QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS - parliament.nsw.gov.au · QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS No. 35 THURSDAY 21 DECEMBER 2006 (The Questions and Answers Paper, published according to sessional order, contains

LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL

QUESTIONS AND

ANSWERS

No. 35

THURSDAY 21 DECEMBER 2006

(The Questions and Answers Paper, published according to sessional order, contains by number and title, all unanswered questions, together with questions to which answers have been received as at 21 December 2006.)

Notice given on date shown

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Publication of Questions Answer to be lodged by

Q & A No. 26 (Including Question Nos 0372 to 0378) 19 December 2006






Q & A No. 32 (Questions—Nil) -




638Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 35— Thursday 21 December 2006

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Q & A No. 32 Paper published according to sessional order (no questions submitted)

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14 NOVEMBER 2006(Paper No. 26)

*373 ENVIRONMENT—NANOTECHNOLOGIES—Ms Rhiannon asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—

(1) Did the report on nanotechnology, produced in 2004 entitled "Nanotechnologies: Opportunities and Uncertainties", by the United Kingdom's Royal Society and Royal Academy of Engineering raise serious concerns about the toxicity of nanoparticles and nanomaterials and the risks they pose to human health and the environment?

(2) Did the Royal Society and Royal Academy of Engineering state, "Until more is known about environmental impacts of nanoparticles and nanotubes, we recommend that the release of manufactured nanoparticles and nanotubes into the environment be avoided as far as possible" (Section 5.7: paragraph 63)?

(3) Did the Royal Society and Royal Academy of Engineering make the specific recommendation that: "in relation to two main sources of current and potential releases of free nanoparticles and nanotubes to the environment, we recommend:(a) that factories and research laboratories treat manufactured nanoparticles and nanotubes as if

they were hazardous, and seek to reduce or remove them from waste streams. (Section 5.4: paragraph 41)

(b) that the use of free (that is, not fixed in a matrix) manufactured nanoparticles in environmental applications such as remediation be prohibited until appropriate research has been undertaken and it can be demonstrated that the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks. (Section 5.4: paragraph 44)"?

(4) What steps has the Minister taken to review the State's existing environmental regulations to assess whether or not they are adequate to protect the environment from the hazards posed by nanoparticles and nanomaterials?

(5)(a) Do existing regulations require factories and research laboratories to treat manufactured

nanoparticles and nanotubes as if they were hazardous, and seek to reduce or remove them from waste streams?

(b) If not, why not?

(6) If not, what steps will be taken to ensure that manufactured nanoparticles and nanotubes will be reduced or removed from both factory and research laboratory waste streams?

(7)(a) Do existing regulations prohibit the use of free manufactured nanoparticles in environmental

applications such as remediation and waste treatment?(b) If not, what steps will be taken to ensure that nanoparticle or nanomaterial-based environmental

applications are prohibited in New South Wales, until such time as appropriate research has been undertaken and it can be demonstrated that the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks?

(8)(a) Is there any existing use, or intended use, of nanoparticle or nanomaterial-based environmental

applications such as for remediation and waste treatment in New South Wales?(b) If so, what applications are planned and where will these applications be manufactured?

(9)(a) Are there any plans in place for the use of nanoparticle or nanomaterial-based environmental

applications at the Woodlawn Bioreactor?(b) If so, what are the details of this plan?

Answer—

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Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 35— Thursday 21 December 2006

I understand that the 2004 report on nanotechnology raised concerns about nanoparticles and nanomaterials, and the risks they pose to human health and the environment. Please refer directly to the report for further information.I am advised that the Federal Government is considering whether its regulatory framework is appropriate for assessing and regulating nanomaterials, in order to protect human health and the environment. All States and Territories are being consulted on this work.In New South Wales, all wastes, including those that contain manufactured nanoparticles and nanotubes, are required to be properly assessed, classified and managed.Existing regulation does not prohibit the use of free manufactured nanoparticles in environmental applications such as remediation and waste treatment. However, the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) advises that it is not aware of any existing use, or intended use, of nanoparticle or nanomaterial-based environmental applications, such as for remediation and waste treatment, anywhere in NSW.DEC is not aware of any plans in place for the use of nanoparticle or nanomaterial-based environmental applications at the Woodlawn Bioreactor.

*374 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—SUPPORT FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS—Ms Rhiannon asked the Minister for Health representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1)(a) Will resource based funding for children with special needs cease to operate at the end of 2006?(b) If so, why?

(2) What impacts would reverting to the previous funding model have on the ability of SSPs and support units to deliver quality educational services for children with special needs?

(3) Will the Government implement the findings of the Comino Review in respect of staffing and resources for children with special needs?(a) If not, why not?(b) If so, when?

(4) What steps will be taken to ensure that children with multiple disabilities receive the resources according to their support needs?

Answer— (1) The resource based staffing trial has been replaced by the Government's Special Education Initiative

which has provided more than 660 teachers aide special positions to support classes in regular schools and support classes in SSPs.

(2) There is no reversion to a previous funding model. On 18 August 2004, the Government announced a plan to overhaul special education. The Government's Special Education Initiative 2005 2007 included the provision of a new staffing model where all classes in SSPs and support classes in regular schools will have a teacher and teachers aide special.

(3) The Government's Special Education Initiative 2005 2007 has embraced the findings of the Comino Review of Special Education Staffing Formulae and is part of the Government's $834 million for 2006⁄2007 to support students with special needs.

(4) The 2006 Auditor-General's Report Educating Primary School Students with Disabilities recognised the appropriateness of the Government's Special Education Initiative and has provided the Department of Education and Training with guidance for further planning and enhancements to special education. This report makes specific recommendations on the way in which students with special needs could be better assessed to ensure that resources are better allocated against the specific additional educational needs of students with disabilities.

*375 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—REDEVELOPMENTS OF HOLROYD SCHOOL—Ms Rhiannon asked the Minister for Health representing the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) Where are the proposed redevelopments of Holroyd School in the priority list?(2) For each stage of the redevelopment that has not yet been undertaken, when is it estimated that these

redevelopments will commence and when are they expected to be completed?


Answer— The Government is committed to the provision of the best possible facilities for staff and students at schools across the State.In 2006⁄2007, the Iemma Government is investing a record $486 million to upgrade facilities at public schools. This is the biggest school rebuilding program in the history of NSW and highlights a 145 per cent increase in funding since the Opposition was last in government.The NSW Labor Government's record is impressive with over 360 major school upgrades worth more than $1 million each (e.g. halls, libraries, gyms, additional classrooms) being completed since 1995.Funding for Stage One of the upgrade of accommodation at Holroyd School was approved in two phases as part of the 2000⁄2001 and 2003⁄2004 Major Capital Works Programs, at a total cost of $5.753 million. The Stage One works were completed during 2004 and 2006.Funding for Stage Two will continue to be considered in the context of competing regional and state-wide priorities. I am unable to provide a timeframe as this will be dependent on future State Budget considerations.

*376 MINERAL RESOURCES—MONEY RAISED FROM LEVY ON MINING COMPANIES—Ms Rhiannon asked the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—

(1) How much money will the Department of Mineral Resources raise via a levy placed on mining companies under recommendation three of the New South Wales Mine Safety Review Report?

(2) How does the Department of Mineral Resources plan to spend this money?

Answer— (1) Recommendation 3 refers to consultation with employers and employees in Regulation development.

No money is raised as a result of this recommendation.(2) See above.

*377 HEALTH—INCARCERATION OF KYLIE FITTER—Ms Rhiannon asked the Minister for Health—

(1)(a) Were the majority of recommendations from the Mental Health Review Tribunal for the

conditional release of Kylie Fitter approved by the Minister for Health under the power of "executive discretion" following thorough investigation and risk assessment of each case by the Tribunal?

(b) Are very few of the recommendations for conditional release now coming from the Mental Health Review Tribunal being approved by the Minister for Health under the power of "executive discretion"?(i) If so, why?

(c) What is the reason for this change?

(2) Has Kylie Fitter, a juvenile forensic mental health detainee, been assessed by multiple forensic psychiatrists for over three years and, during that time, been found on six separate occasions to be free of psychiatric symptoms, to be in no need of any medication, and to be of low to minimal risk of future psychotic episodes?

(3) Has Kylie Fitter been recommended for conditional release on four separate occasions?(4) If so, why is Kylie Fitter still incarcerated at Juniperina Juvenile Justice Centre?(5)

(a) Is Kylie Fitter being punished now that treatment is no longer required?(b) If so, why?

(6) Did the program "60 Minutes" televise a piece on Kylie Fitter, in which Ms Fitter's maternal aunt was shown acknowledging that her opposition to Kylie's release was like "a game of chess" and that she "liked winning"?(a) Did Ms Fitter's aunt successfully claim $50,000 in victim's compensation?(b) Has Ms Fitter's aunt successfully lobbied the Government to have the Forfeiture Law changed

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to enable her to successfully cross claim for her late sister's estate?(c) Has Ms Fitter's aunt settled out of court for undisclosed damages arising from purported

negligence by Pialla Psychiatric Unit for releasing her late sister's husband when he was dangerously unstable?

(d) Is Ms Fitter's aunt currently pursuing a claim on her late sister's superannuation to bring her financial gain from her late sister's death to more than $250,000?

Answer— (1) Recommendations and decisions about forensic patients are made in accordance with the Mental

Health Act 1990.(2) Ms Fitter is an adult forensic patient within the meaning of the Mental Health Act 1990 who entered

the forensic system as a juvenile. The patient has been assessed by a specialist forensic psychiatrist. The result of that assessment is a matter of her personal record that I am not at liberty to disclose.

(3) and (4) Ms Fitter is currently detained with liberal leave privileges at the Juniperina Juvenile Detention Centre Additional information is required to determine the recommendation for conditional release.

(5) No.(6) These matters fall outside the parameters of my portfolio responsibilities.

*378 ENVIRONMENT—KANGAROO POPULATIONS—Mr Breen asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—

(1) Has the Department of Environment and Conservation undertaken modelling to determine the effects of global warming and continuing drought on kangaroo populations? (a) If not, why not?(b) If so, when?(c) If so, what does this modelling indicate about future trends and movements in populations?

(2) Is the current drought the worst on record?(3) Do aerial surveys this year show a decrease in the populations of:

(a) Red kangaroos?(b) Western Grey kangaroos?(c) Eastern Grey kangaroos?

(4)(a) Are populations in some areas below two animals per square kilometre?(b) If so, which areas?(c) What are the populations of Red, Western Grey and Eastern Grey kangaroos per square

kilometre in these areas?

(5) Do some scientists regard two kangaroos per square kilometre as "quasi extinction" levels?(6) Are commercial quotas intended to be approved in areas where kangaroo populations have dropped

to two per square kilometre or less? (a) If not, why not?(b) If so, when?

(7) On what basis is the commercial killing of kangaroos at these levels justified?(8)

(a) Is there any level to which populations would drop before the approval of commercial killing is blocked?


(9)(a) Would commercial quotas be approved in areas where the population has dropped to one per


square kilometre or less?(b) If so, why?

(10) Does evidence show that 74 percent of kangaroos being shot earlier this year were females?(11)

(a) Has the Department of Environment and Conservation been instructed to investigate these allegations of a high female⁄male ratio of killing?


(12) What are the biological and population implications of such a high rate of killing of female kangaroos?

(13) What does the Code of Practice for the Humane Shooting of Kangaroos say about the killing of young at foot?

(14) Does evidence show that almost all the young at foot die when their mothers are killed?(15)

(a) Are the majority of young at foot left to die by shooters?(b) Is this acceptable under the Code of Practice for the Humane Shooting of Kangaroos?

(16) To prevent cruelty to young kangaroos, why is the killing of pregnant female kangaroos allowed?(17)

(a) Has permission been given to issue tags to shooters for 2007?(b) If not, why not?

(18) Are shooters currently able to buy these tags?(19)

(a) Has a commercial killing program for kangaroos in 2007 been approved to continue regardless of the impact of the drought on populations and in particular female kangaroos and their young?

(b) If so, why?

(20)(a) Has the Federal Minister for the Environment already approved a quota for 2007?(b) If so, when?

(21) What are the quotas proposed for kangaroos in New South Wales in 2007?(22) If the drought worsens, how will kangaroo populations under pressure from lack of water and feed,

plus the commercial industry, be prevented from dropping from two or less per square kilometre to zero per square kilometre?

(23) Do you regard the kangaroo industry as having a higher priority than the survival of kangaroos? What is the Government's stance on the kangaroo industry?

Answer— Effects of Drought and Global Warming.The Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) undertook modelling in 2003 to determine the effects of continuing drought on kangaroo populations.The modelling indicated that at current harvest rates, the overwhelming influence on population declines is rainfall deficit, not harvest. In other words, rainfall is the primary driver for fluctuations in kangaroo populations.Kangaroo PopulationsAs you would expect, seasonal conditions are variable across the ranges of kangaroos harvested in NSW. Generally, where good rainfall was recorded in late 2005⁄ early 2006 populations have increased in response to better resource availability.Aerial surveys this year show a decrease of 2.6% in Red Kangaroos, an increase of 8.5% in Western Grey Kangaroos, and an increase of 7.1 % in Eastern Grey Kangaroos across the Western Plains of NSW.

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Populations in Broken Hill and Tibooburra zones (eastern grey kangaroos), Tibooburra and Griffith and Bourke zones (western grey kangaroos), are below two animals per square kilometre. In these areas, populations per square kilometre are as follows:

• Broken Hill zone 0.86 per square kilometre for eastern grey kangaroos;• Tibooburra zone - 0.78 and 0.3 per square kilometre respectively for eastern and western grey

kangaroos;• Griffith zone 0.94 per square kilometre for western grey kangaroos; and• Bourke zone 0.7 per square kilometre for western grey kangaroos.

Commercial Quotas - 2007In 2007, the NSW commercial quota is to be calculated in accordance with the Kangaroo Management Plan 2007-2011.The commercial quota for 2007 will not be released until the end of December, for commencement in January 2007. Permission has not been given to issue tags for shooters for 2007 at this time.I am advised that the proportional harvest strategy is considered to be appropriate in the long term, including at densities of less than two animals per kilometre. Annual surveys provide opportunities for regular adjustments to the harvest based on new population estimates.The goal of the Kangaroo Management Program is to balance sustainable harvesting with the maintenance of viable kangaroo populations in the long term. The most recent population estimates do not indicate a significant decline since 2005, despite ongoing drought conditions. Kangaroos remain widespread and abundant in NSW at these densities.Females Kangaroos and their YoungDEC has investigated allegations that 74 per cent of kangaroos shot earlier this year were females, and found them to be unsubstantiated. The current Code of Practice for the Humane Shooting of Kangaroos does not explicitly cover young at foot. I am advised that the code is being reviewed, and this issue is being addressed in the review process.


*379 INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS—WORKCOVER SCHEME SURPLUS—Ms Hale asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) Did the WorkCover scheme run a $2 billion plus surplus in the last year?(2) What was the change in scheme revenues and expenditure on injured workers between last year and

the previous year?(3)

(a) Will the Government apply the WorkCover scheme surplus to injured workers?(b) If not, what will the surplus be spent on?

Answer— (1) As at 30 June 2006, the Scheme reported a surplus of $85 million.(2) Information on payments to injured workers is published in WorkCover's annual Statistical Bulletin.

Information about revenues is published in WorkCover's Annual Report.(3) As a result of the Government's legislative reforms and sound management of the WorkCover

Scheme, it has been possible to:• retire the Scheme deficit; ·• provide a five percent increase in permanent impairment benefits for workers who suffer serious

spinal injuries;• provide a ten percent across-the-board increase in permanent impairment benefits for injured

workers at a cost of $21 million per annum;• fund a new $74 million Apprentice Incentive Scheme aimed at increasing the State's skills base

for the future; ·


• provide three separate workers compensation premium rate reductions totalling 20 percent, representing a saving of $560 million per year for the State's employers; and ·

• commence a full review of the benefits available to injured workers under the Workers Compensation Act 1987, being overseen by the WorkCover Board, to be completed in 2007.

*381 HOUSING—SALE OF PROPERTIES IN WELLINGTON STREET, WATERLOO—Ms Hale asked the Minister for Health representing the Minister for Housing, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health)—

(1) Were 51, 53, 55, 61, and 63 Wellington Street, Waterloo occupied by Department of Housing tenants prior to their sale?

(2) When did these tenants receive a notice of termination?(3) Were these tenants offered transfers in the area of their choice?(4) What is the reason for the department's decision to sell 51, 53, 55, 61 and 63 Wellington Street?(5) Did 51 Wellington Street sell for $405,000?(6) Did 53 Wellington Street sell for $425,000?(7) Did 55 Wellington Street sell for $440,000?(8) What was the total return from the sale of 51, 53 and 55 Wellington Street to the Government minus

fees paid to the agent and other costs?(9)

(a) Has 61 Wellington Street been sold?(b) If so, for how much?

(10)(a) Has 63 Wellington Street been sold?(b) If so, for how much?

(11) What was the total return from the sale of 61 and 63 Wellington Street to the Government minus fees paid to the agent and other costs?

(12) Is the money from the sale of these properties to be retained by the Department of Housing with consideration for section 65 of the NSW Housing Act 2001 which enables monies received from sale of property to be paid into consolidated revenue?

(13)(a) Will the money from the sale of these properties be allocated to the supply of social housing for

the Department of Housing tenancy applicants?(b) If not, why not?

(14) Is the Department of Housing going to replace the housing stock represented by these properties?(a) If not, why not?(b) If so, in the Waterloo area?(c) If not, where?

(15)(a) Was a moratorium placed on the Department of Housing property sales in the area covered by

the Redfern Waterloo Authority until the RWA Built Environment Plan, phases one and two, had been signed off by the NSW Cabinet?

(b) If so, why was that moratorium lifted?

Answer— (1) 3 of the dwellings were not occupied(2) Notice of terminations were not required.(3) Yes.(4) It was not economically viable to maintain these properties due to high maintenance costs and major

structural issues.

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(5) to (7) Property sales and information can be obtained through the NSW Department of Lands.(8) This information is considered commercial in confidence.(9) and (10) property sales information can be obtained through the NSW Department of Lands.(11) This information is considered commercial in confidence.(12) The money will be retained by the Department of Housing.(13) Yes.(14)

(a) Yes.(b) and (c) Acquisitions are yet to be identified.

(15) No.

*382 HOUSING—MONEY SPENT ON DIRECTOR GENERAL'S OFFICE AND DRIVER—Ms Hale asked the Minister for Health representing the Minister for Housing, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health)—

(1) How much was spent on refurbishing (including the purchase of any new fittings, furniture, artworks) the office occupied by Mr Terry Barnes, when he was appointed as Director General of the Department of Housing?

(2)(a) Was a personal driver employed for Mr Barnes?(b) If so, what was the cost of the employment of the driver for each year that Mr Barnes was

Director General?

(3)(a) Is the current Director General now occupying the same offices?(b) If not, why not?

(4)(a) Have any additional funds been spent on refurbishing the offices or replacing fittings, furniture,

artworks, since the new Director General was appointed?(b) If so, how much?

(5)(a) Does the current Director General have a driver?(b) If so, what are the total costs of the employment of that driver?

Answer— (1) The refurbishment of the Director-General's Office was undertaken with an approved budget and to

bring the office up to an acceptable standard.(2) No.(3) Yes.(4) No.(5) No.

*383 HOUSING—COMPLEX ON PETERSHAM ROAD, MARRICKVILLE—Ms Hale asked the Minister for Health representing the Minister for Housing, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health)—

(1) Are there any plans to sell all or part of the Department of Housing complex at 50 Petersham Road, Marrickville?(a) If so, why?(b) If so, when?

Answer—


(1) No.

*384 HEALTH—BEDS AVAILABLE IN PSYCHIATRIC WARDS—Ms Hale asked the Minister for Health—

(1)(a) What are the current numbers, types and locations of psychiatric beds in New South Wales?(b) What are the numbers, types, locations, and estimated delivery dates of proposed new beds?

(2)(a) What are the numbers, types and locations of beds proposed to be closed in the next three

months?(b) What are the numbers, types and locations of any beds that are currently not operating because

of staff shortages or other reasons?

(3) What is the number of psychiatric beds in New South Wales per 100,000 population as of October 2006, and projected per 100,000 population at 30 July 2008?

(4) Will the documents entitled "NSW Mental Health Planning Framework 2005-2010," and "NSW Community Mental Health Strategy, From Prevention and Early Intervention to Recovery" be released? (a) If so, when?(b) If not, why not?

(5) Will information not included in the document released earlier this year entitled "NSW: A new direction for Mental Health", be released detailing who would be conducting monitoring of mental illness among homeless populations and how?

(6) If so, (a) Where, when, how will it be published?(b) Will the data be released directly to Parliament?(c) Will it be released on an annual basis?

(i) If not, why not?(ii) If not, how often will it be released?

(7) What are the Minister for Health's and department's plans for the future maintenance and protection of the heritage gardens and buildings at Callan Park?

Answer— (1) to (3) The Department of Health publishes information about the number and type of mental health

beds available in NSW public health facilities each year in its Annual Report. See the 2006 Report on Government Services.

(4) These documents are in the final stages of preparation.

*385 PLANNING—REHABILITATION SERVICE AT CALLAN PARK—Ms Hale asked the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter representing the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

(1)(a) Have the leasing and other arrangements for the drug and alcohol rehabilitation service We Help

Ourselves (WHOS) at Callan Park been terminated or will they be terminated in the near future?(b) If so, why?

(2)(a) Are there plans for the sale or development of the WHOS site?(b) If so, why?

(3) Are there any agreements as to who will be given the use of the WHOS buildings at Callan Park, and the newly-renovated neurophysiology building?

(4) What are the Minister for Planning and department's plans for the future maintenance and protection

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of the heritage gardens and buildings at Callan Park?

Answer— (1) No.(2) and (3) Future uses of Callan Park will be dictated by the provisions of the Callan Park Act.(4) This question should be directed to the owners of Callan Park.

*386 PLANNING—WHITE BAY BULK CEMENT TERMINAL AND ROZELLE DRY DOCK STORAGE—Ms Hale asked the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter representing the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

(1)(a) What is the current timeline for the assessment of the proposals for White Bay Bulk Cement

Terminal and Rozelle Dry Dock Storage?(b) When will the community and Leichhardt Council be informed of the Minister's decision?

(2) What consultation has been undertaken by the Minister and the Department of Planning with Leichhardt Council staff and with Leichhardt Council's elected representatives on the issues of White Bay and Rozelle Bay?

(3) What consultation is the Minister or the Department of Planning intending to undertake with Leichhardt Council staff and Leichhardt Council's elected representatives on the issue of White Bay and Rozelle Bay?

(4) How much money in total has been paid to the Department of Planning by developers for the assessment of applications under Part 3A and under Major Projects 2005?

(5) How much does this differ from the amount that would have been paid to Leichhardt Council if they had been the consent authority for these proposals?

(6) How much money is the Department of Planning paying to Leichhardt Council to compensate for the costs of the Council preparing detailed submissions on these proposals?

(7) Is a Masterplan being developed for the White Bay⁄ Rozelle Bay area?

Answer— (1)

(a) On 24 November 2006, Independent Cement and Lime Pty Ltd withdrew its project application for the White Bay Cement Terminal. The exhibition period for the Rozelle Dry Boat Storage facility ended on 20 October 2006. All submissions received by the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority were forwarded to the proponent. The proponent is currently preparing its response to submissions, and the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority will finalise its assessment of the proposal once it has received this response.

(b) See answer to (a) for the White Bay Cement Terminal. My Department will inform the community and Council within 14 days of my decision on the Rozelle Dry Boat Storage in accordance with the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000.

(2) See answer to (1a) for the White Bay Cement Terminal. In regard to the Rozelle Dry Boat Storage facility, the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority provided Council with copies of the Environmental Assessment on 18 September 2006. I also met with representatives of the community and the Council at Leichhardt Town Hall on 20 November 2006. I am advised that Council made a submission on the proposal, and that the issues raised by Council are being considered by the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority in its assessment.

(3) My Department, the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority, and I will continue to consult with Council on all major projects proposed for the White Bay and Rozelle Bay areas in accordance with the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

(4) This information is contained in the Department's Annual Reports.(5) Development application fees are set under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation

2000, and the fee is the same regardless of who the consent authority is.(6) The development applications are being assessed in accordance with the provisions of the


Environmental Planning and Assessment Act.(7) The Premier has stated publicly that he supports the concept of a Masterplan for the area.

*387 PLANNING—DRAFT STATE ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING POLICY—Ms Hale asked the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter representing the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

(1) Will the draft State Environmental Planning policy allow lands zoned for special uses to adopt the planning provisions of adjoining lands and without consideration of the impacts on the strategic direction of a particular locality or broader precinct?(a) If so, does this mean that at least some of the special uses zoned land such as Yasmar Juvenile

Detention Centre in Haberfield could be subdivided and rezoned as residential if this policy is adopted by the Government?

(b) If so, does this mean that special uses land such as Rozelle Psychiatric hospital could be rezoned and subdivided as residential if this policy is adopted by the Government?

(2) What implication does this draft policy have on the future uses and undertakings at Callan Park and the relationship between the Draft Policy and Callan Park (Special Provisions) Act 2002?

(3) Would there be a reduced need for consultation, local planning assessment, environmental impacts and detailed understanding of localised land use dynamic for major road projects, such as M4 East, under this policy?

(4) Would a "compatibility statement", as detailed in the draft policy, allow rezoning of educational or hospital land to residential without the need for a rezoning application, an environmental impact statement or a detailed strategic assessment?

(5) What steps is the Department of Planning taking to ensure that the wider public and all present and future stakeholders that could be impacted on by this policy are informed and have sufficient time to prepare detailed submissions?

(6) How is the Department of Planning financially compensating local councils for the costs of preparing submissions on this draft policy?

Answer— (1) to (6) The Department of Planning is currently dealing with a number of draft State Environmental

Planning Policies (SEPPs). The member will need to clarify which draft SEPP is referred to in the question.

*388 PLANNING—MULTIPLEX ROZELLE SITE—Ms Hale asked the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter representing the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

(1) Has a Department of Planning planner been assigned to deal with the Multiplex Masterplan development and liaise with Leichhardt Council about the project?

(2) If so, (a) What is the brief of this planner?(b) What authority will this person have?(c) Who will bear the costs for this planner?

(3) Does the Minister intend to call in the application?(4) Under what criteria would such a decision be made?

Answer— (1) and (2) Not specifically, a Department of Planning senior officer will oversee progress of the matter,

and mediate where appropriate. This will involve liaising with both the Council, the proponent and the RTA. This was discussed with both parties, who are supportive of the approach.

(3) and (4) I have declined to call in the project to date and have indicated my preference for Council and the proponent to try and resolve the matter.

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*389 PLANNING—TAYLOR OVAL MOREE—Ms Hale asked the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter representing the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

(1) Has there been an ongoing debate in Moree about the future of Taylor Oval which is Crown land and owned by the Department of Lands?

(2) What involvement has the Department had on this issue?(3)

(a) Will the Government be allowing the sale or lease of that land or part thereof to Big W?(b) If so, why?

Answer— Matters involving the sale or lease of Crown Land owned by the Department of Lands do not fall within my portfolio areas.


*390 PLANNING—AGILITY ALLIANCE GAS PIPELINE—Revd Mr Nile asked the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter representing the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

(1) Have studies been conducted to determine any safety dangers associated with large gas pipelines?(a) If so, what were the outcomes?(b) If so, what action has been taken to address these dangers and reduce risk to the public?(c) If not, why not?

(2)(a) Will the proposed Agility Alliance gas pipeline run through the residential streets of Panania,

Revesby and Padstow?(b) If so, why?

(3)(a) Will the Government ensure that residents are afforded the best protection possible and have the

pipeline routed through safer, non-residential areas?(b) If not, why not?

Answer— I am advised that the project is being undertaken under the Gas Supply Act for which the Energy Minister is responsible. Matters concerning energy supply and safety should be referred to the Minister for Energy also.

*391 ENVIRONMENT—ASIAN ELEPHANTS—Mr Cohen asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—

(1)(a) Will the Government ensure that the conditions for the housing and monitoring of the Asian

elephants at Taronga Zoo, required by the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT), are met now and in the long-term?


(2) What action will be taken if these conditions are not maintained in the long-term?


(3) Given the history of elephants in captivity worldwide showing severe signs of psychological distress, does the Government have a plan if similar psychological and ⁄ or behavioural symptoms start to become evident in Taronga Zoo's newly imported elephants?(a) If not, why not?(b) If so, what are the details of the plan?

Answer— The Zoological Parks Board of New South Wales is committed to the conservation of Asian Elephants, of which there are only 34,000 left in the world today. The Australasian Regional Association of Zoos and Aquaria (ARAZPA) have developed a comprehensive Cooperative Conservation Program and Guidelines for all institutions involved in the conservation of this endangered species. The program fully addresses the welfare needs of the animals and was developed in consultation with internationally recognised elephant experts.The Zoos are working closely with the Federal Department of Environment and Heritage on all the conditions outlined by the AAT, of which 82% were already planned or partly planned by the Zoos.Taronga Zoo is also part of an Australasian conservation exchange network working with Thailand authorities in on-ground elephant conservation projects. This will contribute to the survival of Thailand's remaining wild elephants, education programs, and the exchange of husbandry and breeding expertise.

*392 NATURAL RESOURCES—IRRIGATORS IN LOWER GWYDIR AREA—Mr Cohen asked the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—

(1) Are long-time farmers in the Lower Gwydir area of New South Wales adversely affected by 12 large irrigators who are buying up remaining sustainable yield allocations of water?

(2)(a) Why has the Department of Natural Resources allowed some water transfers to be included for

determining HOE (History of Extraction), yet rejected the State approved and stamped transfers for land and water for Mr and Mrs Woods of Wood Park, Moree?

(b) Why did the Minister assure the Woods that all transfers would be counted?

Answer— (1) No. The Department of Natural Resources have not received any applications to trade groundwater

entitlement in the Lower Gwydir Groundwater Source. Only one enquiry has been received since the Water Sharing Plan commenced.

(2)(a) Under the Achieving Sustainable Groundwater Entitlement Program all known temporary

transfers of water from one property entitlement to another in the Lower Gwydir Groundwater Source were included when determining the History of Extraction for the seller of the water. Mr Woods temporarily transferred 200 ML of account water to another licence holder in the 1995⁄1996 water year under the Water Act 1912. This volume was included when determining Mr Wood's History of Extraction. Mr Woods twice leased part or all of his property including the right to extract water under his Water Act 1912 licences to another party from June 1998 to May 2002. The leases were registered with the Register General and subject to stamp duty. This did not constitute a temporary transfer of account water under the Water Act 1912. The lessee extracted water during this period under Mr Wood's property entitlement from bores on Mr Wood's land. The volume extracted by the lessee was included when determining Mr Wood's History of Extraction.

(b) The rules for determining History of Extraction under the Achieving Sustainable Groundwater Entitlement Program provide for temporary transfers of water under the Water Act 1912 from one property entitlement to another to be included when determining the History of Extraction for the seller of the water.

*393 ENERGY—VALES POINT POWER STATION EXPLOSION—Mr Cohen asked the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter representing the Minister for Energy, Minister for Ports and Waterways, and Minister Assisting the Treasurer on Business and Economic Regulatory Reform—

(1)

651


(a) Did a transformer of the Vales Point Power Station on Lake Macquarie explode on 8 November 2006 resulting in a large quantity of smoke from burning transformer oil escaping into the surrounding area?

(b) Did some of the transformer oil also leak into a water canal and into Lake Macquarie?

(2) What action is being taken to protect the local community and ecosystem from further damage considering the smoke and oil were likely to contain Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCB's) known to cause serious health and environmental effects?

(3)(a) Will the Vales Point Power Station, built in the 1960's, and other power stations of the same

vintage be closed to avoid further damage to the environment?(b) If not, why not?

(4)(a) In light of the explosion, will renewable energy be considered as an alternative?(b) If not, why not?

Answer— (1)

(a) At approximately 10:20am Wednesday 8 November, the Vales Point Unit 6A Generator Transformer failed resulting in two explosions and consequential oil fire.

(b) A relatively small quantity of oil escaped to the cooling water inlet canal where it was contained and consumed by fire. Residual oil sheens were subsequently cleaned up effectively by power station staff and in accordance with Environment Protection Authority (EPA) assessment.

(2) The Vales Point Unit 6 generator transformer oil had been previously analysed for PCBs and is considered to be PCB free under the legislative and regulatory provisions and standards.

(3)(a) There are no current plans to close Vales Point Power Station or other stations in Delta

Electricity's generation portfolio.(b) Delta's power stations are subject to rigorous asset management plans and are considered to be

able to provide power to the national electricity market for the foreseeable future.

(4) On Thursday 9 November 2006 the Premier announced a NSW Renewable Energy target. The target is for renewable energy to make up to 15 per cent of the States energy use by 2020.

*394 HOUSING—FORMER DIRECTOR GENERAL—Ms Hale asked the Minister for Health representing the Minister for Housing, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health)—

(1) Why did Mr Barnes depart as Director General of the Department of Housing in January 2006?(2) Did he resign voluntarily?

(a) If not: (i) Was he asked to resign?(ii) Was he dismissed?

(b) If so, why?

Answer— (1) and (2) Mr Barnes was removed from his position by the acting Director-General of the Premiers

Department in January 2006.

*395 HOUSING—ICAC INQUIRY INTO ASSET SALES—Ms Hale asked the Minister for Health representing the Minister for Housing, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health)—

(1) When was the Department of Housing first advised by the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) about its investigations into the activities of the former department officer, Graham Wade?

(2) On what date did the Department begin its own internal investigation in co-operation with ICAC?


(3) Did the Department at any time check through all sales records, or only those sales records that involved a sale handled by Graham Wade?

(4) Was the Department asked only to supply details of properties sold by Graham Wade to ICAC?(5) Was Mr Barnes Director General when ICAC asked the Department to assist it with its investigations

into the activities of Graham Wade?(6) Did Mr Allen take over as Interim Director General on 19 January 2006?(7) Was the Department already assisting ICAC with its operation at that time?(8) Was the Department ever asked to supply details of properties bought by any or all the companies

associated with Mr Gelonesi or in which Mr Gelonesi had shares, or only those properties associated with Mr Wade and his real estate associate, Mr Williams?

(9)(a) Was the Department ever asked to supply details of properties bought by Westside Property

Developments Pty Ltd?(b) If so, when?

Answer— (1) In February 2005, the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) advised that it was

investigating the sale of a number of properties.(2) In line with the ICAC requirements, the Department did not undertake its own separate investigation

of this matter and cooperated fully with the ICAC investigators.(3) No.(4) No.(5) Yes.(6) Mr Allen commenced as Acting Director-General from 17 January 2006.(7) Yes.(8) The outcomes of the ICAC investigation into this matter are contained in the relevant ICAC report.(9) This matter is the subject of an ICAC investigation and it would be inappropriate to comment.


*396 GAMING AND RACING—POKER MACHINE ENTITLEMENTS—Dr Chesterfield-Evans asked the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources representing the Minister for Gaming and Racing, and Minister for the Central Coast—

How many hotels have dispute flags lodged on their poker machine entitlements at present?

Answer— A dispute flag does not constitute an actual dispute or formal objection to a transfer of poker machine entitlements.The flag simply alerts the Liquor Administration Board (LAB) that a person is of the belief that they have a relevant financial interest in an entitlement and therefore alerts the LAB of the possibility of a private commercial disagreement.I am advised that 120 dispute flags have been received by the NSW Office of Liquor, Gaming and Racing.However, it is not known what proportion of these notifications relate to interests that are in dispute, and what proportion are merely lodged as a protection measure against future action that may never eventuate.Therefore, it is reasonable to accept that a number of disputes have been resolved through private mediation between the parties and that only a small minority of highly complex private commercial disputes remain unresolved.

653


*397 HOUSING—MILLERS POINT HOUSING—Ms Hale asked the Minister for Health representing the Minister for Housing, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health)—

(1)(a) Are any of the houses owned, leased or managed by the Department of Housing in Millers Point

or The Rocks to be leased out or sold?(b) Which ones are to be leased and which ones are to be sold?

(2) If so, what are the addresses of the affected properties?(3) Are the leases for 99 years?(4)

(a) Are there any maintenance costs, or costs related to maintaining heritage, associated with these dwellings?

(b) What are these costs estimated to be per annum?

(5) Are the dwellings that are being leased or sold currently zoned as commercial, residential or both?(6) Does the department manage any properties owned by the former Maritime Services Board or its

predecessor agency? (a) If so, how many?(b) Are any of these premises being leased out or sold?

(i) If so, what are the addresses of the affected properties?

Answer— (1)

(a) Yes.(b) All properties identified in the program are to be long term leased.

(2) and (3) 99 year long term leases for up to 16 vacant heritage properties in Millers Point will be offered.

(4)(a) Yes(b) Properties vary in terms of size and state of repair and these factors influence costs.

(5) Residential.(6) Yes

(a) 15 residential properties(b) No

*398 HOUSING—WATER SAVING APPLIANCES—Ms Hale asked the Minister for Health representing the Minister for Housing, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health)—

(1)(a) Did Sydney Water supply customers with Aqualoc water saving products?(b) Do these products meet currents standards?

(2) Is the Department of Housing installing or intending to install Acqualoc products into 50,000 homes?(3) Is the product supplied to Sydney Water the same product passed by the CSIRO, which met the latest

standards for water saving devices?(4) If the products are not meeting standards, is it possible that up to 25 per cent extra water is being

used?(5) Why has a product that has not complied with any standards, watermark or licenses since 1997 won

an integral part of the Department of Housing's water saving initiatives?

Answer— (1) This question should be referred to Sydney Water.(2) Yes.


(3) This question should be referred to Sydney Water.(4) This question should be referred to Sydney Water.(5) The Department understands that the Aqualoc product has been successfully assessed for voluntary

registration under the Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) Scheme.

*399 HOUSING—REDEVELOPMENT OF INNER WEST HOUSING—Ms Hale asked the Minister for Health representing the Minister for Housing, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health)—

(1) What Department of Housing estates have been targeted for redevelopment in the inner west of Sydney?

(2) Are the redevelopments to be part-financed by the selling-off of a portion of department-owned land?(3) Will there be contracts with private sector consortia to redevelop?(4) When will tenders for the redevelopments be called for?(5) What is the anticipated deadline for submission for Expression of Interests?(6) How many dwellings will be demolished?(7) What proportion of total departmental land area will be sold off?(8) How many tenants will have to be relocated?

Answer— (1) The Department will redevelop a series of sites in Lilyfield. Abbotsford, Concord and Camperdown.(2) No.(3) No.(4) Redevelopment plans are still in the development stage.(5) It has not been determined when tenders will be called.(6) 90, across the whole inner west area.(7) None(8) 71, across the whole inner west area.

*400 HOUSING—REDEVELOPMENT OF ORANGE GROVE ESTATE, LILYFIELD—Ms Hale asked the Minister for Health representing the Minister for Housing, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health)—

(1) Will Department of Housing tenants at Orange Grove in Lilyfield be relocated within three months?(2) How many units does the Department intend to maintain on site?(3) How many tenants would it be possible to rehouse in the new development?(4) What is the estimated asset value of the complex?(5) Is it anticipated that the Government will contract with a developer for a redevelopment?(6) What percentage of government-owned land is it anticipated will be sold off?

Answer— (1) No.(2) The outcome of the development proposal will be subject to a full Development Application process.

The aim of the project is to increase the supply of Public Housing on the site to house more people in need.

(3) Those wishing to return to the site after the redevelopment may do so.(4) This information is considered commercial in confidence.(5) The redevelopment proposal will go to public tender.(6) None.

655


*401 HOUSING—TRANSFER OF MANAGEMENT OF COMMUNITY HOUSING—Ms Hale asked the Minister for Health representing the Minister for Housing, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health)—

(1) Have 261 properties in the central Sydney Directorate been transferred to Office of Community Housing for management by a community housing association in this financial year?

(2)(a) Have 60 dwellings at Cross Street in Manly been transferred to Office of Community Housing

or community housing organisations?(b) If not, how many?

(3)(a) Have 166 dwellings at Namatjira in Little Bay been transferred to Office of Community

Housing or community housing organisations?(b) If not, how many?

(4)(a) Have 50 dwellings at Walker Street in Redfern been transferred to Office of Community

Housing or community housing organisations?(b) If not, how many?

(5)(a) Has the Department of Housing met its transfer target of 2500 units?(b) How many has the Department transferred this financial year?(c) Are there any future transfers planned for this financial year?

(i) If so, how many and where?

Answer— (1) to (5) The transfer of public housing stock to community management represents a long-term

investment in social housing, community engagement and housing choice. Negotiations concerning the transfer of public housing stock to community management in the Central Sydney Division are continuing.

402 HEALTH—EMERGENCY CARE TASKFORCE RESIGNATIONS—Ms Hale to ask the Minister for Health—

403 HEALTH—HEALTH FACILITIES IN SOUTH WESTERN SYDNEY—Ms Hale to ask the Minister for Health—

*404 PLANNING—HEALTH FACILITIES IN SOUTH WESTERN SYDNEY—Ms Hale asked the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter representing the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

(1) Has the Government canvassed alternative sites for population growth in the south-western Sydney area considering the ongoing reports that the area is the pollution sink of Sydney?

(2) If not, why not?(3) If so, where?

Answer— (1) to (3) The Metropolitan Strategy, released by the Government in December 2005, identifies that

around 660,000 new dwellings will be built over the next 25 years to accommodate the City's growing population. Of these 155,000 dwellings are planned for the south west subregion of Sydney. This is around 23% of the total. Of the remaining 505,000 new dwellings, 140,000 are planned for the north west subregion, 95,000 for west central subregion, 55,000 for Sydney City, 65,000 for the Central Coast and 153,000 in the remaining six Sydney metropolitan subregions. The Metropolitan


Strategy and development of the South West and North West Growth Centres plan for the future growth of Sydney for the next 25 years.


*405 COMMUNITY SERVICES—COMMUNITY SERVICES OFFICE RENOVATIONS—Mr Mason-Cox asked the Minister for Justice, Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs representing the Minister for Community Services, Minister for Youth, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister Assisting the Premier on Citizenship—

What was the total value of office renovations incurred by the Department of Community Services in the following financial years:(1) 2006-07?(2) 2005-06?(3) 2004-05?(4) 2003-04?(5) 2002-03?(6) 2001-02?(7) 2000-01?(8) 1999-2000?

Answer— Treasury Circular 04⁄09 – Total Asset Management (TAM) Policy – Reconfirmation confirms the Government's commitment to the implementation of TAM policy.Budget Paper No. 4 Infrastructure Statement provides the value of each agency's physical assets and their capital expenditure program. The value of each agency's physical assets is subdivided into land and buildings, plant and equipment and infrastructure systems.The asset management policy for each agency is integrated with the budget process.Budget sector agencies prepare TAM Strategies based on the agency continuing to provide agreed services within current resource limits. Agencies may also submit specific proposals for enhanced levels of service.TAM strategies outline the long term maintenance strategies for each asset type or risk category, a costed program of proposed investment and maintenance works (including renovations) and a program of disposals.Providing additional specific information in response to this question would be an unjustifiable diversion of public resources.

*406 COMMUNITY SERVICES—COMMUNITY SERVICES OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Mr Mason-Cox asked the Minister for Justice, Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs representing the Minister for Community Services, Minister for Youth, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister Assisting the Premier on Citizenship—

With respect to the Department of Community Services:(1) What was the total cost of overseas travel for the following financial years:

(a) 2006-07?(b) 2005-06?(c) 2004-05?(d) 2003-04?(e) 2002-03?

(2) What was the total cost of international air flights for the following financial years:(a) 2006-07?

657


(b) 2005-06?(c) 2004-05?(d) 2003-04?(e) 2002-03?

(3) What was the total cost of accommodation on overseas trips for the following financial years:(a) 2006-07?(b) 2005-06?(c) 2004-05?(d) 2003-04?(e) 2002-03?

(4) What was the total value of allowances paid for personnel on overseas trips for the following financial years:(a) 2006-07?(b) 2005-06?(c) 2004-05?(d) 2003-04?(e) 2002-03?

Answer— Overseas travel by public sector employees is governed by various Premier's Memoranda and Circulars. Travel by public sector employees is determined on the basis of value to the tax-payer and public sector development. Travel undertaken is always on government business and essential for the performance of official business on behalf of the Government of New South Wales.All overseas travel is subject to Minister's approval. Ministers exercise strict economy in approving overseas travel and significant benefits to the agency and⁄or the State must be demonstrated. Ministers may approve official travel overseas after deciding that the travel is essential and that it can be funded within the budget allocation for the organisation concerned.Employees who are required to travel overseas in the course of their duty may be eligible for overseas travelling allowances.Overseas travel by agency staff is reported in the agency annual reports which are publicly available.

*407 ATTORNEY-GENERAL—ATTORNEY GENERAL'S DEPARTMENT OFFICE RENOVATIONS—Mr Mason-Cox asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—

What was the total value of office renovations incurred by the Attorney General's Department in the following financial years:(1) 2006-07?(2) 2005-06?(3) 2004-05?(4) 2003-04?(5) 2002-03?(6) 2001-02?(7) 2000-01?(8) 1999-2000?

Answer— Renovations are necessary to accommodate the changing portfolios of Ministers and as part of the Government's drive to utilise floor space in the most efficient manner possible.


The reforms in office accommodation management by the NSW Government have saved $850 million in rentals since 1996 with the average space use for each public servant reducing from 24 square metres under the Coalition to 17.17 square metres at the end of 2005 under the Iemma Government.Accommodation costs are now $143 million less per year than they would have been if space use had continued at its pre-1995 level.Since 1995, the real cost per person for Government office accommodation has been cut by over 45 percent.The Government is also using the reform program to boost jobs and services in regional areas. Over the past three years a number of initiatives aimed at promoting economic development and creating employment opportunities in regional centres have been announced, leading to the relocation of 1,200 positions to regional New South Wales, generating $58 million in construction works; and savings in excess of $800,000 per annum in energy and rent.All refurbishments and costs incurred for water and electricity are in accordance with the requirements to meet the workplace standards for occupational health and safety.The Government has also made great savings with the efficient use of existing office space. The Government occupies 1.2 million square metres of office accommodation in over 1,000 buildings across the State.As at 1 November 2006, the total amount of vacant space was approximately 6,118 square metres, which is only 0.49% of the total space occupied by Government - that is, less than half of one per cent.This is a marked improvement on the vacancy rate of 2.23% that existed at 31 January 1995 under the Coalition - five times the Government's current vacancy rate.The Government's current vacancy rate also compares more favourably to the office market vacancy rate of 9.4% in the Sydney CBD at July 2006.

*408 ATTORNEY-GENERAL—ATTORNEY GENERAL'S OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Mr Mason-Cox asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—

With respect to the Attorney General's Department:(1) What was the total cost of overseas travel for the following financial years:

(a) 2006-07?(b) 2005-06?(c) 2004-05?(d) 2003-04?(e) 2002-03?

(2) What was the total cost of international air flights for the following financial years:(a) 2006-07?(b) 2005-06?(c) 2004-05?(d) 2003-04?(e) 2002-03?


(4) What was the total value of allowances paid for personnel on overseas trips for the following financial years:(a) 2006-07?(b) 2005-06?

659


(c) 2004-05?(d) 2003-04?(e) 2002-03?

Answer— Overseas travel by public sector employees is governed by various Premier's Memoranda and Circulars. Travel by public sector employees is determined on the basis of value to the tax-payer and public sector development. Travel undertaken is always on government business and essential for the performance of official business on behalf of the Government.All overseas travel is subject to Minister's approval. Ministers are to exercise strict economy in approving overseas travel and significant benefits to the agency and⁄or the State must be demonstrated. Ministers may approve official travel overseas after deciding that the travel is essential and that it can be funded within the budget allocation for the organisation concerned.Travel is undertaken to develop trading partnerships, information sharing arrangements and to increase the State's overseas profile to encourage investment.Benefits include the development of strong relationships with interstate and overseas jurisdictions for the purposes of sourcing best practice and expertise in areas relevant to the agency's functions and responsibilities and monitoring new developments.Overseas travel by agency staff is reported in agency annual reports which are publicly available.

409 TRANSPORT—RAILCORP OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Mr Mason-Cox to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for Police—

410 TRANSPORT—SYDNEY FERRIES OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Mr Mason-Cox to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for Police—

411 TRANSPORT—STATE TRANSIT AUTHORITY OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Mr Mason-Cox to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for Police—

412 HEALTH—NSW HEALTH OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Mr Mason-Cox to ask the Minister for Health—

413 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION AND TRAINING OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Mr Mason-Cox to ask the Minister for Health representing the Minister for Education and Training—

*414 STATE DEVELOPMENT—DEPARTMENT OF STATE AND REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT OFFICE RENOVATIONS—Mr Mason-Cox asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Premier, Minister for State Development, and Minister for Citizenship—

What was the total value of office renovations incurred by the Department of State and Regional Development in the following financial years:(1) 2006-07?(2) 2005-06?(3) 2004-05?(4) 2003-04?(5) 2002-03?(6) 2001-02?


(7) 2000-01?(8) 1999-2000?

Answer— Renovations are necessary to accommodate the changing portfolios of Ministers and as part of the Government's drive to utilise floor space in the most efficient manner possible.The reforms in office accommodation management by the NSW Government have saved $850 million in rentals since 1996 with the average space use for each public servant reducing from 24 square metres under the Coalition to 17.17 square metres at the end of 2005 under the Iemma Government.Accommodation costs are now $143 million less per year than they would have been if space use had continued at its pre-1995 level.Since 1995, the real cost per person for Government office accommodation has been cut by over 45 percent.The Government is also using the reform program to boost jobs and services in regional areas. Over the past three years a number of initiatives aimed at promoting economic development and creating employment opportunities in regional centres have been announced, leading to the relocation of 1,200 positions to regional New South Wales, generating $58 million in construction works; and savings in excess of $800,000 per annum in energy and rent.All refurbishments and costs incurred for water and electricity are in accordance with the requirements to meet the workplace standards for occupational health and safety.The Government has also made great savings with the efficient use of existing office space. The NSW Government occupies 1.2 million square metres of office accommodation in over 1,000 buildings across the State.As at 1 November 2006, the total amount of vacant space was approximately 6,118 square metres, which is only 0.49% of the total space occupied by Government - that is, less than half of one per cent.This is a marked improvement on the vacancy rate of 2.23% that existed at 31 January 1995 under the Coalition - five times the Government's current vacancy rate.The Government's current vacancy rate also compares more favourably to the office market vacancy rate of 9.4% in the Sydney CBD at July 2006.

*415 STATE DEVELOPMENT—DEPARTMENT OF STATE AND REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Mr Mason-Cox asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Premier, Minister for State Development, and Minister for Citizenship—

With respect to the Department of State and Regional Development:(1) What was the total cost of overseas travel for the following financial years:

(a) 2006-07?(b) 2005-06?(c) 2004-05?(d) 2003-04?(e) 2002-03?


(3) What was the total cost of accommodation on overseas trips for the following financial years:(a) 2006-07?(b) 2005-06?

661


(c) 2004-05?(d) 2003-04?(e) 2002-03?


Answer— Overseas travel by public sector employees is governed by various Premier's Memoranda and Circulars. Travel by public sector employees is determined on the basis of value to the tax-payer and public sector development. Travel undertaken is always on government business and essential for the performance of official business on behalf of the Government of New South Wales.All overseas travel is subject to Minister's approval. Ministers are to exercise strict economy in approving overseas travel and significant benefits to the agency and⁄or the State must be demonstrated. Ministers may approve official travel overseas after deciding that the travel is essential and that it can be funded within the budget allocation for the organisation concerned.Travel is undertaken to develop trading partnerships, information sharing arrangements and to increase the State's overseas profile to encourage investment.Benefits include the development of strong relationships with interstate and overseas jurisdictions for the purposes of sourcing best practice and expertise in areas relevant to the agency's functions and responsibilities and monitoring new developments.Overseas travel by agency staff is reported in agency annual reports which are publicly available.

*416 COMMUNITY SERVICES—OFFICE OF DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC PROSECUTIONS OFFICE RENOVATIONS—Mr Mason-Cox asked the Minister for Justice, Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs representing the Minister for Community Services, Minister for Youth, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister Assisting the Premier on Citizenship—

What was the total value of office renovations incurred by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions in the following financial years(1) 2006-07?(2) 2005-06?(3) 2004-05?(4) 2003-04?(5) 2002-03?(6) 2001-02?(7) 2000-01?(8) 1999-2000?

Answer— This question is not a matter for the Minister Community Services, Minister for Youth, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Minister Assisting the Premier on Citizenship and should instead be directed to the NSW Attorney General.


*417 COMMUNITY SERVICES—OFFICE OF DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC PROSECUTIONS OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Mr Mason-Cox asked the Minister for Justice, Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs representing the Minister for Community Services, Minister for Youth, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister Assisting the Premier on Citizenship—

With respect to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions:(1) What was the total cost of overseas travel for the following financial years:

(a) 2006-07?(b) 2005-06?(c) 2004-05?(d) 2003-04?(e) 2002-03?




Answer— (1) to (4) This question is not a matter for the Minister Community Services, Minister for Youth,

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Minister Assisting the Premier on Citizenship and should instead be directed to the NSW Attorney General.

*418 AGEING, DISABILITY SERVICES—DEPARTMENT OF AGEING, DISABILITY AND HOME CARE OFFICE RENOVATIONS—Mr Mason-Cox asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

What was the total value of office renovations incurred by the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care in the following financial years:(1) 2006-07?(2) 2005-06?(3) 2004-05?(4) 2003-04?(5) 2002-03?(6) 2001-02?(7) 2000-01?

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(8) 1999-2000?

Answer— Renovations are necessary to accommodate the changing portfolios of Ministers and as part of the Government's drive to utilise floor space in the most efficient manner possible.The reforms in office accommodation management by the NSW Government have saved $850 million in rentals since 1996 with the average space use for each public servant reducing from 24 square metres under the Coalition to 17.17 square metres at the end of 2005 under the Iemma Government.Accommodation costs are now $143 million less per year than they would have been if space use had continued at its pre-1995 level.Since 1995, the real cost per person for Government office accommodation has been cut by over 45 percent.The Government is also using the reform program to boost jobs and services in regional areas. Over the past three years a number of initiatives aimed at promoting economic development and creating employment opportunities in regional centres have been announced, leading to the relocation of 1,200 positions to regional New South Wales, generating $58 million in construction works; and savings in excess of $800,000 per annum in energy and rent.All refurbishments and costs incurred for water and electricity are in accordance with the requirements to meet the workplace standards for occupational health and safety.The Government has also made great savings with the efficient use of existing office space.The NSW Government occupies 1.2 million square metres of office accommodation in over 1,000 buildings across the State.As at 1 November 2006, the total amount of vacant space was approximately 6,118 square metres, which is only 0.49% of the total space occupied by Government - that is, less than half of one per cent.This is a marked improvement on the vacancy rate of 2.23% that existed at 31 January 1995 under the Coalition - five times the Government's current vacancy rate.The Government's current vacancy rate also compares more favourably to the office market vacancy rate of 9.4% in the Sydney CBD at July 2006.

*419 AGEING, DISABILITY SERVICES—DEPARTMENT OF AGEING, DISABILITY AND HOME CARE OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Mr Mason-Cox asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

With respect to the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care:(1) What was the total cost of overseas travel for the following financial years:

(a) 2006 -07?(b) 2005-06?(c) 2004-05?(d) 2003-04?(e) 2002-03?


(3) What was the total cost of accommodation on overseas trips for the following financial years:(a) 2006-07?(b) 2005-06?(c) 2004-05?(d) 2003-04?


(e) 2002-03?


Answer— Overseas travel by public sector employees is governed by various Premier's Memoranda and Circulars. Travel by public sector employees is determined on the basis of value to the tax-payer and public sector development. Travel undertaken is always on government business and essential for the performance of official business on behalf of the Government of New South Wales.All overseas travel is subject to Minister's approval. Ministers are to exercise strict economy in approving overseas travel and significant benefits to the agency and⁄or the State must be demonstrated. Ministers may approve official travel overseas after deciding that the travel is essential and that it can be funded within the budget allocation for the organisation concerned.Travel is undertaken to develop trading partnerships, information sharing arrangements and to increase the State's overseas profile to encourage investment.Benefits include the development of strong relationships with interstate and overseas jurisdictions for the purposes of sourcing best practice and expertise in areas relevant to the agency's functions and responsibilities and monitoring new developments.Overseas travel by agency staff is reported in agency annual reports which are publicly available.

420 TOURISM AND SPORT AND RECREATION—DEPARTMENT OF ARTS, SPORT AND RECREATION OFFICE RENOVATIONS—Mr Mason-Cox to ask the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources representing the Minister for Tourism and Sport and Recreation, Minister for Women, and Minister Assisting the Minister for State Development—

421 TOURISM AND SPORT AND RECREATION—DEPARTMENT OF ARTS, SPORT AND RECREATION OVERSEAS TRAVEL—Mr Mason-Cox to ask the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources representing the Minister for Tourism and Sport and Recreation, Minister for Women, and Minister Assisting the Minister for State Development—

422 PORTS AND WATERWAYS—HARBOUR LEASES—Ms Hale to ask the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter representing the Minister for Energy, Minister for Ports and Waterways, and Minister Assisting the Treasurer on Business and Economic Regulatory Reform—

*423 COMMUNITY SERVICES—CANTERBURY MULTICULTURAL AGED AND DISABILITY SUPPORT SERVICE—Ms Hale asked the Minister for Justice, Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs representing the Minister for Community Services, Minister for Youth, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister Assisting the Premier on Citizenship—

(1) Why did the Director General of the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care (DADHC), reverse his 26 October decision to find another agency to take the funding from the Canterbury Multicultural Aged and Disability Support Service (CMADSS)?

(2) Was the decision against the advice of the Department and other services in the Canterbury area?(3)

(a) Had the Director General or anyone else from DADHC informed the Friends of CMADSS Committee of the decision to stop funding?

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(4)(a) Have any of the funds provided by DADHC to CMADSS since 2004 been spent on legal advice

and representation for the management of CMADSS?(b) If so, how much?

Answer— (1) to (4) This question is not a matter for the Minister Community Services, Minister for Youth,

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Minister Assisting the Premier on Citizenship and should instead be directed to the Minister for Minister for Ageing and Minister for Disability Services.

424 TOURISM AND SPORT AND RECREATION—ARTIFICIAL DIVE REEF—Mr Harwin to ask the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources representing the Minister for Tourism and Sport and Recreation, Minister for Women, and Minister Assisting the Minister for State Development—

425 NATURAL RESOURCES—LOGGING OF TREES ON FREEHOLD BLOCK—Mr Cohen to ask the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—

426 WATER UTILITIES—WATER EXTRACTION AND CONSUMPTION—Mr Cohen to ask the Minister for Justice, Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs representing the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra, Leader of the House—

*427 ENVIRONMENT—OCEAN SEWERAGE OUTFALLS—Mr Cohen asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—

(1) In 1997 the State Government stated (NSW Coastal Policy 1997 Goal 1.3.15) that "A public enquiry into ocean sewage outfalls and effluent re-use opportunities will be undertaken and results used in formulating future Government policy on ocean disposal of effluent ". Was that public inquiry undertaken?(a) If so, when?(b) If so, have the outcomes of the inquiry led to developments with regard to ocean outfalls for

disposal of treated effluent from sewerage treatment plants?

(2) Why is the Grafton Office of the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) supporting the development of an ocean outfall for effluent from the Evans Head Sewerage Treatment Plant (STP) when it has previously stated that ocean outfalls are not acceptable?

(3) Why is the Grafton Office of the EPA not insisting that council consult with the community about the ocean outfall proposal?

(4) Why is Richmond Valley Council being allowed to approve development involving sewerage connection when the current STP is polluting the environment and is in contravention of the Richmond Valley LEP?

Answer— The final report of the Public Inquiry into the Management of Sewage and Sewage By products in the NSW Coastal Zone was published in October 1997. Consistent with the outcomes of the Inquiry, the Government will only consider ocean outfalls where the environmental and public health risks of alternative sewage management systems would be demonstrably greater.With regard to the Evans Head sewerage upgrade, Richmond Valley Council's preferred option is for a new sewage treatment plant, reuse of as much effluent as possible, and a deep water ebb tide release into the ocean north-east of the mouth of the Evans River for effluent that cannot be reused.Richmond Valley Council is the proponent for the proposal, and responsible for consulting with and providing information to the local community on this significant infrastructure upgrade.


The Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) (as a regulatory authority) has focused on ensuring the upgrade of the sewage treatment plant. DEC has placed conditions on Council's environment protection licence that require action to reduce discharges to the lagoon, and compel the permanent provision of sustainable wastewater management services.Senior Departmental staff have met with the Mayor and General Manager of Council to discuss progress, and I am advised that construction is on track for completion of a new plant by the end of 2007.DEC will continue to take regulatory action where appropriate to ensure that this important project is completed on time.


*428 ENVIRONMENT—LOCATION OF ELEPHANT EXHIBIT AT TARONGA ZOO—Ms Rhiannon asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—

(1) Does Taronga Zoo have plans to hire out the hut above the new elephant exhibit for cocktail parties?(2) Do these proposals contradict statements that there will be no commercial benefit for Taronga Zoo as

a result of the elephants at the Zoo?(3) Given the recent allegations of failed endangered species breeding programmes and poor track record

of animal management at Taronga Zoo, what will the Department do to investigate these animal welfare and management issues?

(4) The Minister previously advised members of Parliament that Taronga Zoo's elephant exhibit is nearly 3000 square metres. Zoological Park Board previously provided documents to Parliament stating the dimensions as follows: Exhibit land: 1584 square metres, exhibit water: 418 square metres and holding area (i.e. night yard): 276 square metres. Given the anomaly in the information presented, where is the Minister's advice sourced?

(5) When the size of the elephant enclosure was provided in October 2004, Taronga Zoo was only expecting to take four elephants and now have five with the exhibit dimensions not increasing. What provisions has Taronga provided for a supposed growing elephant family?

(6) How much of the elephant exhibit and holding area is taken up by keeper access areas, food storage and tool storage?

(7) How much of the exhibit water space is available for use by the elephants as the exhibit water area includes a moat near the public which is separated by an electric fence?

Answer— The Zoological Parks Board (ZPB) of New South Wales is committed to the conservation of Asian Elephants, of which there are only 34,000 left in the world today. The ZPB is working closely with other zoos, in-situ conservation agencies, international conservation organisations and the Government on a range of endeavours including education, fundraising, training, donations and species management.Members will be well acutely aware that the importation of the elephants was extensively reviewed by the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) against the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act. The AAT confirmed that the importation was primarily for conservation purposes and the Zoo's are not contravening that or any other condition.The five elephants at Taronga Zoo will have access to 5,666 square metres across two exhibits as well as a further 2.3 kilometres as they are walked through the Zoo. The usable exhibit space is more than double that required by the Australasian Regional Association of Zoos and Aquaria (ARAZPA) standards and AAT requirements and almost six times greater than that of the United States Guidelines.The Zoological Parks Board of New South Wales is world renowned and respected for their breeding programs, particularly Black Rhinoceros, White Rhinoceros, platypus, snow leopard and Przewalski Horse. In the past five years, the zoos have bred 89 endangered animals and over 600 threatened animals.

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429 GAMING AND RACING—ADVERTISING CAMPAIGN BY GLINE—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources representing the Minister for Gaming and Racing, and Minister for the Central Coast—

*430 ENERGY—COAL FIRED POWER STATION—Ms Rhiannon asked the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter representing the Minister for Energy, Minister for Ports and Waterways, and Minister Assisting the Treasurer on Business and Economic Regulatory Reform—

(1) Have any sites been identified in New South Wales for a new coal fired power station?(2) Has the Minister been involved in any discussions about building a coal fired power station in New

South Wales?(3) If so, what was the outcome of those discussions?(4) Has a site for a new coal fired power station been chosen?(5) Is there a short list of possible sites for a new coal fired power station?(6) Has a site for a new coal fired power station been identified in the Muswellbrook local government

area?

Answer— The NSW Government has publicly articulated its views on the future power needs of the State on a number of occasions. Recent announcements have included the commencement of construction of the 400MW Tallawarra gas-fired power station, and development approval for several wind farms and gas-fired power stations.

431 TRANSPORT—LOWER HUNTER INTEGRATED TRANSPORT PLAN—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for Police—

432 TRANSPORT—FOUR-LANE PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for Police—

*433 PLANNING—MOOLARBEN EXPLORATION LICENCE—Ms Rhiannon asked the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter representing the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

(1) Has the Minister seen the confidential annual reports substantiating all commitments and milestones regarding development of an Ultra Clean Coal project as required in special condition 43 of the Moolarben Exploration Licence 6288 granted on 23 August 2004?(a) Why was this special condition included in a coal exploration licence?(b) Why are these annual reports confidential?

(2) Has the Minister seen the confidential annual reports reviewing options for other potential on site coal utilisation, including a power station as required in special condition 46 of the Moolarben Exploration Licence 6288 granted on 23 August 2004?(a) Why was this special condition included in a coal exploration licence?(b) Why are these annual reports confidential?

(3) Will the Government release information to the public about proposals for Ultra Clean Coal production and the feasibility of other potential on site coal utilisation, including a power station at Ulan, before finalising the approval process of the Moolarben coal project?(a) If so, when?(b) If not, why not?

Answer— (1) to (3) These matters do not fall within my portfolio areas.


434 POLICE—BREACHES OF PERSONAL PRIVACY—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for Police—

435 POLICE—PENSION FOR ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for Police—

436 POLICE—OPERATION RETZ—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for Police—

437 POLICE—CASE CONCERNING RICHARD MCDONALD—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for Police—

*438 PREMIER—CLEAN START CAMPAIGN—Ms Rhiannon asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Premier, Minister for State Development, and Minister for Citizenship—

(1) Have the cleaning contractors in all government buildings passed on the pay increase for cleaners that was negotiated in 2006?

(2) If not, which government buildings are yet to comply with the pay increase?(3) Has the Government committed to apply the 10 principles of the Clean Start: Fair Deal for Cleaners'

campaign when the government tenders out work in government buildings? Please detail how the Government plans to comply with each of the 10 principles.

Answer— Cleaning contracts entered into by the State Contracts Control Board since January 2006 incorporate a pay increase as set out in the Cleaning and Building Services Contractors (State) Award of 24 March 2006. This pay increase took effect from 1 July 2006.All contractors under the State Contracts Control Board contracts have confirmed that they passed on the 1 July 2006 pay increase.When Government agencies lease accommodation, cleaning arrangements are a matter between the private building owner and the cleaning contractor.Some Government agencies arrange their own cleaning contracts outside the ambit of the State Contracts Control Board contracts. The Honourable member would need to seek advice from the relevant agency to elicit what arrangements are in place for these premises.It is a requirement of contracts entered into by Government agencies that they comply with all relevant legislative requirements such as occupational health and safety, award entitlements and environmental safeguards.There have been no reports of non-compliance for contracts administered by the State Contracts Control Board.The State Contracts Control Board cleaning contracts reflect the principles contained in the Clean Start: Fair Deal for Cleaners campaign including a requirement that the contractors pay the current award wage and any adjustment to that wage.

*439 PLANNING—DUNLOE PARK SAND MINING—Ms Rhiannon asked the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter representing the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

(1) Has a proposal to develop a 300,000 cubic metre per annum sand mine at Dunloe Park, near Wooyung on the Tweed coast been put forward?

(2) What are the details of the proposal and its potential impacts including flooding, noise, dust, loss of

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agricultural land, damage to nearby agricultural land, and the potential to disturb acid sulphate soils?(3) What steps will the Minister take to ensure that the proposed development does not become a tourist

resort at the end of the life of the sand mine?

Answer— (1) and (2) Details of the proposal are available on the Department of Planning website.(3) I am advised that the proponent is not currently seeking approval for such a development.

440 MINERAL RESOURCES—DUNLOE PARK SAND MINING—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—

*441 JUSTICE—LONG BAY CORRECTIONAL COMPLEX—Ms Rhiannon asked the Minister for Justice, Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

(1)(a) Will the Minister release a copy of the Master Plan for the Long Bay Correctional Complex?(b) If not, why not?

(2)(a) Will the Minister release a copy of the Master Plan in respect of the "Redevelopment of Long

Bay Forensic and Prison Hospitals"?(b) If not, why not?

(3) What consultation occurred with staff at Long Bay Correctional Complex on the development of the Master Plan for the Long Bay Correctional Complex?

(4) What consultation occurred with staff at Long Bay Correctional Complex on the master plan in respect of the "Redevelopment of Long Bay Forensic and Prison Hospitals"?

(5) What steps have been taken to ensure that facilities are adequate for inmate development and education?

(6) What steps has the Minister taken to compare the quality and effectiveness of these facilities to other correctional institutions in Australia and elsewhere in the world in inmate development and education?

Answer— (1)

(a) The Master Plan has already been released and publicly displayed in accordance with the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 .

(b) Not applicable.

(2)(a) The Master Plan has already been released and publicly displayed in accordance with the

Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 .(b) Not applicable.

(3) A number of staff briefings were delivered simultaneously with the public consultation process.(4) A number of staff briefings were delivered simultaneously with the public consultation process.(5) A detailed end user consultation took place during the development and documentation phases of the

project.(6) The project has been benchmarked with similar facilities in other jurisdictions.

443 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—BASS HILL HIGH SCHOOL—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Health representing the Minister for Education and Training—


*444 INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS—CLEAN START CAMPAIGN—Ms Rhiannon asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) Have the cleaning contractors in all government buildings passed on the pay increase for cleaners that was negotiated in 2006?

(2) If not, which government buildings are yet to comply with the pay increase?(3) Has the Government committed to apply the 10 principles of the Clean Start: Fair Deal for Cleaners'

campaign when the government tenders out work in government buildings? Please detail how the Government plans to comply with each of the 10 principles.

Answer— Cleaning contracts entered into by the State Contracts Control Board since January 2006 incorporate a pay increase as set out in the Cleaning and Building Services Contractors (State) Award of 24 March 2006. This pay increase took effect from 1 July 2006.All contractors under the State Contracts Control Board contracts have confirmed that they passed on the 1 July 2006 pay increase.When Government agencies lease accommodation, cleaning arrangements are a matter between the private building owner and the cleaning contractor.Some Government agencies arrange their own cleaning contracts outside the ambit of the State Contracts Control Board contracts. The Honourable member would need to seek advice from the relevant agency to elicit what arrangements are in place for these premises.It is a requirement of contracts entered into by Government agencies that they comply with all relevant legislative requirements such as occupational health and safety, award entitlements and environmental safeguards.There have been no reports of non-compliance for contracts administered by the State Contracts Control Board.The State Contracts Control Board cleaning contracts reflect the principles contained in the Clean Start: Fair Deal for Cleaners campaign including a requirement that the contractors pay the current award wage and any adjustment to that wage.

*445 ENERGY—GEOSEQUESTRATION OF EMISSIONS FROM POWER STATIONS—Ms Rhiannon asked the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter representing the Minister for Energy, Minister for Ports and Waterways, and Minister Assisting the Treasurer on Business and Economic Regulatory Reform—

(1) What are the closest potential geosequestration sites to New South Wales' coal-fired power stations and what is their capacity?

(2) If there are no sites within 500 kilometres from existing coal-fired power stations in New South Wales, does the Government accept that this makes geosequestration of carbon dioxide emissions from those power stations economically infeasible?

(3) If not, what is the projected increase in electricity costs that would result from transport and storage of carbon dioxide at these locations?

(4) What carbon price would be needed to close the gap between this price and the price of wind?

Answer— (1) The Government's work in this area is outlined in the recently released NSW Government Statement

on Innovation.(2) to (4) These questions are hypothetical. I refer the member to the provisions of Standing Order No.65

(1)(g) which deals with such questions.

*446 ENERGY—ENERGY GENERATION UNITS AT MOUNT PIPER—Ms Rhiannon asked the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter representing the Minister for Energy, Minister for Ports and Waterways, and Minister Assisting the Treasurer on Business and Economic Regulatory Reform—

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(1) How much water would be required if two new energy generation units were approved at Mount Piper?

(2) How much water would be required if a new coal-fired electricity power station were approved at Ulan?

(3) Where would this water be sourced from?(4) What would be the impact on allocations to existing industries?(5) Which industries would be impacted, and what would the impact be?

Answer— I am advised that under Legislative Council Standing Order 65 questions must not contain hypothetical matter.

447 WATER UTILITIES—ENERGY GENERATION UNITS AT MOUNT PIPER—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Justice, Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs representing the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra, Leader of the House—

*448 MINERAL RESOURCES—SUBSIDENCE MANAGEMENT PLAN—Ms Rhiannon asked the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—

(1) Is the Minister aware of the Subsidence Management Plan put in place by the Department to ensure that the mining industry meets contemporary standards for environmental management and requires that community views are taken into account?

(2) Is the Subsidence Management Plan approvals procedure, with its stated commitment to the environment and to community views, in need of reform in the context of the Department's recent approval of three mine plans in the Southern Coalfield given that: (a) This is an area where two rivers, the Lower Cataract and the Georges Rivers, have already been

harmed by mining operations carried out by BHP Billiton,(b) These three mining proposals go so close to three major rivers in the area that cracking and

pollution of the Upper Cataract River, the Georges River and the Nepean River are inevitable, and

(c) These mines were strongly opposed by local community groups including the Nepean Action Group, Rivers SOS and Friends of the Nepean?

Answer— (1) Yes.(2) I recognise that the community have recently expressed concerns about mining in the Southern

Coalfield region. In response to these concerns the Minister for Planning and I (as the Minister for Mineral Resources) have announced an independent inquiry into underground coal mining in the Southern Coalfield at the beginning of 2007. A panel of five experts have been appointed to conduct the inquiry. The terms of reference of the panel are:• Undertake a strategic review of the impacts of underground mining in the Southern Coalfield on

significant natural features (i.e. rivers and significant streams, swamps and cliff lines), with particular emphasis on risks to water flows, water quality and aquatic ecosystems; and

• Provide advice on best practice in regard to: a) assessment of subsidence impacts; b) avoiding and⁄or minimising adverse impact on significant natural features; and c) management, monitoring and remediation of subsidence and subsidence-related impacts; and

• Report on the social and economic significance to the region and the State of the coal resources in the Southern Coalfield.

The panel is to consider and advise on issues raised in written submissions and during the panel hearings that are relevant to the terms of reference listed above.

449 MINERAL RESOURCES—MOOLARBEN EXPLORATION LICENCE—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—


450 POLICE—USE OF CAPSICUM SPRAY AT UNSW—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for Police—

451 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—SALE OF LAND OF PUBLIC SCHOOLS—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Health representing the Minister for Education and Training—

452 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—CLOSURE OF PUBLIC SCHOOLS—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Health representing the Minister for Education and Training—

453 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—FUNDING FOR TAFE DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Health representing the Minister for Education and Training—

454 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—SALE OF MAROUBRA HIGH SCHOOL—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Health representing the Minister for Education and Training—

455 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—SPECIAL RELIGIOUS EDUCATION IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Health representing the Minister for Education and Training—

456 POLICE—RED LIGHT CAMERAS—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for Police—

457 TRANSPORT—AVAILABILITY OF TRAIN SERVICES—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for Police—

*459 ENERGY—DEVELOPMENT OF NUCLEAR POWER STATIONS—Revd Mr Nile asked the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter representing the Minister for Energy, Minister for Ports and Waterways, and Minister Assisting the Treasurer on Business and Economic Regulatory Reform—

(1) Has the Federal Panel of Scientists proposed that 25 nuclear power stations could be built by 2050, to dramatically reduce carbon emissions, which are damaging the environment?

(2) Would safe, modern nuclear power stations prevent climate change and make planet Earth safer for mankind?

(3) What is the Government's response to the adoption by the Commonwealth Government of the proposal for a Federal organisation to control all aspects of the nuclear cycle?

Answer— (1) to (3) The Iemma Government opposes the establishment of nuclear power stations and waste dumps

in NSW. Nuclear power stations are banned under NSW law, and we won't be changing that. There are still major concerns about the safety, cost and efficiency of nuclear power but the Federal Government has the power to ignore the community and do as it wishes. The people of NSW don't want a nuclear power station in their backyard.

*460 PLANNING—WATER ALLOCATION FOR LAKE COWAL GOLD MINE—Ms Rhiannon asked the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter representing the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

(1) What penalties will be imposed on Lake Cowal gold mine if the mine is found to be in breach of its water allocation?

(2) Is Barrick Gold at the Lake Cowal mine site selling water to surrounding landholders who have run

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out of water?(3) Is this water coming out of the mine allocation?(4) Has the Minister carried out any investigations as to why there has been such a dramatic drop in the

water table?(5) Is there a limit to the amount of water Barrick Gold can use?(6) How much surface water is Barrick Gold seeking from the Lachlan River?(7) How much is Barrick Gold paying for water?(8) Is the total amount of water that Barrick Gold can extract not 3650 megalitres per year, as previously

stated, but that new dewatering licences add an additional 3660 megalitres to the allocation?

Answer— (1) Penalties can be applied in accordance with the provisions of the Environmental Planning and

Assessment Act 1979.(2) Matters relating to water management do not fall within my portfolio areas.(3) Not applicable.(4) Matters relating to water management do not fall within my portfolio areas.(5) Conditions of consent relating to the mine approval are available from the Department of Planning.(6) Matters relating to water management do not fall within my portfolio areas.(7) Matters relating to water management do not fall within my portfolio areas.(8) Matters relating to water management do not fall within my portfolio areas.

*461 ENVIRONMENT—EDUCATION STRATEGY ON MONOFILAMENT NETTING—Ms Rhiannon asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—

(1) Is the Department developing an education strategy for retailers and the public regarding alternatives to monofilament netting for protecting backyard fruit trees from flying foxes? (a) If so, what are the details of this education strategy?(b) If so, when will this education strategy be released?(c) If not, why not?

Answer— The use of thin nylon (monofilament) netting by commercial fruit tree growers and in private gardens can have significant impacts on birds and flying foxes that may become entangled. For these reasons, the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) has been implementing a range of actions to discourage the use of monofilament netting products, and encourage the use of durable knitted netting over properly constructed frames.DEC has developed fact sheets containing netting guidelines for both commercial growers and home gardeners. These are available on DEC's website, through its information offices and on request. Copies have also been sent to conservation organisations for broader distribution.DEC is also working closely with flying-fox conservation organisations and wildlife carers to gather information on incidents and injuries caused to wildlife by monofilament netting in order to inform future action.DEC has initiated discussions with one of the largest suppliers of garden netting products in the State, in an effort to encourage the company to inform customers about the different types of netting available and, if possible, to promote the use of alternatives that have reduced impacts on native animals.I understand that this initiative may be expanded to other suppliers in the future if the approach is successful.


*462 PLANNING—BREACHES BY DURALIE COAL MINE—Ms Rhiannon asked the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter representing the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

(1) Who has the Department consulted with regarding the Duralie coal mine extension with relating to the environmental impact and the future effects on water supplies in the region?

(2) What studies has the Department undertaken of the Mammy Johnson River and its future role as a supplier of fresh water to the region?

(3) Has the Department spoken with the Department of Environment and Conservation, the Environment Protection Authority or the Department of Land and Water Conservation about conducting a specific review of Mammy Johnson River?

(4) How many consent conditions have been breached by Duralie Coal in the past year?(5) Have any fines or stop work orders been issued?(6)

(a) How many inspections of the mine operations to assess the conditions of consent have been conducted in the past year?

(b) On what dates were the inspections conducted?

(7) Regarding the proposed extension of the Duralie coal mine, has the Minister or the Department had any dealings with the Department of Transport regarding open cut mining and potential blasting near to the north coast railway line?

(8) Will any part of Johnson's Creek public road be altered or made private for the Duralie mine extension?

(9) Will any diversion of the Mammy Johnson River in the 20 kilometre area between the existing Duralie mine and Stratford mine if the mining company proposes it be allowed?

(10) Will any underground mining underneath the Mammy Johnson River or the Ward's River be allowed?

Answer— (1) I approved the Duralie Extended modification of consent on 30 July 2006. I am advised that during

its assessment of the proposal, the Department of Planning consulted with the Department of Environment and Conservation, the Department of Natural Resources, Great Lakes Shire Council, the Department of Primary Industries and the general public by way of submissions received during the exhibition period of this modification application about the environmental impacts of the proposal.

(2) No studies have been undertaken by the Department of Planning.(3) No.(4) I am advised that 4 non-compliances with the Minister's development consent for the mine over the

last 12 months have been identified. These non-compliances did not relate to matters that would present a risk to the environment.

(5) No fines or stop work orders have been issued under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act for the mine.

(6)(a) An independent environmental audit was undertaken in April 2006 in accordance with the

requirements of the Minister's consent for the mine.(b) The independent auditor inspected the site in April 2006.

(7) to (10) The Department of Planning does not have an application before it to extend the Duralie coal mine.

*463 PLANNING—LAND GRAB BY COAL COMPANIES—Ms Rhiannon asked the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter representing the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

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(1)(a) Does the Minister or the Department monitor the buy up of land by coal companies in rural

communities, such as the land grab in process in the Gloucester basin, to plan for the impact this has on regional communities?

(b) If not, why not given that the local towns are built on small enterprise, farming and boutique food production?

(2) Has the Government analysed the negative impact that the mine extension will have on the growing local industries of ecotourism, speciality guesthouses, organic farmers, and the growing number of ex-Sydney professionals moving to the area for a lifestyle change?

(3) What percent of private land has been purchased for the Duralie mine extension?

Answer— (1)

(a) and (b) The purchase of land by coal mining companies is matter between the landowners and the companies involved.

(2) Assessment of the Duralie mine proposal addressed all relevant issues of environmental concern and social impact including issues raised by stakeholders.

(3) n⁄a.

*464 PLANNING—DUST STORM CAUSED BY BHP BILLITON—Ms Rhiannon asked the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter representing the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

(1) Have any fines been issued against BHP Billiton for the dust storms that are generated by the Mount Arthur mine?

(2) If so, how many fines have been issued?(3) If so, how much money has BHP Billiton paid in fines?

Answer— (1) I am advised that no fines have been issued to BHP Billiton in regard to its Mount Arthur mine under

the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.(2) n⁄a.(3) n⁄a.

*465 PLANNING—CURFEW FOR PORT KEMBLA COAL LOADER—Ms Rhiannon asked the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter representing the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

(1) Has there ever been a breach of the conditions in the SEPP No. 7 for the Port Kembla Coal loader regarding the times at which coal may be received by road haulage from a colliery between 7.00 am to 6.00 pm, Monday to Saturday?

(2) Was any fine issued?(3) Has the receipt of coal at Port Kembla outside the allowed hours of 7.00 am to 6.00 pm, Monday to

Saturday ever been allowed?(4) Has the receipt of coal on a Sunday or public holiday ever been allowed?

Answer— (1) The Department of Planning has indicated that they are not aware of any such breach.(2) n⁄a.(3) to (4) I am advised that a number variations to the operating times of the Coal Loader have been

approved in accordance with the provisions of State Environmental Planning Policy No 7 - Port Kembla Coal Loader.


*466 ENERGY—MATERIALS INCINERATED IN POWER STATIONS—Ms Rhiannon asked the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter representing the Minister for Energy, Minister for Ports and Waterways, and Minister Assisting the Treasurer on Business and Economic Regulatory Reform—

(1) What is burnt in power stations besides coal?(2)

(a) Were industrial waste or materials from the clean-up of the 2000 Sydney Olympic site burnt in a coal fired power station?

(b) If so, did this occur at the Bayswater or Liddell power station?

(3) What other Government refuse is burnt in coal fired power stations?(4) How long has this practice been operating for?(5) Are there any records or is there a register of the materials that are burnt in power stations?(6) Who is responsible for vetting what materials are incinerated this way?(7) Has the Environment Protection Authority ever been notified before or during one of these burn off

operations?(8) Have hazardous materials ever been incinerated in a coal fired power station?

Answer— (1) to (8) I am advised that a wide range of materials are burnt in power stations besides coal. Around

the world this typically includes natural gas, mine gas, fuel oil, diesel fuel, biomass, sewage sludge, liquid alternate fuels and other materials with or without calorific value. Non-coal fuel is essential to light coal-fired boilers, and is used routinely to maintain a stable flame. The use of support fuels commenced at Liddell with its commissioning in 1970. The use of biomass and alternate fuels commenced in 1997. Only material that complies with licence conditions set by the Environment Protection Authority is used as fuel. This includes industrial waste and materials from the 2000 Sydney Olympics used at Liddell Power Station

*467 ENVIRONMENT—MINING COMPANIES ISSUED WITH FINES—Ms Rhiannon asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—

(1) How many mining companies have been issued with fines this year?(2) What proportion of fines were for:

(a) Safety?(b) Noise?(c) Air?(d) Water?

(3) How many staff does the Environment Protection Authority have to inspect mines when members of the public report pollution or breeches of conditions of consent?

Answer— The Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) has issued three mining companies with six fines in the past year.Fines relating to safety are issued by WorkCover NSW. This question should be directed to the Minister for Commerce.DEC's Regional Operations Officers across NSW investigate and enforce environmental compliance in a range of industry sectors.

468 ROADS—REDUCTION IN SPEED LIMITS ON PACIFIC HIGHWAY—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport—

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*469 MINERAL RESOURCES—BORES IN THE BLAND PALEOCHANNEL—Ms Rhiannon asked the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—

(1) When were the bores in the Bland Paleochannel, north east of Lake Cowal, last monitored and what readings did they show at that time?

(2) What system does the Department have in place for the ongoing monitoring of water levels in the Bland Paleochannel?

(3) What penalties will be imposed if the Lake Cowal gold mine is found to be in breach of its water allocation?

(4) Is Barrick Gold at the Lake Cowal mine site selling water to surrounding landholders who have run out of water?

(5) Is this water coming out of the mine allocation?(6) Has the Minister carried out any investigations as to why there has been such a dramatic drop in the

water table?(7)

(a) Is there a limit to the amount of water Barrick can use?(b) If not, why not?

(8) Can the Minister clarify exactly what the arrangements exist between the Department of Natural Resources and Barrick regarding the amount of water Barrick Gold can use?

(9) The Minister has stated that legislation ensures stock and domestic groundwater users take priority over industry users, however water levels continue to fall dramatically in the Lake Cowal area and local people are very concerned. How does the Minister respond to their concerns?

(10)(a) Is there any evidence available to support the Department's claim that the water for the 35 extra

licenses granted to Barrick is saline?(b) If so, where is the evidence available?

(11)(a) Has an Environmental Impact Statement been carried out to assess the impact of these new

licenses?(b) If not, why not?

(12) How much surface water is Barrick seeking from the Lachlan River and how much is Barrick paying for water?

(13) Is the total amount of water that Barrick can extract not 3650 megalitres per year, as previously stated, but that new dewatering licences add an additional 3660 megalitres to the allocation?

Answer— (1) Data loggers in the Department of Natural Resources' monitoring bores record the water levels in

the monitoring bores every 15 minutes, and these readings are monitored by the Department on a weekly basis.

(2) Readings from the monitoring bore nearest Barrick's production bores, taken on 6 December 2006, show the water level to be 59 metres below ground level.

(3) All water users including Barrick Gold are required to adhere to the conditions placed on their licences. The Department monitors water extraction and use and has processes in place to deal with alleged breaches of conditions. If a breach is proven the penalties will vary depending on the severity of that breach.

(4) No.(5) See (4)(6) Yes(7)

(a) Yes(b) Not applicable


(8) Barrick Gold is limited by the conditions set by the Development Consent and the extraction conditions placed on their bore licences.

(9) See my previous response to 7(b) of Question on Notice No. 253.(10)

(a) Yes.(b) The 1994 Hydrogeological Study by Coffey Partners International Pty Ltd and the Cowal Gold

Project Environmental Impact Study (EIS) 1998 contain evidence of the high salinity.

(11)(a) Potential impacts associated with the construction of perimeter bores to dewater the mine pit

area were examined as part of the Cowal Gold Project EIS in 1998.(b) Not applicable

(12) See my previous response to part (2) of Question on Notice No. 253.(13) No. The volume attached to the licences for the dewatering bores is a separate allocation that can

only be used specifically for dewatering the mine, and is not extracted from the Bland Palaeochannel.

470 TRANSPORT—IRON COVE BRIDGE—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for Police—

471 TRANSPORT—EASTBOUND BUS LANE TO ROZELLE—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for Police—

472 ROADS—PLANS FOR M4 EAST—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport—

474 HEALTH—HOSPITAL AT BYRON BAY—Mr Cohen to ask the Minister for Health—

*475 MINERAL RESOURCES, NATURAL RESOURCES, PRIMARY INDUSTRIES—COMPLIANCE CHECKS ON HUNTING—Mr Cohen asked the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—

(1) Has the Game Council only carried out compliance checks on hunting in state forests on long weekends, that is on four occasions thus far?

(2) Who monitors compliance outside of this time?(3) Given that Game Managers are paid in excess of $60,000 per annum, what tasks do they carry out

aside from compliance checks, during the rest of the year?

Answer— (1) Yes. (2) Game Council staff have an ongoing role monitoring compliance. In addition, NSW Police Officers

have the authority to act as inspectors under the Game and Feral Animal Control Act 2002.(3) Regional Game Managers are paid less than $60,000 per annum. Duties of Regional Game Managers

include compliance activities, educating hunters and related attendance at field days, hunting events and hunting club meetings. They conduct firearms licence testing, provide advice and give media interviews. Regional Game Managers also contribute to integrated pest animal management in their regions. They participate in Pest Animal Advisory Committees, contribute to and sometimes co-ordinate community-based feral animal control groups, co-ordinate hunter involvement in research, and help landholders with control programs as required.

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*476 ENVIRONMENT—POPULATION OF WHITE IBIS—Mr Cohen asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—

(1)(a) Will the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) conduct a study into the demise

of the native white ibis which has developed a colony in Marrickville amongst other suburban areas, due to drought and habitat destruction further west in New South Wales?


(2)(a) Is DEC prepared to consider long-term solutions such as reversing the destruction of the

original habitat of the white ibis, creating more wetlands in city and suburban areas where the birds can roost and feed, and education of local people, councils and businesses about rubbish control around premises where food is available to the ibises?


Answer— The current drought, the worst in a century is impacting on our native wildlife, despite their adaptation to harsh climatic conditions.The Australian White Ibis, identified by its almost entirely white body plumage and black featherless head and neck inhabits swamps, lagoons, floodplains and grasslands, but has become a successful inhabitant of urban parks and gardens.The waterbird communities of Western NSW have been subject to aerial surveys since 1983. Monitoring of the movement and population change of Australian White Ibis in urban Sydney commenced in 1995. The Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC), with the support of volunteers, has coordinated on-ground counts annually in Sydney from 2003. In 2005 the count was extended across the State.Over the past five years $30,000 has been invested in researching the biology of the Australian White Ibis. DEC is working with universities to investigate arid zone wetland systems, feeding biology in urban habitats including waste management facilities and the ecological needs of the ibis and other similar species.In terms of long term management of waterbirds, the Government is working closely with scientists, environmentalists and the agricultural community to mitigate impacts of the drought. A range of natural resource management programs have been implemented to maintain and improve wetland habitats, including the $105 million NSW Riverbank Program, which aims to relieve stress on iconic rivers and wetlands by restoring environmental flows. Regionally, strategic investments by catchment management authorities also deliver on-ground actions to remediate and manage habitat areas.In the Sydney region DEC is working closely with Councils to develop management plans for the long-term conservation of the ibis. An Ibis Management Plan for Urban Sydney identifying important nesting, roosting and feeding sites is in the final stages of completion.DEC is also working with the radio and print media and local councils to educate the community about the Australian White Ibis. Educational signage has been installed at a major breeding site in Bankstown under a joint DEC and Bankstown City Council project, and work with local communities at other regional sites is continuing.

*477 PLANNING—NORTH COAST STRATEGY—Mr Cohen asked the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter representing the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

When will the Government release the final North Coast Strategy?

Answer— The Far North Coast Regional Strategy will be released when it is finalised.


*478 PLANNING—BUS DEPOT AT BOWRAVILLE—Ms Hale asked the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter representing the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

(1) Has controversy resulted from Nambucca Shire Council giving approval to a Development Application for a bus depot to be located at 53 Borefield Road in Bowraville?

(2) Is a bus depot is a prohibited use of the land if the land is zoned (1)(a) (lower water catchment area)?(3) Has it been claimed the Nambucca Shire Council may be in contravention of its own LEP by not

requiring that the bus depot move?(4)

(a) Was the Development Application publicly exhibited?(b) If not, why not?

(5) Do the owners of the depot claim it is a 'home activity bus garage' even though 10 or more buses are being operated from the site?

(6)(a) Has the Minister in any way addressed the concerns of the residents Michael Lennon and Penny

Larkin of Bowraville?(b) What has the Minister done in regards to these concerns?

(7) Has the bus operation been wrongly classified as a 'home activity bus garage' rather than a 'bus depot' as per the legal advice sought by the complainants Michael Lennon and Penny Larkin?

Answer— As I have previously advised the Member in response to questions no. 0122 and 0176, this activity is operating under a consent granted by Nambucca Shire Council. All questions about this matter should be directed to Council or a formal complaint should be made with the NSW Ombudsman or the Department of Local Government who have the statutory authority to investigate complaints against NSW Councils.

*479 PLANNING—PERISHER BLUE VILLAGE PRECINCT DEVELOPMENT—Ms Hale asked the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter representing the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

(1) How many of the submissions to the Kosciusko National Park Plan of Management review opposed the Perisher Blue village precinct development?

(2) How many supported the development?(3) Which individuals, or organisations, submissions supported the development?(4) Where will the water supply for this development come from?(5) Is sewage from the Perisher sewage works seeping into Perisher Creek?(6)

(a) Has an assessment been done of the impact of the Perisher Blue Village precinct development on employment in the towns surrounding the Park?


Answer— (1) to (5) Matters relating to the Kosciusko National Park Plan of Management do not fall within my

portfolio areas.(6) The Perisher Blue Village proposal was assessed in accordance with the provisions of section 79C of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act.

*480 PLANNING—NSW POLICE AND DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING COMBINED HOME VISITS—Ms Hale asked the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter representing the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

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In the last six months, have NSW Police officers accompanied Departmental officers making home visits to Department of Housing premises in the Illawarra area?

Answer— This matter does not fall within my portfolio areas.

*481 HOUSING—HOUSING POLICY AND ASSISTANCE PROGRAM—Ms Hale asked the Minister for Health representing the Minister for Housing, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health)—

(1) Will the Government allocate the outstanding $145 million in the next two years' budgets to the Housing Policy and Assistance Program as stated in the 2005-06 Budget Commentary?

(2) If not, why not?

Answer— (1) and (2) The phasing of this funding will be subjected to ongoing review by NSW Treasury having

regard to the Department's working capital requirements.

482 HEALTH—FUNDING FOR MPS PROJECT—Mr Colless to ask the Minister for Health—

*483 LANDS—BULLDOZERS REPLACEMENT SCHEDULE—Mr Colless asked the Minister for Justice, Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

(1) What is the average cumulative hours of bulldozers within the Soil Conservation Service and how many hours has the oldest machine accumulated?

(2) At what hours are bulldozers replaced?(3) How many have been replaced over the last twelve months?(4) How many bullbozers are in excess of their replacement schedule?(5)

(a) Are many bulldozers far in excess of their replacement hours?(b) If so, why?

(6)(a) Has the Government refused to fund the replacement of the bulldozers?(b) If so, why?

Answer— (1) 11,305 hours. The oldest unit has accumulated 20,563 hours.(2) Ideally, bulldozers of the type used by Soil Conservation Service should be replaced after 10,000

hours.(3) None. However, as an interim measure, the Service, from time to time, has leased replacement units

to compensate for existing units with excessive hours.(4) 28.(5) and (6) While some units are in excess of their replacement hours, it should be noted that the Soil

Conservation Service has prepared a business plan and a plant replacement program that is presently being considered by the Government.

*485 INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS—GUIDE FOR PREVENTION OF BULLYING BY WORKCOVER—Ms Rhiannon asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) Has WorkCover NSW prepared, or are in the process of preparing, a guide to prevention of bullying in the workplace?(a) Will this document be released publicly?



(2) Has WorkCover NSW undertaken or are in the process of undertaking an investigation on reports of asbestos in the workplace?(a) If not, why not?(b) What are the terms of reference of this investigation?(c) What are the findings and recommendations of this investigation?(d) Will this investigation be released publicly?(e) If not, why not?

Answer— (1) WorkCover has prepared a draft guide, Workplace Bullying, which is planned for release in mid

2007. In preparing the draft guide, WorkCover conducted an extensive consultation process, including small business groups, employer associations, unions, the Premiers Department (to align with the Dignity and Respect in the Workplace Charter), the NSW Health, the Anti Discrimination Board, and the Office of Industrial Relations. WorkCover's Inspectorate is receiving updated training in matters relating to workplace bullying, including identifying high-risk workplaces, ways to assist employers to implement preventative measures and ways to deal with bullying complaints.

(2) WorkCover is responsible for administering the commercial removal of asbestos material only under the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 2001. To this end, WorkCover has established the Asbestos Demolition Unit, which is dedicated to responding to any community concerns about asbestos. WorkCover also has the largest and most active Inspectorate in the country, which investigates workplace complaints regarding the commercial removal of asbestos and takes appropriate action in accordance with relevant legislation. I would be pleased to arrange for WorkCover to follow up any specific concerns that the member may wish to raise.

486 PLANNING—ANVILL HILL PROJECT—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter representing the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

487 ROADS—DIVERSION OF HEAVY TRUCKS FROM PACIFIC HIGHWAY—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport—

488 TRANSPORT—LINE HAUL FREIGHT BY RAIL—Ms Rhiannon to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for Police—

*489 ATTORNEY-GENERAL—COURTLINK IT SYSTEM—Mr Mason-Cox asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—

(1) What did CourtLink Phase I deliver in terms of the number of concurrent users and response times for those users?

(2) Did CourtLink Phase I provide case flow, debtor management and rostering and listing system functionality for those users?

(3) Where are the CourtLink Phase I concurrent users located?(4) How much did CourtLink Phase I cost to implement?(5)

(a) Was there a post implementation review of CourtLink Phase I?(b) If not, why not?

(6) On what basis was the software portion of the CourtLink project awarded to Coram Solutions?(7) Did Coram Solutions acquire the software "Courtcase" from a company that went into voluntary

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liquidation?(8) Did any rival tenderers express the view that implementing the "Courtcase" software was "high"

risk?(9) Did any other Court Administrations in New South Wales reject the "Courtcase" software solution?(10) Were any internal misgivings expressed about the software offered by Coram Solutions?(11) What has been delivered in respect of CourtLink Phase II to 30 June 2006, in terms of number of

concurrent users, number of locations, response times?(12) What functionality does it provide to those users and locations?(13) How much has the CourtLink Phase II cost to 30 June 2006?(14)

(a) When completed in 2007, how many concurrent users will CourtLink Phase II?(b) How many locations and with what functionality will CourtLink Phase II provide?(c) What is the estimated final cost of CourtLink Phase II?

Answer— Many of the parts of this question relate to Coram Solutions. The Department entered into a contract for CourtLink software with Aspect Services Pty Ltd. This contract complied with Government procurement policies and guidelines. As with any tender process there were a range of opinions, these opinions were noted and due diligence was followed. Aspect Services Pty Ltd was subsequently acquired by KAZ Technology Services.CourtLink 1 involved the design of a high level multi jurisdictional system that was implemented in the cost assessment, adoption and crime areas of the Supreme Court. The system allowed for 15 concurrent users with a response time of between a few seconds and one minute depending on the complexity of the task. It provided case flow, filing of documents, case initiation, cost assessor management, reporting functions, participant management, rostering and listing functionality. The debtor management function was scheduled for implementation at a later date. Treasury allocated $14.5 million for CourtLink 1 to deliver basic systems infrastructure, base analysis and design across all jurisdictions and implementation in Supreme Court. An independent consultant evaluated the implementation in the Supreme Court.In November 2004, and just prior to the implementation of CourtLink 2 into the criminal jurisdiction of the District Court, KAZ Technology Services informed the Department that the underlying platform could not support the more transaction intense requirements of the court.Following contract negotiations, KAZ Technology Services is now supplying an enhanced product. The State Government's contract control board oversaw this contract and the outcome has protected taxpayers from commercial risk. The revised purpose built product will be rolled back over the applications in the Supreme Court and the Court of Criminal Appeal. The new product has already been rolled back over Cost Assessments.The remaining components of phase two implementation will be completed in 2007. The revised contract with KAZ Technology Services also provides for the development of an eServices component of CourtLink. A pilot of eFiling was implemented in the Supreme Court's civil jurisdiction in November 2005. In April 2006, the eCourt component of eServices commenced and the full implementation of eServices is on schedule for implementation in the second half of 2007.As at 30 June 2006 the Department spent an estimated $13.9 million on phase two of CourtLink. This phase provides functionality for case management, document lodgement, receipting of fees, invoicing, filing of documents, case initiation, costs assessor management, reporting functions, participant management, debtor management, efiling and online court. The contract generally provides for most transactions to achieve a terminal response time of between 3 10 seconds depending on the transaction.When completed in 2007 up to 1,500 concurrent CourtLink users, including the legal profession will be able to access the system at any one time. Full functionality will be available at all courts at a total estimated cost of $44.8 million.

490 POLICE—NSW POLICE WORKCOVER INVESTIGATIONS—Mr Mason-Cox to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for Police—


*491 COMMERCE—NSW POLICE WORKCOVER INVESTIGATIONS—Mr Mason-Cox asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1)(a) Has the WorkCover Authority of NSW investigated any New South Wales Police Stations since

1 July 2003 for any breaches of the law and⁄or regulations?(b) If so, which facilities have been investigated?

(2)(a) Has the WorkCover Authority of NSW prosecuted or commenced prosecution of any New

South Wales Police Stations since 1 July 2003 for any breaches of the law and⁄or regulations?(b) If so, which facilities?

(3) What is the total value of fines levied against New South Wales Police for breaches of the law and⁄or regulations since 1 July 2003?

Answer— WorkCover NSW is committed to safe, secure workplaces by working in partnership with the NSW community to achieve safer workplaces, effective recovery, return to work, and security for injured workers.WorkCover NSW administers and enforces compliance with occupational health and safety (OHS), injury management, return to work and workers compensation legislation, and manages the workers compensation system.WorkCover NSW:

• Promotes the prevention of work-related injury and diseases, and assists workplaces to become healthier and safer

• Promotes the prompt, efficient and effective management of injuries to persons at work• Ensures the efficient operation of workers compensation insurance arrangements• Ensures the appropriate coordination of arrangements for the administration of the schemes to

which the workers compensation legislation and the OHS legislation relates.WorkCover NSW's main statutory function is to administer the following legislation:Acts:

• Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000• Explosives Act 2003 · Workers Compensation Act 1987• Workplace Injury Management and Workers Compensation Act 1998• Workers Compensation (Bush Fire, Emergency and Rescue Services) Act 1987• Workers Compensation (Dust Diseases) Act 1942 · Sporting Injuries Insurance Act 1978• Rural Workers Accommodation Act 1969

Regulations and codes of practice under these Acts, including:• OHS Regulation 2001• Dangerous Goods Regulation 2005• Explosives Regulation 2005

For further information please visit the WorkCover NSW website (www.workcover.nsw.gov.au).Details of fines are contained in the WorkCover NSW annual reports.

492 HEALTH—NSW HEALTH WORKCOVER INVESTIGATIONS—Mr Mason-Cox to ask the Minister for Health—

*493 COMMERCE—NSW HEALTH WORKCOVER INVESTIGATIONS—Mr Mason-Cox asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1)(a) Has the WorkCover Authority of NSW investigated any New South Wales hospitals since 1 July

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2003 for any breaches of the law and⁄or regulations?(b) If so, which facilities have been investigated?


South Wales hospitals since 1 July 2003 for any breaches of the law and⁄or regulations?(b) If so, which facilities?

(3) What is the total value of fines levied against NSW Health and⁄or any of the Area Health Services for breaches of the law and⁄or regulations since 1 July 2003?






Regulations and codes of practice under these Acts, including: • OHS Regulation 2001• Dangerous Goods Regulation 2005• Explosives Regulation 2005


494 HEALTH—AMBULANCE STATIONS WORKCOVER INVESTIGATIONS—Mr Mason-Cox to ask the Minister for Health—

*495 COMMERCE—AMBULANCE STATIONS WORKCOVER INVESTIGATIONS—Mr Mason-Cox asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1)(a) Has the WorkCover Authority of NSW investigated any New South Wales Ambulance Stations

since 1 July 2003 for any breaches of the law and⁄or regulations?(b) If so, which facilities have been investigated?

(2)


(a) Has the WorkCover Authority of NSW prosecuted or commenced prosecution of any New South Wales Ambulance Stations since 1 July 2003 for any breaches of the law and⁄or regulations?

(b) If so, which facilities?

(3) What is the total value of fines levied against Ambulance Stations for breaches of the law and⁄or regulations since 1 July 2003?








496 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—EDUCATION WORKCOVER INVESTIGATIONS—Mr Mason-Cox to ask the Minister for Health representing the Minister for Education and Training—

*497 COMMERCE—EDUCATION WORKCOVER INVESTIGATIONS—Mr Mason-Cox asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1)(a) Has the WorkCover Authority of NSW investigated any New South Wales schools since 1 July



South Wales schools since 1 July 2003 for any breaches of the law and⁄or regulations?(b) If so, which facilities?

(3) What is the total value of fines levied against New South Wales schools for breaches of the law and⁄or regulations since 1 July 2003?

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• Promotes the prompt, efficient and effective management of injuries to persons at work ·• Ensures the efficient operation of workers compensation insurance arrangements • Ensures the appropriate coordination of arrangements for the administration of the schemes to


• Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000• Explosives Act 2003 · Workers Compensation Act 1987• Workplace Injury Management and Workers Compensation Act 1998• Workers Compensation (Bush Fire, Emergency and Rescue Services) Act 1987• Workers Compensation (Dust Diseases) Act 1942• Sporting Injuries Insurance Act 1978• Rural Workers Accommodation Act 1969

Regulations and codes of practice under these Acts, including: ·• OHS Regulation 2001• Dangerous Goods Regulation 2005• Explosives Regulation 2005


*498 COMMERCE—DADHC WORKCOVER INVESTIGATIONS—Mr Mason-Cox asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1)(a) Has the WorkCover Authority of NSW investigated any property that the Department of

Ageing, Disability and Home Care is responsible for since 1 July 2003 for any breaches of the law and⁄or regulations?

(b) If so, which facilities have been investigated?

(2)(a) Has the WorkCover Authority of NSW prosecuted or commenced prosecution of any property

that the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care is responsible for since 1 July 2003 for any breaches of the law and⁄or regulations?


(3) What is the total value of fines levied against any property that the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care is responsible for breaches of the law and⁄or regulations since 1 July 2003?

Answer— WorkCover NSW is committed to safe, secure workplaces by working in partnership with the NSW community to achieve safer workplaces, effective recovery, return to work, and security for injured workers.


WorkCover NSW administers and enforces compliance with occupational health and safety (OHS), injury management, return to work and workers compensation legislation, and manages the workers compensation system.WorkCover NSW:


• Promotes the prompt, efficient and effective management of injuries to persons at work • Ensures the efficient operation of workers compensation insurance arrangements• Ensures the appropriate coordination of arrangements for the administration of the schemes to




For further information please visit the WorkCover NSW website (www.workcover.nsw.gov.au).Details of fines are contained in the WorkCover NSW annual reports

*499 PORTS AND WATERWAYS—PORTS WORKCOVER INVESTIGATIONS—Mr Mason-Cox asked the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter representing the Minister for Energy, Minister for Ports and Waterways, and Minister Assisting the Treasurer on Business and Economic Regulatory Reform—

(1)(a) Has the WorkCover Authority of NSW investigated any ports facilities owned by the

Government since 1 July 2003 for any breaches of the law and⁄or regulations?(b) If so, which facilities have been investigated?

(2)(a) Has the WorkCover Authority of NSW prosecuted or commenced prosecution of any ports

facilities owned by the Government since 1 July 2003 for any breaches of the law and⁄or regulations?


(3) What is the total value of fines levied against any ports facilities owned by the Government for breaches of the law and⁄or regulations since 1 July 2003?

Answer— (1) to (3) In relation to Port facilities owned by NSW Maritime and Pork Kembla Port Corporation but

not leased to other entities, I am advised there have been no investigations or prosecutions by the WorkCover Authority of NSW since 1 July 2003. In relation to Sydney Ports Corporation (SPC), there was a matter where the SPC was fined ninety thousand dollars ($90,000.00).

*500 COMMERCE—PORTS WORKCOVER INVESTIGATIONS—Mr Mason-Cox asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1)(a) Has the WorkCover Authority of NSW investigated any ports facilities owned by the

689


Government since 1 July 2003 for any breaches of the law and⁄or regulations?(b) If so, which facilities have been investigated?

(2)(a) Has the WorkCover Authority of NSW prosecuted or commenced prosecution of any ports

facilities owned by the Government since 1 July 2003 for any breaches of the law and⁄or regulations?


(3) What is the total value of fines levied against any ports facilities owned by the Government for breaches of the law and⁄or regulations since 1 July 2003?

Answer— WorkCover NSW is committed to safe, secure workplaces by working in partnership with the NSW community to achieve safer workplaces, effective recovery, return to work, and security for injured workers.WorkCover NSW administers and enforces compliance with occupational health and safety (OHS), injury management, return to work and workers compensation legislation, and manages the workers compensation system.WorkCover NSW: ·




• Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000• Explosives Act 2003 · Workers Compensation Act 1987• Workplace Injury Management and Workers Compensation Act 1998• Workers Compensation (Bush Fire, Emergency and Rescue Services) Act 1987 • Workers Compensation (Dust Diseases) Act 1942 · Sporting Injuries Insurance Act 1978 • Rural Workers Accommodation Act 1969



*501 ENERGY—POWER STATIONS WORKCOVER INVESTIGATIONS—Mr Mason-Cox asked the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter representing the Minister for Energy, Minister for Ports and Waterways, and Minister Assisting the Treasurer on Business and Economic Regulatory Reform—

(1)(a) Has the WorkCover Authority of NSW investigated any power stations since 1 July 2003 for

any breaches of the law and⁄or regulations?(b) If so, which facilities have been investigated?

(2)(a) Has the WorkCover Authority of NSW prosecuted or commenced prosecution of any power

stations since 1 July 2003 for any breaches of the law and⁄or regulations?(b) If so, which facilities?


(3) What is the total value of fines levied against any power stations for breaches of the law and⁄or regulations since 1 July 2003?

Answer— (1) to (3) These questions are best directed to the Minister for Commerce.

*502 COMMERCE—POWER STATIONS WORKCOVER INVESTIGATIONS—Mr Mason-Cox asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1)(a) Has the WorkCover Authority of NSW investigated any power stations since 1 July 2003 for

any breaches of the law and⁄or regulations?(b) If so, which facilities have been investigated?

(2)(a) Has the WorkCover Authority of NSW prosecuted or commenced prosecution of any power

station since 1 July 2003 for any breaches of the law and⁄or regulations?(b) If so, which facilities?

(3) What is the total value of fines levied against any power station for breaches of the law and⁄or regulations since 1 July 2003?





• Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000 • Explosives Act 2003• Workers Compensation Act 1987• Workplace Injury Management and Workers Compensation Act 1998 • Workers Compensation (Bush Fire, Emergency and Rescue Services) Act 1987• Workers Compensation (Dust Diseases) Act 1942 · Sporting Injuries Insurance Act 1978• Rural Workers Accommodation Act 1969



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503 TRANSPORT—TRAIN STATIONS WORKCOVER INVESTIGATIONS—Mr Mason-Cox to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for Police—

*504 COMMERCE—TRAIN STATIONS WORKCOVER INVESTIGATIONS—Mr Mason-Cox asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1)(a) Has the WorkCover Authority of NSW investigated any New South train station since 1 July



South Wales train stations since 1 July 2003 for any breaches of the law and⁄or regulations?(b) If so, which facilities?

(3) What is the total value of fines levied against RailCorp for breaches of the law and⁄or regulations since 1 July 2003?



• Promotes the prompt, efficient and effective management of injuries to persons at work • Ensures the efficient operation of workers compensation insurance arrangements• Ensures the appropriate coordination of arrangements for the administration of the schemes to

which the workers compensation legislation and the OHS legislation relates.WorkCover NSW's main statutory function is to administer the following legislation:Acts: ·

• Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000• Explosives Act 2003• Workers Compensation Act 1987• Workplace Injury Management and Workers Compensation Act 1998 • Workers Compensation (Bush Fire, Emergency and Rescue Services) Act 1987• Workers Compensation (Dust Diseases) Act 1942 · Sporting Injuries Insurance Act 1978• Rural Workers Accommodation Act 1969



505 POLICE—SYDNEY FERRIES WORKCOVER INVESTIGATIONS—Mr Mason-Cox to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for Police—


*506 COMMERCE—SYDNEY FERRIES WORKCOVER INVESTIGATIONS—Mr Mason-Cox asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1)(a) Has the WorkCover Authority of NSW investigated Sydney Ferries since 1 July 2003 for any

breaches of the law and⁄or regulations?(b) If so, which facilities have been investigated?

(2)(a) Has the WorkCover Authority of NSW prosecuted or commenced prosecution of Sydney Ferries

since 1 July 2003 for any breaches of the law and⁄or regulations?(b) If so, which facilities?

(3) What is the total value of fines levied against Sydney Ferries for breaches of the law and⁄or regulations since 1 July 2003?








507 POLICE—STA BUS FACILITIES WORKCOVER INVESTIGATIONS—Mr Mason-Cox to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for Police—

*508 COMMERCE—SYDNEY BUS FACILITIES WORKCOVER INVESTIGATIONS—Mr Mason-Cox asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1)

693


(a) Has the WorkCover Authority of NSW investigated STA bus facilities since 1 July 2003 for any breaches of the law and⁄or regulations?

(b) If so, which facilities have been investigated?

(2)(a) Has the WorkCover Authority of NSW prosecuted or commenced prosecution of any STA bus

facility since 1 July 2003 for any breaches of the law and⁄or regulations?(b) If so, which facilities?

(3) What is the total value of fines levied against the STA for breaches of the law and⁄or regulations since 1 July 2003?

Answer— WorkCover NSW is committed to safe, secure workplaces by working in partnership with the NSW community to achieve safer workplaces, effective recovery, return to work, and security for injured workers.WorkCover NSW administers and enforces compliance with occupational health and safety (OHS), injury management, return to work and workers compensation legislation, and manages the workers compensation system.

• WorkCover NSW: promotes the prevention of work-related injury and diseases, and assists workplaces to become healthier and safer.

• Promotes the prompt, efficient and effective management of injuries to persons at work.• Ensures the efficient operation of workers compensation insurance arrangements.• Ensures the appropriate coordination of arrangements for the administration of the schemes to


• Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000• Explosives Act 2003• Workers Compensation Act 1987• Workplace Injury Management and Workers Compensation Act 1998 ·• Workers Compensation (Bush Fire, Emergency and Rescue Services) Act 1987• Workers Compensation (Dust Diseases) Act 1942• Sporting Injuries Insurance Act 1978• Rural Workers Accommodation Act 1969


For further information please visit the WorkCover NSW website (www.workcover.nsw.gov.au). Details of fines are contained in the WorkCover NSW annual reports.

509 HEALTH—MANLY HOSPITAL—Mr Mason-Cox to ask the Minister for Health—

510 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—SEAFORTH TAFE—Mr Mason-Cox to ask the Minister for Health representing the Minister for Education and Training—

511 TRANSPORT—MANLY FERRY AND JETCAT—Mr Mason-Cox to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for Police—

512 ROADS—SPIT BRIDGE—Mr Mason-Cox to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport—


513 ROADS—MANLY LAGOON—Mr Mason-Cox to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport—

*514 ENVIRONMENT—QUARANTINE STATION—Mr Mason-Cox asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—

(1) What level of payments was committed by the Mawland Group and ⁄or any of its subsidiaries to the Government for the concession over the Quarantine Station at North Head? Please specify the amount and when payment was or will be received.

(2) What other commitments have been made by the Mawland Group and ⁄or any of its subsidiaries to the Government for the concession over the Quarantine Station at North Head? Please specify the commitment and how it will be measured.

Answer— The lease signed between the Department of Environment and Conservation and Mawland Quarantine Station Pty Limited will be lodged at Land and Property Information NSW early in 2007, following stamping of the lease document. The lease will be publicly accessible from this time.The lease provides for Mawland to undertake substantial conservation and restoration works at the site and to maintain the premises for the full term of the lease.

515 WATER UTILITIES—MANLY OVERFLOW—Mr Mason-Cox to ask the Minister for Justice, Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs representing the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra, Leader of the House—

516 TRANSPORT—NORTHERN BEACHES BUSES—Mr Mason-Cox to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport representing the Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport, and Minister for Police—

517 HEALTH—HIV IN PRISONS—Mr Lynn to ask the Minister for Health—

518 COMMERCE—PENRITH FOOTBALL STADIUM—Mr Lynn to ask the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

519 TOURISM AND SPORT AND RECREATION—PENRITH FOOTBALL STADIUM—Mr Lynn to ask the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources representing the Minister for Tourism and Sport and Recreation, Minister for Women, and Minister Assisting the Minister for State Development—

520 STATE DEVELOPMENT—PENRITH FOOTBALL STADIUM—Mr Lynn to ask the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Premier, Minister for State Development, and Minister for Citizenship—

521 HEALTH—NEPEAN HOSPITAL RAPID EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM—Mr Lynn to ask the Minister for Health—

522 HEALTH—EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT AT NEPEAN HOSPITAL—Mr Lynn to ask the Minister for Health—

695


523 ROADS—BLUE MOUNTAINS ROADS—Mr Lynn to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport—

524 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—PENRITH PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mr Lynn to ask the Minister for Health representing the Minister for Education and Training—

525 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—GLENBROOK PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mr Lynn to ask the Minister for Health representing the Minister for Education and Training—

526 ILLAWARRA, WATER UTILITIES—HAWKESBURY-NEPEAN SEWERAGE TREATMENT PLANT—Mr Lynn to ask the Minister for Justice, Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs representing the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra, Leader of the House—

527 TOURISM AND SPORT AND RECREATION—PENRITH TOURISM—Mr Lynn to ask the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources representing the Minister for Tourism and Sport and Recreation, Minister for Women, and Minister Assisting the Minister for State Development—

528 TOURISM AND SPORT AND RECREATION—BRIGHTON-LE-SANDS TOURISM—Mr Lynn to ask the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources representing the Minister for Tourism and Sport and Recreation, Minister for Women, and Minister Assisting the Minister for State Development—

529 TOURISM AND SPORT AND RECREATION—CRONULLA TOURISM—Mr Lynn to ask the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources representing the Minister for Tourism and Sport and Recreation, Minister for Women, and Minister Assisting the Minister for State Development—

*530 ENVIRONMENT—BLUE MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARKS—Mr Lynn asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—

(1) How many hectares of National Parks were there in the Blue Mountains region as at the following dates:(a) 30 June 2002?(b) 30 June 2003?(c) 30 June 2004?(d) 30 June 2005?(e) 30 June 2006?(f) 1 November 2006?

(2) How many hectares of National Parks were acquired in the Blue Mountains region as at the following financial years:(a) 2006-07?(b) 2005-06?(c) 2004-05?(d) 2003-04?(e) 2002-03?

(3) What was the total cost of acquiring land for National Parks in the Blue Mountains region as at the following financial years:(a) 2006-07?


(b) 2005-06?(c) 2004-05?(d) 2003-04?(e) 2002-03?

Answer— The total area of national parks and reserves as at 1 November 2006 in the greater Blue Mountains region, including those parks within the World Heritage Area, was 1,050,581 hectares. The total area of land purchased for addition to these parks and reserves over those years was nearly 3,000 hectares, at a cost of around $2.5 million. Further significant areas of public land were added to these World Heritage parks and reserves over the same period at no cost to the Government.

531 ROADS—CAMDEN ROADS—Mr Lynn to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport—

532 ROADS—GOVERNOR MACQUARIE DRIVE AND HUME HIGHWAY INTERSECTION—Mr Lynn to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport—

533 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—MOUNT ANNAN HIGH SCHOOL—Mr Lynn to ask the Minister for Health representing the Minister for Education and Training—

534 EDUCATION AND TRAINING—NARARA PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mr Lynn to ask the Minister for Health representing the Minister for Education and Training—

*535 ENVIRONMENT—MULGOA NATURE RESERVE—Mr Lynn asked the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council representing the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—

(1) How many hectares were added to the Mulgoa Nature Reserve in the following financial years:(a) 2006-07?(b) 2005-06?(c) 2004-05?(d) 2003-04?(e) 2002-03?

(2) What was the total cost of acquiring land for Mulgoa Nature Reserve in the following financial years:(a) 2006-07?(b) 2005-06?(c) 2004-05?(d) 2003-04?(e) 2002-03?

Answer— Only one addition was made to Mulgoa Nature Reserve over this period, comprising the gazettal of 75 hectares in 2004⁄05. No costs were incurred by the NSW Government over this period as the land was acquired in 1997.

536 HEALTH—CAMPBELLTOWN HOSPITAL—Mr Lynn to ask the Minister for Health—

537 ROADS—COWPASTURE ROAD—Mr Lynn to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport—

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538 ROADS—HOXTON PARK ROAD—Mr Lynn to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport—

539 ROADS—HORSLEY DRIVE—Mr Lynn to ask the Minister for Roads, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport—

541 HEALTH—BIRTH CONTROL IN PRISONS—Mr Lynn to ask the Minister for Health—

John Evans PSMClerk of the Parliaments

_________________________________________ Authorised by the Parliament of New South Wales


Documents

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS - parliament.nsw.gov.au · QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS No. 35 THURSDAY 21 DECEMBER 2006 (The Questions and Answers Paper, published according to sessional order, contains