5663 REVISED PROOF
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
2019-20-21
FIRST SESSION OF THE FIFTY-SEVENTH PARLIAMENT
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
No. 477
THURSDAY 15 APRIL 2021
(The Questions and Answers Paper published every Tuesday of each week will contain, by number and title, all unanswered questions, together with questions to which answers have been received on the previous sitting and any new questions. On subsequent days, new questions are printed, as are questions to which answers were received the previous day. Consequently, the full text of any question will be printed only twice: when notice is given; and, when answered.)
Notice given on date shown. 5664 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
Publication of Questions Answer to be lodged by Q & A No. 465 (Including Question Nos 5242 to 5256) 16 April 2021 Q & A No. 466 (Including Question Nos 5257 to 5316) 19 April 2021 Q & A No. 467 (Including Question Nos 5317 to 5321) 20 April 2021 Q & A No. 468 (Including Question Nos 5322 to 5323) 21 April 2021 Q & A No. 469 (Including Question Nos 5324 to 5330) 22 April 2021 Q & A No. 470 (Including Question Nos 5331 to 5344) 27 April 2021 Q & A No. 471 (Including Question Nos 5345 to 5345) 28 April 2021 Q & A No. 472 (Including Question Nos 5346 to 5349) 29 April 2021 Q & A No. 473 (Including Question Nos 5350 to 5390) 30 April 2021 Q & A No. 474 (Including Question Nos 5391 to 5395) 3 May 2021 Q & A No. 475 (Including Question Nos 5396 to 5401) 4 May 2021 Q & A No. 476 (Including Question Nos 5402 to 5416) 5 May 2021 Q & A No. 477 (Including Question Nos 5417 to 5418) 6 May 2021
5665 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
25 MARCH 2021 (Paper No. 464)
* 5191 ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT—BROADWATER BIOMASS POWER STATION—The Hon. Mark Pearson to ask the Special Minister of State, and Minister for the Public Service and Employee Relations, Aboriginal Affairs, and the Arts representing the Minister for Energy and Environment— According to the NSW Biomass Power Generation Report by Liz Ingham published in 2020, Broadwater biomass power station is now burning more wood than bagasse to generate electricity. (1) Can the Minister advise what volumes of hardwood burnt at Broadwater power station in the 2018/19 financial year came (a) directly from: (i) the public forest estate or other public land? (ii) private plantations? (iii) private native forests? (b) Indirectly from sawmill waste? (2) What volumes of carbon dioxide from burning this wood are likely to have been directly released into the atmosphere?
Answer— (1) - (2): I am advised the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) does not hold this data for 2018/19. The EPA has recently varied the licence conditions to capture this data. The new reporting requirements do not apply retrospectively.
* 5192 PLANNING AND PUBLIC SPACES—FUNDING FOR CULTURAL BURNING—Mr David Shoebridge to ask the Minister for Mental Health, Regional Youth and Women representing the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces— (1) How much money has the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment allocated from the Commonwealth's Regional Bush Fire Recovery Fund (Phase 2 - Resilience and Recovery) towards Traditional Owner-led Cultural Burning of Country? (2) Who determined these allocations? (3) What projects did this include? (4) What guidelines were in place to assess the projects?
Answer— I am advised: This matter should be referred to the Minister for Energy and Environment
* 5193 AGRICULTURE AND WESTERN NEW SOUTH WALES—FUNDING FOR CULTURAL BURNING—Mr David Shoebridge to ask the Minister for Mental Health, Regional Youth and Women representing the Minister for Agriculture and Western New South Wales— (1) How much money has Local Land Services allocated from the Commonwealth's Regional Bush Fire Recovery Fund (Phase 2 - Resilience and Recovery) towards Traditional Owner-led Cultural Burning of Country? (2) Who determined these allocations? (3) What projects did this include? (4) What guidelines were in place to assess the projects?
Answer— 5666 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
(1) Local Land Services (LLS) was not allocated specific funding for Traditional Owner led initiatives within the Phase 1 and 2 Australian Government (AG) Bushfire Recovery - Emergency Response. This funding was tied to emergency pest mitigation and immediate habitat recovery for threatened species (pest management, threatened species assessment and monitoring, habitat infrastructure and augmentation). Despite this, some LLS regions invested Phase 1 and 2 funding into Traditional Owner led initiatives: South East LLS undertook preliminary planning to identify possible locations for Traditional Owner led cultural burning projects during this period in the South Coast Bushfire Region. North Coast LLS supported Yaegl Traditional Owners and Minyumai Aboriginal Corporation to map tree hollows, install additional nest boxes, remove weeds and undertake a small cultural burn. LLS was allocated $2,810,489 from the AG to deliver Traditional Owner led initiatives in four bushfire affected regions as part of the AG’s Phase 3 Bushfire Recovery - Species and Landscapes: NSW North Coast and Tablelands $630,000 The Greater Blue Mountains $446,902 NSW South Coast $1,565,500 Alpine $148,132. (2) Allocations were determined in negotiation between the Australian Department of Agriculture, Water and Environment (DAWE), LLS and NSW Energy Environment and Science Division (EES), with agreement that the bulk of the Traditional Owner led initiatives should be delivered within the NSW Conservation Estate. Allocations were determined for each bushfire region dependent upon size of fire scar, plus the percentage of fire scar on Conservation Estate (EES) versus the percentage of fire scar on private and other Crown Land (LLS). (3) N/A. (4) All projects within this funding are required to address the outcome of the program stipulated by the Department of Agriculture, Water and Environment (DAWE): Maximise recovery and build resilience for national priority environmental assets The DAWE held an extensive co-design workshop series in each bushfire affected region, where all stakeholders including State agencies, community groups and Traditional Owners had input into development of projects. This project list was oversubscribed and therefore prioritised by stakeholder groups during the final workshop. LLS is currently negotiating final projects determined through this process with DAWE. Final projects have not yet been allocated or approved. DAWE assess all projects put forward to ensure they: meet the outcomes of the program are delivered in partnership with relevant and identified partners are in keeping with projects put forward by stakeholders during the co-design process.
* 5194 ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT—STAFF IN MINISTERIAL OFFICES—The Hon. Adam Searle to ask the Special Minister of State, and Minister for the Public Service and Employee Relations, Aboriginal Affairs, and the Arts representing the Minister for Energy and Environment— (1) Will the Minister provide a list including the following details of all staff in their ministerial office (including public service staff on secondment) since 1 January 2020: Staff who have commenced since 1 January 2020 Staff who have left since 1 January 2020 Job title / position 5667 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
Date of commencement or cessation (where relevant) Total number of staff in the ministerial office currently
Answer— (1) The number of staff engaged in my office and their salary bands are recorded on the Department of Premier and Cabinet's website at: https://www.dpc.nsw.gov.au/publications/premiers-and- ministers-staffnumbers/. The Member can identify the differences in the staffing levels over time in my office having regard to the reports published on that website. I confirm that the number of staff in my office as at today's date has not changed since 31 December 2020 (which is the subject of the most recent published report on the above website).
* 5195 LOCAL GOVERNMENT—STAFF IN MINISTERIAL OFFICES—The Hon. Adam Searle to ask the Special Minister of State, and Minister for the Public Service and Employee Relations, Aboriginal Affairs, and the Arts representing the Minister for Local Government— (1) Will the Minister provide a list including the following details of all staff in their ministerial office (including public service staff on secondment) since 1 January 2020: Staff who have commenced since 1 January 2020 Staff who have left since 1 January 2020 Job title / position Date of commencement or cessation (where relevant) Total number of staff in the ministerial office currently?
Answer— Staff information is reported here: https://www.dpc.nsw.gov.au/publications/premiers-and-ministers-staff- numbers/
* 5196 PREMIER—STAFF IN MINISTERIAL OFFICES—The Hon. Adam Searle to ask the Special Minister of State, and Minister for the Public Service and Employee Relations, Aboriginal Affairs, and the Arts representing the Premier— (1) Will the Minister provide a list including the following details of all staff in their ministerial office (including public service staff on secondment) since 1 January 2020: Staff who have commenced since 1 January 2020 Staff who have left since 1 January 2020 Job title / position Date of commencement or cessation (where relevant) Total number of staff in the ministerial office currently?
Answer— I am advised: Staff numbers are published on the Department of Premier and Cabinet's website biannually. The Office of the Premier has had the following staff changes since 1 January 2020. For commencements between 1 May 2020 and 24 February 2021, refer to QoN LC5087. Media Adviser - commenced 6 January 2020 Social Media Assistant Adviser - commenced 6 January 2020 5668 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
Media Adviser - commenced 13 January 2020 Senior Media Adviser - separated 27 January 2020 Receptionist - separated 31 January 2020 Director - commenced 10 February 2020 Chief of Staff - separated 13 March 2020 Adviser - separated 3 July 2020 Senior Adviser - separated 31 July 2020 Senior Adviser - separated 9 October 2021 Director - separated 18 January 2021 Media Adviser - separated 19 March 2021 Media Adviser- commenced 22 March 2021 Between 15 April 2020 and 3 July 2020, the Office of the Premier included staff for the portfolios of Minister for the Public Service and Employee Relations, Aboriginal Affairs, and the Arts, and Special Minister of State.
* 5197 REGIONAL TRANSPORT AND ROADS—STAFF IN MINISTERIAL OFFICES—The Hon. Adam Searle to ask the Special Minister of State, and Minister for the Public Service and Employee Relations, Aboriginal Affairs, and the Arts representing the Minister for Regional Transport and Roads— (1) Will the Minister provide a list including the following details of all staff in their ministerial office (including public service staff on secondment) since 1 January 2020: Staff who have commenced since 1 January 2020 Staff who have left since 1 January 2020 Job title / position Date of commencement or cessation (where relevant) Total number of staff in the ministerial office currently?
Answer— I am advised: The number of Ministerial Staff in my Office is periodically published on the Department of Premier and Cabinet website.
* 5198 PUBLIC SERVICE AND EMPLOYEE RELATIONS, ABORIGINAL AFFAIRS, AND THE ARTS— STAFF IN MINISTERIAL OFFICES—The Hon. Adam Searle to ask the Special Minister of State, and Minister for the Public Service and Employee Relations, Aboriginal Affairs, and the Arts— (1) Will the Minister provide a list including the following details of all staff in their ministerial office (including public service staff on secondment) since 1 January 2020: Staff who have commenced since 1 January 2020 Staff who have left since 1 January 2020 Job title ⁄ position Date of commencement or cessation (where relevant) Total number of staff in the ministerial office currently
Answer— 5669 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
The Minister's current staff commenced in the Minister's office on 3 July 2020 following the Minister Harwin's appointment to Cabinet. In the period since 3 July 2020 the staff have had four departures (Parliamentary Liaison Officer December 2020, Receptionist April 2021 , Media Adviser February 2021 and Policy Adviser February 2021 ). In the period since 3 July 2020 the staff have had five commencements (Media adviserSeptember 2020, Policy adviser September 2020, Policy Adviser August 2020, Parliamentary Liaison Officer January 2021 and Policy Adviser February 2021) The number of staff and their positions can be found on the DPC website.
* 5199 TRANSPORT AND ROADS—STAFF IN MINISTERIAL OFFICES—The Hon. Adam Searle to ask the Special Minister of State, and Minister for the Public Service and Employee Relations, Aboriginal Affairs, and the Arts representing the Minister for Transport and Roads— (1) Will the Minister provide a list including the following details of all staff in their ministerial office (including public service staff on secondment) since 1 January 2020: Staff who have commenced since 1 January 2020 Staff who have left since 1 January 2020 Job title / position Date of commencement or cessation (where relevant) Total number of staff in the ministerial office currently?
Answer— I am advised: The number of Ministerial Staff in my Office is periodically published on the Department of Premier and Cabinet website.
* 5201 BETTER REGULATION AND INNOVATION—STAFF IN MINISTERIAL OFFICES—The Hon. Adam Searle to ask the Minister for Finance and Small Business representing the Minister for Better Regulation and Innovation— (1) Will the Minister provide a list including the following details of all staff in their ministerial office (including public service staff on secondment) since 1 January 2020: Staff who have commenced since 1 January 2020 Staff who have left since 1 January 2020 Job title / position Date of commencement or cessation (where relevant) Total number of staff in the ministerial office currently?
Answer—
As of the 25th of March, there are 10 staff based in the Ministers office.
The below details commencement and departure dates as of the 1st of January 2020. Senior Media Advisor - Staff member departed in March 2020 with role filled June 2020. Senior Policy Advisor - Staff member departed March 2021. Position currently vacant. DLO - Staff member departed March 2021 and position was filled March 2021. DLO - Staff member departed in February 2020. Replacement staff member commenced March 2020 and subsequently accepted a new role inside the Department in July 2020 with the role filled the same month. 5670 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
Receptionist - Staff member departed April 2020 with the position filled in April 2020. The staff member subsequently returned to the Department in November 2020 and the role was filled the same month.
* 5202 JOBS, INVESTMENT, TOURISM AND WESTERN SYDNEY—STAFF IN MINISTERIAL OFFICES—The Hon. Adam Searle to ask the Minister for Finance and Small Business representing the Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney— (1) Will the Minister provide a list including the following details of all staff in their ministerial office (including public service staff on secondment) since 1 January 2020: Staff who have commenced since 1 January 2020 Staff who have left since 1 January 2020 Job title / position Date of commencement or cessation (where relevant) Total number of staff in the ministerial office currently
Answer— Two Departmental Liaison Officers completed their rotation in the Minister’s office since 1 January 2020. Two Departmental Liaison Officers commenced their rotation in the Minister’s office since 1 January 2020 (filling the two vacant Department Liaison Officer roles). Including Departmental Liaison Officers, there are currently eight staff in the Minister’s office.
* 5204 POLICE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES—STAFF IN MINISTERIAL OFFICES—The Hon. Adam Searle to ask the Minister for Finance and Small Business representing the Minister for Police and Emergency Services— (1) Will the Minister provide a list including the following details of all staff in their ministerial office (including public service staff on secondment) since 1 January 2020: Staff who have commenced since 1 January 2020 Staff who have left since 1 January 2020 Job title / position Date of commencement or cessation (where relevant) Total number of staff in the ministerial office currently
Answer— I am advised: The Office of the Minister for Police and Emergency Services currently has eight employees. Staff commencements and separations since 1 January 2020 are listed below: Senior Media Advisor - commenced January 2020 and separated August 2020 - tenure 6 months; Policy Advisor - commenced February 2020; Receptionist - recommenced August 2020; Advisor - separated August 2020 - tenure 3 years 2 months; Media Advisor - commenced August 2020; Senior Policy Advisor - separated September 2020 - tenure 1 year 5 months; Senior Media Advisor - commenced September 2020; Senior Policy Advisor and Deputy Chief of Staff - commenced September 2020; Executive Assistant - separated March 2021 - tenure 4 years 3 months; and 5671 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
Executive Assistant - commenced March 2021.
* 5205 TREASURER—STAFF IN MINISTERIAL OFFICES—The Hon. Adam Searle to ask the Minister for Finance and Small Business representing the Treasurer— (1) Will the Minister provide a list including the following details of all staff in their ministerial office (including public service staff on secondment) since 1 January 2020: Staff who have commenced since 1 January 2020 Staff who have left since 1 January 2020 Job title / position Date of commencement or cessation (where relevant) Total number of staff in the ministerial office currently?
Answer— The Office of the Treasurer has had 6 employees commence employment and 6 employees separate since 1 January 2020: Policy Advisor - commenced 20 January 2020 Policy Advisor – separated 24 January 2020 Senior Policy Advisor – separated 14 February 2020 Senior Policy Advisor - commenced 7 April 2020 Senior Policy Advisor - commenced 1 July 2020 Chief of Staff – separated 6 August 2020 Acting Chief of Staff - commenced 27 August 2020 Parliamentary Liaison Officer – separated 31 December 2021 Acting Chief of Staff - separated 11 January 2021 Chief of Staff - commenced 18 January 2021 Parliamentary Researcher – separated 18 January 2021 Parliamentary Liaison Officer – commenced 26 February 2021 It should be noted that this list does not account for other employees that have taken temporary leave since 1 Jan 2020. Staff numbers are published on the Department of Premier and Cabinet’s website biannually. https://www.dpc.nsw.gov.au/publications/premiers-and-ministers-staff-numbers/.
* 5206 MENTAL HEALTH, REGIONAL YOUTH AND WOMEN—STAFF IN MINISTERIAL OFFICES— The Hon. Adam Searle to ask the Minister for Mental Health, Regional Youth and Women— (1) Will the Minister provide a list including the following details of all staff in their ministerial office (including public service staff on secondment) since 1 January 2020: Staff who have commenced since 1 January 2020 Staff who have left since 1 January 2020 Job title / position Date of commencement or cessation (where relevant) Total number of staff in the ministerial office currently?
Answer— 5672 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
Information relating to staff within the office of the Minister for Mental Health, Regional Youth and Women is publicly available on the Department of Premier and Cabinets website at www.dpc.nsw.gov.au. The office has had three staff cease employment from communication, policy and assistant roles since the 1 January 2020: 2 Resignations 1 Office transfer
* 5207 HEALTH AND MEDICAL RESEARCH—STAFF IN MINISTERIAL OFFICES—The Hon. Adam Searle to ask the Minister for Mental Health, Regional Youth and Women representing the Minister for Health and Medical Research— (1) Will the Minister provide a list including the following details of all staff in their ministerial office (including public service staff on secondment) since 1 January 2020: Staff who have commenced since 1 January 2020 Staff who have left since 1 January 2020 Job title / position Date of commencement or cessation (where relevant) Total number of staff in the ministerial office currently?
Answer— The Office of the Minister for Health and Medical Research has had two employees commence employment since 1 January 2020: Media officer, six month contract (April 2020-September 2020) Parliamentary Liaison Officer – commenced 28 December 2020 The current total number of staff in the ministerial office is 11. In addition, the Ministry of Health may temporarily assign individuals to assist with office operations. Further information regarding the Employment Policy can be found on the Department of Premier and Cabinet website.
* 5208 SPORT, MULTICULTURALISM, SENIORS AND VETERANS—STAFF IN MINISTERIAL OFFICES—The Hon. Adam Searle to ask the Minister for Mental Health, Regional Youth and Women representing the Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education, and Minister for Sport, Multiculturalism, Seniors and Veterans— (1) Will the Minister provide a list including the following details of all staff in their ministerial office (including public service staff on secondment) since 1 January 2020: Staff who have commenced since 1 January 2020 Staff who have left since 1 January 2020 Job title / position Date of commencement or cessation (where relevant) Total number of staff in the ministerial office currently?
Answer— I am advised: Job Title/Position Date of commencement Date of cessation Chief of Staff N/A N/A Deputy Chief of Staff N/A N/A Senior Policy Adviser N/A N/A 5673 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
Director of Communications N/A 12 February 2021 Media Adviser (secondment) 22 February 2021 N/A Policy Adviser N/A 23 October 2020 Adviser 21 December 2020 24 March 2021 Executive Assistant N/A N/A Receptionist N/A N/A Note: Table is correct as at 29 March 2021 As at 29 March 2021 there are 6 staff in the office of the Minister for Sport, Multiculturalism, Seniors and Veterans, including one public service staff member on secondment and excluding Departmental Liaison Officers.
* 5209 AGRICULTURE AND WESTERN NEW SOUTH WALES—STAFF IN MINISTERIAL OFFICES— The Hon. Adam Searle to ask the Minister for Mental Health, Regional Youth and Women representing the Minister for Agriculture and Western New South Wales— (1) Will the Minister provide a list including the following details of all staff in their ministerial office (including public service staff on secondment) since 1 January 2020: Staff who have commenced since 1 January 2020 Staff who have left since 1 January 2020 Job title / position Date of commencement or cessation (where relevant) Total number of staff in the ministerial office currently?
Answer— (1) (a) Two positions have been filled within the Office of the Minister for Agriculture and Minister for Western NSW since 1 January 2020, they are as follows; (i) Parliamentary Liaison Officer and Media Advisor - commenced 27 April 2020; and (ii) Director of Communications - commenced 6 October 2020. (b) Two positions have been vacated in the Office of the Minister for Agriculture and Minister for Western NSW since 1 January 2020, they are as follows; (i) Media Advisor - departed 14 August 2020; and (ii) Senior Policy Advisor - departed 15 March 2021. (c) The Office of the Minister for Agriculture and Minister for Western NSW currently has five (5) Ministerial staff and zero (0) Public Service staff on secondment.
* 5210 WATER, PROPERTY AND HOUSING—STAFF IN MINISTERIAL OFFICES—The Hon. Adam Searle to ask the Minister for Mental Health, Regional Youth and Women representing the Minister for Water, Property and Housing— (1) Will the Minister provide a list including the following details of all staff in their ministerial office (including public service staff on secondment) since 1 January 2020: Staff who have commenced since 1 January 2020 Staff who have left since 1 January 2020 Job title / position Date of commencement or cessation (where relevant) 5674 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
Total number of staff in the ministerial office currently
Answer— There are currently eight ministerial staff in the Office of the Minister for Water, Property and Housing. Since 1 January 2020 the following ministerial staff changes have occurred: Executive Assistant/Executive officer has begun employment in the office (22 February 2021) Deputy Chief of staff began employment (16 March 2020) and ceased employment (7 March 2021) Advisor began employment (23 March 2020) and ceased employment (30 June 2020) Chief of staff ceased employment (15 March 2020) Office manager/Executive Officer ceased employment (28 February 2020)
* 5211 PLANNING AND PUBLIC SPACES—STAFF IN MINISTERIAL OFFICES—The Hon. Adam Searle to ask the Minister for Mental Health, Regional Youth and Women representing the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces— (1) Will the Minister provide a list including the following details of all staff in their ministerial office (including public service staff on secondment) since 1 January 2020: Staff who have commenced since 1 January 2020 Staff who have left since 1 January 2020 Job title / position Date of commencement or cessation (where relevant) Total number of staff in the ministerial office currently
Answer— I am advised: For the period 1 January 2020 to 30 June 2020, total staff number was 11. Information relating to this period is publicly available here: https://www.dpc.nsw.gov.au/assets/dpc-nsw-gov-au/publications/Premiers-and-Ministers-staff-numbers- listing-467/2020-06-30-Premier-and-Ministers-staff-numbers-as-at-30-June-2020.pdf For period 1 July 2020 to 31 December 2020, total staff number was 11. Information relating to this period is publicly available here: https://www.dpc.nsw.gov.au/assets/dpc-nsw-gov-au/publications/Premiers-and-Ministers-staff-numbers- listing-467/Premier-and-Ministers-staff-numbers-as-at-31-December-2020.pdf For period 1 January 2021 to present, there have been no staff changes. The following job titles are attributed to staff in the office: Chief of Staff Director of Communications Director of Policy Senior Media Adviser Senior Policy Adviser Policy Adviser Parliamentary Liaison Officer 5675 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
Executive Assistant Departmental Liaison Officer
* 5212 EDUCATION AND EARLY CHILDHOOD LEARNING—STAFF IN MINISTERIAL OFFICES—The Hon. Adam Searle to ask the Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning— (1) Will the Minister provide a list including the following details of all staff in their ministerial office (including public service staff on secondment) since 1 January 2020: Staff who have commenced since 1 January 2020 Staff who have left since 1 January 2020 Job title / position Date of commencement or cessation (where relevant) Total number of staff in the ministerial office currently?
Answer— The Office of the Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning has had two employees commence employment since 1 January 2020: Media and Parliamentary Adviser commenced October 2020 Media Adviser commenced March 2021 The Office of the Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning has had four employees' separate employment since 1 January 2020: Director of Parliament separated March 2020 Chief of Staff separated August 2020 Deputy Chief of Staff separated July 2020 Senior Media Adviser separated November 2020 Staff numbers in Ministerial offices is reported on biannually: https://www.dpc.nsw.gov.au/publications/premiers-and-ministers-staff-numbers/
* 5213 REGIONAL NEW SOUTH WALES, INDUSTRY AND TRADE—STAFF IN MINISTERIAL OFFICES—The Hon. Adam Searle to ask the Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning representing the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Regional New South Wales, Industry and Trade— (1) Will the Minister provide a list including the following details of all staff in their ministerial office (including public service staff on secondment) since 1 January 2020: Staff who have commenced since 1 January 2020 Staff who have left since 1 January 2020 Job title / position Date of commencement or cessation (where relevant) Total number of staff in the ministerial office currently?
Answer— Information regarding staffing numbers are available publicly online. 5676 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
* 5214 SKILLS AND TERTIARY EDUCATION—STAFF IN MINISTERIAL OFFICES—The Hon. Adam Searle to ask the Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning representing the Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education, and Minister for Sport, Multiculturalism, Seniors and Veterans— (1) Will the Minister provide a list including the following details of all staff in their ministerial office (including public service staff on secondment) since 1 January 2020: Staff who have commenced since 1 January 2020 Staff who have left since 1 January 2020 Job title / position Date of commencement or cessation (where relevant) Total number of staff in the ministerial office currently?
Answer— I am advised: Job Title/Position Date of commencement Date of cessation Chief of Staff N/A N/A Deputy Chief of Staff N/A N/A Policy Director 8 June 2020 N/A Senior Policy Advisor N/A 29 May 2020 Senior Policy Advisor 17 June 2020 N/A Media Advisor N/A 15 March 2020 Director of Communications 9 March 2020 3 March 2021 Media Advisor (secondment) 5 March 2021 N/A Policy Advisor/Officer Manager N/A N/A Policy Advisor N/A N/A Policy Advisor 25 March 2021 N/A Note: Table is correct as at 29 March 2021 As at 29 March 2021 there are 8 staff (7.2 FTE) in the office of the Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education, including one public service staff member on secondment and excluding Departmental Liaison Officers.
* 5215 COUNTER TERRORISM AND CORRECTIONS—STAFF IN MINISTERIAL OFFICES—The Hon. Adam Searle to ask the Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning representing the Minister for Counter Terrorism and Corrections— (1) Will the Minister provide a list including the following details of all staff in their ministerial office (including public service staff on secondment) since 1 January 2020: Staff who have commenced since 1 January 2020 Staff who have left since 1 January 2020 Job title / position Date of commencement or cessation (where relevant) Total number of staff in the ministerial office currently?
Answer— 5677 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
Ministers’ Office staff numbers and salary bands are available on the DPC website. Refer to: https://www.dpc.nsw.gov.au/publications/premiers-and-ministers-staff-numbers/.
* 5216 PREVENTION OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE—STAFF IN MINISTERIAL OFFICES—The Hon. Adam Searle to ask the Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning representing the Attorney General, and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence— (1) Will the Minister provide a list including the following details of all staff in their ministerial office (including public service staff on secondment) since 1 January 2020: Staff who have commenced since 1 January 2020 Staff who have left since 1 January 2020 Job title / position Date of commencement or cessation (where relevant) Total number of staff in the ministerial office currently?
Answer— I am advised: The following list details the commencement and separation of employment in the Office of the Attorney General and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence since 1 January 2020: Parliamentary Liaison Officer – separated 6 February 2020 Parliamentary Liaison Officer – commenced 20 February 2020 Senior Policy Advisor – separated 15 April 2020 Senior Advisor (Domestic Violence) – commenced 25 May 2020 Senior Policy Advisor – separated 3 July 2020 Associate to the Attorney General – separated 9 October 2020 Associate to the Attorney General/Senior Advisor – commenced 7 December 2020 The number of staff in ministerial offices is published biannually on the Department of Premier and Cabinet’s website at: https://www.dpc.nsw.gov.au/publications/premiers-and-ministers-staff-numbers/.
* 5217 FAMILIES, COMMUNITIES AND DISABILITY SERVICES—STAFF IN MINISTERIAL OFFICES— The Hon. Adam Searle to ask the Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning representing the Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services— (1) Will the Minister provide a list including the following details of all staff in their ministerial office (including public service staff on secondment) since 1 January 2020: Staff who have commenced since 1 January 2020 Staff who have left since 1 January 2020 Job title / position Date of commencement or cessation (where relevant) Total number of staff in the ministerial office currently?
Answer— I am advised: The Office of the Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services has had 1 employee commence employment since 1 January 2020: Media and Policy Advisor – commenced 7 January 2020 5678 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
The Office of the Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services has had 1 employee separate employment since 1 January 2020: Advisor – separated 22 March 2021 Staff numbers in Ministerial offices is reported on biannually: https://www.dpc.nsw.gov.au/publications/premiers-and-ministers-staff-numbers/
* 5218 ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT—NSW GOVERNMENT ENERGY USE—The Hon. Courtney Houssos to ask the Special Minister of State, and Minister for the Public Service and Employee Relations, Aboriginal Affairs, and the Arts representing the Minister for Energy and Environment— (1) For every financial year since 2011-12 to 2020-21, please provide: (a) The percentage of NSW Government energy use across all Departments and Agencies that came from renewable energy. (b) Details of any new energy supply contracts signed by the NSW Government, and the percentage of renewable energy guaranteed in those contracts.
Answer— This question should be referred to the Minister for Finance and Small Business.
* 5219 ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT—ELECTRIC VEHICLE FLEET—The Hon. Courtney Houssos to ask the Special Minister of State, and Minister for the Public Service and Employee Relations, Aboriginal Affairs, and the Arts representing the Minister for Energy and Environment— (1) For every financial year since 2011-12 to 2020-21, please provide: (a) The percentage of new purchased fleet vehicles by the NSW Government across all Departments and Agencies that were electric vehicles. (b) The percentage of the total existing NSW Government fleet vehicles across all Departments and Agencies that are electric vehicles.
Answer— This question should be referred to the Minister for Finance and Small Business.
* 5220 TRANSPORT AND ROADS—ELECTRIC VEHICLE FLEET—The Hon. Courtney Houssos to ask the Special Minister of State, and Minister for the Public Service and Employee Relations, Aboriginal Affairs, and the Arts representing the Minister for Transport and Roads— (1) For every financial year since 2011-12 to 2020-21, please provide: (a) The percentage of new purchased fleet vehicles by the NSW Government across all Departments and Agencies that were electric vehicles. (b) The percentage of the total existing NSW Government fleet vehicles across all Departments and Agencies that are electric vehicles.
Answer— I am advised: This is a matter for the Treasurer.
* 5223 LOCAL GOVERNMENT—COASTAL AND ESTUARY GRANTS PROGRAM—The Hon. Peter Primrose to ask the Special Minister of State, and Minister for the Public Service and Employee Relations, Aboriginal Affairs, and the Arts representing the Minister for Local Government— (1) Has the Minister or her department received an application to the Coastal and Estuary Grants Program to investigate the use of the Hunter River and to address erosion at Stockton? (a) If so, when was the application received? 5679 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
(b) If so, when will the application be determined? (i) If more than a month has passed between receiving the application, what is the delay in determining the application?
Answer— Councils grants awarded under the Program are detailed at www.environment.nsw.gov.al.Jltopics- watetlcoasts/coastal-and-estuary-grants/grantsawarded
* 5224 PLANNING AND PUBLIC SPACES—EVERYONE CAN PLAY GRANT—The Hon. Peter Primrose to ask the Minister for Mental Health, Regional Youth and Women representing the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces— (1) What was the rationale for the demolition of the playground owned by Land and Housing Corporation (LAHC) on Neil Terrace, Hamilton South? (2) What was the cost for demolishing the playground on Neil Terrace, Hamilton South? (3) What was the cost of repairing the brickwork and fencing surrounding the playground last year? (4) Will this playground that has been demolished be replaced and/or upgraded? (a) If not, why not? (b) If so, what is the proposed timeframe to rebuild it? (5) Is the Land and Housing Corporation (LAHC) eligible for funding under the Everyone Can Play Grant? (a) If not, will the Government change the eligibility criteria of the Everyone Can Play Grant so LAHC can apply?
Answer— I am advised: (1) - (4) This matter should be referred to the Minister for Water, Property and Housing. (5) The Everyone Can Play grant program for new and upgraded inclusive playspaces is available to all councils in NSW. The government has committed $20 million over 5 years to this program, so far $15 million has been allocated. The program is a competitive matched funding grant program where councils are required to invest the same amount as requested through the grant application. Currently, state or federal government departments and agencies are ineligible to apply for the Everyone Can Play grant program.
* 5225 TRANSPORT AND ROADS—CITY ROAD, NEWCASTLE TRAFFIC ISSUES—The Hon. Peter Primrose to ask the Special Minister of State, and Minister for the Public Service and Employee Relations, Aboriginal Affairs, and the Arts representing the Minister for Transport and Roads— (1) What action is the government taking to address traffic issues on City Road between Alice Street and Scenic Drive in Newcastle? (2) Are there any plans to upgrade City Road between Alice Street and Scenic Drive in Newcastle?
Answer— I am advised: Transport for NSW continues to monitor roads across Newcastle to investigate a range of initiatives to enhance safety and efficiency of the network. The NSW Government is investing $13.5 million to upgrade the intersections of City Road at Kahibah Road and Northcott Drive to improve traffic flow and safety. Future upgrades to City Road and other roads in Newcastle will be made in line with State-wide budget priorities. 5680 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
* 5226 TRANSPORT AND ROADS—NEWCASTLE INNER-CITY BYPASS—The Hon. Peter Primrose to ask the Special Minister of State, and Minister for the Public Service and Employee Relations, Aboriginal Affairs, and the Arts representing the Minister for Transport and Roads— (1) Did the Federal Government provide funding for the State Government to build the Newcastle Inner-city Bypass? (a) If so, what was the total amount of the funding? (b) If so, should this funding be dispersed over a number of years, what is the time frame and the amount allocated for each year? (c) If so, will the funding that the state government allocated for this project be directed towards other projects in the Hunter? (i) If not, why not?
Answer— I am advised: The Federal Government committed funding to the Newcastle Inner City Bypass, Rankin Park to Jesmond project in its 2021 budget. The estimated total project cost is $450 million, and the Australian Government has committed $360 million. The NSW Government will contribute 20 per cent of the total project cost, and previously provisioned funding will be used to fulfil this share. Funding will be distributed across the forward financial years commensurate with construction, with a timeframe determined once the construction contract has been awarded.
* 5227 TRANSPORT AND ROADS—COMMUTER CAR PARKING—The Hon. Courtney Houssos to ask the Special Minister of State, and Minister for the Public Service and Employee Relations, Aboriginal Affairs, and the Arts representing the Minister for Transport and Roads— (1) Please provide a location and a year by year breakdown of the 10,000 commuter car parking spaces delivered by Transport for NSW? (2) Please provide a forecasted year by year breakdown of the 8,000 car parking spaces to be delivered by Transport for NSW and their location?
Answer— I am advised: Information regarding commuter parking is publicly available on the Transport for NSW and Transport Info websites.
* 5228 TRANSPORT AND ROADS—RAIL CONNECT—The Hon. Courtney Houssos to ask the Special Minister of State, and Minister for the Public Service and Employee Relations, Aboriginal Affairs, and the Arts representing the Minister for Transport and Roads— (1) Regarding the liquidated damages payable to Transport for NSW, should RailConnect fail to meet the dates specified for agency acceptance of the New Intercity Fleet as described in LC Question 5097 (New Intercity Fleet): (a) What are the dates for acceptance referenced? (b) If Transport for NSW were to change the scope of deliverables, would new dates for acceptance be required and therefore liability to pay liquidated damages based on past deliverables and dates would cease?
Answer— I am advised: The Project Deed with RailConnect includes a potential liability clause that is date dependent, but this detail is Commercial in Confidence. 5681 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
* 5229 TRANSPORT AND ROADS—HILLS ROAD M4 EXIT—The Hon. Courtney Houssos to ask the Special Minister of State, and Minister for the Public Service and Employee Relations, Aboriginal Affairs, and the Arts representing the Minister for Transport and Roads— (1) The answer to LC Question 5099 (Hill Road M4 Exit Ramp) indicates that information about "safety issues referenced in the decision notification" to cancel the project are publicly available: (a) If that is correct, please indicate where? (b) If it is not publicly available, please outline what those safety issues identified were?
Answer— I am advised: Information regarding the Hill Road M4 Exit Ramp is publicly available on the Transport for NSW website: https://www.rms.nsw.gov.au/projects/hill-road-upgrade/index.html.
* 5230 TRANSPORT AND ROADS—NEWCASTLE CYCLING STRATEGY—The Hon. Peter Primrose to ask the Leader of the Government in the Legislative Council, Special Minister of State, Minister for the Public Service and Employee Relations, Aboriginal Affairs, and the Arts, Vice-President of the Executive Council representing the Minister for Transport and Roads— (1) What is the total amount spent by the NSW Government funding projects that are part of the Newcastle Cycling Strategy in 2019-2020? (2) What is the total amount allocated in the 2020-2021 State Budget for projects forming part of the Newcastle Cycling Strategy?
Answer— I am advised: This information is publicly available.
* 5231 REGIONAL TRANSPORT AND ROADS—STALLED NEWCASTLE TRANSPORT PROJECTS—The Hon. Peter Primrose to ask the Special Minister of State, and Minister for the Public Service and Employee Relations, Aboriginal Affairs, and the Arts representing the Minister for Regional Transport and Roads— (1) I refer to your government's commitment to a full duplication of Nelson Bay Road from Stockton to Anna Bay; when will work on the Stockton to Fullerton Cove section of the road commence? (2) What is the reason/s for why work has not commenced? (3) What is the reason/s for why the government has not met its commitment? (4) What funding was allocated in the 2017/18 to the 2020/21 budget towards the planning of the Lower Hunter Freight Corridor? (a) How much of this allocation was spent in each budget year? (5) Has any funding been allocated towards the construction of the Lower Hunter Freight Corridor? (a) If so, what has been the allocation for each budget year and how much has been allocated to this project? (b) If so, what has been the expenditure for each budget year that an allocation was applied to this project? (c) If not, why not? (6) What is the reason/s as to why the Lower Hunter Freight Corridor project has stalled? (7) When will the Government construct the Lower Hunter Freight Corridor? (8) What is the current estimated date of completion of the Lower Hunter Freight Corridor? (9) Has the government researched the effects of freight trains and traffic congestion in Newcastle, including when a freight train passes through level crossings? 5682 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
(a) If not, why not? (b) If so, what is the site specific URL to read these research reports? (i) If not, why has the government not undertaken to do this research? (10) What work has the Government undertaken to preserve the freight corridor? (11) Has any land been acquired for the Lower Hunter Freight Corridor?
Answer— I am advised: (1) – (3) The NSW Government is investing $275 million to improve safety and travel times on Nelson Bay Road. The duplication of Nelson Bay Road is being delivered as a staged program of work. Early work on the upgrade of the intersection of Nelson Bay Road and Medowie Road was completed in June 2019 and the upgrade of the intersection of Nelson Bay Road and Lemon Tree Passage Road was completed in July 2020. Transport for NSW is planning for the duplication of Nelson Bay Road from Williamtown to Bobs Farm as the next stage of the project, and has consulted the community on both online and off-line alignment options. A community consultation report summarising feedback from the community is being prepared and will be published in the coming months. The NSW Government is fast-tracking Section 1 of the Nelson Bay Road, Williamtown, to Bobs Farm duplication. This one-kilometre duplication is located at Bobs Farm and continues previously duplicated road. This section would be constructed within the existing road boundary and is not impacted by the route options being considered for the remainder of the Williamtown to Bobs Farm upgrade project. Construction of this first one-kilometre of duplication at Bobs Farm is planned to commence in 2022. (4) FY 2017/18 allocation - $12,771,832 FY 2018/19 allocation - $13,968,512 FY 2019/20 allocation - $18,999.996 FY 2020/21 allocation - $13,327,292 (4) (a) FY 2017/18 expenditure - $431,125.22 FY 2018/19 expenditure - $846,129 FY 2019/20 expenditure - $1,326,183 FY 2020/21 expenditure - $257,163.18 (5) - (9). The Lower Hunter Freight Corridor is still in the planning stage, so no funding has been allocated towards the construction. Demand analysis indicates that it is not required for a number of years, and a business case will be undertaken prior to any commitment to construction. A key benefit of a future Lower Hunter Freight Line will be to alleviate delays at level crossings by removing freight train movements through Newcastle suburban areas. Relevant work on the benefits of a future line, to support the alignment and protection of the proposed corridor, will be publicly exhibited prior to confirming a corridor. (10) Investigations have been on-going. It is anticipated the recommended Lower Hunter Freight Corridor alignment will be exhibited this year. (11) No. The project is still in the planning phase and the recommended Lower Hunter Freight Corridor alignment will be exhibited prior to confirming a corridor.
On 19 April 2021 the Minister provided the following revised answer: (4) FY 2017/18 allocation - $12,771,832 5683 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
FY 2018/19 allocation - $13,968,512 FY 2019/20 allocation - $18,999.996 FY 2020/21 allocation - $22,177,292 All allocations above include underspend carried forward from previous years.
* 5232 TRANSPORT AND ROADS—CROSSING SUPERVISORS—The Hon. Peter Primrose to ask the Special Minister of State, and Minister for the Public Service and Employee Relations, Aboriginal Affairs, and the Arts representing the Minister for Transport and Roads— (1) By school, how many crossing supervisors are employed by Transport for NSW in the Newcastle LGA?
Answer— I am advised: I refer you the previous response to Budget Estimates supplementary question 236.
* 5233 TRANSPORT AND ROADS—PORT OF NEWCASTLE CONTAINER DEFINITION—The Hon. Peter Primrose to ask the Special Minister of State, and Minister for the Public Service and Employee Relations, Aboriginal Affairs, and the Arts representing the Minister for Transport and Roads— (1) Did the Government change the meaning of the term "container" in the Port Commitment Deeds for Port Botany and Port Kembla dated 31 May 2013? (a) If so, did this change in definition occur after a decision was announced on 5 November 2013 to lease the Port of Newcastle to the private sector? (2) When the Government leased Port Botany and Port Kembla to NSW Ports Pty Ltd on 31 May 2013, did the Port Commitment Deeds define the term "container" to be: "Container means any moveable device, designed for continuous use in loading and unloading cargoes on and from Ships, including boxes, crates, cylinders, tanks, TEUs, other stackable units and any similar cargo-carrying device which is designated as a container by international stevedoring standards from time to time and Containerised has a corresponding meaning. Container includes: (a) overseas import containers; (b) overseas export containers; and, (c) local containers (coastal inwards or outwards); and (d) empty containers and transhipped containers."? (3) After the Government announced its decision to lease the Port of Newcastle to the private sector on 5 November 2013, did the Government and NSW Ports Pty Ltd change the meaning of "container" in the Port Commitment Deeds for Port Botany and Port Kembla to be: "TEU"? (a) If yes, what is the reason/s for this decision? (4) When the Government leased the Port of Newcastle to Port of Newcastle Investments Pty Ltd on 30 May 2014, did the Port Commitment Deed define "container" to be: "TEU"?
Answer— I am advised: This is a matter for the Treasurer.
* 5234 TRANSPORT AND ROADS—FARE BOX REVENUE—The Hon. Peter Primrose to ask the Special Minister of State, and Minister for the Public Service and Employee Relations, Aboriginal Affairs, and the Arts representing the Minister for Transport and Roads— (1) What was the fare box revenue for Newcastle Light Rail for each of the following months: (a) March 2021 5684 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
(b) February 2021 (c) January 2021 (d) December 2020 (e) November 2020 (f) October 2020 (g) September 2020 (h) August 20200 (i) July 2020 (j) June 2020 (k) May 2020 (l) April 2020 (m) March 2020 (n) February 2020 (o) January 2020? (2) What was the fare box revenue for Newcastle buses for each of the following months: (a) March 2021 (b) February 2021 (c) January 2021 (d) December 2020 (e) November 2020 (f) October 2020 (g) September 2020 (h) August 2020 (i) July 2020 (j) June 2020 (k) May 2020 (l) April 2020 (m) March 2020 (n) February 2020 (o) January 2020? (3) What was the fare box revenue for Stockton Ferry for each of the following months: (a) March 2021 (b) February 2021 (c) January 2021 (d) December 2020 (e) November 2020 (f) October 2020 (g) September 2020 (h) August 2020 5685 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
(i) July 2020 (j) June 2020 (k) May 2020 (l) April 2020 (m) March 2020 (n) February 2020 (o) January 2020?
Answer— I am advised: I refer you to the previous responses to Budget Estimates supplementary questions 384 to 386.
* 5235 PLANNING AND PUBLIC SPACES—HUNTER INFRASTRUCTURE AND INVESTMENT FUND— The Hon. Peter Primrose to ask the Minister for Mental Health, Regional Youth and Women representing the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces— (1) In 2016, $5 million was committed from to the Hunter Infrastructure and Investment Fund to upgrade the Newcastle Basketball Stadium at Broadmeadow. Now that Newcastle Basketball is relocating to Lake Macquarie, what is the status of this funding? (2) Has this funding been spent? (a) If not, will it be allocated to the Lake Macquarie facility? (b) If not, will it be allocated to another project in the Hunter?
Answer— This matter should be referred to the Treasurer.
* 5236 TRANSPORT AND ROADS—BIKES AND LIGHT RAIL—The Hon. Peter Primrose to ask the Special Minister of State, and Minister for the Public Service and Employee Relations, Aboriginal Affairs, and the Arts representing the Minister for Transport and Roads— (1) Are bikes allowed on the Dulwich Hill Light Rail? (a) If not, why not? (b) If so, are there any restrictions as to when they are allowed on? (2) Are bikes allowed on Sydney CBD Light Rail? (a) If not, why not? (b) If so, are there any restrictions as to when they are allowed on? (3) Are bikes allowed on the Newcastle Light Rail? (a) If not, why not? (b) If so, are there any restrictions as to when they are allowed on?
Answer— I am advised: I refer you to the previous responses to Budget Estimates supplementary questions 388 – 390. 5686 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
* 5237 TRANSPORT AND ROADS—ADAMSTOWN LEVEL CROSSING SIGNALLING—The Hon. Peter Primrose to ask the Special Minister of State, and Minister for the Public Service and Employee Relations, Aboriginal Affairs, and the Arts representing the Minister for Transport and Roads— (1) Will the level crossing signalling system upgrade at Adamstown proceed if council does not install traffic signals at this location? (a) If not, why not? (2) Would the upgrade reduce the amount of time the level crossing is closed and improve traffic flows? (a) If not, is Transport for NSW making traffic improvements at the level crossing to improve traffic flows? (i) If yes, what are they? (ii) If not, why not?
Answer— I am advised: (1) Transport for NSW has assisted Newcastle City Council to integrate the two systems, which will support the council's proposal to provide road traffic lights to improve safety and traffic flow. (2) Issues relating to the roads and traffic surrounding the Adamstown level crossing, including St James Road, are matters for Newcastle City Council. The surrounding roads are local roads under the care and control of the Council.
* 5238 TRANSPORT AND ROADS—CENTRAL COAST AND NEWCASTLE TRAIN LINE, AND WORKS—The Hon. Peter Primrose to ask the Special Minister of State, and Minister for the Public Service and Employee Relations, Aboriginal Affairs, and the Arts representing the Minister for Transport and Roads— (1) How much has been committed to works to improve travel times on Central Coast and Newcastle Train Line for each of the following years: (a) 2015; (b) 2016; (c) 2017; (d) 2018; (e) 2019; (f) 2020; (g) 2021? (i) Of the funds committed for each year above, how much was spent for each of the years listed above? (2) What funds has the Federal Government provided to the State Government for the Central Coast and Newcastle Train Line for each of the following years: (a) 2015; (b) 2016; (c) 2017; (d) 2018; (e) 2019; (f) 2020; (g) 2021? 5687 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
(i) Of the funds committed for each year above, how much has been spent for each of the years listed above?
Answer— I am advised: I refer you to the previous responses to Budget Estimates supplementary questions 396 – 398.
* 5239 TRANSPORT AND ROADS—MOBILE RECEPTION AND CENTRAL COAST AND NEWCASTLE TRAIN LINE—The Hon. Peter Primrose to ask the Special Minister of State, and Minister for the Public Service and Employee Relations, Aboriginal Affairs, and the Arts representing the Minister for Transport and Roads— (1) When will the project to provide more reliable mobile phone services along the Lake Macquarie and Newcastle section of the Central Coast and Newcastle train line be completed? (2) What improvements on the Central Coast and Newcastle line did the Fast Rail Network Strategy identify? (a) Will all of these improvement be implemented? (i) If not, what specific improvements will be implemented? (ii) What was the reason/s for not implementing all of the recommended improvements identified by the Fast Rail Network Strategy? (b) For the improvements that will be implemented, what is the cost of these improvements?
Answer— I am advised: This information is publicly available.
* 5240 TRANSPORT AND ROADS—RAIL ALIGNMENT BETWEEN NORTHERN SYDNEY AND WOY WOY—The Hon. Peter Primrose to ask the Special Minister of State, and Minister for the Public Service and Employee Relations, Aboriginal Affairs, and the Arts representing the Minister for Transport and Roads— (1) In March 2019, the government committed "$80 million to develop a new rail alignment between northern Sydney and Woy Woy, including investigation of potential tunnelling options, which will support faster trains to better connect the Central Coast to Sydney". How much of these funds have been spent? (a) What is the breakdown of the spending by each of the project stages identified as part of the alignment?
Answer— I am advised: Information regarding the NSW Government's initial commitment to delivering a faster rail network is publicly available.
* 5241 TRANSPORT AND ROADS—NEWCASTLE LIGHT RAIL CORRIDORS—The Hon. Peter Primrose to ask the Special Minister of State, and Minister for the Public Service and Employee Relations, Aboriginal Affairs, and the Arts representing the Minister for Transport and Roads— (1) What action has been taken to preserve the corridors for future Newcastle Light Rail expansions? (a) If no action has been taken, what are the reason/s? (2) Has the Government identified any issues that could impact on expanding light rail west from the Newcastle Interchange? (a) If so, what action has been taken to address this? 5688 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
(b) If not, what action will be taken? (3) Provisions for light rail extensions have been made alongside the Newcastle Bus Interchange for a future line, what is the reason/s have no provisions been made between there and Tudor Street? (4) Does the current funding envelope for the expansion of the Newcastle Light Rail take into consideration the current identified corridors no longer being available in the future? (a) If not, why not? (b) If so, does light rail corridors being built out increase the cost of expanding the Newcastle Light Rail? (c) If so, does light rail corridors being built out increase the complexity of expanding the Newcastle Light Rail? (5) Transport for NSW's Newcastle Light Rail expansion business case recommended to "investigate the full impact on the roads and adjacent properties through alignment optimisation" and "reduce property impact through further study", has this work been undertaken? (a) If not, why not? (6) Will the Minister direct Transport for NSW to undertake extra analysis work and corridor preservation as a priority?
Answer— I am advised: I refer you to the previous response to LC 5038.
26 MARCH 2021 (Paper No. 465)
* 5244 BETTER REGULATION AND INNOVATION—LAND BALLOT REGULATION—The Hon. Anthony D'Adam to ask the Minister for Finance and Small Business representing the Minister for Better Regulation and Innovation— (1) What regulatory or other protections are in place to protect prospective buyers participating in land ballots conducted by developers?
Answer— Sale of property by ballot is a legitimate alternative to sale at auction or by private treaty. If the sale is being conducted directly by developers without the use of a real estate agent, then the Property and Stock Agents Act 2002 does not apply. Prospective buyers are protected under the Australian Consumer Law which prohibits certain conduct by the developer, including false or misleading representations, misleading and deceptive conduct, unconscionable conduct and unfair contract terms. The contract for the sale of land is regulated in the same manner as other methods of property sale under the Conveyancing Act 1919 and the Conveyancing (Sale of Land) Regulation 2019 administered by the Minister for Customer Service.
* 5250 JOBS, INVESTMENT, TOURISM AND WESTERN SYDNEY—CBD HOTEL VOUCHERS—The Hon. Courtney Houssos to ask the Minister for Finance and Small Business representing the Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney— (1) Regarding the announcement of $100 vouchers for CBD accommodation, what are: (a) The total expected number of vouchers to be issued? (b) The total expected number of accommodation stays to be generated? (c) The total expected number of accommodation providers who will benefit? 5689 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
(d) The total number of people who will take up a voucher? (e) The scheme opening and closing dates? (f) The total budget allocation to the scheme? (2) Will a similar scheme be developed for accommodation providers outside the Sydney CBD? (a) If not, why not?
Answer— Funding of up to $20 million has been allocated for up to 200,000 x $100 CBD accommodation vouchers will be issued on a "first in, first served" basis with the scheme expected to commence in June 2021. Accommodation providers will need to register for the program and operate within the Sydney postcode of 2000 to participate. The program has been specifically targeted to assist recovery of the Sydney CBD economy. Registration of businesses and application for vouchers will be managed by Service NSW and questions about these processes are best asked of the Minister for Customer Service.
* 5252 JOBS, INVESTMENT, TOURISM AND WESTERN SYDNEY—WESTCONNEX RESIDUAL LAND DISPOSAL—The Hon. Courtney Houssos to ask the Minister for Finance and Small Business representing the Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney— (1) What is the status of Westconnex Residual Site 2: Underwood Road? (a) Is it still undecided? (b) Is disposal still recommended? (c) When will it be decided? (2) What is the status of Westconnex Residual Site 3: Ismay Avenue? (a) Is it still undecided? (b) Is disposal still recommended? (c) When will it be decided? (3) What is the status of Westconnex Residual Site 6: Sydney Street? (a) Is it still undecided? (b) Is disposal still recommended? (c) When will it be decided? (4) What is the status of Westconnex Residual Site 8: Concord Road? (a) Is it still undecided? (b) Is disposal still recommended? (c) When will it be decided? (5) What is the status of Westconnex Residual Site 12a: Parramatta Road? (a) Is it still undecided? (b) Is disposal still recommended? (c) When will it be decided? (6) What is the status of Westconnex Residual Site 12b: Parramatta Road (a) Is it still undecided? (b) Is disposal still recommended? (c) When will it be decided? 5690 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
Answer— This question would be more appropriately directed to the Minister for Transport and Roads, the Hon. Andrew Constance.
29 MARCH 2021 (Paper No. 466)
* 5263 POLICE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES—REPORTING OF SEXUAL ASSAULT—The Hon. Mark Latham to ask the Minister for Finance and Small Business representing the Minister for Police and Emergency Services— I draw the Minister's attention to the Police Commissioner's op-ed piece in the Daily Telegraph on 18 March 2021, when he said that more than 15,000 sexual assaults are reported each year to the New South Wales Police with a conviction rate of less than 2%, and ask: (1) How does the Minister reconcile this data with the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research's (BOCSAR) "Progress of Sexual Assault Offences Through the NSW Criminal Justice System - Adult Victims", showing in 2019 there were 4444 incidents recorded by New South Wales Police, from which 1015 alleged offenders appeared in court and 667 were found guilty, a conviction rate of 15%? (2) How does the Minister explain the discrepancy between Mr Fuller's published crime data and BOCSAR's?
Answer— I am advised: In the 2020 calendar year, there were 15,580 incidents of sexual violence reported to the NSW Police Force (NSWPF). This includes both historical and contemporary reports of sexual violence and a broad range of offences of sexual nature, including sexual and indecent assaults through to sexual servitude and child pornography categories. These statistics are collated and maintained by the NSWPF State Intelligence Command. Questions relating to the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research and their methodologies are best directed to the Attorney General.
* 5267 POLICE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES—OPERATION VEST—The Hon. Mark Latham to ask the Minister for Finance and Small Business representing the Minister for Police and Emergency Services— In relation to the launch of Operation Vest by the New South Wales Police in March 2021: (1) What is the crime analysis evidence base on which the Operation relies? (2) How do the NSW Police expect Operation Vest to assist in solving crime in NSW? (3) What analysis did the NSW Police undertake of existing school-based investigations, existing police investigations, criminal charges and convictions and the actual identity of the anonymous reports to the Chanel Contos social media site (listing allegations of sexual assault and harassment at certain Sydney schools) before deciding the reports were credible enough to launch Operation Vest? (4) Will the information collected on the new Operation Vest Internet platform by verified in any way before entering the NSW Police records system? (a) Will the accused be informed of the allegations against them, as per the rules of natural justice? (b) Is Operation Vest more like Salem and other star chamber processes in history, whereby any allegation is assumed to be credible? (c) What process will the NSW Police undertake to eliminate allegations based on lies, exaggerations or vengefulness before becoming a permanent part of the NSW Police record system? 5691 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
(5) What extra security and privacy precautions are being introduced by the NSW Police to ensure the allegations recorded in Operation Vest do not become publicly available, by either computer hacking or media leaks? (6) Will the material recorded in Operation Vest require a signed witness statement? (a) If not, what is the process for lodging information on the new Internet platform? (7) Will the material recorded in Operation Vest be a formal, permanent part of the NSW Police records system? (a) If not, what will be its status? (8) How many police officers are now working on Operation Vest?
Answer— I am advised: (1) Operation Vest was launched in response to public sentiment towards sexual violence and a recent public petition which detailed thousands of stories of sexual violence and misconduct in our community. It is designed to encourage and educate victims of sexual violence of their reporting options. The principles of the Sexual Assault Reporting Option are the same as Crime Stoppers, who collect information which may help police stop, solve or prevent a crime. Some people prefer not to become involved in a police investigation and therefore may not share what they know about a crime directly with police. Crime Stoppers welcomes that information without the person needing to give their name, encouraging the public to share information about: People wanted by police Unsolved crimes Crime that is being planned People you know who have committed criminal offences where they have not been arrested Suspicious or unusual activity. (2) Operation Vest will assist in the collection of information and intelligence which can be analysed to assist investigation and prosecution of sexual violence offences, adding to existing NSW Police Force holdings. (3) In response to community concerns, existing police intelligence holdings, and charges/conviction rate data, the NSW Police Force initiated contact with Catholic Schools NSW, the Association of Independent Schools NSW, and the Department of Education. As a result, a Statement of Intent to strengthen the understanding of sexual consent reporting and harm prevention in the school community, which was seen as an important first step to address this community wide challenge. (4) Police investigations have long, well-established processes for verification of information, evidence and allegations of offences. Each investigation is unique and assessed on its particular circumstances. The reasons why offenders are arrested/charged, include but are not limited to, availability of admissible evidence, sufficiency of evidence, wishes and willingness of the victim to provide a formal statement of complaint, offender/s unable to be identified and/or located. (5) Since the inception of the Sexual Assault Reporting Option there has been no reported system breaches. (6) The victim can choose to provide their details or report anonymously. The Sexual Assault Reporting Option only initiates a criminal investigation if the victim wishes to pursue this action by making a formal statement where the veracity of information can be tested. Information on the Sexual Assault Reporting Option is available at:www.police.nsw.gov.au/saro 5692 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
(7) The information report will not initiate a criminal investigation but by completing this questionnaire, the information gathered may be used to help Police develop strategies to identify and target offenders, reduce repeat offending and protect the community. (8) The operation is coordinated by the State Crime Command Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad who will work closely with Police Area Commands and Police Districts across NSW.
* 5313 POLICE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES—RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE NSW BUSHFIRE INQUIRY—The Hon. Rod Roberts to ask the Minister for Finance and Small Business representing the Minister for Police and Emergency Services— The Independent Bushfire Inquiry handed down its report on 31 July 2020. Recommendation 1 states: That, in order to ensure recommendations accepted by the Government are implemented in a timely and transparent manner, Government establish a central accountability mechanism to track implementation of recommendations from bush fire-related reviews and inquiries and consider expanding this to other policies. (1) Has the Government established a central accountability mechanism to track the implementation of the seventy six recommendations of the bush fire inquiry? (2) If the plan has been prepared, will the Government make the tracking of the implementation of the seventy six recommendations public? (3) If the plan has not been prepared, when will the Government prepare the plan? (4) If the plan has not been prepared, why not?
Answer— I refer you to the letter tabled in the Legislative Council on 16 March 2021 , proposing lodgement dates for progress reporting on the recommendations contained in the final report of the NSW Bushfire Inquiry. Should you wish to receive a further briefing on the implementation on the NSW Bushfire Inquiry, please don't hesitate to request a meeting from my office.
15 APRIL 2021 (Paper No. 477)
5417 POLICE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES—POLICE PURSUITS—Mr David Shoebridge to ask the Minister for Finance and Small Business representing the Minister for Police and Emergency Services— (1) How many police pursuits occurred in: (a) 2018? (b) 2019? (c) 2020? (2) How many police pursuits were the result of traffic, criminal, stolen vehicle, not stop RBT or other, in: (a) 2018? (b) 2019? (c) 2020? (3) How many police pursuits have occurred this year to date? (a) Of these, how many were the result of traffic, criminal, stolen vehicle, not stop RBT or other?
5418 FINANCE AND SMALL BUSINESS—MOBILE SPEED CAMERA FINES DATA—The Hon. Peter Primrose to ask the Minister for Finance and Small Business— 5693 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
(1) How many mobile speed camera fines were issued in March 2021 to drivers who reside in the following postcodes: (a) 2289; (b) 2291; (c) 2292; (d) 2293; (e) 2294; (f) 2295; (g) 2296; (h) 2297; (i) 2298; (j) 2299; (k) 2300; (l) 2302 (m) 2303; (n) 2304; and, (o) 2305? (2) How many mobile speed camera fines were issued in February 2021 to drivers who reside in the following postcodes: (a) 2289; (b) 2291; (c) 2292; (d) 2293; (e) 2294; (f) 2295; (g) 2296; (h) 2297; (i) 2298; (j) 2299; (k) 2300; (l) 2302 (m) 2303; (n) 2304; and, (o) 2305? (3) How many mobile speed camera fines were issued in January 2021 to drivers who reside in the following postcodes: (a) 2289; (b) 2291; (c) 2292; (d) 2293; 5694 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
(e) 2294; (f) 2295; (g) 2296; (h) 2297; (i) 2298; (j) 2299; (k) 2300; (l) 2302 (m) 2303; (n) 2304; and, (o) 2305? (4) How many mobile speed camera fines were issued in March 2020 to drivers who reside in the following postcodes: (a) 2289; (b) 2291; (c) 2292; (d) 2293; (e) 2294; (f) 2295; (g) 2296; (h) 2297; (i) 2298; (j) 2299; (k) 2300; (l) 2302 (m) 2303; (n) 2304; and, (o) 2305? (5) How many mobile speed camera fines were issued in February 2020 to drivers who reside in the following postcodes: (a) 2289; (b) 2291; (c) 2292; (d) 2293; (e) 2294; (f) 2295; (g) 2296; (h) 2297; (i) 2298; (j) 2299; 5695 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
(k) 2300; (l) 2302 (m) 2303; (n) 2304; and, (o) 2305? (6) How many mobile speed camera fines were issued in January 2020 to drivers who reside in the following postcodes: (a) 2289; (b) 2291; (c) 2292; (d) 2293; (e) 2294; (f) 2295; (g) 2296; (h) 2297; (i) 2298; (j) 2299; (k) 2300; (l) 2302 (m) 2303; (n) 2304; and, (o) 2305? (7) How many mobile speed camera fines were issued in financial year 2019/2020 to drivers who reside in the following postcodes: (a) 2289; (b) 2291; (c) 2292; (d) 2293; (e) 2294; (f) 2295; (g) 2296; (h) 2297; (i) 2298; (j) 2299; (k) 2300; (l) 2302 (m) 2303; (n) 2304; and, (o) 2305? 5696 Legislative Council Questions and Answers No. 477—Thursday 15 April 2021
David Blunt Clerk of the Parliament
Authorised by the Parliament of New South Wales