330 PREMIER—POLICE INTEGRITY COMMISSION COMMISSIONER—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Premier, and Minister for the Arts—

2331 PRIMARY INDUSTRIES—DIRECTOR-GENERAL—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—

2729


2332 PREMIER—ICAC COMMISSIONER—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Premier, and Minister for the Arts—

2333 PREMIER—NSW OMBUDSMAN—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Premier, and Minister for the Arts—

2334 PORTS AND WATERWAYS—CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Treasurer representing the Minister for Finance, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Regulatory Reform, and Minister for Ports and Waterways—

2335 POLICE—DIRECTOR GENERAL—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services—

2336 EMERGENCY SERVICES—AMBULANCE SERVICE OF NSW CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services—

2337 PREMIER—COMMISSIONER FOR NSW CRIME COMMISSION—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Premier, and Minister for the Arts—

2338 TRANSPORT—RAIL CORPORATION CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

2339 ROADS—RTA CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Roads—

2340 TREASURER—NSW TREASURY SECRETARY—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Treasurer—

2341 SPORT AND RECREATION—SYDNEY OLYMPIC PARK AUTHORITY CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development representing the Minister for Gaming and Racing, and Minister for Sport and Recreation—

2342 COMMERCE—STATE PROPERTY AUTHORITY CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

2343 ATTORNEY GENERAL—DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC PROSECUTIONS—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations—

2344 TOURISM—TOURISM NSW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AND GENERAL MANAGER—OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Minister for Tourism, Minister for the Hunter, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—


2345 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—COUNTRY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2346 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—SCHOOLS' EMAIL SYSTEM—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2347 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY HELPDESK STAFF—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2348 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—CALLS LOGGED WITH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY HELPDESK—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2349 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—NIMMITABEL PUBLIC SCHOOL—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2350 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—SMARTBUY—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2351 ENERGY—WALLERAWANG POWER STATION—Dr Kaye to ask the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—

2352 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—RAINWATER TANKS IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

*2353 ENERGY—CENTENNIAL COAL—Dr Kaye asked the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—

(1) Will the Minister be asking Centennial Coal to relinquish the Department of Energy's Green Globe Award for Springvale-Delta Water Transfer Scheme considering that the Springvale Transfer now only operates infrequently?

Answer— I am advised this is a question for the Minister for Climate Change and the Environment.

2354 ENERGY—CENTENNIAL COAL-ENERGY SAVE GRANT—Dr Kaye to ask the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—

2355 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—SEXUAL ASSAULT SUPPORT SERVICE STAFF—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2356 ENERGY—CENTENNIAL COAL-WALLERAWANG POWER STATION—Dr Kaye to ask the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—

2731


2357 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—SCHOOL COUNSELLORS—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

2358 ENERGY—CORROSION AT WALLERAWANG POWER STATION—Dr Kaye to ask the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—


2360 ARTS—REVIEW OF WRITER'S CENTRES—Ms Hale to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Premier, and Minister for the Arts—

In an answer to a question during budget estimates on 14 October 2008, the Premier indicated that there would be no cuts to the funding of writers centres in the mini budget and that the Government expected to receive an independent consultants review of the centres in early 2009.(1) Will the Premier guarantee that funding in 2009 be no less than that received in 2008 for individual

writers centres?(2) Will the review be made public?

(a) If so, when?(b) If not, why not?

(3) Will writers centres and members of the public be able to make submissions about the review before any of its recommendations are acted upon?

2361 FAIR TRADING—AUSTRALIAN STANDARDS AND STANDARD HANDBOOKS—Ms Hale to ask the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development representing the Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Citizenship, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) Has Standards Association of Australia Handbook (SAA HB) 39 1997 ever been cited in New South Wales legislation as the standard for determining compliance with gutter overflow requirements? (a) If so, has it now been superseded by AS⁄NZS 3500.3.1998 and AS⁄NZS 3500.5.2000?

(2) Do the current Building Code of Australia and the NSW Plumbing Code of Practice require compliance with the Australian Standards⁄New Zealand Standard (AS⁄NZS) 3500.3.2003?

(3) Does the Office of Fair Trading require that its officials not refer to old standards such as SAA HB 39 1997 when those standards have been superseded by more recent standards?

(4) Is the Minister or Commissioner for Fair Trading aware of SAA HB 39 1997 being referred to in any matter before the Consumer Trader and Tenancy Tribunal even after that standard was rendered obsolete?

(5) Did Mr Norm Foster, the Department of Fair Trading's Acting Manager of Building Disputes, on a site inspection of a property in Cary Street, Leichhardt, referred to SAA HB 39 1997 and suggested that overflow measures consistent with that standard would be adequate?

2362 PLANNING—DEE WHY TOWN CENTRE—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services representing the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

(1) Did the Administrator, Dick Persson, insist that the maximum height proposal proceed, despite Mr John Vambucca, one of the joint partners in the original proposed height increase, approaching Warringah Council's Administrator to lower the height of the Towers?


(2) Did the Administrator, Dick Persson, justify the increase in height limits assuring the community that community services would be provided on the Warringah Council site commonly referred to as Site "A"?

(3) Was it revealed the day after the Independent Hearing and Assessment Panel Hearing on the development applications for the towers in the Dee Why Town Centre, that Dick Persson had determined to sell site "A". (a) If so, will this deprive the Warringah community of essential community services and mislead

the Independent Hearing and Assessment Panel?

(4) In view of the above and the many irregularities in Mr Dick Persson's handling of this matter, will the Minister remit the Draft Local Environmental Plan (LEP) back to Warringah Council so it can develop a Master Plan so that sound urban planning principles can be applied for the future of the area? If not, why not?

(5) Are there any infrastructure deficiencies on the northern beaches which make the proposed height limit unsustainable?

(6) Will the cut of the Manly Jet Cat Service, as well as bus services, impose further adverse impacts on the northern beaches should the proposed LEP be approved by her?

(7) If the Minister approves the LEP, what funding will the Government allocate to cope with the developments it facilitates?

2363 PLANNING—PROPOSED DEVELOPMENTS AT RED HILL AND BEACON HILL—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services representing the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

(1) Has the Minister or her Department received any application⁄s for development at Red Hill⁄Beacon Hill in the Warringah Council area? (a) If so,

(i) what does the application include?(ii) why was Warringah Council and residents not notified?(iii) what date did the Minister or Department receive the application?(iv) when is this application expected to be determined?(v) what can the Warringah community do to have their concerns about the proposal heard?

2364 PLANNING—PROPOSED SUB-DIVISION AND DEVELOPMENT OF CROMER GOLF CLUB—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services representing the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

(1) Has the Minister or her Department received any application⁄s for sub-division and⁄or development at Cromer Golf Club, Cromer in the Warringah Council area? (a) If so,

(i) what does the application include?(ii) what date did the Minister or Department receive the application?(iii) when is this application expected to be determined?(iv) what can the Warringah community do to have their concerns about the proposal heard?

2365 PLANNING—PROPOSED SID LONDISH RETIREMENT VILLAGE, OXFORD FALLS—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Emergency Services representing the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

(1) Has the Minister or her Department received any application⁄s for a retirement village development at Oxford Falls in the Warringah Council area? (a) If so,

(i) what does the application include?(ii) what has the Department done to notify the Council and residents of the proposal?(iii) what date did the Minister or Department receive the application?(iv) when is this application expected to be determined?

2733


(v) what can the Warringah community do to have their concerns about the proposal heard?

2366 ROADS—INCREASED BUS MOVEMENTS IN SYDNEY'S NORTHWEST—Ms Ficarra to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Roads—

(1) What improved road infrastructure is planned to accommodate the increase in bus movements in Sydney's northwest sector?

(2) What will be the estimated road traffic counts over the next 5 years on major state owned roads in this northwest sector?

(3) What level of cooperation and assistance will be given to local councils in the region to enable them to service their local road system to better handle the increased bus transport?

(4) Does the Roads and Traffic Authority have any plans for the widening or improving of Showground Road? (a) If so, what is the timeframe for such works?

(5) Are enhancements planned for the Terminus Street portion of the ring road bypassing Castle Hill? (a) If so, what is the timeframe for such works?

(6) Are there plans to connect the west facing ramps at Baulkham Hills with the M2? (a) If so,

(i) what is the timeframe for such works?(ii) would such works necessitate an increase in toll fees?

2367 TRANSPORT—BUS TRAVEL FROM HILLS DISTRICT TO SYDNEY OLYMPIC PARK—Ms Ficarra to ask the Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

(1) With major corporations like the Commonwealth Bank of Australia moving to the Sydney Olympic Park, how can bus transport be made easier and more frequent from the Hills District during peak hours on weekdays?

2368 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—PUBLIC SCHOOL COUNSELLORS—Ms Ficarra to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1) At 30 June 2008, what was the number of part-time and full-time school counsellors in our public school system in Sydney and rural and regional New South Wales? (a) What levels are expected for 2009, 2010 and 2011?

(2) Do all these school counsellors have teaching qualifications? (a) What are the minimum requirements?

(3) Are there plans to reduce teacher training requirements for counsellor's employment criteria? (a) If so, how do you justify such a downgrading of qualifications?

2369 CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE ENVIRONMENT—SPRINGVALE-DELTA WATER TRANSFER SCHEME—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

(1) Is the Minister aware that whenever the Springvale-Delta Water Transfer Scheme is not operating, large quantities of highly saline coal mine water are dumped into swamps on Newnes Plateau, where it flows into the Wolgan River?

(2) Is the dumping of this mine water detrimental to the health of swamps on the Newnes Plateau?(3) What action will the Minister take to prevent this mine water pollution of the swamps on the Newnes

Plateau? (a) When will that action be taken?


2370 CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE ENVIRONMENT—POWER STATION DUMPING AND SYDNEY'S WATER SUPPLY—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

(1) What damage to the environment is being caused by power stations dumping salt, large quantities of highly toxic corrosion inhibitors, oxygen scavengers and water treatment chemicals each year into the Upper Cox's River and catchment? (a) Is it reducing the quality of Sydney's drinking water supply?

2371 CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE ENVIRONMENT—HUNTER RIVER SALINITY TRADING SCHEME—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

(1) Will the Minister introduce a scheme similar to the Hunter River Salinity Trading Scheme for the Cox's River? (a) If so, when?(b) If not, why not?

2372 CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE ENVIRONMENT—DUMPING OF SALT AND TOXIC CHEMICALS INTO THE UPPER COX'S RIVER—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

What action is the Minister taking to significantly reduce or end the dumping of salt and toxic chemicals by power stations into the Upper Cox's River?

2373 CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE ENVIRONMENT—DELTA ELECTRICITY—DUMPING OF SALT INTO THE UPPER COX'S RIVER—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

(1) Is it true that during the three year period from 2005 to 2007 Delta Electricity paid approximately $960,000 in fees for Load Based Licences issued by the Environment Protection Authority to dump approximately 32 tonnes of salt into the Upper Cox's River? (a) If not,

(i) what fees were paid?(ii) how much salt was dumped into the Upper Cox's River by Delta Electricity during those

three years?

2374 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—INSTALLATION OF WIND TURBINE AT NIMMITABEL PUBLIC SCHOOL—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1) Has the Department of Education and Training made a decision regarding the application to install a wind turbine at Nimmitabel Public School? (a) If so, what is that decision?

2375 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—INJURIES CAUSED FROM WIND TURBINES IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1) Does the Department of Education and Training Asset Management Unit have any evidence of injury caused to students or staff from wind turbines in NSW public schools? (a) If so,

(i) when and where have these injuries occurred?

2735


2376 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—POLICY ON WIND TURBINES IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS—Dr Kaye to ask the Attorney General, Minister for Justice, and Minister for Industrial Relations representing the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

What is the Department of Education and Training's policy on the installation of wind turbines in public schools?

Lynn LovelockClerk of the Parliaments

_________________________________________ Authorised by the Parliament of New South Wales


Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 78

Documents

Transcript of Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 78