8 Nov 2000 Legislative Assembly 4019

WEDNESDAY, 8 NOVEMBER 2000 PETITIONS The Clerk announced the receipt of the following petitions—

Mr SPEAKER (Hon. R. K. Hollis, Redcliffe) read prayers and took the chair at 9.30 a.m. Fuel Prices From Mr Borbidge (34 petitioners) requesting the House to call on the Premier of ASSENT TO BILLS Queensland, the Hon Peter Beattie, MP, to Mr SPEAKER: Honourable members, I immediately establish a royal commission of have to report that I have received from His inquiry with powers to investigate the retail fuel Excellency the Governor a letter in respect of price in the State of Queensland. assent to certain Bills, the contents of which will be incorporated in the records of Caboolture Railway Station Parliament— From Mr Feldman (165 petitioners) GOVERNMENT HOUSE QUEENSLAND requesting the House note the inappropriate use of the pedestrian bridge (walkway) located 26 October 2000 at the Caboolture Railway Station and request The Honourable R. K. Hollis, MLA that additional security measures be put in Speaker of the Legislative Assembly place to discourage "bicycle riders", Parliament House "skateboarders" and "roller-bladers" from using George Street the pedestrian bridge in a manner that BRISBANE QLD 4000 endangers or threatens other users. Dear Mr Speaker I hereby acquaint the Legislative Assembly that the following Bills, having been passed by the Teacher Salaries Legislative Assembly and having been From Mr Foley (1,075 petitioners) presented for the Royal Assent, were assented requesting the House to amend current wage to in the name of Her Majesty The Queen on 25 structures to reflect the level of specialisation October 2000: required to care for and educate young "A Bill for an Act to amend the Fuel Subsidy Act children, and to raise the status of the 1997" profession. "A Bill for an Act to make various amendments of Queensland statute law" Lytton National Park, Quarantine Station "A Bill for an Act to establish Safe Food Production QLD and provide for food safety From Mr Lucas (119 petitioners) matters relating to the production of primary requesting the House to take the necessary produce, and for other purposes" steps to have the quarantine station building moved back to the Lytton National Park and "A Bill for an Act to amend the Nature that adequate funding be provided to make it Conservation Act 1992, and for other purposes". available for heritage displays and performances for students, tourists and The Bills are hereby transmitted to the general public. Legislative Assembly, to be numbered and forwarded to the proper Officer for enrolment, in the manner required by law. Local Government Elections Yours sincerely From Mr Mackenroth (112 petitioners) (sgd) Peter Arnison requesting the House consider their objections Governor to any council funds, over and above the budgeted amounts for an election, being voted upon for legal expenses to seek or OFFICE OF SPEAKER obtain the eligibility of an elected councillor after an election is finalised and draw the Statement of Recurrent Expenditure House's attention to the Local Government Act Mr SPEAKER: Honourable members, I (1993)—under subheading—Dissolution of lay upon the table of the House a statement of Local Government, clause 113(b) "has acted recurrent expenditure for the Speaker of the in a way that puts at risk its capacity to Legislative Assembly for the period 1 July exercise properly its jurisdiction of local 1999 to 30 June 2000. government" and that the Minister for Local 4020 Papers 8 Nov 2000

Government investigates this matter on our PAPERS TABLED DURING THE RECESS behalf and takes the appropriate action. The Clerk informed the House that the Petitions received. following papers, received during the recess, were tabled on the dates indicated— 24 October 2000— PRIVILEGE Office of Health Practitioner Registration Boards—Annual Report 1999-2000 Minister for Health 25 October 2000— Miss SIMPSON (Maroochydore—NPA) Scrutiny of Legislation Committee— (9.34 a.m.): Mr Speaker, I rise on a matter of Annual Report 1999-2000 privilege that I will ask you to refer to the Members' Ethics and Parliamentary Privileges 26 October 2000— Committee. It relates to the Health Minister's Surveyors Board of Queensland—Annual deliberately misleading the Parliament over the Report 1999-2000 disgraceful cover-up of the cutbacks in 27 October 2000— intensive care beds at the Royal Brisbane Department of Primary Industries—Annual Hospital and other Brisbane hospitals, a Report 1999-2000 situation which has threatened patient care. As 31 October 2000— late as 23 August this year, Minister Edmond Board of Architects of Queensland— misled the Parliament, denying that the Annual Report 1999-2000 number of intensive care beds had been Board of Professional Engineers of reduced from 22 to 14 at the Royal Brisbane Queensland—Annual Report 1999-2000 Hospital. It has taken an outcry from frustrated medical staff at the Royal Brisbane Hospital to Queensland Abattoir Corporation—Annual Report 1999-2000 finally catch the Minister out in this regard. I refer to the Courier-Mail of 21 October 2000. Queensland Rural Adjustment Authority—Annual Report 1999-2000 In the month of September, more than 50 1 November 2000— intensive care type patients were refused Local Government Grants Commission admittance to the Royal Brisbane Hospital. Queensland—Twenty-Fourth Report 2000 Until about a month ago, the hospital was on Financial Assistance for Local using what is called vacancy management Government systems, where the hospital would not act on Gold Coast Hospital Foundation—Annual requests to recruit staff into the vacated Report 1999-2000 positions in intensive care because of budgetary constraints. However, the problem Health Rights Commission—Annual Report 1999-2000 extends wider than the Royal Brisbane Hospital. I refer also to a patient who had his Queensland Nursing Council—Annual lifesaving heart surgery cancelled four times— Report 1999-2000 Royal Brisbane Hospital Research Mr SPEAKER: The member will state the Foundation—Annual Report 1999-2000 matter of privilege and not debate the issue. Royal Children's Hospital Foundation— Mr MACKENROTH: Mr Speaker— Annual Report 1999-2000 Miss SIMPSON: He had his surgery Townsville District Health Foundation— cancelled four times at the Princess Alexandra Annual Report 1999-2000 Hospital, the latest being last week when he Chiropractors and Osteopaths Board of was prepped and ready to be rolled into Queensland—Annual Report 1999-2000 surgery. Dental Board of Queensland—Annual Report 1999-2000 Mr SPEAKER: Is the matter of privilege finished? Dental Technicians and Dental Prosthetists Board of Queensland— Miss SIMPSON: I would like to quote the Annual Report 1999-2000 Minister— Medical Board of Queensland—Annual Mr SPEAKER: That will not be necessary. Report 1999-2000 I will consider the matter. Occupational Therapists Board of Queensland—Annual Report 1999-2000 Optometrists Board of Queensland— PAPERS Annual Report 1999-2000 The Clerk informed the House of the Pharmacy Board of Queensland—Annual tabling of the following papers— Report 1999-2000 8 Nov 2000 Papers 4021

Physiotherapists Board of Queensland— Public Trustee Act 1978— Annual Report 1999-2000 Public Trustee Amendment Regulation Podiatrists Board of Queensland—Annual (No. 3) 2000, No. 273 Report 1999-2000 Revenue and Other Legislation Amendment Act Psychologists Board of Queensland— (No. 2) 1999— Annual Report 1999-2000 Revenue and Other Legislation Speech Pathologists Board—Annual (Postponement) Regulation 2000, No. 269 Report 1999-2000 State Penalties Enforcement Act 1999— 3 November 2000— Proclamation commencing remaining Brisbane Market Corporation—Annual provisions, No. 274 Report 1999-2000 Training and Employment Act 2000— Queensland Livestock and Meat Authority—Annual Report 1999-2000 Training and Employment Regulation 2000, No. 267 Sugar Industry Commissioner—Annual Report 1999-2000 MINISTERIAL RESPONSES TO Timber Research and Development PARLIAMENTARY COMMITTEE REPORTS Advisory Council of Queensland—Annual The following responses to parliamentary Report 1999-2000 committee reports, received during the recess, 6 November 2000— were tabled by The Clerk— Sunshine Coast Health Services response from the Premier (Mr Beattie) to Foundation—Annual Report 1999-2000 Report No. 22 of the Legal, Constitutional and Administrative Review Committee Toowoomba Hospital Foundation—Annual entitled The role of the Queensland Report 1999-2000 Parliament in Treaty Making 7 November 2000— response from the Treasurer (Mr Hamill) to Valuers Registration Board of Report No. 69 of the Public Works Queensland—Annual Report 1999-2000 Committee entitled The Tweed River Chicken Meat Industry Committee— Entrance Sand Bypassing Project Annual Report 1999-2000 interim response from the Minister for STATUTORY INSTRUMENTS Police and Corrective Services (Mr Barton) to Report No. 50 of the The following statutory instruments were tabled Parliamentary Criminal Justice Committee by The Clerk— entitled A report on the introduction of the Criminal Law Amendment Act 2000— Telecommunications Interception Power Proclamation commencing remaining in Queensland—balancing investigative provisions, No. 270 powers with safeguards Evidence Amendment Act 2000— MINISTERIAL RESPONSES TO PETITIONS Proclamation commencing remaining The following responses to petitions, received provisions, No. 271 during the recess, were tabled by The Clerk— Health Services Act 1991— Response from the Premier (Mr Beattie) to a petition presented by Mr Dalgleish from 1107 Health Services Amendment Regulation petitioners, regarding the injection of further (No. 5) 2000, No. 276 funds into an inquiry into the high price of Justices Act 1886, State Penalties Enforcement petroleum— Act 1999— 18 OCT 2000 State Penalties Enforcement Regulation 2000, No. 275 Mr R. D. Doyle The Clerk of the Parliament Justices of the Peace and Commissioners for Parliament House Declarations Act 1991— Alice and George Streets Justices of the Peace and Commissioners BRISBANE QLD 4000 for Declarations Amendment Regulation Dear Robert (No. 1) 2000, No. 268 Thank you for your letter of 8 September Penalties and Sentences and Other Acts 2000 regarding the petition received by Amendment Act 2000— the Parliament from Mr H Dalgleish on Proclamation commencing remaining behalf of those citizens of Queensland provisions, No. 272 opposed to the injection of further funds into an inquiry into the high price of Plant Protection Act 1989— petroleum. The petition was lodged by Mr Plant Protection (Asparagus Rust) David Dalgleish MLA, Member for Hervey Quarantine Regulation 2000, No. 277 Bay. 4022 Papers 8 Nov 2000

I have attached a copy of my response to 1. stop the transportation of subsidised Mr H Dalgleish. I would appreciate it if you fuel out of Queensland; would arrange for this response to be 2. deliver the subsidy at the bowser; tabled in Parliament on my behalf. and Yours sincerely 3. ensure that the entire 8.35c per litre (sgd) is passed on to Queensland road Peter Beattie MLA users. PREMIER The reforms arising from the Fuel 8 OCT 2000 Taskforce will do much to address the structural problems that were inherent in Mr H Dalgleish the prior scheme. In this way, while the Principal Petitioner State Government cannot exert any direct 109 Old Maryborough Road control over fuel prices, we will be PIALBA QLD 4655 ensuring to the maximum extent possible Dear Mr Dalgleish that the Scheme administered by the I refer to your petition lodged with the Queensland Government works efficiently Clerk of the Parliament on 7 September and for the benefit of all Queensland 2000 by Mr David Dalgleish MLA, Member consumers. for Hervey Bay, on behalf of the citizens I thoroughly agree with the sentiments of Queensland opposing the expressed in your Petition regarding the establishment of a fuel price inquiry, and importance of alternative energy sources. requesting that resources be allocated For both economic and environmental towards the research and development of reasons, the Queensland Government is alternative fuel supplies. firmly committed to the development of The Queensland Government has alternative energy sources. As you received numerous submissions from the correctly note, Queensland is well placed public regarding the recent price volatility to take advantage of any major for fuel. These price movements are developments in this area. caused by a variety of factors which are Over the last two years, my Government clearly outside the control of the State has taken a number of initiatives to Government. promote alternative and renewable energy Nonetheless, I do believe that there are sources. The Cleaner Energy Strategy important national issues that require announced in May of this year includes a clarification, particularly in relation to the range of programs to support renewable impact of excise indexation and the goods and innovative energy technologies, and services tax on fuel prices, which is including: why I have called for a national inquiry into 1. an extension of the life of the these matters. Sustainable Energy Innovation Fund I recently wrote to State and Territory to 2005, which provides funding for leaders seeking their support for this the commercialisation of alternative approach and the issue of fuel prices will fuel technologies; be discussed by Premiers at the next 2. increasing the rebate for the Council of Australian Governments installation of solar hot water in meeting to be held in November 2000. homes from $500 to $750; The State's only involvement in the price of fuel is through the Queensland Fuel 3. increasing the Government's own Subsidy Scheme. Government has been purchases of "green energy" from 2% paying fuel wholesalers to ensure that fuel to 5% of its total demand; and prices in Queensland remain at least 8.35c 4. working in partnership with the Sugar per litre less than interstate prices. Research Institute, Stanwell Power However, with recent concerns that the and the University of Queensland to Scheme was not adequately achieving its commercialise new technology to objectives, the Government established a generate electricity from biomass. Fuel Taskforce of key stakeholders in I see the importance and profile of such order to examine ways in which the projects as only increasing in the future. Scheme could be improved. I trust that this information assists in Following receipt of the Taskforce clarifying the concerns of you and your recommendations, the Treasurer and I petitioners. officially announced the new Fuel Subsidy Scheme arrangements on 18 September Yours sincerely 2000. (sgd) The new scheme has been designed Peter Beattie MLA specifically to: PREMIER 8 Nov 2000 Papers 4023

Response from the Minister for Police and performed community service hours being Corrective Services (Mr Barton) to a petition deducted from the fine with no additional presented by Mrs Attwood from 15 petitioners, penalties imposed. regarding fine defaulters in Queensland Projections are that Fine Option Order prisons— numbers will drop with the impact of 23 October 2000 SPER. Within the first 20 days of the Mr R. D. Doyle SPER call centre being operational 1,900 The Clerk of the Parliament fine defaulters entered into agreements. Parliament House Almost 200 warrants were paid in full and Alice and George Streets recalled and $95,000 was collected. BRISBANE QLD 4000 Motion 3 Dear Mr Doyle That the money saved by these means be Petition received by the Queensland devoted to resourcing community-based Legislative Assembly options for fine defaulters, including restorative justice options. This should The concerns of the petitioners appear to include adequate resourcing the State be the number of Fine defaulters within Penalties Enforcement register (SPER) so Queenslands prisons. As of 11 October as to be fully effective. 2000, there were 170 fine defaulters, who had no other charges against them, in the Comment prison system. Budgets to operate SPER and programs within the Department of Corrections have Motion 1 already been finalised and approved for That those currently in jail for non- this financial year. payment of fines should be released to Variations to operational procedures that serve Community-Based Orders. have budgetary impacts were accounted Comment for within the financial planning of the The State Penalties Enforcement Registry department. Treasury ensures the will fully commence 'Operations on 27 accuracy of costing within all portfolio November 2000. This program outlines areas. alternatives to people to enable them not While community based options rest with to enter the prison system. the Department of Corrective Services, All Setons Orders, more than 65 per cent the SPER program comes under the of all fines enforced in Queensland, Attorney General. All programs and become SPER Orders and will be subject projects are fully costed as required by to SPER legislation from 27 November Treasury. 2000. Yours sincerely Offenders must elect to perform (sgd) community service. They also have the TOM BARTON MLA options of entering into compliance Minister for Police and Corrective agreements or instalment plans. Services Motion 2 MINISTERIAL PAPERS That, in the future, fine defaulters should The following papers were tabled— be given community-based orders as a first option. This is opposed to a fine (a) Premier (Mr Beattie)— option order, which has a higher chance of Annual Reports for 1999-2000— failure, resulting in imprisonment. Children's Commission of Comment Queensland (plus Operating Statement) Offenders must be suitable for and elect to perform community service. Failure to Criminal Justice Commission complete a community based order results Department of the Premier and in the person being returned to court for Cabinet the original matter to be heard again as well the failure to complete the order. Land and Resources Tribunal Suitability is essential to ensure we do not Misconduct Tribunals set people up to fail. Office of Public Service There are more options available to Commissioner people under a Fine Option Order. The Office of the Queensland monetary penalty can be converted into Parliamentary Counsel community service hours. People can pay the balance of the fine and thus reduce Parliamentary Contributory the number of hours to be completed. Superannuation Fund Failure to comply with this order results in Public Interest Monitor 4024 Papers 8 Nov 2000

Queensland Competition Authority The Report provides a detailed account of what South Bank Corporation Queensland Government agencies have achieved in 1999-2000—the second year of the Office of the Governor policy—in addressing multicultural issues and (b) Minister for Communication and developing policy programs and services within Information, Local Government and their respective departments so that they meet Planning and Minister for Sport (Mr the three basic principles of the policy: access, Mackenroth)— participation and cohesion. Brisbane Cricket Ground Trust—Annual The Report includes input from 47 government Report and Financial Statements for the 15 agencies and units within agencies. Multicultural months ended 30 June 2000 Affairs Queensland has also reported on its special initiatives and strategies as the lead (c) Attorney-General and Minister for Justice agency in multicultural affairs. and Minister for The Arts (Mr Foley)— I would like to highlight some of the Annual Reports for 1999-2000— achievements outlined in the report. Public Trustee of Queensland The Cultural Diversity Support Strategy is an Queensland Anti-Discrimination integral part of the policy and is designed to Commission support community participation and involvement in multicultural Queensland. In the Multicultural Affairs Queensland— last financial year, funding of this strategy Report to the Premier on the increased from $1.25 million to $2.25 million. Implementation of the Multicultural Queensland Policy 1999-2000 As part of this strategy, the infrastructure of the Local Area Multicultural Partnership Program Queensland Law Society. was completed, providing community relations partnerships between state and local governments. Under the program, 14 local OFFICE OF GOVERNOR; MULTICULTURAL governments across Queensland have been POLICY funded to employ a community relations worker Annual Reports for three years to promote multiculturalism at the local level. Local governments funded are Hon. P. D. BEATTIE (Brisbane Central— Brisbane, Caboolture, Cairns, Capricorn ALP) (Premier) (9.36 a.m.): I have received a (Rockhampton and Livingstone), Gladstone, copy of the annual report for the Office of the Gold Coast, Hervey Bay, Ipswich, Johnstone Governor for the year ended 30 June 2000. (Innisfail), Logan, Mackay, Maroochy, This is the first such report since the Office of Toowoomba and Townsville. The Local the Governor was categorised as a Government Association of Queensland is also department for the purposes of financial funded to employ a community relations coordinator. administration under the Financial Administration and Audit Act 1977. Although Through the Multicultural Assistance Program, the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly has community organisations were funded to undertake 61 projects which focused on formally tabled a copy of this report, it is with community development and community pleasure that I lay a copy of the report upon relations, such as multicultural festivals, the table of the House. exhibitions, conferences, cross-cultural training, I also table and draw to the attention of media projects, workshops and the like. members of the House the achievements of To complement these programs, the my Government with regard to multiculturalism. Community Relations Plan was developed with These are outlined in the second annual report the aim of sustaining positive community of the Premier on the Implementation of the relations in Queensland by promoting a broader Multicultural Queensland Policy, compiled by acceptance and understanding of diversity Multicultural Affairs Queensland in my across the community and by removing barriers to a positive community relations environment. department. I table a copy of that report for The plan identifies 10 key areas for strategic the information of the House. All members will intervention in community relations. These receive a copy of the report shortly. The report areas are: access to services; community provides a detailed account of what my participation; cultural celebration; education; Government and Queensland Government employment and training; information; media; agencies have achieved in 1999-2000, the partners in leadership; specifically targeted anti- second year of the policy. racism strategies; and symbolic representation. I seek leave to include in Hansard a As the members of the House will recall, on 7 detailed statement highlighting what in fact is September I tabled a statement in Parliament included in the report. which formally recognised the of Australian South Sea Islanders as a distinct cultural group. Leave granted. As detailed in the Report to the Premier, that 8 Nov 2000 Papers 4025

historic day was the culmination of extensive Department of Employment, Training and consultations with the community, conducted Industrial Relations by Multicultural Affairs Queensland and other ¥ In recognition that people from non- government agencies. While extremely English-speaking backgrounds who are significant, the recognition statement is just a job-seekers are at risk of long-term first step in rectifying past injustices unemployment, the Department of experienced by the Australian South Sea Employment, Training and Industrial Islander community in Queensland. The Relations has provided funding for Government will now move the process beyond Certificate II in Work Access for Ethnic symbolic recognition toward the development Communities to be delivered in North and of strategies that deliver tangible outcomes to Central Queensland, Wide Bay, Sunshine address the longstanding needs of this Coast, Brisbane South and Gold Coast. disadvantaged community. ¥ The Responsive Priorities Language All these initiatives contribute to the Literacy and Numeracy Program development of a cohesive and harmonious developed a number of programs tailored society that values cultural diversity. to meet the needs of ethnic communities, The Multicultural Queensland Policy is also including the Hmong, Horn of Africa, aimed at ensuring that all Queenslanders have Vietnamese, Samoan and Iranian equitable access to services and have the communities. opportunity to participate in Queensland ¥ The Department also developed four society. community training plans with ethnic To this end, Multicultural Affairs Queensland, in communities in North Queensland and my Department, initiated a work experience Gold Coast regions, the Hmong pilot program for migrants, which enables community in Far North Queensland migrants to gain work experience skills in the region, and the Australian South Sea Queensland public service and overcome Islander community in the Wide Bay employment barriers. Already, there have been region. tangible employment outcomes for most of the Families, Youth and Community Care participants in this program and, as a result, the Queensland (FYCCQ) pilot will become an ongoing program within the ¥ FYCCQ and MAQ continued to fund the Department of Employment, Training and Youth Affairs Network of Queensland to Industrial Relations. employ a coordinator to address youth All Queensland Government agencies are issues and improve access to youth responsible for the implementation of the services for young people from ethnic policy. backgrounds. The report therefore also outlines the initiatives ¥ FYCCQ funded the development and of Queensland Government agencies in dissemination of information in languages implementing the policy, and in particular, the other than English about various Service Delivery Strategy, which is designed to disabilities, to increase the understanding enhance access to government services and among parents and carers from non- programs. Some of the new initiatives from English-speaking backgrounds and lead to 1999-2000 include: the provision of more appropriate child care services Queensland Health Queensland Police Service ¥ Queensland Health demonstrated its ¥ The Queensland Police Service appointed commitment to the Government's policy a liaison worker, based in the Police Beat on multiculturalism by developing Shopfront at Sunnybank Shopping multicultural policies customised to the Centre, to provide assistance to people of health portfolio. The Queensland Health a Chinese background in either reporting Multicultural Policy Statement and crime or giving information. Additional Language Services Policy outline the police liaison officers were also appointed ways in which Queensland Health aims to to foster communication and cooperation provide appropriate health services to all between ethnic communities and the Queenslanders, regardless of cultural, police. ethnic or religious background. ¥ The booklet You, the Law and Society ¥ As a result, numerous tertiary hospitals in was translated into additional languages to Brisbane, including Princess Alexandra enhance access to this valuable resource Hospital, Mater Misericordiae Hospitals, which provides information about rights Prince Charles Hospital and QE II Hospital and responsibilities under Queensland law. have commenced reviews of their services and initiated changes in staff training and Education Queensland service delivery to ensure that they can ¥ Milpera State High School offered a meet the needs of clients from diverse Vietnamese Bilingual Program which cultural backgrounds. enabled students to access a basic 4026 Ministerial Statement 8 Nov 2000

communicative skills program before ¥ Expanding cross-cultural training; school in their own language. The ¥ Developing a coordinated response to the confidence and motivation of all students needs of Temporary Protection Visa to learn and ask questions in English holders; and improved considerably. ¥ Developing a whole-of-government action Department of Emergency Services plan for the Australian South Sea Islander ¥ The Queensland Fire and Rescue community. Authority launched a fire safety video in Mr Speaker, I have highlighted only some of Cantonese which emphasises the the initiatives being taken in support of this importance of smoke alarms, how to make important government policy. I strongly an evacuation plan and what to do in the recommend to my Parliamentary colleagues that case of a fire. they read the full Report as it reflects the ¥ The Queensland Fire and Rescue Government's continued commitment to Authority also developed a translation and implementing multiculturalism and provides a interpretation flow chart kit, to allow detailed account of the major achievements the firefighters to communicate quickly and Government has made in the last year as well as effectively with non-English-speaking the future directions on the further witnesses on scene at structural fires. The development of multiculturalism in Queensland. kit was trialed in the Oxley area and will I would like to take this opportunity to soon be made available to firefighters commend the high level of professionalism and across the state. commitment demonstrated by the staff of my Department of Justice and Attorney-General department, in particular, Multicultural Affairs Queensland staff, as well as all those involved ¥ Legal Aid Queensland is involved in an in implementing the Policy in government outreach service that provides information agencies. to women who are overseas-born and who work in factories in the Brisbane region. I commend this Report to the House. As part of the Factory Information Project, Legal Aid Queensland produced a poster encouraging women from non-English- MINISTERIAL STATEMENT speaking backgrounds to use its legal Council of Australian Governments service. Hon. P. D. BEATTIE (Brisbane Central— In addition, there is a wide range of ongoing ALP) (Premier) (9.38 a.m.), by leave: After initiatives by Departments which continue to weeks of concerted pressure from me and the enhance access to services and programs. other Premiers around Australia to include It is particularly gratifying to see the number of petrol prices on last Friday's—3 November— agencies which have developed, or are COAG agenda, the Prime Minister relented at beginning to develop, a more systematic and the last minute. After writing to again call on coordinated approach to incorporating the the Prime Minister to discuss the issue across policy into agency business. the table, he wrote to me on Thursday saying, The Report also incorporates community input "There is no reason why petrol prices could not on the progress of policy implementation and be raised under the 'Other Matters' heading." on ethnic and multicultural issues of concern to It is interesting to note that the COAG agenda the community. In addition, the Report outlines did not have an "Other Matters" heading. the priorities for future work under the policy, Nevertheless, I was delighted that he decided which include: to yield to the pressure from the Premiers. ¥ Continued liaison with Queensland Government agencies to ensure that the If it was simply a matter of raising the policy is translated into outcomes at the issue in general business, why did the Prime agency level; Minister attack the Premiers for the last three weeks for daring to suggest COAG should ¥ More effective dissemination of information about services; consider the petrol issue? After hearing the Prime Minister's excuses on Friday, I know why ¥ Improved interpreting services; he was so reluctant to discuss the issue. The ¥ Strengthening of networks and Premiers learnt on Friday what everybody partnerships at the community level which except Rob Borbidge and David Watson, the contribute to positive community relations; Leader of the Opposition and the Deputy ¥ Strategically using the Cultural Diversity Leader of the Liberal Party in this place, Support Program to promote already knew. John Howard admitted that multiculturalism in Queensland; there is a massive $600m windfall to the ¥ Helping to build the capacity of ethnic Federal Government from the resource rent communities to address issues affecting tax, and the Prime Minister has admitted that them; publicly. 8 Nov 2000 Ministerial Statement 4027

The Prime Minister also admitted that he offset by expenditure cuts or by increased "may get some revenue improvements revenue elsewhere. generally". What that means is that the The case for tax relief on petrol is Commonwealth surplus is in no way under incontrovertible. John Howard may not want to threat. The Federal Budget is awash with cash listen to the Premiers on this issue, but he from better than expected tax collections. The must listen to the people—millions of ordinary Premiers were in no way seeking to have any Australian car owners struggling to money out of the surplus dealt with. We were accommodate this tax in their family budgets. seeking to have that windfall returned to This issue will be resolved by people power. Australian motorists. The people will determine this issue. Prime Minister Howard's problem is that Unless the Prime Minister institutes he would rather spend that extra cash on his reform, my Government and I will campaign priorities than hand it back to motorists. The against the Nationals and Liberals at a Prime Minister delivered his wish list of new Commonwealth and State level from one end expenditure for the next 12 months and urged of Queensland to the other in the forthcoming us to take that into account when considering elections. We will fight for a fair go for the net Budget position. For example, he Queensland motorists. We will simply not cop mentioned a blow-out in health expense costs. what the oil companies are doing. I say to If there is a blow-out in health expense costs, those opposite who support the oil companies: that should be addressed separately. As I go out and argue for the GST and for the oil said, the Prime Minister's position is completely companies in the bush. We will stand up for unreasonable. the motorists. High petrol prices are causing Australian I am pleased to report to the House that motorists considerable pain. Those same high there was a major breakthrough at the COAG petrol prices are delivering revenue windfalls to meeting in relation to the future management the Commonwealth. Any fair-minded of tree clearing in this State. The Prime Government would use that extra cash to Minister has for the first time agreed to avoid imposing an even greater burden on negotiate cooperative arrangements for the motorists, particularly in rural and regional regulation of tree clearing, including the Queensland—but not the Howard sharing of compensation costs. Government. It wants to keep the cash and For over 12 months now I, along with impose an additional 3c per litre tax on petrol other Ministers, have been calling on the next February. John Howard promised that his Federal Government to assist the State in tax reform package, the GST, would not cause dealing with compensation to property holders a rise in petrol prices. This February rise will be for substantial changes in the planned use of a tax on a tax on a broken promise. their land. I was concerned, as were other A report by Access Economics, Ministers, that the recent salinity package commissioned by the Motor Trades glossed over Queensland's need to prevent Association, provides clear evidence that there future salinity by regulating tree clearing. The is an extra tax on petrol and that John Howard Prime Minister's package initially dealt with only is able to give it back. The report confirmed the end problem of salinity and did not deal that more than 1c per litre of the supposed with the measures necessary to prevent it savings to oil companies may never be happening in the first place, such as sensible realised. That is because the Howard tree-clearing regulations. Government assumed the dollar would rise in Certainly, the other States were keen to value as a result of its tax reform and that see the Commonwealth offer of $700m would generate a 1c per litre benefit to oil directed to their immediate problems. companies. One can understand why the oil Queensland should have been treated no companies have not rushed to embrace that differently. To his credit, the Prime Minister particular assumption. Since that estimate was acknowledged our argument and the special made, the dollar has fallen by about US7c. circumstances for a significant change in Access Economics recommended that the 1c vegetation management, and indicated a per litre in excise be given back immediately willingness to contribute to the compensation and that the GST component be removed that should be directed to affected land- from the February indexation of excise—that holders. He confirmed that the Federal is, another 1c per litre. So come February, the contribution would be more than a nominal GST component alone will represent an contribution—indeed, a substantial increase of 1c per litre. Access Economics contribution. More to the point, he suggested that these concessions should be acknowledged that this contribution to 4028 Ministerial Statement 8 Nov 2000 compensation would be separate from and in judge, jury and executioner in deciding which addition to the $700m from the States and the reforms must be implemented. It means that $700m from the Commonwealth. So this the Queensland Government can decide compensation amount will be in addition to the which reforms are in the public interest and of $1.4 billion package. general benefit to Queenslanders. It means This is good news for Queensland. It is that there is less chance of ridiculous good news for the sustainability of our decisions, such as the decision announced by farmlands. It is good news for the Murray- the Federal Liberal Treasurer, Peter Costello, Darling Basin. It is a victory for the Queensland to fine Queensland some $8.6m over our Government in persisting to argue for a fair go community service obligations for the Gold for farmers and a fair go for sensible tree- Coast rail line when not only do we have a clearing arrangements. It is now up to the great rail line but also we have just opened a farming community to work with the Federal road that cost in excess of $800m. It is a and State Governments to set up workable nonsense position. arrangements that make a lasting difference to Whilst it is important in this time of high the long-term productivity of our continent. I technology and immense and speedy change appeal to farmers in Queensland to work with to be competitive with the rest of the world, we John Howard, the Federal Government and must protect our communities from my Government to implement these measures unnecessary disruption. Some people think and to ensure that there will be sound farming National Competition Policy means that land for future generations. everything has to change. My Government's I have told the Prime Minister on behalf of approach has always been to embrace my Government that we are willing to change, but only when there are clear benefits participate in the salinity package on those to the community. terms, now that compensation has been worked out, and to provide matching funding My Government led the push to improve for the $81m likely to be provided by the the National Competition Policy as part of a Commonwealth over the next seven years. COAG working party review of the policy. In the That $81m is only a rough figure; it has not past we have been criticised and often been finally determined. It will have to be penalised by the National Competition Council worked out with the Commonwealth after for not instituting reform, even when the public planning arrangements are finalised. It is benefit of the reform was inconclusive and did proposed to be $81m from the not support the need for change. COAG Commonwealth and $81m from the State—a agreed that, when it comes to the public total package of around $162m. It is time we interest test, Governments must consider the moved on from the politics of this issue and likely impact of reform on specific industries started doing things that will guarantee our and communities and document their reasons future on the land. I confirm for the House that for decisions. I and my Government have honoured the Importantly, the Competition Principles commitment we gave to the people in Roma Agreement signed in 1995 has been and the people in Winton. We stick by our amended for the first time to guarantee word. Government's primary role of deciding what is I am delighted to inform the House of in the public interest. Unelected bureaucrats in another major reform and breakthrough at Melbourne will in future have much less power COAG—that is, a major reform in National in deciding the fate of jobs and our way of life Competition Policy that will result in thousands in Queensland. of Queensland jobs no longer being COAG has also agreed to a series of threatened needlessly by competition reforms. measures to enhance the accountability of the I table a news release issued by the National Competition Council to Governments. Government after that meeting. The NCC will now be regularly reporting to On Friday, 3 November, the Council of COAG on its work program and on its activities Australian Governments agreed that each to promote the National Competition Policy. A Government should be responsible for more formal process has been established to determining what is in the public interest when allow COAG to assist the NCC interpret the it comes to competition reform. It means that intent of the National Competition Policy. For my Government has won the long battle to too long the NCC has been imposing its own protect jobs against reforms which are clearly narrow interpretation of what constitutes a not in Queensland's interests. It means that reasonable application of the policy. It has the National Competition Council is no longer wanted to prejudice the outcome of 8 Nov 2000 Ministerial Statement 4029 independent reviews and impose its own excellent contributions to the community. For scorched earth view of the world on everything. the first time, these awards have been A recent example of this was the liquor included in the suite of Australia Day Awards review. An independent review made a series coordinated by the National Australia Day of recommendations to remove liquor Council. I will be presenting award winners with regulations where they were not needed and a certificate signed by the Prime Minister and, to keep regulations that protected the better still, a handmade gift by Queensland community interest. The net result was more artists, Matthew Durack and Ardleigh competition in the supply of alcohol in this Cleveland. State, while maintaining strict controls over The winners are: Mrs Valerie Donovan how the alcohol is supplied. Cabinet endorsed who, as a mature-aged student, completed an those recommendations and publicly Arts degree and then a Master of Arts in Local announced them. History before securing her first job as historian The Government and I have received only with Native Title Services at the age of 61. positive comments about the outcome of that Valerie was last year awarded a Premier's review—except from the National Competition Award for Excellence for her contributions to Council. It wants to revisit the whole issue indigenous people as both an historian and an because the Government's decision did not elder. She has assisted many people making match the predetermined outcome—that is, native title claims and is well respected within takeaway liquor in supermarkets—which we do the indigenous and wider community. not support. So we have a situation in Another is Dr Alf Howard who is 94 and Queensland where accessibility of alcohol is the sole surviving member of Sir Douglas not a problem for most people, where the price Mawson's 1929-1931 expedition to Antarctica. of alcoholic products is actually lower than that He followed this with a distinguished career in deregulated States—something that with CSIRO where he developed food everyone wants to forget—and where the refrigeration and preservation techniques. Dr Government has decided to make some Howard became an Honorary Research Fellow elements of the industry even more within the School of Human Movement competitive. Studies in the early 1980s—a position he still But it is still not good enough for the NCC! holds—working in excess of 35 hours per week Let me make it clear. If Graeme Samuel and assisting post-graduate students. In the his other Canberra appointees want to run this decade since his 85th birthday, Alf has State, they are more than welcome to contest undertaken four separate return visits to a seat in this Parliament at the next State Antarctica as well as visiting the Arctic Circle, election. It is the Parliament, and only the touring Japan, Europe and North America with Parliament, that represents the proper the Australian Ballet, and cruising the democratic expression of the will of the people Mediterranean with an English chamber of Queensland. The NCC should stick to its orchestra. proper role of ensuring that Governments Maureen Kingston has been committed review their anti-competitive restrictions in an to voluntary work with a number of independent and objective way. organisations, including the Australian and In due course I will be introducing to the American Red Cross, since 1942. She was a House amendments to the Competition foundation member of the Association of Principles Agreement which forms a Schedule Independent Retirees and has been active in to the Competition Policy Reform politics for 30 years. She is a former (Queensland) Act 1996. These amendments chairperson of the Miss Australia Sunshine will reflect the changes agreed to at COAG last Coast and holds a Medal of the Order of Friday. Australia. Dorothy and Moyia O'Brien, affectionately known as the Pink Twins, lead full and active MINISTERIAL STATEMENT professional lives as artists and occupational Senior Australian Achievers therapists in Brisbane. They are founders of Hon. P. D. BEATTIE (Brisbane Central— the Sunshine Welfare and Remedial ALP) (Premier) (9.51 a.m.), by leave: Today I, Association—SWARA—which helps the together with some of my Ministers, will be handicapped. hosting a lunch at Parliament House for the Dr Mark O'Brien has been involved in 2000 Senior Australian Achievers of heart surgery for more than 30 years and was Queensland. Seven outstanding senior involved in the second ever heart transplant in Queenslanders are being recognised for their the world. He established the Queensland 4030 Ministerial Statement 8 Nov 2000

Heart Valve Bank and is a keen marathon had positive feedback from insurance runner. companies Australiawide and he is looking Jianna Richardson is an indigenous elder forward to growing the business here as who, at the age of 58, studied for and quickly as it has done across South Africa and obtained an Associate Diploma of Applied the United Kingdom. Science in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander The company started with a handful of Welfare. At almost 71, Mrs Richardson is workers in the United Kingdom in 1992. It now involved in many indigenous programs and has more than 1,200 staff and represents 20 has recently been appointed to the board of of the country's biggest motor vehicle insurers. the Queensland Museum. In South Africa, the company has more than I congratulate these senior Queensland 800 staff to look after its share of 2.5 million Australian achievers and wish them continuing insured vehicles on the road. If we consider success into the future. that Australia has 8.5 million vehicles on the road, the opportunities for overseas companies expanding their businesses here MINISTERIAL STATEMENT are enormous. Budget Direct Financial Services The IT know-how that these businesses Hon. J. P. ELDER (Capalaba—ALP) offer the Australian market is state of the art. (Deputy Premier and Minister for State The company's business chain is completely Development and Minister for Trade) automated from claims that are made and (9.53 a.m.), by leave: This week the Beattie executed over the phone through to all of the Government announced that it secured its forms that need to be filled out. They are fully 38th—and let me repeat, 38th—international automated. It is the first time ever, and it is company seeking to base its national or Asia- that IT know-how that is of great benefit to this Pacific headquarters here in Queensland. State. Budget Direct Financial Services, one of the These 38 international businesses that world's leading motor vehicle insurance have been lured to Queensland by the Beattie companies, has chosen to site its Asia-Pacific Government in the past two years have call centre on the Sunshine Coast and its created more than 6,700 new jobs. Almost headquarters here in Brisbane. We are talking 2,300 of those are in new call centre jobs as about a $10m plus investment that will mean Queensland builds its reputation as the call more than 200 new jobs for Queenslanders. In centre State. This Government welcomes fact, since the last time I stood before the Budget Direct Financial Services to House just three weeks ago, this Government Queensland. They are a vital partner in our has generated 440 new jobs from three new endeavour to create a truly Smart State. I companies—or expansions—in this State. I am might add, for the benefit of those opposite, talking about Alphafarm, a subsidiary of Merck, that there will be a few more announcements a global pharmaceutical giant, which has in the next couple of weeks. expanded at Carole Park; Universal Communications, which built a national—and I repeat, a national—call centre in Cairns and MINISTERIAL STATEMENT now Budget Direct. National Competition Council Budget Direct is already the largest direct Hon. D. J. HAMILL (Ipswich—ALP) motor vehicle insurer in South Africa and the (Treasurer) (9.57 a.m.), by leave: I rise to fourth largest auto insurance broker in the inform the House that the Federal coalition is United Kingdom, with ambitions for plans of once again withholding payments to expansion in the Asia-Pacific region. The Queensland in order to coerce the State into company's 10-month search clearly favoured unjustified competition reforms. The Queensland over New South Wales, South National/Liberal coalition Government has Australia and Tasmania—which further accepted the perverse recommendation of the reinforces Queensland's reputation as a prime National Competition Council that $12.9m location for companies wanting to expand in should be withheld from Queensland's the Asia-Pacific. Like dozens of other payments for this year. companies that have moved here in the past two years, Budget Direct has cited It would appear that the National Queensland's abundance of skilled workers, its Competition Council is searching for any low taxes and superior growth opportunities as reasons to penalise Queensland because of the major reason for moving its business to the our success in achieving a national consensus Smart State. Budget's chief executive officer, about the need to humanise National Mike Weston, said the company had already Competition Policy. An amount of $8.6m of 8 Nov 2000 Ministerial Statement 4031 the State's competition payments will be retirement of Police Commissioner Jim withheld because the State has not yet O'Sullivan. I was present when pipers led Mr published a Policy Framework for Community O'Sullivan from police headquarters at Roma Service Obligations. This is a policy that Street for the final time on Tuesday afternoon Queensland decided of its own initiative it and was witness to the atmosphere of genuine would produce—and no other State is being emotion which marked the occasion. The required to produce such a framework. The depth of respect for Mr O'Sullivan among the National/Liberal coalition is being driven by members of the Queensland Police Service economic ideology rather than a sensible was clearly on show. That was only fitting as approach to reform which delivers a real public those who saw off Mr O'Sullivan have many benefit. reasons to be grateful for his work as With these suspensions, the NCC is also commissioner over the past eight years. delivering on its threat to penalise Queensland This, after all, was the man who reshaped if we do not betray the State's smallest local the Queensland Police Service and, as a governments. As I have previously informed consequence, reshaped the Queensland the House, the NCC is now trying to tear up public's perception of their Police Service. The the agreement by which water reform would Queensland Police Service had been through only be compulsory for councils with significant some dark days in the 1980s and Mr business activities. The Federal coalition has O'Sullivan had to battle through those times as decreed that funding will be withheld from the chief investigator for the Fitzgerald inquiry. Queensland because two smaller councils, Completely overhauling the Police Service was Johnstone Shire and Cooloola Shire, have not an enormous task for Mr O'Sullivan and his implemented two-part tariffs associated with senior management. Undertaking that role urban water reform. This is a clear breach of made him a lot of enemies. the understandings reached between the Borbidge/Sheldon Government, the National Last week, Mr O'Sullivan made no secret Competition Council and local government in of the fact that the darkest time for him as Queensland. Little wonder local government commissioner was when the memorandum of feels betrayed by the coalition parties. understanding was signed. The memorandum of understanding was aimed squarely at Ironically, the Government received removing Mr O'Sullivan and his senior advice of this unjustified penalty from the management from the Queensland Police Commonwealth on 3 November—the day of Service, despite the fact they have completely COAG's recent meeting in Canberra. That very reshaped the service. The Queensland Police day, COAG approved a range of reforms— Service is now recognised throughout which Queensland had been instrumental in Australia—and overseas—as one which sets developing—to enhance the role of elected the standards for others to follow. It is a highly Governments in the NCP process. Our professional organisation with highly skilled, changes will strengthen the role of dedicated staff. Governments which are publicly accountable— rather than the NCC—in determining what I take this opportunity to thank Mr reforms should be pursued. O'Sullivan, on behalf of all honourable members and the Queensland public, for his I urge members of the State coalition to outstanding contribution to this State. I wish take up this example of national leadership Jim and his wife, Dell, all the very best in their and pressure their Federal Liberal and National new found freedom in retirement. colleagues to withdraw this extraordinary decision. I urge those members to share our With the end of this very important stage conviction that Governments are responsible in the history of the Queensland Police Service to the public for reining in the National comes the start of a new one which, I am sure, Competition Council and returning the $12.9m will build on the strong foundations now in which their Federal colleagues are withholding place. On Wednesday, Bob Atkinson took over from Queenslanders. as Queensland Police Commissioner. Mr Atkinson is a man whose integrity, professionalism and dedication is widely MINISTERIAL STATEMENT recognised. He is a police officer who has the Queensland Police Service respect of the police officers he will lead. There will, undoubtedly, be challenges ahead for Mr Hon. T. A. BARTON (Waterford—ALP) Atkinson. However, I have every confidence in (Minister for Police and Corrective Services) his ability to meet those challenges. (10 a.m.), by leave: An important chapter in the history of the Queensland Police Service This is an exciting time in the history of came to a close on Tuesday last week with the the Queensland Police Service. It is the only 4032 Ministerial Statement 8 Nov 2000

Police Service in Australia which is expanding, official communique which flowed from the not shrinking. In addition to those extra police forum. It is a glimmer of light at the end of the on the beat, this Government has provided the tunnel for regional Australians to have these service with new police powers aimed at types of issues make it onto the national enhancing the service's ability to fight crime agenda. I suggest that all members who and is providing more, and better, resources to represent regional and remote areas— officers. I take this opportunity to welcome Mr particularly Federal members—should forget Atkinson to his new role and wish him all the their rhetoric and join us in focusing on having best as Queensland's new Police the zone allowance increased to a more Commissioner. realistic level, because these types of practical incentives are necessary to ensure that our bush communities remain vital and attractive MINISTERIAL STATEMENT places in which people can live. Regional Zone Rebates Hon. T. McGRADY (Mount Isa—ALP) MINISTERIAL STATEMENT (Minister for Mines and Energy and Minister Assisting the Deputy Premier on Regional Torres Strait District Framework Agreement Development) (10.03 a.m.), by leave: In the on Education and Vocational Education 1940s, the Commonwealth Government Hon. D. M. WELLS (Murrumba—ALP) introduced a zone allowance in the form of a (Minister for Education) (10.06 a.m.), by leave: tax rebate which was supposed to encourage Last week, I visited the Torres Strait to sign the people to live in rural and remote areas of Torres Strait District Framework Agreement on Australia. The allowance was designed to ease Education and Vocational Education. This the burden imposed by the higher costs of agreement gives Torres Strait Islanders more living in regional areas. Using north-west say in the education of their children and Queensland as an example, the rebate was better vocational education and training about $520 in the mid 1960s, which in those opportunities. It is, therefore, both symbolic days was a considerable amount of money. I and practical. believe the rebate achieved its aims for some The agreement commits everyone in the years. Unfortunately, the amount of the rebate Torres Strait to improving educational has barely changed since it was introduced—it outcomes and to ongoing discussion, is still about $550—and this has led to a consultation and negotiation about decision gradual dilution of its benefits. In fact, if the making and policy determination. The original amount had been subject to CPI agreement calls on all of us to work to: adjustments it would be worth about $6,000 improve attendance and completion rates; today. retain the cultural values of these The need for this type of incentive communities; change the way we work remains great, because we are seeing together; modify how we staff our schools; continually declining populations in our commit to agreed targets; and to share the outback communities. The fly-in fly-out rights and responsibilities of decision making practices of many mining operations do not and policy determination. help the situation, so we have to look at ways This fits perfectly with our 2010 strategy in which this can be addressed. The inland of for State Education. It is part of our strategy for the nation is being denuded of people and we the continuous improvement of education and must provide ways to encourage people to employment outcomes for Aboriginal and make their homes in regional centres. Torres Strait Islander people, called Partners I am pleased to inform the House that last for Success. We now recognise that schools week I was able to raise this matter at the and their communities are best placed to Regional Australia Forum in Canberra, which tackle those obstacles that history and society was chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister and have misguidedly placed in the way of attended by State and Territory Ministers. I am educational success. On paper the life of the happy to say that the matter received wide agreement is four years. In reality, we view it support and the meeting was assured that as a long-term commitment. representations on behalf of remote and rural The agreement was a landmark in the residents would be made to the leadership of history of education in the region. It was an the Federal Government for changes to the achievement that has been vigorously zone allowance rebate. advocated by the local member, the This issue—and that of fly-in fly-out—were honourable Minister for Transport. I signed it, accepted and are listed, along with other together with a representative of my colleague critical issues in regional Australia, on the the Honourable Minister for Employment, 8 Nov 2000 Ministerial Statement 4033

Training and Industrial Relations, in the information. This range of new and expanded presence of the Kaurareg traditional owners of Statewide services means families from the land, elders and other community Brisbane to Boulia will have access to quality members. information and support at the end of the The other signatories were the Torres phone, the click of a mouse or in a free Strait Islanders Regional Education Council— publication. TSIREC, the Torres Strait Regional Authority, The debate over recent weeks and the Island Coordinating Council and the Torres community reaction to judicial comments Shire Council. Education in these communities about the discipline of children shows the need is no longer a bureaucratically imposed affair. for family support services. As part of the These communities have always taken a Beattie Government's Putting Families First strong and active interest in their children's strategy we are starting to deliver extra education, and this agreement gives services where families have told us they have institutional recognition to that cultural fact. I a need. I would encourage families to take note the presence at that ceremony of advantage of those new services and pick up community leaders, including Mr Ephraim the phone if things get tough. Bani, Father Dolton Bon, Mrs Enid Tom, Mr Terry Waia, Mr Henry Garnier, Cr Pedro An increasing number of parents are Stephen, Mr Dale Anderson and Mr Ned doing just that. Since the television David. advertisements promoting Parentline began, calls to the service have doubled. To cope with demand, the Government expanded the well- MINISTERIAL STATEMENT respected telephone counselling service by Families and Parenting Information Service boosting its funding by 50% to almost half a million dollars. This has enabled the service to Hon. A. M. BLIGH (South Brisbane—ALP) increase the number of counsellors from 15 to (Minister for Families, Youth and Community 23. Since the television ads promoting Care and Minister for Disability Services) Parentline first went to air, more than 700 (10.09 a.m.), by leave: The nature of families people have received support, information and has changed dramatically in 50 years, but assistance. Preliminary data shows families some things have remained the same. Being from all over Queensland have been a parent is a challenging job and families want accessing the service. support and recognition for their important role. On 22 October, the Premier and I had I am particularly heartened to see so great pleasure in launching a comprehensive many calls from regional and remote parts of new information and support strategy for the State, from Toowoomba to Cairns and families. We launched a new Statewide Cape York. Almost 70% of these callers stated information service and awareness campaign that they found out about the service from all promoting the important role of families and watching the television ads. That is hundreds offering assistance about parenting and other of families who now know where to get the family issues. help they did not know where to get before. More than 20% of callers have sought The Beattie Government recognises that assistance about their relationship with their family life and parenting can be tough going children and more than 18% about behaviour and all families at some time need support. management and discipline issues. For years, Governments have had excellent results in reducing the road toll by conducting This information supports preliminary effective awareness campaigns about wearing findings of a Statewide family survey seatbelts and not speeding. It is about time we conducted by the Queensland Government in put the same investment into families and July and August this year. This survey was a promoting parenting. That is why we have commitment made in this year's Putting developed new information services and Families First Budget paper. The preliminary educational ads to help families and, in results show the majority of families surveyed particular, parents do a good job. Those new believed parents and families did their job best services include an expanded Statewide when they were well informed and supported; Parentline telephone service operating that most people did not know about the between 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a support services available to them; and that week; a free Families magazine and parenting they felt that the Queensland Government information sheets, which will be distributed to should establish an information service where more than 5,000 outlets in local communities they could access such information. This tells across the State; and a web site for Statewide us that parents want more information and access to a wide range of family-friendly support, and that is what our new services are 4034 Ministerial Statement 8 Nov 2000 all about. These new services are for all certain that the jobs would be completed families and I encourage all families to ask for before the GST hit. When the shortages help when they need it. delayed completion of work until after 1 July, they found themselves out of pocket for the GST payable on remaining work and unable to MINISTERIAL STATEMENT recoup that cost from the consumer. Building Industry; GST Another consequence of the brief boom Hon. J. C. SPENCE (Mount Gravatt— that the Federal Government either failed to ALP) (Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait foresee or failed to care about was an Islander Policy and Minister for Women's oversupply of housing stock. This is something Policy and Minister for Fair Trading) the market will take some time to absorb. (10.12 a.m.), by leave: The building industry, Already the demise of some high-profile Queensland's fifth largest employer, has been builders has been blamed on the GST. A truer one of the most dramatic losers since the picture of industry damage will begin to unfold introduction of the GST. It has been hard hit this Saturday, 11 November, as small by a cocktail of GST-influenced factors, businesses face the deadline for lodging their including rising interest rates, inflation, fuel first post-GST business activity statements with price hikes, sagging consumer confidence and the Australian Tax Office. a sliding dollar. The figures speak for Remembrance Day 2000 may prove to be themselves. a day the building industry would rather forget. Nationwide building approvals for new Based on the Canadian and New Zealand residential dwellings plummeted to 8,900 experiences, we can expect the aftermath of during September, including only 5,602 private the business activity statement deadline to see residential dwellings. This is the lowest level a rise in business failures throughout the since records were first collected in 1983. Also building industry. For many, Saturday's nationally, the number of approvals of private deadline will be the straw that breaks the sector stand-alone homes is down 45% on the camel's back—the impost that pushes small previous year. In Queensland, residential and medium-sized businesses into the realm approvals in August were down 35% of the unviable. As the industry prepares for its compared to the same time last year and the traditional end-of-year shutdown, some doors number of loans for new homes has fallen to will never open again. the lowest level since August 1987. The fate of these casualties will be due Obviously, this downturn is battering the largely to the Federal Government's failure to industry and diminishing its capacity to provide adequate transitional arrangements. continue as a major generator of employment The coalition's attempt to offset the negative and economic growth. The Master Builders impact of the GST, the $7,000 First Home Association has labelled the interest rate hikes Owner Grant, has proven to be as "serial killing of the home building industry", counterproductive. Little wonder that the and has predicted massive job losses—up to Master Builders Association and the Housing 100,000 workers being laid off nationally, Industry Association are expressing concerns including 15,000 in Queensland. about the grant. The ramifications for our State are In the face of neglect by the Federal enormous. It is not only builders and big Government, the Queensland Government is companies who suffer but also subcontractors, offering support to the industry. For instance, suppliers, hardware stores and manufacturers the Minister for Public Works and Minister for of products such as whitegoods and furniture Housing has provided a $20m boost to the whose livelihoods are intimately linked to the industry to help it through the post-GST fortunes of the building industry. The doldrums drought period. Minister Schwarten has have their origins in the pre-GST boom that initiated a plan to hold over 200 housing saw home buyers pulling forward projects in a projects from 1999-2000 until this year to rush to beat the added costs associated with cushion the post-GST blow to the industry. The the GST. The artificial boom led to widespread Queensland Building Services Authority has construction delays and rising prices as also made provisions to assist the industry supplies of materials and skilled labour dried through the GST transition. up. The BSA recently decided to retain the Some builders were caught out badly by liquidity ratio test, that is, the ratio of current the shortages. These were the businesses that assets to current liabilities for contractor did not include cost escalation clauses in their licensing at 0.8 to 1 rather than introduce the contracts with consumers because they felt 1 to 1 ratio that was originally intended to 8 Nov 2000 Sitting Hours; Order of Business 4035 apply after 1 October 2000. The BSA also Queensland properties covered by official offers protection to consumers who may suffer drought declaration is estimated to be around when a builder fails. The BSA's Statutory 9,000. Insurance Fund—the best in the nation—last The shires officially drought declared are year approved $12m in claimant payments, Kingaroy, Nanango, Wondai, Murgon, and 98% of claimant losses were fully covered. Eidsvold, Monto, Gayndah, Mundubbera, The post-GST squeeze has placed Chinchilla, Wambo, Pittsworth, Clifton, enormous pressure on the building industry, Jondaryan and Rosalie. The part-shire but at least the State Government is stepping declaration is for the western part of Kilkivan into the void left by the Federal coalition and Shire west of Wide Bay Creek. offering the industry assistance through this A central plank of the Queensland difficult period. By contrast, members opposite drought declaration system—and this is really have made no effort to support the industry or for the benefit of the honourable member for pressure their Federal colleagues to do the Southport—is that local drought committees, same. This Government will continue to made up of local industry representatives, support the building industry and those whose assess seasonal conditions and make jobs and livelihoods depend on it. recommendations regarding drought declarations. Under a shire declaration, primary MINISTERIAL STATEMENT producers have the same access to freight subsidies as an individual does under a Drought Declarations droughted property declaration. The freight Hon. H. PALASZCZUK (Inala—ALP) subsidies available to primary producers are on (Minister for Primary Industries and Rural fodder, water and stock returning from Communities) (10.18 a.m.): Mr Speaker, I seek agistment. leave to make a ministerial statement. When I was in Kingaroy last week rain Mr SPEAKER: Is leave granted? Leave is was falling. The peanut growers I spoke to granted. were delighted as the rain fell at the ideal time An Opposition member: No. for planting. While recent rain is welcomed and the forecast by the Queensland Centre for Mr PALASZCZUK: I beg your pardon? Climate Applications for rainfall over the next Opposition members interjected. three months is promising, I would urge Mr SPEAKER: Order! The Minister for affected primary producers to lodge an Primary Industries. application for an IDP declaration. We look forward to more rain because our primary Mr PALASZCZUK: Mr Speaker, is that a producers need a lot more. no? Mr Speaker, the honourable member does not want to hear about the recent rains in rural Queensland, nor the drought SITTING HOURS; ORDER OF BUSINESS declarations. Hon. T. M. MACKENROTH (Chatsworth— Opposition members interjected. ALP) (Leader of the House) (10.21 a.m.), by Mr SPEAKER: Order! We will allow the leave, without notice: I move— Minister to make his statement. "That notwithstanding anything Mr PALASZCZUK: Recent rains in contained in the Standing and Sessional southern and central Queensland have Orders, the order of business for this provided renewed optimism for many of our week's sitting shall be as follows— producers. Unfortunately, recent rain has also Today—the same as for a Tuesday, brought hailstorms to some parts of southern and Queensland. More widespread soaking rain Thursday—normal business for a over the coming months is needed to give our Thursday. primary producers real relief from the prolonged dry conditions. The House will also meet on Friday, 10 November 2000 and the order of I can announce to the House today that business for that day will be as follows— local drought committees have recommended the declaration of another two shires. The 9.30am to 10.30am— additional shires to be declared are Cambooya Prayers and Toowoomba. With the declaration of Messages from the Governor these shires, the declaration of 14 other shires and a part shire as well as some 290 individual Matters of Privilege properties in other shires, the total number of Speakers Statements 4036 Private Members' Statements 8 Nov 2000

Motions of Condolence person liable to imprisonment for seven Petitions years or more, shall have the publicly funded component of their Notification and tabling of papers superannuation frozen until the final by The Clerk hearing of the charge; Ministerial Papers (2) That if the person is convicted of the Ministerial Statements crime, the person would lose the publicly Ministerial Notices of Motion funded component which is greater than a reasonable interest payment, which Any other Government Business would accrue to the person's direct Personal Explanations contribution to the scheme; Reports (3) It is expressly acknowledged that the Question Time circumstances forming the grounds of the charge may have occurred prior or during 10.30am to Adjournment of the the person's terms in Parliament; House— (4) The basis for this amendment is the Government Business requirement by the people of Queensland Also, the House may meet after 7.30pm that people of the highest integrity and today and Thursday this week and the honesty represent them in State order of business will be as follows— Parliament; and Private Members' motions will be B. (1) That the Queensland Government debated between 6 and 7pm. attempts to recover so much of the publicly funded component of the The House can then break for dinner and superannuation paid to the former resume its sitting at 8.30pm. Member for Woodridge, William Theodore Government Business will take D'Arcy, as is consistent with the intent of precedence for the remainder of the day's paragraph A of this Motion." sittings except for a 30-minute Mr FOLEY: I rise to a point of order. I adjournment debate today." would ask, Mr Speaker, that at such time as Motion agreed to. the motion may come on for debate you keep in mind what I am about to raise. There are two matters which remain yet to be determined NOTICES OF MOTION with regard to the latter point of the Electricity Industry honourable member's motion. Mr SEENEY (Callide—NPA) (10.22 a.m.): The first is that the Supreme Court has I give notice that I shall move— adjourned sentencing of proceedings until 17 "That this House condemns the November. The second is that there are a Minister for Mines and Energy for failing to number of outstanding matters awaiting meet his core responsibility of ensuring a prosecution. I do not submit that that renders safe, reliable and economic supply of the honourable member's motion out of order. electricity to all Queenslanders and calls I simply draw it to the House's attention so that on the Premier to replace Minister care can be taken in debate with regard to McGrady with someone better able to those two specific points—the outstanding manage the electricity industry." sentence and the facts of any alleged matters which may be outstanding.

Superannuation of MPs; Mr W. T. D'Arcy PRIVATE MEMBERS' STATEMENTS Mr WELLINGTON (Nicklin—IND) (10.23 a.m.): I move— Unparliamentary Language "That the Queensland Parliament Mr BLACK (Whitsunday—CCAQ) calls on the Commonwealth Government (10.25 a.m.): In answer to a question asked to renegotiate the Commonwealth-State during the last sittings of Parliament the agreement so as to enable the following Premier referred to my use of the Lord's name amendments to the Queensland Public in vain in a taped interview. My leader, in a Officers Superannuation Benefits more dignified and Christian manner, has Recovery Act— already rebuked me, as in Proverbs 9:8 to 10, over this minor indiscretion, which was a A. (1) That a politician who is charged with leftover from my rough and ready days as a a crime which has a penalty rendering the blue-collar worker in the transport industry. 8 Nov 2000 Private Members' Statements 4037

Hard, hands-on work in transport is something disadvantageous is the merchant service fee, a namby-pamby solicitor like the Premier would which applies on the total price of any sale. not understand. The crunch for small business is the lower the However, as the Leader of a Labor Party turnover the higher the fee. If they pass this on that has brought to this State same-sex in higher prices they lose sales; if they absorb legislation, prostitution, internet gambling, and it, they cut margins to unsustainable levels. a litany of corruption of the highest degree Big retailers pay 0.5c or less for every such as the shredding of the Heiner dollar sale they make. The local small business documents, the net bet fiasco and now pays closer to 5c or 6c in the dollar when wholesale rorting of the electoral roll, for the EFTPOS is used. Where is the fairness in Premier to point a finger of scorn at me or talk that? For one small business in my electorate of blasphemy is a bit rich. the cost of EFTPOS is so high in proportion to If the Premier is attempting to take the sales turnover it is not economically viable to moral high ground over a couple of indiscreet provide it. This business is at the mercy of the words by me, I have news for him: he is still banks. It really cannot afford to provide an looking up to where I am. While he has the EFTPOS service, but it may lose customers if it stench of the corrupt practices of the AWU does not. faction of his party hanging around his neck Governments at every level are under like an albatross and does nothing about it, he constant pressure to reduce unnecessary red is not only in the gutter, he is going down the tape and costs that stifle small business. It is drain. While the Premier has judged me, I time for the banks to come under similar must draw his attention to Matthew 7:2, which pressure. states "For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." Electoral Fraud; Shepherdson Inquiry I believe this is where the old saying that people who live in glass houses should not Dr WATSON (Moggill—LP) (Leader of the throw stones comes from. Well, the Premier Liberal Party) (10.29 a.m.): The administration threw the stone at me and, from where I am of the Australian Labor Party reminds me of standing, his glass house is falling down all the old joke about the Bronx in New York, that around him. The public of Queensland are a person can walk two blocks without leaving witnessing every sordid little detail of this the scene of a crime. In the Queensland ALP intrigue that is so much a part of the it is two decades. The Premier has been Shepherdson inquiry into electoral rorting strolling past a succession of crimes for the which is bringing the Premier's little house of best part of 20 years without seeing a thing. cards down around his ears. These days he even repudiates his own account of the Redlands by-election campaign Mr SPEAKER: Order! I recognise in the in 1985. In his autobiography In the Arena he public gallery parents, teachers and students asserted that the address of a female party from Macleay Island State School in the member was listed as a vacant lot but that she electorate of Redlands. later voted in the party preselection process. He now claims it was all a mistake and that he Bank Fees was set straight by that paragon of political virtue, the current member for Bowman, Con Mr ROBERTS (Nudgee—ALP) Sciacca. (10.27 a.m.): Later this month the Premier will engage in a round of regional forums that will The only problem with their belated alibi is focus on the behaviour of the big banks, and its total demolition this morning on ABC radio so he should. I recently came across an by a former true believer, Joyce Webb, who example in my electorate of how big banks are was secretary/treasurer of the executive ripping off the small business sector in the committee for the ALP in Redlands during the provision of a basic and essential service: 1980s. She confirmed the Premier's original electronic funds transfer, or EFTPOS. admission—the admission he has since The transaction costs borne by customers retracted—that some voters were listed on recently attracted some media attention. vacant blocks and other addresses and that However, small business is also experiencing streets were non-existent. Joyce also revealed the unkind hand of the big bad banks. One of that some of these funny listings were actually the hidden costs of EFTPOS is in the fees and located in the sea off Cleveland. They were charges levied on retailers who provide the offshore. service. The most insidious and An Opposition member: Offshore voters. 4038 Questions Without Notice 8 Nov 2000

Dr WATSON: They were offshore voters. Mr BORBIDGE: He knows that I have People were not only voting from the grave, documentary evidence from the administrator they were not only living in post office boxes; of the scheme that I had given no written they were also dwelling at the bottom of the verbal approval— harbour. Mr SPEAKER: Order! We do not need a I will be asking the Criminal Justice debate. Commission to investigate these allegations Mr BORBIDGE:—and you know that as a with a view to pursuing them through the trustee too, Mr Speaker. Shepherdson inquiry. I look forward to hearing the Premier's latest explanation on oath. Mr BEATTIE: As I was about to say, the Leader of the Opposition did sign off, and I am Mr SPEAKER: Order! The time for Private about to come to the proof of it. Mr D'Arcy's Members' Statements has expired. superannuation was paid in two parts. The second part of Mr D'Arcy's superannuation QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE was, in fact, paid—and I have the minutes of the trustees with me—on 15 March 2000. The Superannuation of MPs; Mr W. T. D'Arcy second part was paid after a unanimous Mr BORBIDGE (10.30 a.m.): I refer the decision— Premier to his untrue statement when he said Mr Borbidge: How much was it? that the superannuation payment to the former member for Woodridge was subject to Mr SPEAKER: Order! We will hear the my approval and granted with my approval, answer to the question. despite the fact that the former member Mr BEATTIE: The Leader of the announced his resignation on Saturday, 8 Opposition just got caught out. I am about to January; it became effective on Sunday, 9 read the minutes. Mr D'Arcy's superannuation January; he signed off on Monday, 10 was paid in two parts. The first part was paid in January; the Speaker was tracked down in January; the second part of the lump sum was Western Australia and faxed his approval on paid in March. The second part of the lump Tuesday, 11 January; and Mr D'Arcy was paid sum— his lump sum on Wednesday, 12 January Opposition members interjected. without my concurrence, without my approval and without my consent. I ask: if the Premier is Mr SPEAKER: Order! We will hear the prepared to tell untruths in respect of the answer to the question. superannuation payout to the former member Dr Watson interjected. for Woodridge, how can anyone believe a Mr SPEAKER: Order! The member for word of what he says in regard to matters of Moggill. electoral corruption? Mr BEATTIE: This is just typical. They get Mr BEATTIE: I thank the honourable caught out, but they do not want to hear the member for his question. I will ignore the answer. Let me go to the minutes of the nonsense about what is untrue and true and meeting of the trustees on Wednesday, 15 all the other sorts of claims that he makes in March 2000. It was held in the Premier's terms of this. I will ignore them in the sense reception room. that I would not even bother to seek for them to be withdrawn because everyone knows that Opposition members interjected. they are untrue. Let me deal with the facts. Mr SPEAKER: Order! We will hear the Mr Speaker, as you know, the answer to the question. superannuation payment to Mr D'Arcy was Mr BEATTIE: Agenda item No. 3 states, made in two parts. I have previously dealt "Additional payments to the Honourable publicly with the first part. I have consistently R. J. Gibbs and W. T. D'Arcy". It says that the argued that the Leader of the Opposition trustees unanimously approved the payment made no objection to the first part of the of additional benefits to the Honourable payment—and he did not. R. J. Gibbs and W. T. D'Arcy—unanimously. Mr BORBIDGE: I rise to a point of order. That is right; he admitted it. Mr D'Arcy's The Premier said that I signed off. He said that payment was paid in two— as recently as last week on radio. He knows Opposition members interjected. that I was on leave. Mr BEATTIE: The Leader of the Mr SPEAKER: Order! We will hear the Opposition got caught out, because these answer to the question. We do not need a minutes confirm that he signed off on it. I got debate. I call the Premier. them together because he— 8 Nov 2000 Questions Without Notice 4039

Mr BORBIDGE: I rise to a point of order. I time. I now call on him to ask his second challenge the Premier to produce any question. documentation that I approved the Mr Beattie: Ask me again. I'll read the $660,000— minutes. Mr BEATTIE: I just did. Mr BORBIDGE: Stick around for Matters Mr BORBIDGE:—lump sum payment that of Public Interest; I will table something then. was made available to Mr D'Arcy on 12 January. Electoral Fraud; Shepherdson Inquiry Mr BEATTIE: I just did. Mr BORBIDGE: My second question is Mr SPEAKER: Order! You have made also to the Premier. Without canvassing your point. Resume your seat. matters before the Shepherdson inquiry, I refer Mr BEATTIE: The Leader of the the Premier to his comments made outside Opposition does not like it. All these points of the Shepherdson inquiry that he was unable to order, all these objections, the ranting and find out, or did not know, the names of raving and all the rest of it—he does not like it members of his Government that had been when he gets caught out. These are the suppressed in terms of hearings of the minutes. These payments were approved by a commission of inquiry. I ask: is it not true that, process that was in existence when Mr as Premier, he receives a transcript of Borbidge was Premier. The previous payment proceedings at the Shepherdson inquiry? If he was approved under exactly the same does not know the names of members of his process. I called the meeting of the trustees Government that have been suppressed, why because of all the whingeing by the Leader of has he not been reading the transcript? the Opposition. Not once in there does he Mr SPEAKER: Before calling the object to the payment. They are the minutes. Honourable Premier on this question, I remind He approved it then, and that is what the all members that matters currently before the minutes say. Shepherdson inquiry are sub judice. The Mr BORBIDGE: I rise to a point of order. Premier should be mindful of the previous The comment that I approved the $660,000 ruling in answering the honourable member's lump sum payment is untrue. The Premier question. knows he is talking about a salary adjustment Mr BEATTIE: Regrettably, the constant from 1 January. interjections by the Leader of the Opposition Mr SPEAKER: Order! That is not a point during my answer to his first question of order. prevented me from completing the answer. I draw to the attention of the House the minutes Mr BORBIDGE: The remark is untrue and of the meeting of 15 March. The Leader of the offensive, and I ask that it be withdrawn. Opposition jumped up and down because I Mr BEATTIE: The Leader of the had said at the time that he had ticked it off in Opposition approved the increase, but he that he had not objected. I called a meeting of does not want to take responsibility for the first the trustees. As the Leader of the Opposition part. He approved the increase. That is what well knows, at that meeting of trustees no the minutes say. The minutes say that the objection was taken by him to the initial additional payment was approved payment, which was made in accordance with unanimously. That was at the meeting. At the the normal rules of approval that existed when meeting in which I got together with everyone he was Premier. Then on 15 March at that the Leader of the Opposition did not object. meeting the increased payment, which was Not once did he object. part of— Mr BORBIDGE: I rise to a point of order. I Mr Borbidge interjected. challenge the Premier to produce any Mr BEATTIE: The Leader of the evidence that I approved the $660,000 lump Opposition consistently comes in here and sum paid to Mr D'Arcy— disrupts the Parliament. We do not get an Mr SPEAKER: Order! That is not a point opportunity to answer any of his questions. He of order. Resume your seat. is simply rude. If the Leader of the Opposition Mr BORBIDGE:—as an inducement to wants an answer to his questions, he should at get him out of the Parliament on 12 January. least show us the courtesy— Mr SPEAKER: If the Leader of the Mr Borbidge: Tell the truth. Opposition wishes to debate this matter, there Mr BEATTIE: I am happy to tell the truth. will be plenty of opportunities. This is question The Leader of the Opposition approved it. The 4040 Questions Without Notice 8 Nov 2000 minutes say—and he ticked these Mr BEATTIE: I will always stand up for the off—"Agenda item No. 3: Additional battler, and so will my Government. It is that payments ..." This was part of the simple. At last week's COAG conference I superannuation. If the member opposite stood up for the battler on behalf of the people objected, why did he support it? Where did he of Queensland, as did other State and object to any payment? Nowhere in here, not Territory leaders, including the Liberal Party once! It is interesting that when it comes to Premier of Western Australia, Richard Court. these issues the Leader of the Opposition We do not get any of that here from the wants to do one thing privately and another Leader of the National Party or the Leader of thing publicly. the Liberal Party. We agreed that the Federal Government should freeze its proposed petrol In terms of issues before the inquiry, I excise increase for next February. Whilst the have made my position clear right from the GST is a tax on living, the petrol excise is beginning. I made a ministerial statement to highway robbery. That is why I was staggered this House. If anyone behaves in any by the remarks of the Leader of the inappropriate way and that behaviour is Opposition. In my view, the member for reflected in serious allegations, I will take Surfers Paradise should tell graziers in the appropriate action. I have a mechanism in electorate of the member for Gregory that a 3c place to ensure that appropriate briefings are a litre price hike will not make a lot of provided to me on matters before the inquiry. I difference. He should tell the people in the will act on any of those matters. There is no bush who have to drive long distances that 3c information before me at this time that requires a litre will not make any difference. It may not me to act on the ministerial statement that I be a big difference to people who drive around made. in an Alpha Romeo, but the fuel bill of a farmer I find it interesting that the Leader of the with a ute and a town car could jump as much Opposition talks about superannuation. It has as $150 or even $250 a year. I say to the come to my attention that his former ministerial Leader of the Opposition: that is a lot of colleagues Lane, Harvey, Austin and Muntz all difference. received their superannuation. None of them Not content with taking contradictory lost a cent. I wonder whether the people of positions, the Leader of the Opposition then Queensland know that. Why doesn't the went on to say— Leader of the Opposition tell the people of Queensland why some of his ministerial "... a great deal of validity in the argument colleagues who rorted the taxpayer, who were of the Commonwealth Government that if convicted accordingly and who went to jail all they forgo the excise increase ... at the retained their superannuation? What did Mr bowser, it's hardly going to make any Borbidge do then? Not only did he support difference at all." them; he sat in Cabinet with them. Let me Let the record show and let everyone in remind the House of their names—Ministers the bush understand that the Leader of the Lane, Austin, Harvey and Muntz. The Leader National Party supports the Prime Minister's of the Opposition later became Premier but he push to increase petrol prices, which have did not take a cent away from them—not a gone up by 25% in the past year. Is the cent! He was the Premier and they were his Leader of the Opposition saying that freezing ministerial mates. His mates took their super. the petrol excise will not keep petrol prices down? What is he trying to say? He is not supporting the battlers; he is supporting the oil Fuel Prices companies. I reckon his greatest statement was one he made on the weekend when he Mr SULLIVAN: I direct my question to the said that he would change our policy of Premier. I refer to a transcript of comments on passing the subsidy directly to service station ABC Radio on Monday morning by the Leader operators. Instead, he is going to pay it back of the Opposition, which reads— to the oil companies. What did the oil "I accept that the increase in the companies say to us when they came through (petrol) excise won't make a lot of the door? They said that $60m was being lost difference at the pump." to New South Wales on interstate trade every year. Treasury worked it out to be $100m. I ask: does the Premier agree with the Leader What does the Leader of the Opposition want of the Opposition, or does the Premier intend to do? He wants to send $100m of to stand up for Queensland families and fight Queensland taxpayers' money to the Lismore the Federal Government's proposed petrol City Council and New South Wales. It is a rort, price hike? and the National Party supports a petrol rort. 8 Nov 2000 Questions Without Notice 4041

Let us be clear about this. Some $60m to from time to time as to certain events. It may $100m is lost in cross-border trade, yet Rob well be that they are asked on the same day Borbidge, the Leader of the National Party, as they are raised; it could be a couple of days supports it. He does not want to see cheaper later. I may not have had a chance to read the petrol in the bush. Oh, no! He is saying that transcript until two, three, four or five days people in the bush can pay at least 3c more later. If it is a Friday, I may not get a chance come February. That is courtesy of the Leader to. of the National Party. Not only that, he wants Mr Mackenroth interjected. to see $100m go in cross-border trade to New South Wales. He does not have the courage Mr BEATTIE: It is ironic that I have been to stand up with us like Richard Court did. asked these questions today, yet the Liberal Party is putting out propaganda saying that the Government has taken its eye off the ball. Electoral Fraud; Shepherdson Inquiry Not only has it not taken its eye off the ball, my Dr WATSON: My question is directed to central job is to run this State, and I do. I have the Premier. I refer to his answer to the not taken my eye off the ball. Those opposite previous question asked by the Leader of the come in here and criticise me because I have Opposition and to his public claim that he does not read the transcript the day after the not know the names of members of his hearing. I have not read it because I am Government mentioned in evidence at the making sure good government is continuing, Shepherdson inquiry because, in most yet they then complain and say that we are instances, those names have so far been not running the State. The bottom line is that suppressed and the public servants he has those opposite cannot have it both ways. My sent to the inquiry have therefore not divulged central job is to ensure that this State is run the names to him. I ask: is it not the case that properly, and I do. More to the point, if it takes the Premier's office received a copy of the me a few days to read the transcript, so be it. transcript of the proceedings of the inquiry and The most important thing to me is to ensure that all he has to do is read it? Why has he not that Queensland continues to grow. If I have made it his business to be aware of the not read the transcript for a few days and I am members of his Government mentioned at the asked a question about it and I do not know, inquiry? so be it. The bottom line as far as I am concerned is that the most important thing is Mr BEATTIE: I have made it clear right Queensland. I have made it clear we will not from the beginning on these issues that if I be sidetracked by this inquiry. It is not my have provided to me information and that major focus. My major focus is on information indicates that I should act in Queensland. If the briefings are slow in coming relation to matters involving people in the through and I am slow in reading the Government, I will. I say to the Leader of the transcript, then so be it. Opposition and the Leader of the Liberal Party: do not get into conspiratorial theories. As members know, from time to time I hold Fuel Prices news conferences, as do the Leader of the Mr PURCELL: I refer the Premier to a call Opposition and the Leader of the Liberal by all State and Territory leaders for the Party. They are often held while the inquiry is Federal Government to freeze its scheduled sitting. I am often asked questions on the day fuel excise increase next February, and I ask: of the inquiry about a matter brought to the is the Premier aware of any other groups or attention of the inquiry. A person's name may organisations that also support such a freeze? well be suppressed during a day. If I am asked about it that afternoon, I may not have been Mr BEATTIE: I am happy to tell the briefed about it. House that, in addition to being concerned Mr Borbidge: What about the next day or about petrol, this Government has made a the day after? considerable effort to enhance our exports overseas. One person with whom we have Mr BEATTIE: The member opposite is like developed a very close relationship is a broken record. He is so rude. Every day we Governor Bush, who is, as honourable get asked these questions. He is so rude. He members may know, running for the interjects. He will not allow me to answer the presidency. I understand that Bush is currently question. He is so rude. I do not think I have on 55% and Gore is on 42%. It would appear met anyone so rude. that Bush has won Indiana, Kentucky and Let me return to answering the question. South Carolina, with which we have sister- As I have said, politics is like a living feast. As State relations. Gore has won Vermont. So if the member opposite knows, I give interviews Bush does in fact win the Presidency, we will 4042 Questions Without Notice 8 Nov 2000 have a very special friend for Queensland in Mr Hamill: What does that mean, the White House. I look forward to furthering Premier? those relations with the United States. Mr BEATTIE: I will tell the House what it Getting back to petrol, I must say that means. It means that he does not care apart from State and Territory leaders there whether motorists pay an extra 3c a litre for are a number of prominent independent fuel. He has not lifted one finger to pressure organisations that support the Queensland the Federal Government into reducing petrol Government's position. They include Agforce, prices. So what do we have here? The Leader the Local Government Association of of the National Party and the Leader of the Queensland, the Motor Trades Association of Liberal Party support an increase of 3c a litre in Queensland, the Queensland Chamber of petrol come February and support the 25% Commerce and Industry, the Queensland increase in petrol prices over the last year. Let Trucking Association, the Royal Automobile the people of Queensland know that the Club of Queensland and the Taxi Council of Nationals and Liberals support the current hike Queensland. In fact, these organisations in petrol prices. They do not care about the bonded together to issue media statements bush. They do not care about the regions. imploring the Prime Minister to freeze the fuel They do not care about motorists. They do not excise increase next February. They also care about Queensland. joined the call by State and Territory leaders for the Prime Minister to add the fuel excise issue to last week's COAG agenda. In a joint Electoral Fraud; Member for Woodridge statement, these organisations said— Mr SPRINGBORG: I refer the Premier to "Rising fuel prices have impacted pages 10 and 11 of the ABC transcript of the negatively on individuals, businesses and Four Corners program titled the Numbers Government in every State at a time Game. This document indicates that the when the Federal Government has in fact member for Woodridge, whilst ALP State been enjoying higher revenues from Secretary, publicly described as totally petroleum taxes, and Canberra's coffers discredited a report by an ALP returning officer stand to benefit even further as the who formally complained of vote rigging inflationary impact of higher fuel prices is activities in Townsville. As State Secretary, reflected in the next round of fuel excise obviously he would have read the report indexation." thoroughly before publicly rejecting and These are exactly the points made by the condemning it. Has the member assured the State and Territory leaders at the COAG Premier that he knew nothing substantial meeting—I certainly made them—at which the about vote rigging activities in Townsville and, Prime Minister finally relented by adding the if so, does the Premier still believe him? excise issue to the agenda, although only in Mr BEATTIE: I thank the member for the general business, but refused to move on the question. issue itself. Mr SPEAKER: The Premier will take note We have to say, "All right. That is what of my previous ruling. the Prime Minister is saying. What is the Mr BEATTIE: I have received appropriate Leader of the Liberal Party in Queensland assurances from the member for Woodridge, saying?" Let us come to that, even though he and I have accepted those assurances, as I has disappeared out of the Chamber. The have previously indicated to the House. position of the Liberal Leader is a far cry from the position of the Premier. Of course, there is Let me talk about the coalition. I have a fight going on between the Liberals and the here a letter from a gentleman named R. W. J. Nationals about this. Dr Watson said on Tucker, who used to be President of the radio— Liberal Party. He wrote a letter dated 30 "Mr Borbidge is reflecting a National October 2000, which is only eight days ago. In Party constituency, and in that sense he the letter he points out a number of things that is entitled to do that." I think should be drawn to the attention of the people of Queensland. In it he says— That is nice of Dr Watson. I ask people to remember the following statement in the lead- "Liberal Party members will be up to the next election— shocked to learn that the two most recent State Executive meetings"— "My opinion is that the Prime Minister is in a better position to make a broader that is, meetings of the Liberal Party— observation on what is happening in "have spent eight hours (of a total Australia." meeting time of 10 hours) discussing the 8 Nov 2000 Questions Without Notice 4043

'Ryan issue', while less than thirty minutes Mr SPEAKER: Order! That is not a point have been invested in debate on State of order. politics or the forthcoming State election Mr BEATTIE: Let us see what a Liberal campaign." rort, rort, rort leads to. It may be that the I think that is good. I congratulate them on Leader of the Liberal Party is in jail, jail, jail. their judgment. Based on this, there will be some Liberals Do honourable members know where the going to jail, jail, jail. Liberal Party members meet whenever they I am talking about the unanimous discuss these matters? They meet in their decision of the rules committee. Its members lawyers' offices. They fight so badly that they were Galtos, Johnson, Tucker, Draper, meet in their lawyers' offices. Walker Pender Dunning, McGann and Murray. This was a solicitors, acting for Ms Behan, who as unanimous decision. What a rort! I thank the members know ran against Mr Tucker, wrote to member for the question. It was a good the returning officer, Mr Jaeschke, or whatever question. his name is, advising— "These ballot papers could potentially be evidence in any future court action and GST; Business Activity Statements we require you to keep them until the Mr REEVES: I ask the Deputy Premier: is matter is properly determined under the there any evidence of how Queensland party constitution or by the Supreme businesses are coping with just days before Court. We are instructed that our client the deadline for the return of their first wishes to pursue her rights in this regard business activity statements? to the fullest extent permitted by law." Mr ELDER: I am tempted to go straight to So the Liberal Party are off to the High Ryan, but I will wait for another occasion, Court over Ryan. It has a brawl going on. In because I do want to deal with the impact of the documentation I have there are a whole lot the GST and fuel prices on small business. I of details attached about meetings of the find myself on my feet again defending small various committees. This committee, which business in this State. Small business has not consists of all sorts of interesting people, been defended once in this place by the unanimously decided the following things. The Nationals or the Liberal Party—not once. I document states— have been continually defending it against the "It was agreed at the meeting that GST and the impacts of that GST. In certain ballot papers made out in favour particular, I have had to be highly critical of of Mr Tucker were changed in favour of banks for the impact they have had on small Ms Behan and that these had been business through the implementation of the destroyed." GST. As we head towards the D-day—that is, Then it says— the deadline for the submission of the first quarterly business activity statements—every "Certain ballot papers made out in survey shows that the GST's impact on small favour of Ms Behan were changed in business is damning. In this case and in this favour of Mr Tucker, and these had not State, it is just about killing small business. been destroyed. The ballot papers referred to above were counted as valid A Morgan and Banks survey found that votes." 94% of businesses believe that the GST has impacted negatively on their profitability—in Those opposite want to talk about a rort. other words, impacting on their ability to grow There is no better rort than a Liberal Party rort. and to employ. The latest QCCI Pulse survey The Liberals have turned rorting into a found that the September quarter was the specialty. worst in terms of business confidence in the Honourable members might have noticed last seven years. Why? The critical factor was what the Leader of the Liberal Party said when administrative costs associated with the GST, he was asked about branch stacking and rorts. the implementation of the GST on small What did he say? He said, "That's part of the business and the costs of fuel—the ongoing normal political process." Well, it is in the costs. Liberal Party! If members think they can sit there and Dr WATSON: Mr Speaker, I rise to a point avoid this issue when an election comes, they of order. There is only going to be one group are wrong. The issues will be the impact of the going to jail, jail, jail and that is over there, GST on their constituency in rural Queensland there, there. and the impact of the GST on their 4044 Questions Without Notice 8 Nov 2000 constituency as they claim it, that is, small and nothing else in the question was right business. either. Those opposite should put themselves in Let me come back to the Liberal Party— the shoes of a small business operator, Mr Wells: He lived there. whether it be a local hairdresser or a rural small businessperson in a small rural industry. All of Mr BEATTIE: Did the member for them have cash flow problems. Most of them Caboolture live in the seat of Fisher in 1987 do not have computer systems. Most of them but not know its name? have to comply with the GST manually. As Mr FELDMAN: I rise to a point of order. I they comply, they have to do it because of will correct that to the seat of Fisher. Howard's introduction of the reporting system by bank statement. Every time they get a bank Mr BEATTIE: I thank the member for statement, that is a cost. It is now an Caboolture for the correction, but it is too late additional cost that they did not have. once the horse has bolted. He is embarrassed. We should let him have his embarrassment in These operators have to comply through silence. an accountant. They do not have any choice about that. Accountants have been saying Let me come back to the Liberal Party that they do not have enough certified issue. The August 24 meeting that I was practitioners out there to meet the need in talking about met at the offices of McCullough relation to business activity statements. Robertson. It is a great firm; it is one of the Therefore, small businesses will be fined best firms in the world. That is where I did my between $40m and $80m. articles and it gave me great training. It is a great firm of lawyers. I recommend it to all of This is affecting people in the those opposite. constituency of those opposite, and there has been not one word from anyone in the The Liberal Party went there. It always Opposition in relation to the impact—not one. meets in solicitors' offices because its There has been not one word from the Leader members cannot agree. These were the of the Opposition. He loves to interject, but not people at the meeting, the people who came once has he gotten up at any stage and taken to a unanimous agreement. We have got on John Howard in relation to the impact of the Galtos, the president; we have the director, GST and the BAS reporting mechanism. Not Jaeschke; we have Johnson, Smith, Martin, once has he got up and called for an Tucker and Behan—both the candidates— extension. Draper and Harper. Wasn't Harper a Liberal member of Parliament, a Liberal candidate? The fact of the matter is that even He is in there. There was Dunning, Muller, research from my own department shows that McGann and Murray. So all the people of those that have given up looking for an representing both sides of the argument are accountant and are doing it themselves, 44% sitting down in a lawyer's office and they say that the terminology is too hard and that it agree. But just remember what they agreed is just too tough for them. It will be too tough on. They agreed that certain ballot papers also for members opposite when the election made out in favour of Mr Tucker were comes. changed in favour of Ms Behan and that these have been destroyed. Can members imagine Electoral Fraud that? They actually sat down—both sides of the argument—and they agreed that ballot Mr FELDMAN: I ask the Premier: as the papers had been destroyed and that they had State campaign manager for the Labor Party been— during the 1987 Federal election, can he advise this House of the extent to which the Mr FELDMAN: I rise to a point of order. I electoral irregularities in the Labor won seat of have asked the Premier about what he knew Dickson were known to him or attributable to about the electoral irregularities in the seat of him, and also did he have knowledge of the Fisher— electoral irregularities perpetrated by the Mr BEATTIE: The answer is nothing. National Party in the seat of Hinkler? Mr FELDMAN:—and I would like him to Mr BEATTIE: I hate to tell the honourable answer the question. member this, but there was no seat of Dickson in 1987; it was Fisher. So I assume the basis Mr SPEAKER: There is no point of order. of the question is wrong. Like everything else Mr BEATTIE: The answer is nothing. I in the statement and the assertions, it was want to deal with the year 2000, not prehistoric wrong. There was no seat of Dickson in 1987 times. 8 Nov 2000 Questions Without Notice 4045

Certain ballot papers made out in favour clear to anyone who wanted to listen that they of Ms Behan were changed in favour of were sick and tired of their taxpayers' dollars Mr Tucker and they have not been destroyed. being rorted with respect to the subsidy of fuel What we have is both sides agreeing that in Queensland. The people of Queensland there was a rort—a rort, a rort, a rort, a Liberal made it abundantly clear that they believed rort. Is it any wonder that the rules committee that the fairest, most transparent way of wants to consider the facts as agreed at the delivering a fuel subsidy was at the bowser, meeting and further consider four questions. and that was the message that was also The first question is: does a change in delivered to this Government in the handwriting invalidate a vote? We had better discussions that it had with representatives of think about that one. Here is the next question industry, including rural industry. I point out for the Liberal Party rules committee: does a that, of all the groups from rural industry, only signature on a ballot paper invalidate a vote? one was not prepared to go along with the "Dear David, I love you"—I can see that one. substantial reforms to the fuel subsidy What is the consequence of no objection scheme. That was Agforce. Canegrowers and being taken at the time of the election, and the other rural groups were all on board. the last question is: what is the consequence But why would it be that the member for of certain ballot papers in the case where Surfers Paradise wants to turn back the clock "Tucker" had been crossed out and "Behan" in relation to the fuel subsidy? Surely the inserted being destroyed? I do not know. I member for Surfers Paradise would have been think the rules committee of the Liberal Party is embarrassed that the scheme that he put in going to be very, very busy. place cost Queensland taxpayers over Then the letter goes on that the chairman $200m—over $200m of subsidy went south. of the rules committee refused to attend the The Leader of the Opposition still believes that next meeting citing a lack of jurisdiction for his the Queensland taxpayers should be committee. The two other members of the subsidising fuel that is sold to the Lismore committee who attended disagreed with his Shire Council in New South Wales. I tell the view and proceeded with consideration of the House that Queensland taxpayers do not matters. The chairman got thrown out. share the view of the Leader of the Opposition. Queensland taxpayers want an end to the rort that saw hundreds of millions of Fuel Subsidy Scheme dollars going south across the border. Mr PITT: I refer the Treasurer to The only people the Leader of the statements made by the Opposition Leader Opposition is supporting with his claimed wish that, if returned to Government, he would to turn back the clock are the rorters. He dump the revamped fuel subsidy scheme and supports the oil companies and all those in the return it to the way it operated when he was middle who have been taking a cut and not Premier, and I ask: what impact would such a passing the subsidy on. The people of decision have on Queensland taxpayers? Queensland do not support the Leader of the Mr Springborg interjected. Opposition, and nor do we. Mr HAMILL: I take the interjection from the Deputy Leader of the National Party, who Member for Woodridge does not seem to realise that the subsidy Mr SANTORO: I refer the Premier to his scheme being delivered at the service station previous non-answer today in relation to the bowser comes into effect from December this member for Woodridge and I ask him: can he year. I do not know what he was trying to assure the House that he has had no prove by his inane and ill-informed interjection. discussions with the member for Woodridge, What I do know is that the Leader of the members of his Ministry or senior Labor Party Opposition has learnt nothing yet again from office bearers in relation to Mr Kaiser's possible his time in Opposition. In the years between resignation as the member for Woodridge, and 1989 and 1996 it was quite clear that Mr can he assure the House that the member for Borbidge, the member for Surfers Paradise, Woodridge will contest the next State election had learnt nothing about proper Government as the endorsed Labor Party candidate for practices in Queensland, because the same Woodridge? old stuff was served up to the people of Mr BEATTIE: I have had no discussions Queensland in 1996. with the member for Woodridge about not In relation to fuel, the Leader of the contesting the next election or anything else, Opposition has learnt nothing either. The but I notice that the member for Clayfield people of Queensland made it abundantly finally did Tucker over. He finally did Tucker 4046 Questions Without Notice 8 Nov 2000 over in Ryan. Didn't he finally do Tucker over in is more. We have another one down here of Ryan? It is so bad in the Liberal Party— Santo Santoro. Have I missed one? Santo An honourable member interjected. Santoro is here as well. Do honourable members realise that there are nine Mr BEATTIE: He did Tucker over. photographs of Santo Santoro in this This letter from Tucker says that the ballot publication? No doubt if he had stayed, there papers in question should remain with an would have been more. independent party. The members of the Time expired. Liberal Party hate one another so badly that they cannot even retain their own ballot papers; they have to give them to an Fuel Prices; GST independent party. Mr FENLON: I refer the Treasurer to the What else does this letter from Tucker debate over the impact of the GST on petrol say? On page 2 it talks about public prices, and I ask: what evidence is there that allegations of ballot tampering. That is what the GST has caused petrol prices to rise and the Liberal Party has been up to. that it will cause further increases to excise in Let me ask Liberal members this: does a February next year? change in handwriting invalidate a vote? Is Mr HAMILL: I well recall the promise that the way it works in the Liberal Party? Did made by the Prime Minister that fuel prices in the member for Clayfield destroy any of these Australia would not rise because of the GST. votes? He should be the last person to come Under an elaborate scheme, there was going in here and talk about all this. He is the leader to be some reduction in fuel excise to offset of the group that did Tucker over, and is it any the impact of the GST. That has been the line wonder that Tucker, the former President of that the Federal Government has continued to the Liberal Party, is talking about public peddle. allegations of ballot tampering? Is it any wonder that is what he is talking about? I am very much indebted to the member for Mackay, who has forwarded me certain Mr Santoro: Nobody is listening. material. This was research material that was Mr BEATTIE: I do not know about that. obtained by the Federal member for Dawson, No-one is listening to the member for Clayfield! Mrs Kelly. Mrs Kelly, being a good, loyal This is what he did. coalitionist, has been sending out copies of a A Government member: He cost them research note from the Commonwealth the last election. Parliamentary Library to her constituents on the issue of the GST and oil prices. I believe Mr BEATTIE: He did cost them the last we would all benefit from studying the election. It is funny. I notice that the future information that Mrs Kelly has researched on Leader of the Liberal Party criticised us a little our behalf. time ago about self-promotion? Does he remember that he was in the Courier-Mail I am happy to table this document, but attacking me? Isn't it funny? Someone sent firstly let me refer to its contents. In referring to me an old copy of Training Now. How many evidence regarding current price levels, the photos do members think there are of Santo document states— Santoro in here? Come on, guess. How "The reduction in excise"— many? Well, let me show members how many that is, the one that the Prime Minister put in photos there are. This man attacked me for place, honourable members will recall, to offset self-promotion. the GST— On page 1, there it is. I ask members to have a look; Santo Santoro's photo is on "has not been enough to offset the GST. page 1. Let us look further. Here we go, we To that extent consumers are worse off." have one of Rob Borbidge here. Here is This is contained in the research note that Mrs another photo, and who is in it? Santo Kelly has provided to her constituents. The Santoro! We have one over here. Who is in it? note goes on to say this— Santo Santoro! We have one over here. Who "There will be flow-on consequences is in it? Santo Santoro! There is one down from the interaction of the GST and the here. Who is in it? Santo Santoro! Hang on, I indexation of excises. The GST will cause missed one. There is one here. Santo the price level and the CPI to rise." Santoro! I am having trouble finding a photograph which does not contain Santo This is the best bit— Santoro. I turn over the page and here are two "The indexation of excises to the CPI more. Look, there is another one. Wait, there will generate additional tax revenue." 8 Nov 2000 Questions Without Notice 4047

I table the document for the information of all three election campaigns in Currumbin. At honourable members. each of those campaigns an organiser was What is the additional tax revenue that allocated. This occurs in seats right throughout the document refers to? What it refers to is the State. The organiser assists candidates. In excise. Who picks up the excise? Mr Howard 1992, Lee Bermingham was an organiser with and the Commonwealth Government, of the Labor Party and was allocated to the seat course! So, here is the link. Not only did the of Currumbin, as well as a number of other Federal Government not adequately seats throughout the State. compensate consumers for the impact of the I am glad that the member for Merrimac GST on fuel, the Federal Government is also referred to my speech in this House, because I receiving a tax windfall into the bargain thanked a whole range of people who helped because the GST is pushing up the consumer me in the 1992 campaign, which, as the price index, which is then used to index excise. member acknowledged, was very successful. Guess who the winner is—the Federal The member was recently reported in the Gold Government! Coast Bulletin as saying that the Liberal Party We have had enough of this cant from will again be targeting the seat of Currumbin. the Prime Minister and his cohorts. It is about He said that the Liberal Party has an excellent time that the Federal Government woke up to candidate. Once again, those opposite believe itself and recognised what every other that they have a right to hold the seat of Australian already recognises, namely that the Currumbin. Federal Government is receiving a tax windfall During the last three election campaigns, and is receiving it from the spike of the GST. the Liberal Party had the seat of Currumbin as The only decent thing for the Federal their No. 1 priority on the Gold Coast. They Government to do is to remove that price spike were not successful in 1992, 1995 or 1998. I and not take the tax windfall of excise from am going to make sure that they are not Australian motorists in February next year. successful in 2001. The Premier referred to That has been the call of the Queensland problems in the Liberal Party. I can assure this Premier, and other Premiers, at COAG. That House that the Liberal Party certainly has has consistently been the call of this problems on the Gold Coast. Government. Unfortunately, we do not enjoy The Leader of the Liberal Party and the the support of the Opposition in the interests member for Merrimac were recently in the of Australian motorists. southern area of the Gold Coast saying what an excellent candidate the Liberal Party had in Electoral Fraud the seat of Currumbin. What they failed to mention was the number of people who have Mr QUINN: I direct my question to the resigned from the Liberal Party in Currumbin Minister for Tourism and Racing. I refer the because they do not like the party's choice of member for Currumbin to her speech in this candidate for the seat. Two Liberal Party House on 5 November 1992 wherein she members, one of whom is a former candidate specifically thanked a number of people for her in the seat of Currumbin, said to me, "If they successful election campaign. In particular, run that woman, I am going to resign." That is she publicly thanked Lee Bermingham, Mike exactly what they did. Kaiser and Wayne Swan, and she also referred to "a group of dedicated individuals I assure the member for Merrimac that I from within the ranks of Queensland Young am going to make sure that the Liberal Party Labor who were also instrumental in my will not be able to win the seat of Currumbin campaign". I ask the Minister: can she give an next time around. I know that I am literally a unqualified assurance that she is not aware of thorn in the side of the Leader of the any allegations that either Mr Bermingham, Opposition, but I wear that description as a with whom she worked in the office of Geoff badge of honour. I repeat the comments I Smith in the first term of the Goss made the other day, namely that there is no Government, or the so-called dedicated Young doubt that on the Gold Coast I feel as though I Labor elements, committed any breaches of am on a life raft in a sea of sharks. electoral laws? Mr SPEAKER: Order! The Minister should Bradman's Walk to Glory also take note of my earlier comment. Mrs ATTWOOD: My question is directed Mrs ROSE: I have absolutely no to the Premier. Can the Premier inform the knowledge of any of those allegations that the House of details of the Bradman's Walk to honourable member has made. I have fought Glory program? 4048 Questions Without Notice 8 Nov 2000

Mr BEATTIE: I am happy to do that. nationally and in correspondence I agreed that However, I would firstly like to table a letter we would also play a significant role. from R. W. J. Tucker to Liberal Party members I know that today in the Parliament the in the electorate of Ryan. I believe usual issues have come up about the inquiry Queenslanders should know about the and so on. I want to make it absolutely clear, contents of that letter. My only concern with as I have done in the past, that anyone who the Minister for Tourism's answer to the breaks the law should go to jail. It does not question asked by the member for Merrimac is matter whether that person is in the Liberal that all of the people who resigned from the Party, the National Party or the Labor Party. Liberal Party in the electorate of Currumbin Over the past few days, I have corresponded clearly voted in the electorate of Ryan. I think with the Prime Minister over these matters. I that is a matter of great concern because have encouraged him to establish a national otherwise Mr Tucker would no doubt still be the Criminal Justice Commission to ensure that local president. people like Peter Reith are brought to justice. If However, let us move on. Tonight I have Peter Reith had been a Minister in the privilege of being guest of honour at a Queensland's Government, he would now be significant fundraising event in Brisbane. in a lot of trouble; he would not be in the Tonight I will unveil the Colin Dudley Ministry. Those are the standards that we have masterpiece, Bradman's Walk to Glory, which in Queensland. If the Prime Minister were to is the centrepiece in a wonderful fundraising follow those standards, then Peter Reith would venture for two very worthwhile charities, be sacked from the Federal Ministry and there namely the Bradman Foundation at Bowral would be a CJC inquiry into him. and Wheelchair Sports, which supports Mr SPEAKER: Order! Before calling the athletes with a disability. member for Warrego, could I welcome to the public gallery parents, students and teachers The original oil portraits masterpiece from Pialba State School in the electorate of stakeholder program—which involves the sale Hervey Bay. of 99 replicas of the painting at $20,000—is expected to raise $2m for these charities. The portrait is of Sir Donald Bradman striding on to Local Government Councillors, Candidates the MCG wicket 63 years ago on his way to for State Parliament score 270 runs against England—the highest Mr HOBBS: I refer the Premier to his run score by an Australian captain against Government's proposal to rort its way into England in Australia, and the turning point in Government by retrospectively removing the the three-two victory by Australia. rights of Queensland citizens who are serving The portrait is indeed a masterpiece and local authority councillors by forcing them to captures the true spirit and genius of the resign their positions before nominating for greatest batsman the world has ever known. State Parliament, and I ask: will the Premier Sir Donald is without a doubt an Australian inform the House what legal advice or living treasure and a national and international comment on this unprecedented and icon who embodies our values, culture and undemocratic proposal was received from the determination to succeed. Already about 70 of Crown Law office and the legal section of the the replicas have been taken up and I Premier's Department and table that advice for encourage Queensland businesses and the information of honourable members? organisations to become official stakeholders Mr BEATTIE: I am sorry, because some in this wonderful venture. of the member's colleagues were interjecting, I did not hear the second part of his question. Sir Donald, who is now 93 years old and living quietly in Adelaide, sent me a personal Mr HOBBS: Will the Premier inform the message including congratulations to the House what legal advice or comment on this artist, Colin Dudley, on his magnificent work unprecedented and undemocratic proposal portraying such a significant moment in our was received from the Crown Law office and international cricket history. The Bradman the legal section of the Premier's Department genius has been placed yet again on the and table that advice for the information of public record to be celebrated by lovers of the honourable members? game, fellow team members and foes alike. I Mr BEATTIE: There are traditions and commend the program to the House in the conventions in relation to Crown Law advice. hope that it will command further support for These are matters for the Parliament. There two very worthwhile charities. The Prime will be legislation at the appropriate time and Minister was involved in the launch of this the member will have an opportunity to 8 Nov 2000 Questions Without Notice 4049 express his view. In terms of legal issues, we obviously is in South Australia. So for people can seek legal advice. There is nothing wrong to become members of the Liberal Party, they with that. not do not have to live in the State in which Let us be really clear about this. What the they want to register, but in some cases they member said is not true. We are not forcing do not even have to be an Australian citizen. anybody to do anything. People can be a foreign citizen and still vote for the Liberal Party candidate. I ask the Prime Mr Hobbs: Of course you are. Minister: is that the Australian way? Mr BEATTIE: No, I am not forcing There is a problem on both sides of anybody to do anything. politics. It is important that we both fix it. My In March this year— Government is determined to fix it. I call on the Mr Borbidge interjected. Prime Minister to fix the problems in his own backyard. Mr BEATTIE: God, the Leader of the Opposition is rude! I cannot believe how rude he is, and he is at it again. The Leader of the Police Resources Opposition is so rude. He should at least give Ms NELSON-CARR: I direct a question to me the courtesy of answering the Opposition's the Minister for Police and Corrective Services. question. If he wants an answer, I will give him Several coalition MPs and candidates have an answer. The truth of the matter is that in been making complaints through the media March this year there were local government lately that they want more police for their elections. We gave local government four-year electorates, and I ask: can the Minister detail terms. We found that, in some cases within a what the process is for allocating the massive matter of days—or weeks at the very best—a increase in police numbers that the Beattie number of those candidates who went to the Labor Government is funding? people and said, "I will stand for four years", are now betraying the faith of the people who Mr BARTON: I thank the member for the elected them. They were elected for four years question, because there is certainly no doubt and now they are hypocritically saying to the that several coalition MPs have been out there people, "I said four years but I didn't really calling on me to increase police numbers in mean it; I really wanted to go into State their backyards—in their electorates. I have no Parliament." problems with members representing their electorates and bringing policing issues to my The truth is this: anyone in State attention on behalf of their constituents. Parliament who wants to run for Federal However, I do have a problem when those Parliament has to resign. Anyone who does MPs go out there expressing the fact that they the same thing federally has to resign. We are have no idea how the process works or, even not seeking to do anything, we are not forcing worse, deliberately misleading the public about anybody to do anything; we are just saying to police numbers. candidates—and this affects all sides of politics—"Tell the truth to the people when you In recent times, the member for Noosa go to an election." Let us talk about it— has probably been the most at fault in misrepresenting police numbers on the An Opposition member interjected. Sunshine Coast. Poor old Davo has not been Mr BEATTIE: The member wants to talk quite right since that black rhino gave him a about rorts. We should look at this, which fright in South Africa a couple of years ago. relates to the Liberal Party in South Australia. The self-styled expert on the police allocation A vacant allotment in Rostrevor is home to two model, the member for Mooloolah, has also new members of Mark Brindal's Liberal Party got into the act. The only problem that he has sub-branch. I am not sure under which grassy highlighted out of that is his own ignorance. To knoll, but that is where they live. That is where top things off, the member for Moggill was out the Liberal Party lives—in grassy little knolls. in Wynnum with the Liberal Party candidate for Yet the Prime Minister tries to avoid the area complaining about police to establishing a national Criminal Justice population ratios in that area. The catch is Commission. that, over the past two years while we have Is it little wonder that the former Liberal been in Government, the people of Wynnum Premier, Steele Hall, has accused wandering have enjoyed one of the biggest political minstrels of influencing Liberal Party improvements in police to population ratios. I preselection. We know how great the Liberal can assure the member for Moggill that he is Party are: more than 50 people from Victoria flogging a dead horse on that issue, but lately have nominated for membership of the Kings the Leader of the Liberal Party is very used Park branch in the State seat of Unley, which flogging dead horses. 4050 Matters of Public Interest 8 Nov 2000

Just so that the members opposite Mr McGRADY: We have all heard about understand fully the process involved in Blue Hills. When I became the Minister back in allocating police resources and police to 1991, this was an issue then. population ratios, I will lay it out for them A Government member interjected. chapter and verse in a very simple fashion so that even they can comprehend— Mr McGRADY: And a good Minister, too. I then had a recess. On the very first day I "The commissioner is responsible, on came back, that issue was back on the table the advice of his senior officers, for because the previous Minister had not done allocation of police to various areas of the much. As the member knows, the Department service. All allocations are made on the of Mines and Energy has been working almost basis of operational policing and direct full time on trying to resolve this issue. As the service delivery needs to ensure an member would know also, when I first came equitable distribution across all police back into the Ministry I invited him to look at districts. It would be inappropriate of me some of the briefs. There are about 15 cartons to intervene in the commissioner's of paper on this issue. determination of the allocation of police across the service." I know that the former Minister was not a very close friend of the member for On the subject of police to population ratios, Tablelands, but if he has any suggestions he let me just add— should come and talk to me, and if he can "Police to population ratios have resolve the issue, then he will go up in my limited value as a measure of the estimation. Let me just say this— effectiveness of the delivery of policing Mr SPEAKER: The Minister's time has services. While the ratio has traditionally expired. been used as such a measure, its adequacy seriously diminished over Mr McGRADY: I was enjoying that, Mr recent years." Speaker. Before members opposite go crook about Mr SPEAKER: The time for questions has my trying to dodge this issue and say that I am expired. just making excuses and not accepting my responsibility, I should say that they were not MATTERS OF PUBLIC INTEREST my words; I borrowed them from my predecessor, the member for Crows Nest, Youth Programs when he was the Minister for Police, in answer Mrs LIZ CUNNINGHAM (Gladstone—IND) to question on notice No. 1076 on 7 October (11.30 a.m.): I rise to speak in support of 1997. I will table that complete answer for the several programs in my electorate that information of the House. particularly recognise youth at risk. The first The members opposite cannot accept one is an educational program proposed by and understand that there has never been a the Toolooa State High School called Students bigger increase in police numbers than there at Risk—Recovery and Support. They are has been under this Government. There has seeking funding for the small amount of never been more police in those areas that $39,200 to initiate this program to be run on they are complaining about, and they do not site at their school. like it. The following has been stated by A. Fuller in his book Raising Real People: A Guide for Parents of Teenagers— Ibis Dam "In a society that does not generally Mr NELSON: My question is directed to promote belonging to lots of clubs and the Minister for Mines and Energy. Given that I societies, school is one of the few am now in possession of concrete tests for the organisations that most young people can Ibis Dam outside of Irvinebank that showed feel that they belong to. In surveys of that dangerous, substandard concrete was young people, fitting in and feeling that used in the construction of this dam by the you belong at school was thought to be previous National Party Minister for Mines and one of the major factors promoting well- Energy, I ask the Minister: can he outline what being, self-esteem and resilience in young action can be taken, given that the dam has in people. The experiences that young the last few years deteriorated to a point where people have at school are important not it leaks and has many large cracks throughout only for their education but also for their the whole structure? well-being." 8 Nov 2000 Matters of Public Interest 4051

There are programs available in the local State High School was opened. So the school community to support students and youths does have one or two areas that can be made aged between the ages of 15 and 19, and available. Because it is on site it will make the there is a very good one that is currently organising and timetabling of the mainstream operating at Rosella Park State School. The core subjects—English, maths and science— Toolooa school, however, have identified a viable propositions; the students will not have gap in services and they aim to meet the to be moved around by vehicle or bus. educational, social and emotional needs of The school also believes that it will be these younger students who do not quite fit able to supply the main items, that is, the into any other category. The aims and classroom and items for the life skills objectives of their program are to develop a resources, such as cooking equipment, sustainable school-based program aimed at washing machines and sewing machines. It supporting the real individual needs of would also be able to provide any manual arts students identified as either an educational requirements. The funding is as low as it is risk, that is, they show little potential for because it covers only one teaching position completing Year 12 or an equivalent and items such as stationery, art supplies and qualification; or an emotional risk, that is, those the actual cooking supplies. students whose life experiences or other factors such as poverty, unemployment, family The program aims to utilise the services of dysfunction or a lack of peer support has led to established community and Government youth them having limited development of social and support agencies in the Gladstone region. communication skills. Long term therapeutic counselling, medical support and education, job skills training and The aim of this program is to encourage work readiness programs will be provided and students to remain in mainstream core conducted by representatives from the various subjects—that is English, maths and science— agencies. So funding predominantly is while offering individual plans to develop life or required for the wages of the coordinator. social skills, work readiness skills, work experience and resilience strategies. The The primary target group are students program is designed as an on-campus from Years 8, 9 and 10, including ATSI alternative education program that has the students, and the program is designed to flexibility to meet individual needs while meet the individual educational needs of these supporting the continued engagement of students. The evaluation will not be left to students in education, and that is one of the once a year. An evaluation of the success or strengths of the program. They will stay in appropriateness of the program will be carried contact with their own peer group and with out on a daily basis through general their own school friends. They will participate in observation and information shared with the established literacy and numeracy classroom teachers, again on a weekly basis programs, but they will also have an alternative via debriefing and reporting sessions, and program to develop these other basic skills fortnightly through Careport coordinator that they are assessed as being unable to meetings. demonstrate. Skills training programs run through the Students will be expected to participate in project will be evaluated with questionnaires. the program for a minimum of three months Student progress will be evaluated through and a maximum of one year. The goal of the reports and interviews with students, program is to reintegrate younger students coordinator and parents, as well as care givers. experiencing difficulties back into standard full- Student outcomes and retention rates will be time schooling. The students will be identified the main gauge in evaluating the success of as at risk by the school's welfare team and the program. they will be referred to the project coordinator I support this program. I have a copy of for interview and development of an the funding application, which I will be handing appropriate learning program. to the Minister for Education, and I am sure As I said earlier, it is intended that the the Minister will give that application very fair STARRS program will be located at the consideration. Toolooa State High School. The proponents of The other proposal for our region is aimed this proposal—and it has the support of the at a similar target group. It is the Yunarn principal, deputy principal and all of the Wuvarn Waiber Foundation, and that is that staff—believe they can supply a suitable the strength of a person lies in knowing, classroom. That is predominantly because connection, value and potential. The proposal Toolooa State High School was the major for a life skill learning program has been school impacted upon when Tannum Sands brought forward to my office by members of 4052 Matters of Public Interest 8 Nov 2000 the Aboriginal community in the region. I have and to others that participation will be on the had a number of meetings with the folk over a basis of need, not necessarily on the basis of number of weeks. The purpose of the community of origin. foundation is to provide support to the I have spoken with the proponents of this. community of the Gladstone region. The I have spoken with the elders of the two management group has said— Aboriginal groups in our area, Bailai and "We will endeavour to offer ongoing Guarang Guarang. They are very genuine culturally appropriate alternative people. They have a heart for their young development programs which will foster people. They have a heart for young people respect for oneself and others." generally. They are dedicated to seeing young They have the following specific philosophy— people achieve their potential and to achieve it positively. They see this project as an active "Our program is about choices. It is means of being able to do some good for an alternative to an offending lifestyle and young people in the community. Billabong is a time of healing, restoration and learning about 25 kilometres from Gladstone City. It is one's identity. The program is designed surrounded by rural land. I commend the with the intention of diverting young proposal to the Minister. people from offending, empowering them to become and to see themselves as becoming creative, useful, productive Townsville Port Environmental Park members of their community. There is an Mr REYNOLDS (Townsville—ALP) emphasis on developing respect, (11.40 a.m.): Today I would like to comment personal discipline and self-awareness. on the Townsville Port Environmental Park and Opportunities for the gaining of the launch of that concept in Townsville last knowledge, succeeding and achieving are Sunday morning. Last Sunday's launch was believed to lead to pride, improved self- very successful. About 80 people from the esteem, dignity and a desire for future suburb and the area of South Townsville, port positive experiences." authority directors and staff, and other invited They are looking for funding for this guests from around Townsville attended that program from the Department of Families, launch. It was a great success. Youth and Community Care. They have three It was a very proud moment for me to see target groups. All of them are young people the Townsville Port Environmental Park between the ages of 10 and 17: those who launched. I say that as a former chairman of are already in the juvenile justice system, the Townsville Port Authority between 1990 those who have just entered the juvenile and 1996. It was in the latter part of my term justice system whose offending is not recidivist; that we appointed the port's first environmental or young leaders who have been identified by officer, Caryn Anderson. She was appointed to community as being at risk, either themselves the port staff in December 1995. I believe that or their peers, of entering the juvenile justice five years later that appointment has now seen system; and the third group are young people this declaration by the port authority of the less than 17 years of age who have ineffective Townsville Port Environmental Park. Over the family and community supports and have past five years it has shown the port to be very suffered or are at risk of suffering a traumatic conscious not only of where the port and life event. Again, the core component of the industry is developing but also of the suburbs program will be literacy and numeracy. around the port. They have a property available, Billabong, Last Sunday the launch of the Townsville at Calliope. It is a large grazing property. The Port Environmental Park marked the beginning community has been out there for some time. of the consultative period, asking the residents This, however, is the first formal program of of the suburbs of South Townsville and this type that has been proposed for Billabong. Railway Estate in particular but also the They are looking at establishing life skills residents of Townsville in general to comment education. In the meetings that I have had, on this vital plan. The Townsville Port they have not said that it will be only for Environmental Park will cover more than 16 indigenous young people. But because they hectares. The environmental park will link Ross are an indigenous based committee, because Creek to Ross River and, very importantly, they understand the constraints and the provide a buffer between the port's activities challenges of indigenous young people and and the residential areas of South Townsville, because they make up a high percentage of Railway Estate and also the residential areas those young people who are at risk, that will be of Townsville City. As we know, that area is their focus. However, they have said to me developing with the work of our inner-city task 8 Nov 2000 Matters of Public Interest 4053 force. We are really looking at a buffer From my experience as the Mayor of between the work done at the port, the Townsville in the eighties and as chairman of industry at the port and the residential areas the port authority in the nineties, I know that that may be affected. the Port of Townsville and the City of As well as rehabilitating the area's native Townsville are no exception to this common vegetation, the park will provide community problem that exists around the world. facilities, such as walking tracks, seating, Regrettably, the activities conducted by ports boardwalks, open space areas and bicycle can potentially conflict with surrounding uses, tracks. I commend the Chairman of the particularly residential. In the case of the port Townsville Port Authority, Ron McLean, his of Townsville, where 8.5 million tonnes of directors and staff for bringing this to fruition. cargo were handled in 1999-2000, residential After months of studying the area, the homes are located in close proximity to or Townsville Port Authority and its environmental adjoin port land, and conflicts can occur in consultants have developed draft concept terms of noise, dust, visual intrusion and plans for the environmental park. Some of aesthetics. There is the potential for problems, these concepts were presented at last and this can influence future port development Sunday's launch, and the authority is now and management opportunities. asking for comments before progressing to the I believe this very proactive stance by the next stage of this project. port is one that should be strongly In talking with the port authority's commended not only for Townsville but also environmental officer, Caryn Anderson, this for other ports across Australia. The Townsville morning, I believe there has been a very Port Authority is actively seeking to remedy the positive response so far to the launch of the situation by providing a 16 hectare Townsville Port Environmental Park. I say to environmental park to separate and redefine the people of South Townsville and Railway these two uses. As well as the many Estate in particular that this is a very important advantages an environmental park provides opportunity to look at these plans and to make for the residents in the area, the park also sure they have some input. Last Sunday was provides environmental benefits linking the two a proud day for me, because I have estuarine areas of Ross River and Ross Creek campaigned over the last 15 years for the and reinstating the degraded habitats in this removal of what was known in Townsville as area also. the Queensland Phosphate rail loop. Under The concept plan has been developed these plans that Queensland Phosphate rail after months of research and study into the loop will no longer be. It was a very proud areas and the issues. The key aspects include, moment when the chairman of the port firstly, the use of native species and the authority and the Mayor of Townsville development of a natural ecosystem; and, ceremoniously signalled the end of trains secondly, low-maintenance landscaping that screeching around that loop. It will no longer minimises the potential for dust, light, noise be the nightmare for the people of South and visual intrusion of the port's operations. It Townsville, Railway Estate and the inner city also includes walking tracks, boardwalks, that it has been. bicycle paths and interpretive signage. The The environmental park project is a very fourth aspect is the development of a seed important one for the port, but in terms of orchard for native tree revegetation. The fifth amenity it is also a very important one in aspect is the development of a bush garden particular for the people of South Townsville. I for educational purposes. The final aspect is hope that residents will now have a closer look the remediation of contamination sites. at the concept plans and that the launch When I look at the concept plan of this 16 provided the opportunity for them to hectare environmental park that stretches understand the environmental park and, in along the Pacific Ocean, along Benwell Road particular, to give their feedback. We need to from Ross Creek to Ross River, I feel very understand that historically ports right around excited by it because I know that not only is the world have been centrally located in this another area for Townsville people to have developing areas, and it is the same situation a greater appreciation of the environment; it is in Townsville. As the population of those areas also a great area for recreation and for leisure. increases, so too does the need for the In addition, we are creating a great buffer expansion of the port and its activities. Often between the suburb of South Townsville and, the result is a competition between urban of course, the port of Townsville. expansion and port development for the In 1991 the port authority, under my remaining land. chairmanship, developed the eastern port 4054 Matters of Public Interest 8 Nov 2000 development, a 100 hectare area for Mr BEATTIE: I rise to a point of order. My development. We now see that great point of order is this: the Leader of the developments have taken place on that land, Opposition, as a trustee, approved an for example, Queensland Nickel, Queensland additional amount of money to Mr D'Arcy of Cement, BHP Cannington and, of course, $29,880.50, which means that he supported Western Mining Corporation. the increase of the payout to Mr D'Arcy of We need to develop the port eastward $694,940.59. What he said is untrue. I ask towards the ocean. There are another 100 that it be withdrawn. It is offensive and untrue, hectares of land that can be developed in the and I ask that it be withdrawn. same way. Most importantly, this plan also Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! Under the indicates a proposed marina, a proposed boat circumstances, I ask the member to withdraw. ramp area and entrances from Benwell Road. Mr BORBIDGE: Considering the It also provides landscaping along that area of enormous sensitivity of the Premier, I will Benwell Road. In the 27 years I have been withdraw so that I can proceed to tell the involved in public life in Townsville the people House the truth that he will not tell. I will again of South Townsville and the inner city have read from—and I will seek leave to table coped with this intrusion. This is going to be of it—the written statement of the then great benefit, particularly for the people living administration officer of the scheme addressed in those areas. For far too long they have had to me on 24 January 2000. The people of to deal with noise issues, visual pollution and Queensland can believe the Premier or the dust. I commend the port authority for its administration officer of the scheme. The letter ongoing environmental plans. states— Many of these plans include the ongoing Mr BEATTIE: I rise to a point of order. environmental monitoring of the port of They can also believe the minutes of the Townsville, noise monitoring, dust monitoring, trustees, which show that the Leader of the water quality, sediment quality, stormwater Opposition approved this payment. discharge, benthic fauna and introduced marine pests. This five-year environmental Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: There is no point plan has now brought to fruition a great of order. opportunity for the people of Townsville and a Mr BORBIDGE: The letter states— great opportunity for the port of Townsville as "I confirm that I have not received well. One thing I learnt in my chairmanship is from you any verbal or written approval to that responsible national and international pay Mr D'Arcy." industries, such as BHP, want a port that is environmentally responsible. I commend the Those are the words of the administration plan to the House. officer of the scheme which prove that the Premier has lied to the House and lied to the people of Queensland. Superannuation of MPs; Mr W. T. D'Arcy Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! That is Hon. R. E. BORBIDGE (Surfers unparliamentary. Paradise—NPA) (Leader of the Opposition) Mr BORBIDGE: He has told an untruth to (11.50 a.m.): Unfortunately, today in this the House and an untruth to the people of Parliament and last week outside this Queensland. Parliament we saw one of the most deceitful and, in my view, dishonest performances ever Mr BEATTIE: I rise to a point of order. by a member of this House. The member for The Leader of the Opposition approved the Brisbane Central has constantly claimed since increased payment to Mr D'Arcy amounting to January this year—and in the past few days $694,940.59. The official records and minutes and even this morning—that I approved the of the trustees confirm it. decision in January this year by trustees of the Mr BORBIDGE: That is untrue. parliamentary superannuation fund to give a Mr BEATTIE: What he said is untrue, and $660,000 payout to the former member for I ask that it be withdrawn. Woodridge, Bill D'Arcy. I did not. I have tabled in this place a letter from the administrator of Mr BORBIDGE: Mr Deputy Speaker, the that scheme which established the Premier's Premier can join in this debate later. I am campaign to be an unequivocal untruth, yet being prevented from putting my side of the the man continues to hide the shame of the story. utter haste that marked this sad episode in Mr BEATTIE: I ask for it to be withdrawn. Queensland public life. Mr BORBIDGE: This man has lied. 8 Nov 2000 Matters of Public Interest 4055

Mr BEATTIE: There is only one liar in this, of the MP who had been charged in late and it is the Leader of the Opposition. October became public knowledge. Mr BORBIDGE: This person has told a This morning we had another version from monstrous untruth. the Premier. Now he says I approved a Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! Let us do payment made in January and in March. The this in order. I ask the Leader of the January payment was a fait accompli in March. Opposition to withdraw the previous statement. It was a done deal. It was paid. For all we know, the former member for Woodridge had Mr BORBIDGE: I withdraw. spent it. They are the facts. According to the Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: I now ask the administration officer who had been queried Premier to withdraw his statement. on this point by me, that payment, sordidly Mr BEATTIE: I withdraw. and politically achieved though it was, was by then an historical and legal fact. There was no Mr BORBIDGE: These are the words of two-part payment as the Premier suggests. the administration officer of the scheme in a There was an adjustment in relation to a salary letter addressed to me on 24 January 2000— increase that was unstoppable. I note that "I confirm that I have not received when the Premier referred to the minutes of from you any verbal or written approval to the trustees' meeting of 15 March this morning pay Mr D'Arcy." he did so very selectively. What the Premier has obviously been trying to Mr BEATTIE: I rise to a point of order. do on this issue is to spread the responsibility The member did not object at that meeting for what he perceives to have been a politically and he approved the increase in the payout. unpopular act. This is what happened. He could not tell the truth if his life depended on it. Mr BEATTIE: I rise to a point of order. Mr BORBIDGE: What the Premier did not Mr BORBIDGE: Oh, fair go! mention from those same minutes was that he Mr BEATTIE: That is offensive. It is and Mr Speaker pulled back from trying to give untrue. The Leader of the Opposition Mr D'Arcy even more money by making the approved— payment subject to an invalidity loading in Mr BORBIDGE: I withdraw. terms of taxation. They had approved that, too, without me. I did not. They did, and they Mr BEATTIE: He approved the increased were shamed into backing off. I will read the payment of $694,000. The minutes confirm it. minutes. I ask that those comments be withdrawn. Mr Beattie: Why don't you read all of Mr BORBIDGE: I did not approve the them where you approved the extra increase lump sum. I will come to the minutes. up to $694,000? Why don't you read that? Mr BEATTIE: The minutes show that the Mr BORBIDGE: The Premier has read member approved the increase— that. In relation to the treatment of Mr D'Arcy's Mr BORBIDGE: He is upset— payment for taxation purposes as an invalidity, after detailed consideration by the trustees the Mr BEATTIE: The minutes show that the Premier and the Speaker withdrew their member approved the increase which led to previous approval for payment of Mr D'Arcy's $694,000. entitlement as an invalidity benefit under Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! Does the section 27G of the Income Tax Assessment member withdraw? Act 1936—the Tax Act—and the trustees Mr BORBIDGE: Yes. This is what unanimously resolved that the Premier would happened. Mr D'Arcy resigned on 8 January write to Mr D'Arcy and the Commissioner of 2000. That was a Saturday. The resignation Taxation on behalf of the trustees to advise of was effective the following day, Sunday, 9 the trustees' decision and to advise Mr D'Arcy January. On the following Monday morning, 10 that he could address any further medical January, the first available working day after evidence or submission regarding application that resignation, the Premier signed off on a of section 27G of the Tax Act directly with the $660,000 payout. Within 24 hours, on 11 Commissioner of Taxation. January, the Speaker had returned his Let us be very clear about this. As an approval by fax from Western Australia. On the inducement to get rid of Mr D'Arcy, his following day, 12 January, the moneys were payment was fast-tracked on the first working paid. Some $660,000 was paid to Mr D'Arcy day after he resigned from Parliament. There on the signatures of the Premier and was also a situation at that time where two of Mr Speaker. Very shortly after that, the identity the three trustees—the Premier and the 4056 Matters of Public Interest 8 Nov 2000

Speaker—approved special taxation industry and the impact of job losses on towns arrangements with regard to an invalidity and entire regions. One thing that is very clear benefit. What was approved by me was the in relation to this issue is that mining payment of an additional benefit due by companies are walking away from towns built reason of the salary increase to members of around our coal resources. Never in the history the Legislative Assembly effective from of mining have mining companies been more 7 December 1999. Well may the Premier try to anti-family and anti-worker than they are today. run for cover, but the fact is that right through BHP managing director Paul Anderson told this exercise it is clear that he sought to spread coalmining union delegates at a meeting on or the blame and spread the responsibility about 7 September— because he knows how unpopular this "BHP intends to be one of the big decision has been and he has sought to players in coking and thermal coal in the falsely implicate me with regard to the matter. future, but we are in the business of An Opposition member: Where did he producing coal. We are not about find the Speaker? communities." Mr BORBIDGE: He found the Speaker in That is a very clear statement. BHP is Western Australia. The Speaker was on about mining coal. It does not care about holidays in Western Australia. He had to go families, small business, school students, and find Speaker Hollis, because he could not teachers, nurses or council workers who live in get me. I was actually on leave. He had to find those towns. By its actions, BHP management the Speaker of the House, and the Speaker of has shown that creating wealth for the rich is the House faxed an approval through. As the more important than ensuring that ordinary enclosed documentation shows, approval is Queenslanders can enjoy job security and a required by only two out of the three trustees. decent quality of life. Mr Quinn: There must have been some More than 2,000 jobs have gone from urgency. coalmines in Queensland. For every Mr BORBIDGE: As the honourable coalmining job lost, another three jobs are lost member for Merrimac says, there must have in service and support industries. Coal been some urgency involved. Obviously Mr companies are quick to promote the flow-on Beattie was sensitive about this particular job creation benefits when opening new issue. The Government needed to get rid of mines, but they are silent on the negative the former member for Woodridge, the then impact when they reduce employee numbers. Deputy Speaker of the Parliament, so fast that These are jobs in schools, local shops, motels, the Premier faxed the Speaker of the hotels, hardware stores, supermarkets, Parliament in Western Australia to get another engineering workshops and so on. Their loss signature so that the lump sum payment of has a big impact across the whole of the $660,000 could be paid out on the first community. working day following the resignation of the People who live in central Queensland are former member for Woodridge. now saying that having mines in the area is a I am happy to table in this place curse, as they require major infrastructure but correspondence I had with the Government mining companies are contributing less and Superannuation Office with regard to this less to our local communities. They are matter. I am happy to table correspondence continually seeking to contribute less to local that the administration officer sent back to me. councils for maintenance and services. The question is a very simple one, and it goes Apprenticeships and traineeships have also to the heart of the Premier's credibility: if the been slashed—all as a result of a low coal Premier is prepared to tell an untruth in respect price. of the payment of superannuation to the The CFMEU has long been of the view former member for Woodridge, what untruths that some exporters are actively participating in is he telling the people of Queensland in the drive to lower prices in the hope of regard to electoral corruption? increasing market share. In other words, they Time expired. are deliberately and intentionally agreeing to lower prices in order to force other mining companies and other coal producing countries BHP Coal out of the market so that we finish up with just Mr PEARCE (Fitzroy—ALP) (12 p.m.): Mr a few operators in a dominant position. The Deputy Speaker Fouras, you and other union's long-held view was recently confirmed members of this House would be aware of my by BHP's Queensland president, Rick Gazzard. concerns in relation to job losses in the coal Mr Gazzard told CFMEU delegates at Hay 8 Nov 2000 Matters of Public Interest 4057

Point during discussions on the current EB used the self-determined low price of coal to dispute— justify a sustained campaign of industrial "BHP had a deliberate marketing thuggery against employees. strategy to reduce the price of coal by up The Gazzard gaffe is a public admission to $2 a tonne. The strategy was to force of BHP's dishonesty in dealing with the Canadians out of the market and to Government, with its work force and, of most make it even more difficult for American concern, with the general public of producers. Despite encouraging signs for Queensland. We in the industry know that improved coal prices, BHP's strategy was BHP rarely tells the truth when using the media to keep prices low. Higher prices would to portray workers as unfair and unreasonable only encourage other companies to open in their claims for a fair go. up mines." Mr Gazzard is an embarrassment to BHP, Thank you, Mr Gazzard: your bleating which is now becoming somewhat nervous now confirms what I thought and what many about its reliable supplier status. The current people in the industry already believed. Rick dispute could have been settled if BHP had in Gazzard's gaffe is now a major place a negotiator and not a hatchet man. embarrassment to BHP's $7m managing There is a strong belief that if Rick Gazzard director, Paul Anderson. Mr Anderson has was not in the game the current ongoing been arguing that mining union claims of a disputes on BHP work sites would have been deliberate strategy are wrong. I heard Mr settled long ago. Anderson about three weeks ago on ABC Mr Gazzard, I am told, is one of those Radio's current affairs show AM. Anderson was men who is a natural when it comes to not making a speech to a business audience in being a successful negotiator. People who Melbourne, I believe. During his speech he have dealt with him in the past and those who made reference to the mining unions. I are dealing with him now say that he is a actually taped some of the report as presented standout. He is said to be arrogant, untruthful on AM, and the following is a direct quote from and unreliable. He is well recognised as anti- that report. He stated— union and anti-family and as someone who "One of the nice things about unions believes that what is good for Rio Tinto is good in the United States—and I've dealt with for BHP. BHP's senior management should unions in the United States a lot—is you think very seriously about the industrial give them money and they go away. It's, problems the company is now having. If it you know, real simple. You know: we want wants an early resolution to the dispute, it money. Okay, so here's more money. should offer Rick Gazzard an early retirement Okay, and you're done. Here you end up package. with industrial action over political issues. The publicly uttered words of Anderson We've had strikes because we didn't and Gazzard send a strong message to negotiate a high enough coal price, which Governments that simply going along with I thought was fairly irrational." what mining companies are telling us is not in So here we have Paul Anderson, the the best interests of Government. For recipient of a $7m package last year, saying companies to be successful they must plan that unions are irrational because of strikes and look to the long term. The companies and over his company's failure to negotiate a high their highly paid CEOs and boards have a enough coal price. A week or 10 days later responsibility to their shareholders. We all BHP's boss in Queensland, Mr Rick Gazzard, know that. They should also demonstrate tells mining union delegates at Hay Point that respect and share the concerns of the public BHP has a deliberate marketing strategy to for jobs and job security in regional keep coal prices down. So who is telling the Queensland. truth here? Is it the $7m man, Mr Anderson, If the mining companies simply turn their who has accused mining unions of being backs and walk away from the need to irrational? Or is it Mr Rick Gazzard who, to use maintain permanent jobs and to have viable Mr Anderson's own words, is fairly irrational? and functional communities located where The Gazzard gaffe confirms what mining they mine the resources, then I am of the unions have been arguing all along—that is, opinion that Government has to be prepared BHP is guilty of a deliberate and calculated act to do more. The easy way out is to accept at of underselling our coal resources with the face value what mining companies are saying intent of causing the collapse of mining when they come to Government cap in hand operations in competing countries and in looking for reductions in freights and royalties. Australia. In doing so, BHP has unashamedly The preferred option for mining companies is 4058 Matters of Public Interest 8 Nov 2000 no cost at all. I am not saying that services under threat because of a falling client Governments should not be prepared to work base— with major employers to ensure that our Time expired. exports remain competitive, but Governments' cooperation should be conditional on jobs, jobs, jobs—permanent jobs—safe work sites Electoral Fraud; Shepherdson Inquiry and respect for families of workers and the Mr SANTORO (Clayfield—LP) towns that have been built around the coal (12.12 p.m.): Labor's contempt for democratic resources across Queensland. principles and its systemic rorting of the Government must be prepared to take on electoral process was publicly exposed a mining companies to force them to create an decade ago at the Cooke inquiry into union environment that ensures that Queenslanders election practices and it has been ignored by are getting maximum returns and benefits the so-called ALP reformers for just as long. from a resource that belongs to the people. The evidence from the Shepherdson Mining companies should be reminded that inquiry that is now under way shows clearly the people of Queensland, through their that Labor operatives have been abusing elected representatives, provide opportunities democracy and treading on the rights of for mining companies. Mining companies do Queenslanders for years. The Premier cannot not have an absolute right to move in and evade the consequences of his and his party's exploit our resources simply to maximise short- refusal to accept the sensible rules by which term profits and then move on leaving us with we in Queensland govern ourselves. He a legacy of greed, mismanagement and what cannot escape the consequences of his failure will be seen in hindsight as poor Government. over many years to attend to his In their dealings with the multinationals, responsibilities to avoid injury to democracy. Governments must ensure that long-term, What is now being canvassed in another positive outcomes are built into agreements. I place—at that embarrassing inquiry that the represent five mining towns. Every day I see Labor majority in this House, on the casting what is happening in those towns and I speak vote of the Speaker, has declared off limits by up for them. What concerns me is the fact that invoking its own flawed understanding of the there are a number of other members in this sub judice rule—confirms what Marshall place who have a coalmining constituency but Cooke, QC, established in the 1989 inquiry set they never stand in Parliament to speak out on up by the Ahern Government. behalf of their constituents. I drive around a place like Dysart and I see over 300 empty The Premier, who continually professes houses. In Blackwater there is in excess of 200 his innocence, has been just as deeply empty houses. In Moura there are dozens and involved as any of his party and union dozens of empty houses. I see empty shops, colleagues who were involved in Labor politics small businesses going broke and local bowls throughout that time. If the Premier is so horror and golf clubs with excellent facilities struggling struck about allegations in the Shepherdson to keep their doors open. Once very active inquiry now, why wasn't he similarly disgusted service clubs are now existing on the spirit of when Mr Cooke reported? Why didn't he take their organisations. into the public arena the fight for decency that he says he is now waging? There are only two School student numbers have dropped by possible answers to that: he would not or he as much as 50%. As a result, teacher numbers could not. The problem with the Cooke inquiry have been cut. There has been a dramatic findings and the revelations at the and damaging impact on middle management Shepherdson inquiry is that they prove that the in high schools. For example, deputy union movement in this State and the Labor principals' positions have gone because of the Party, which it controls, is impregnated with decreasing student numbers. Head of absolute corruption. department positions have gone, which means Electoral fraud, ballot rigging and a lack of a greater workload for teachers, many of accountability to its membership are part of an whom are in their early years as educators. ingrained culture within the union movement The curriculum base is being eroded, leaving that has very obviously spilled over into the limited choices for students. Parents are political party that represents the union views seeing what is happening and are sending in this Parliament and now in Government. their students off to private schools, so the Union leaders and operatives have adopted a ripple effect continues. broad rule and principle of "whatever it takes" As I move around my electorate, I see the to belt their non-Labor opponents and, in impact of families under pressure, I see health many cases, themselves. Of course, many of 8 Nov 2000 Matters of Public Interest 4059 those union members and officials are now the existence of massive ballot fraud in union members of this Parliament. The Shepherdson elections and forged signatures on ballot inquiry will continue to be very interesting papers, union members were treated with indeed. contempt by some leaders and union leaders Marshall Cooke found that rank-and-file made secret decisions which were not union members were treated with absolute revealed to their members, particularly in the contempt by autocratic and undemocratic absence of a political objects fund provision in union officials and leaders. It is instructional to the then industrial relations legislation. read briefly some of Mr Cooke's findings. In Yet in the face of all this evidence of terms of rank-and-file rights, he found that a ancient crimes, the Premier's latest ploy, his recurrent theme running through the evidence latest desperate attempt to put some muddy before the inquiry was the lack of regard water between himself and Labor's shocking shown by officials for rank-and-file opinion and record of tampering with democracy—as is the bureaucratic arrogance with which the rank now being revealed down the road—is to call and file was treated. He went on to say— for the establishment of an electoral fraud "The dominance of committees of squad. management by full-time officials is also a What a laugh, what an absolutely hollow concern if the legislative object of laugh, that particular call is. Everyone in democratic control of unions and Queensland now knows that the Labor Party encouragement of the participation by has been running its own electoral fraud squad their members in the affairs of their union all along. is to be achieved." Mr Hegarty: Ghostbusters. He made that comment in his sixth and Mr SANTORO: Ghostbusters, as the final report. But, of course, the litany of rank- honourable member for Redlands suggests and-file complaints documented by Mr Cooke they should be called. It has been running an in his previous reports was absolutely damning electoral fraud squad all along, perpetrating of the attitude of union officials and leaders. fraud in so many other political forums—not The coalition Government, following the just State electorates and other parts of the revelations of the Cooke inquiry, gave back to Labor Party, as has been uncovered by the the members of unions their democratic rights Shepherdson inquiry. and real power over extreme union officials, The House will recall that the Cooke including the automatic requirement that a inquiry, which reported during the early years union must hold an annual general meeting, of the Goss Labor Government, equal opportunity for opposing candidates in a recommended legislation to compel unions to union ballot to put their policies and platform to conduct elections democratically and to place their fellow voting members, that no more than restraints on their power to outlay members' 30% of the governing body of a union could funds on political objects. Yet these sensible be made up of union employees, and responsible reforms were ignored by the entrenchment of model election rules and Goss Labor Government—which, of course, also, of course, the establishment of a political was then run by the Australian Workers Union. objects fund. As a result of Mr Beattie's premiership, that These democratic principles and many union enjoys very little sun in this place and it, others entrenched in legislation by the coalition of course, has been severely embarrassed Government on the recommendation of the down the road at the Shepherdson inquiry. Cooke inquiry have been abolished by the Queenslanders had to wait for the Beattie Labor Government at the insistence of election of the coalition Government in 1996 union leaders, some of whom are now for any action to stop the rorts and heal the receiving not-so-honourable mentions at the injury to democratic principles that Goss Shepherdson inquiry. Labor—and, from his telling silence at the The current inquiry into electoral rorting time, the former general secretary of the represents a spillage into the State, and stationmasters union, the member for possibly Federal, political arenas of the cultural Brisbane Central—had permitted to continue effluent that emerged from the Cooke inquiry. so that they might benefit from them. It was Let me remind the House of some of the the 1997 Industrial Organisations Act, which I Cooke inquiry's findings. It found that union had the honour and privilege to introduce as funds were used to pay for prostitutes for Minister for Training and Industrial Relations, union officials, union funds were used to that brought these union rorts and abuses to purchase real estate for union leaders, union an end and gave workers real rights in the money was diverted into secret slush funds, workplace. It was the Beattie Labor 4060 Matters of Public Interest 8 Nov 2000

Government—that flawed and failed collective addresses so there were only two opposite—that returned organised labour in possibilities as to how they have been this State to the illegal privileges of rorts and obtained. Either they were taken from the abuses by eliminating the provisions for letterboxes, or union organisers collected industrial democracy introduced by the the ballot papers from the members or coalition Government's legislation. It was the asked the members to bring them back to Beattie Labor Government that stripped the workplace and then helped them fill workers of their recently won real rights with the the ballot papers in." new industrial legislation introduced early in the We are all charitable people in this place term by the member for Kedron so that he and we like to give people the benefit of the could enjoy his pre-retirement leave for the rest doubt. We all like to believe that, in a society of this Parliament. such as ours in Queensland, the very concept No-one on the Government side of the of "guided democracy" is anathema. But look House has any reason to be proud of that at the evidence. Try as we might, it is very record. They all know that Labor's industrial difficult to be charitable or to give the benefit of legislation is about power politics. They all the doubt when it is as plain as the palpable know that it is not about good management of embarrassment of those opposite that the workplaces or the pursuit of a better and more whole system was being rorted. It is still being prosperous future for Queenslanders. The rorted a decade later, and much more widely Premier proved by that very action—as he than was obvious from the material garnered consistently proves in other areas, which is the by the Cooke inquiry's narrow focus. It is so only thing he is consistent in—that he is blindingly obvious that I strongly urge the neither interested in accountability nor Premier to have his favourite companion, attached to the most fundamental principle of Rusty, immediately retrained as a seeing-eye democracy, namely the validity of the vote. He dog. All sorts of things were wrong then, and let the big unions that bankroll the Labor Party they are plainly, equally plainly, wrong now. dictate the terms of his own legislation. Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr Fouras): The Premier killed off the positive and Order! Before calling the member for Cairns, I responsible outcomes of the Cooke inquiry. It would like to advise the House that the current is as simple as that. Let us be absolutely clear computer results in the United States about that. The Premier did not just acquiesce Presidential election show Gore 192 and Bush in this rorting of the system; he presided over it 154. and he ran it from behind the big desk in the Premier's office in the Executive Building. He made it possible for the big unions to slay the Tourism Industry dragon of industrial democracy, which had Ms BOYLE (Cairns—ALP) (12.23 p.m.): I been imbued within coalition legislation, and rise to inform members of the House about a which had worried the unions ever since difficulty that some of our tourism operators in Marshall Cooke came on the scene. far north Queensland are facing. I dare say the As is now abundantly, and distastefully, same problem is affecting tourism operators obvious from proceedings in another place throughout the State, particularly on the Gold down the road in Creek Street, where inquiries Coast. I am not so much referring to the we are not supposed to talk about are taking international tourism operators—the biggest place, big union abuse of Queensland's operators, the five-star operators—as the little democracy is only the tip of the iceberg. tourism businesses. These are the people who are feeling the pinch. Last week, on Brisbane ABC Radio, a very interesting interview was broadcast. In Cairns, tourism operators are facing a Marshall Cooke, QC, told Andrew Carroll, who very difficult issue—an issue which has recently had asked him about the substance of received considerable publicity. I refer to evidence given to his own inquiry a decade commissions, and perhaps graft and ago— corruption, that exist in guiding, or even forcing, overseas tourists—particularly "Well, we had evidence. Let me take Japanese tourists—to certain approved an example. The 1989 Federal Election businesses in the city. We do not have firm for the Federal secretary of the AWU. Mr evidence, but it is believed that a system of Hodder, Eric Hodder, was running as one monetary kickbacks is taking place. There is a candidate. Mr Ludwig was supporting system of vertical integration which results in a another candidate. lot of local operators being shut out. This has Now, all of those ballots were tremendously serious consequences for the supposed to have been sent to residential businesses affected. Because of a number of 8 Nov 2000 Matters of Public Interest 4061 factors, these businesses are already in some represented on the boards of major tourism difficulty. Some are struggling for survival. councils and bodies. Perhaps that is one of There is no doubt that the GST has not the reasons why such bodies have not been helped. There is no doubt that increasing as active as they should have been in petrol prices are not helping. The Prime addressing this issue. Minister has denied the seriousness of the There is one way in which we can problem. It is also evident that the Olympic minimise the effect of such graft and collusion, Games have drawn tourists to Sydney this and that is by encouraging all international year—and quite properly so. The tourism visitors to feel that they will be so well looked business had a very quiet September in after that they can travel singly or in family or in Cairns. It would appear that the remainder of friendship groups. They must be told that they the 2000 season will not be very vibrant. do not have to travel on bus tours where they Forward bookings for 2001 are good. We have are forced, in some sense, to engage in been assured by the experts that the flow-on approved activities offered by approved benefits for regional areas from the Olympics operators. comes in the first two years after the Games. I The brochures that we produce for foreign hope that this forecast is accurate. tourists—particularly our Japanese visitors—do As members of this House we must be not really address the issues. They do not sell concerned about the tourism industry because clearly enough the message that Australia is it is so important to our State. We must also not a dangerous place to visit. They must be be concerned for the future of our informed that our tourism industry is ethical. Queensland-based tourism businesses. These They should be informed that people are the people who put their own money on operating tourism businesses are kind and will the line in order to establish some type of look after people if there are language barriers. tourism experience for overseas visitors. We We have not sufficiently informed Japanese must be concerned about the way in which our tourists that we have large numbers of local businesses are being denied the Japanese language speakers in Cairns. These opportunity to service Japanese tourists in people range from high school students to the particular. These small businesses are operators of tourism ventures. As a result, suffering losses if they are not part of a cartel. there is no language barrier and there is no Anger erupted in Cairns in recent times. need for tourists to travel in such large groups. This was a knee-jerk reaction of "let's blame Current statistics indicate that 80% of the Government". As it happened, the people Japanese tourists in Australia travel in large affected targeted the State Government in the groups. All activities are organised before they first instance. They now realise that a lot of the leave Japan. This discourages such tourists issues are Federal Government issues. from experiencing the services offered by The real difficulty with this matter is that smaller operators. we have no firm evidence of wrongdoing. The May I give honourable members an people who take kickbacks, and who stand at example of the kind of operator for whom I the door of the bus and guide the Japanese speak? I want to mention a young man—still in tourists ever so firmly into the preferred his late twenties—who spent some years in business, do not offer evidence to enable the Japan for the primary purpose of becoming Government to launch prosecutions. It must fluent in the Japanese language and in be mentioned that senior people in the tourism understanding how Japanese culture industry have been virtually accomplices to the influences their wish to visit other countries. On offenders by turning a blind eye to this his return to Cairns he set up his own practice. They say, "It happens the world over. Australian experience tourism business. Small What can we do?" They do not investigate the groups of tourists are offered morning tea problem. They are not interested in seeking Australian style. It is possible for them to leave ways to minimise, or even eradicate, the the main tourist drag and see some of our problem. country towns in far-north Queensland. It Very often the people involved are enables the tourists to meet the locals and to employees of major tourism organisations. experience something of the true flavour of Some of them belong to international tourism Australian living. There is no doubt that this companies. The small local operators, such as young man's customers rave about the the small dive companies and the small safari service, but the problem is that not enough operators, are not involved. These are the customers are coming to his kind of market. people who are putting their own money on I call on Tourism Queensland, Tropical the line. They are not the people who are Tourism (North Queensland), the Cairns 4062 Revenue Laws Amendment Bill 8 Nov 2000 tourism body, the Gold Coast equivalent, the accomplish than the other Bills, but I found the Australian Tourism Council and all our major advice that the Treasury officers were able to tourism bodies—which by and large are run by give me and their explanations particularly people who represent the five-stars and the cogent. internationals—to take some time to address The Opposition will not be opposing these the issues for the small tourism operator. The Bills and will support their passage through this best estimate that we have is that, in the Parliament in an expeditious manner. Cairns area alone, there are about 500 such However, I want to make one or two businesses. They employ between two and 10 comments about particular sections of this Bill people. Yes, they are small businesses but, in because, as I said, it is a complex Bill. One of a sense, they are the true Australian labour the amendments contained in this Bill changes force of the tourism industry, and their the grouping of trusts for payroll tax purposes. issues—the one that I have raised and Of course, while I understand the necessity for others—are not addressed because they are this amendment—certainly, we cannot allow different from the issues about which those at trusts to be used in a way that leads to the the bigger end of the industry are concerned. avoidance of payroll tax—we should also be I have even heard those at the top end of careful to make sure that when we are looking the industry in Cairns—the five-star hotels, the at the issue of payroll tax and aggregation, internationals—refer to the smaller tourism whether that be in a corporate structure or a operators as bottom feeders, as though those tax structure, we exclude businesses that, people take the crumbs, or the remainder of although have common ownership, operate in the tourism industry that the big organisations completely different industries and for all do not snare. That is indeed short-sighted, intents and purposes are different. because the Olympics have proven to us that I know that the Commissioner for Stamp tourists want to be cared for, they want to see Duties has the discretion and, in fact, utilises a friendly, Australian face, and they want to that discretion. However, it has been brought know who we are as a people—our indigenous to my attention by a number of people that we people as well as the rest of us with all of our have to make sure, particularly in terms of cultural diversity. They really want to get a feel venture capital firms and the encouragement for and an experience of this country that they of existing businesses that go into new areas, are visiting. That is where the small tourism that we apply these anti-voidance provisions, operators, the Australian-based operators, can both those that exist already and the ones that offer their experience. are formulated in this Bill, in a sensible fashion. I hope that there will be better promotion I am sure that that is the intention, but we in Cairns—on TV, on the information TV have to make sure that we do not put them in screens in hotel rooms and in brochures—to the road of legitimate business enterprises that say to Japanese tourists and other are moving into areas—they may be able to internationals, "When you visit, you can feel transfer their entrepreneurial expertise but for safe to walk around on your own, to ask for all intents and purposes are completely help and to know that there will be a friendly different industries—and discourage them by and caring response, that you will be well getting them caught up in payroll tax too soon. looked after and that you can take a risk in It is obvious that payroll tax discourages order to discover the real Australian experience investment at the margin and we want to while you are in our country." make sure that, while we discourage tax Mr SPEAKER: Order! The time allotted for avoidance, we also do not discourage in any matters of public interest has now expired. way whatsoever entrepreneurial activity. A second issue that I would like to talk about is one that surprised me—and I am sure REVENUE LAWS AMENDMENT BILL that the Treasurer might have been surprised Second Reading by it when he was first briefed on the matter—and that relates to the late lodgment Resumed from 4 October (see p. 3380). penalty provisions under the Stamp Act. Dr WATSON (Moggill—LP) (Leader of the Certainly, it is a curious situation in which, in Liberal Party) (12.32 p.m.): I rise to contribute order to encourage compliance, the briefly to the debate on the Revenue Laws commissioner has the power to impose late Amendment Bill 2000. At the outset, I would lodgment penalties when an instrument is like to thank the Treasury officers who gave lodged but there was actually no ability for the me a briefing on this Bill and the other Bills. commissioner to impose a penalty if there was This Bill is perhaps slightly more complex in never anything lodged at all. Obviously, in terms of its structure and what it attempts to most situations there is an economic 8 Nov 2000 Financial Legislation Amendment Bill 4063 imperative for people to lodge the appropriate occasion to amend the Stamp Act of 1894 or forms because the failure to do so would 1896, whatever it is. usually put that economic entity at some kind An honourable member: Don't bet on it. of risk. Nevertheless, there are situations in which people may find it advantageous not to Mr HAMILL: I acknowledge the comment. lodge those forms. It is certainly appropriate I was hoping that the next time we amend it that those who fail to lodge instruments as will be to actually remove it and put in place required should be treated no less harshly our proposed new duties legislation. than those who simply lodge instruments late. Dr WATSON: 100 years' evolution. I must admit that I found it interesting that that Mr HAMILL: That is right, but it is looking oversight had been in the legislation for quite a bit like that committee that tried to design some time and that it has only just come to something and came up with a camel. I thank our attention. the honourable member for his support for the Another change to the Act that this Bill Bill and I commend it to the House. implements, which I think is appropriate also, is Motion agreed to. the decision to alter the Stamp Act to make sure that land rich companies are appropriately stamped. This comes about because of the Committee decision on appeal in the MIM case. In that Clauses 1 to 30, as read, agreed to. case it was held that, although MIM acted appropriately, the amount of stamp duty was Bill reported, without amendment. less than was the original intention under the Act. These amendments make sure that Third Reading stamp duty is applied to the full unencumbered value of the property when it is Bill, on motion of Mr Hamill, by leave, read purchased under a contract. I think that a third time. provision is also appropriate. Finally, I want to mention briefly the FINANCIAL LEGISLATION AMENDMENT BILL change that the Bill makes to the Second Reading Commonwealth's Managed Investments Act 1998. As members would be aware, the Resumed from 4 October (see p. 3383). Managed Investments Act 1998 was used to Dr WATSON (Moggill—LP) (Leader of the amend the Corporations Law. Some issues Liberal Party) (12.42 p.m.): I rise to speak to were raised by the Urban Development the Financial Legislation Amendment Bill Institute of Australia which, I think, have now 2000. This is a fairly straightforward Bill which is been addressed appropriately at the going to address some of the technical issues Commonwealth level. That took a fair bit of concerning the cash management of the time. However, they were certainly issues that Government. It seems to me that it is concerned the development industry, and I am appropriate to delegate cash management glad that the Federal Government saw the powers to Government owned corporations light and made the appropriate adjustments to such as the Queensland Investment its legislation. Corporation. I guess that in the case of the In this case, this amendment is essentially Queensland Treasury Corporation it is a consequential amendment to the technically a corporation sole. amendments as proposed by the Mr Hamill: It is not a GOC. Commonwealth. It seems to me to be an Dr WATSON: It is not a GOC. That is what appropriate amendment and one that the I said. Technically it is a corporation sole. It is Opposition will be supporting. appropriate that the cash management be I do not wish to prolong the consideration delegated to these particular corporations. My of this Bill by the House. The Opposition sees understanding of this, and maybe the the necessity for a number of the technical Treasurer will correct me if I have it wrong, is amendments contained in the Bill and is that essentially the day-to-day cash happy to facilitate its passage through the management will be handled by Queensland House. Treasury Corporation, whereas the longer term Hon. D. J. HAMILL (Ipswich—ALP) cash management will essentially be (Treasurer) (12.40 p.m.), in reply: I thank the delegated to QIC. honourable member for Moggill for his support I must admit that I am not really quite for the amendments before the House. I trust sure of what the interaction between this may well be the last time we have Queensland Treasury Corporation and QIC is, 4064 Jupiters Casino Agreement Amendment Bill 8 Nov 2000 and perhaps in his response the Treasurer to local government borrowings. That is might like to address that issue. I have no something which was done as an problem with the fact that Queensland administrative measure up until now, but now Treasury Corporation manages the day-to-day this legislation overturns earlier amendments handling of the cash. I have no problem at all made in the 1990s. I commend it to the really with Queensland Investment Corporation House. handling long-term cash things, or even Motion agreed to. handling aspects of it. Given there is a delegation, presumably going to both of those bodies potentially, I am interested to know how Committee the Treasurer sees each of those delegations Clauses 1 to 11, as read, agreed to. working and the interaction between them. Rather than taking up too much time in Bill reported, without amendment. Committee, perhaps the Treasurer might address those briefly and if I have any further Third Reading questions I will raise them in the Committee. Bill, on motion of Mr Hamill, by leave, read Hon. D. J. HAMILL (Ipswich—ALP) a third time. (Treasurer) (12.45 p.m.), in reply: In response to the honourable member's comments, he correctly identifies QTC as operating the JUPITERS CASINO AGREEMENT Treasury function of Government and QIC as a AMENDMENT BILL Government owned corporation, both of which Second Reading have enviable records in terms of the discharge of their responsibilities. Resumed from 4 October (see p. 3382). Fundamentally it really comes down to what is Dr WATSON (Moggill—LP) (Leader of the the core business of QTC and the core Liberal Party) (12.49 p.m.): I rise to speak on business of QIC. QTC actually manages debt the Jupiters Casino Agreement Amendment and its prime responsibility is as the issuing Bill 2000. The Jupiters Casino legislation has authority for Queensland Government bonds. really enjoyed bipartisan support ever since the Obviously QTC in terms of managing the legislation was originally introduced back in the debt—and of course it is continually having 1980s. Obviously the original legislation bonds on issue—also looks after those short- formed the foundation of the development of term balances of Government. casinos in Queensland, and other casino QIC, unlike QTC, is a body whose prime developments have actually followed the kind duty is about investment and consequently of legislative framework that was set up by that where there are significant reserves of the Bill. Government financial assets which would This Bill is one which also continues to require a longer term investment strategy, then enjoy bipartisan support. As I said in relation to obviously QIC is best placed to fulfil that the other Bills, the Opposition will certainly be function. So there are two arms that facilitating its passage through the House in an complement each other for the fiscal expeditious fashion. The objective of this Bill is management function of the Government. I really twofold. One is to do one of the things hope that effectively addresses the issue the that the Scrutiny of Legislation Committee honourable member raised. always seems to commend Ministers for, which Dr Watson: Are you going to be able to is removing Henry VIII clauses, and this Bill see cash being transferred from QTC to QIC does that. I notice that the Scrutiny of and back again? Legislation Committee gave the normal tick for doing the right thing, and appropriately so. Mr HAMILL: I would see that the QIC would be taking charge of longer term Mr Hamill interjected. investments. The day-to-day cash function Dr WATSON: I do not think I will go into would be discharged to QTC. That is really that one. reflecting the respective roles of those two Mr Hamill: We have done more than five. organisations. Dr WATSON: But the member has not Again, I thank the honourable member for beheaded anyone. his support for the measure. I draw the attention of local government in Queensland Mr Hamill: Not at all. to this particular measure because what it Dr WATSON: They certainly do guillotine does is honour the Government's commitment a lot of things through here; there is no to remove the performance dividend in relation question about that. 8 Nov 2000 Jupiters Casino Agreement Amendment Bill 4065

I think it is appropriate that whenever we support of the Bill. I believe that it will presage can when we are looking at changes to the a very important development for Queensland. legislation we actually remove Henry VIII Motion agreed to. clauses. They are an anachronism these days. It is generally understood that one should not attempt to alter other Acts of Parliament by Committee way of regulation of a different Act. That is Hon. D. J. HAMILL (Ipswich—ALP) essentially what Henry VIII clauses facilitate. (Treasurer) in charge of the Bill. The second aspect of this Bill which is Clauses 1 to 5, as read, agreed to. important is that it will facilitate the further development of the Jupiters Casino hotel Clause 6— complex. There has been concern on the Gold Mr HAMILL (12.55 p.m.): I move the Coast for some time in regard to the following amendments— development of a further complex or the "At page 9, line 19— development of something that resembles the complex on the south side of Brisbane. While omit. this Bill in and of itself does not raise money or At page 17, lines 28 to 31 and page anything like that, it will facilitate the 18, line 1— development of the hotel complex, and that is omit, insert— something which again enjoys bipartisan support. ' "Schematic Design Drawings" means— Finally, a third aspect of this Bill is to (a) the Schematic Design Drawings simplify the agreement. The original including all plans, drawings, reports agreement was made back in the early or other material relating to the eighties. Since that time there have been a Schematic Design Drawings which number of changes to relevant gaming were tabled in Parliament; and legislation and there have been a number of (b) all variations and additional plans, other technological changes that will allow drawings, reports and other material some simplification of the agreements. The relating to the Schematic Design Opposition will be supporting the Bill, and we Drawings which were approved under are pleased to do so. the Agreement; and Hon. D. J. HAMILL (Ipswich—ALP) (c) the amended Schematic Design (Treasurer) (12.53 p.m.), in reply: I again thank Drawings that are prepared pursuant the Opposition for its support of the measures. to clause 22.'. I have never been a great fan of the Tudors. At page 74, lines 1 to 7— An honourable member interjected. omit, insert— Mr HAMILL: No, I have never been a 'Omission of Third Schedule great fan of the Tudors. I always thought that 78. Third Schedule— the Earl of Richmond was really a bit of a pretender to the throne. I was always a bit of a omit.'." supporter of Richard. I thought he got very bad These amendments all amend clause 6, press by that Tudor playwright William but they all relate to one particular, and that is Shakespeare. Nevertheless, I did think Henry to incorporate within the legislation a definition VIII was a fairly effective monarch. It is of "schematic design and drawings" which probably unduly discrediting that great English provides a broader definition of the term. By monarch with the repugnance that this House inserting it as a definition, we can then has for Henry VIII clauses in this latter day. dispense with Schedule 3 of the Bill as it Nevertheless, it is for a good cause that stands currently. I think it is a technical we remove the Henry VIII clauses in this amendment but one which enhances the Bill. particular piece of legislation. The Dr WATSON: I presume that that is all development of the Jupiters complex at the consistent with the Integrated Planning Act. I Gold Coast is a very significant project for notice in the Bill that, while there are certain Queensland. Jupiters have been very good objections that are not allowed because of this corporate citizens of Queensland, and certainly Bill, most of the design things actually have to the project on the coast will provide a be consistent with the Integrated Planning Act. significant boost for tourism and employment I have not actually had a chance to see what in that area. It is also good for Queensland effect eliminating Schedule 3 has, but I tourism as well. I thank the Opposition for its presume that that in no way invalidates 4066 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 8 Nov 2000 anything with respect to the Integrated We took on board the opinions of clubs, club Planning Act. managers, small and large clubs and small Mr HAMILL: To the very best of my and large hotels, as well as many other groups knowledge, there is nothing in this which seeks and organisations interested in the gaming to override any provisions of any other Act. It industry, such as Break Even. We conducted a merely tidies up the definitions in the far-reaching review that had been promised by Schedules in the existing legislation. the previous Labor Government but which it had not delivered. Amendments agreed to. The coalition then wrote a white paper Clause 6, as amended, agreed to. which was put out for public discussion. That Bill reported, with amendments. generated not only a lot of interest from people who may have been affected but also a lot of debate. I went around the State and Third Reading talked directly with hotels, clubs and other Bill, on motion of Mr Hamill, by leave, read interested parties about the proposals being a third time. put forward in the gaming machine review. Sitting suspended from 12.58 p.m. to After that, we then continued discussions with 2.30 p.m. the major participants which resulted in a set of agreements that the hotels and clubs agreed to. Both major industry players signed off on GAMBLING LEGISLATION AMENDMENT those agreements. However, when this BILL Government decided to conduct its Second Reading review—the coalition also promised a review in a few years' time after the changes contained Resumed from 19 July (see p. 2156). in the white paper and legislation had a Dr WATSON (Moggill—LP) (Leader of the chance to settle down—it was basically Liberal Party) (2.30 p.m.): I rise to speak to the conducted in secret. There was not the open Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill. This is public debate that characterised the previous the first Bill the Treasurer has presented since review. In the legislation before the House I the Labor Government came to power and would have expected to see changes that since the coalition's reorganisation of the reflect the arguments put forward by the Labor gaming machine industry. It is worth briefly Party when in opposition with respect to the revisiting the process the coalition went changes we were proposing. through in order to contrast it with what has I remember the Labor Party attacking the been done in the review by the current changes we were proposing, particularly the Government. When the coalition came to fact that we decided to give the machines office in 1996, Labor had failed to meet a back to the clubs and hotels to ensure that the commitment it had made to the gaming Government was involved in the regulatory machine industry—the clubs and hotels—to process and the taxation process—the typical review the industry as a result of the changes roles of Government—but not involved in the that had occurred in the industry. I operations of gaming machines around the acknowledge that it would have been a tough State. I remember the then Opposition process. However, in the run-up to the by- spokesman on this issue, the current election in Mundingburra in 1996, the former Treasurer, railing against that change. He Goss Government squibbed on this review, as proposed two arguments. One was that this it did on the review of the compulsory third- State would suffer a financial disadvantage. party system. With the State purchasing the machines, the However, it is worth mentioning a few State was not subject to wholesale sales tax observations. When the coalition was faced and therefore the clubs and hotels would be with anxiety coming from the clubs and hotels better off with a State purchasing program. as to what was happening in the industry, we I vividly remember arguing that we could did not put it to one side. We decided to tackle not assume that there would be sales tax, but it head on. During that process, we conducted that was a minor point at the time. I argued an elaborate process of consultation and that the savings from the volume of sales public debate. That process was a very open being achieved in New South Wales and one which was conducted in a couple of Victoria were just as much as those the clubs stages. In the first stage, we consulted with all and hotels were gaining in Queensland industry groups in private to get an idea as to despite the taxation advantage. Since then how they thought the Act should be amended there has been the introduction of the new and the issues facing aspects of the industry. taxation system by the Federal Government 8 Nov 2000 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 4067 and, therefore, the argument in relation to 250 to 300 for clubs and from 20 to 45 for wholesale sales tax has gone out the window. hotels. I am not surprised to see that the Government This Treasurer is breaking that nexus, has not addressed that argument, despite the which was signed off on by representatives of fact that it has refused to admit that there both the club and hotel industries in the form have been positive changes with the of Clubs Queensland, the QHA and the Club elimination of wholesale sales tax in this Managers Association. Those people all country. signed off on that lock-step arrangement, but The second argument used by the current this Government has decided to break the Treasurer at the time was organised crime. He nexus. I can tell those opposite one thing: the said the bulwark against organised crime major clubs around the place that were getting into the gaming machine industry was expecting to go to 290 are not particularly that the Government controlled the purchase happy because they were planning ahead, and distribution of machines in Queensland. quite reasonably. They made commitments While I had absolutely no question about the based upon the agreement voluntarily entered integrity of the Queensland Office of Gaming into and arrangements anticipated in the Regulation, I pointed out on a number of legislation and the regulations. occasions that simply because the The stance taken by this Government is Government was involved did not necessarily hypocritical. The argument that it is trying to eliminate any of the risks associated with restrict the growth in the number of gaming organised crime moving into the industry. machines in the State by allowing hotels only If the then Opposition, the now to go from 35 to 40 and not allowing clubs to Government, believed the argument it was go from 280 to 290 is hypocritical, because the trying to press at the time, I am surprised that number of hotels in a position to increase far at the first opportunity it got to change this outweighs the number of clubs in a similar legislation it did not try to re-regulate. If it was position. In answer to a recent question on serious in its opposition to such a crucial and notice the Treasurer stated that there are 165 fundamental issue, this legislation should have hotels with the maximum of 35 machines. If reverted to the previous regime the Labor they all increase their number of machines to Party had set up. But there has not been a 40, there will be a total increase of 825. The reversion because the arguments for it were number of clubs that have the maximum nonsensical to begin with. Not only were the number of 280 machines was two when the arguments nonsensical; the hotel and club Treasurer responded to this question on industry in general is overwhelmingly better off notice, but I understand that there are three with the ownership of machines. That is the now. If those three clubs increased their critical point. There has been no evidence that maximum number of machines to 290, there the system has been infiltrated by organised would be a total increase of 30 machines. crime. Overwhelmingly, hotels and clubs have This Government has not done anything a chance to be better off under this regime. about this. The argument that it is trying to I recall quite vividly our proposal for a restrict the growth in the number of machines change to the maximum number of machines. by capping clubs at 280, while simultaneously The number of machines would increase from allowing hotels to go from a maximum of 35 to a maximum of 20 to 45 in hotels and from a 40, is simply a nonsense. Forgetting about any maximum of 250 to 300 in clubs. I remember other movement in hotels or clubs that have the now Treasurer arguing against some of less than the maximum, the greatest potential those increases. It is remarkable that, despite increase in the number of machines in clubs the fact that the Treasurer has argued that he with their full complement is 30, whereas the wanted to freeze the numbers, he has actually greatest potential increase in the number of provided for an increase of machines in hotels machines at hotels is 825. of five. I recall members of the Labor Party in Mr Reeves: Reducing it by five. Opposition arguing against hotels getting any increase. Yet in its first piece of relevant Dr WATSON: He has provided for an legislation it anticipates the increase going only increase from 35 to 40. I remind the member to hotels. What hypocrisy! At least the coalition for Mansfield: when we put forward the in Government came to an agreement, changes there was a lock-step program in outlined precisely what clubs and hotels could place. The number of machines allowed in expect over the next five years and started to hotels went up by five each year and in clubs implement that agreement. We took the went up by 10. It was a lock-step regime from criticism from the Opposition at the time head 4068 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 8 Nov 2000 on. All the arguments advanced by Labor coming to Queensland is related to gaming members when in Opposition have simply machine activities. It would be possible to have gone by the board. What hypocrisy! If those an arrangement whereby the amount going opposite argue certain positions when in into any community benefit fund is the same Opposition, they ought to be consistent when amount that would have gone into the they get into Government and have the community benefit fund if there had not been opportunity to do things. the introduction of a GST and no adjustments This legislation has undone some of the to the gaming machine tax. We are concerned certainty of Government actions that the about that. We suspect that the Government coalition put in place. Because we reached is pulling a bit of a swiftie on this in a way agreement between the club and hotel which does not actually give the community industries and because we outlined a five-year benefit fund as much revenue, yet the program, some certainty was given to hotels Government still gets the revenue through its and clubs that they could go out and invest GST payments. and start to modernise their entertainment We also have a strong opposition to a facilities for the benefit of their patrons. Yet this restructure of the Gaming Machine Community Government has now introduced uncertainty. Benefit Fund, which is to be eliminated and Not only that, it has made some of the replaced with a Community Investment Fund investments of these organisations simply with significantly different and, we think, worthless. incompatible objectives. In addition, of course, That is just a short synopsis of the the Charities and Rehabilitation Benefit Fund is situation when the coalition was in to be closed. Government, the kinds of things we tried to do Let us look at what will happen. First of all, and the rationale behind our actions. The the Government will establish a Community contrast between the way the coalition in Investment Fund, under which there will be Government did things and the way this three other funds. One is the Gambling Government is acting, in the light of what its Community Benefit Fund, one is a gambling members said when they were in Opposition, research fund and the third fund is what I is actually quite stark. might refer to as the Statewide uses or We do support certain aspects of the Bill. Statewide programs. We do support the inclusion as an object in The Opposition has concerns about the the gaming Acts that the community as a amounts that will go into the Community whole should benefit. That social objective is Investment Fund. I have already addressed something we do support. We do support that. We want to be sure that the amount that increased powers for the Gaming Commission, goes into the Community Investment Fund is particularly when it comes to issuing guidelines at least the amount that would have gone into in terms of where machines will be put. We it without the introduction of the new taxation agree with the increased community input. We system. as an Opposition do support a number of The second thing that we are concerned these aspects of the Bill. They are the kinds of about is the way that that Community things that we had indicated we also would Investment Fund is to be broken up. The have been doing in a social sense. Gambling Community Benefit Fund will One of the things we do not support—we presumably have a set of objectives and make will be quite vigorously opposing the relevant decisions similar to the decisions that are clauses at the Committee stage—is the being made now under the Gaming Machine restructuring of the community benefit fund. Community Benefit Fund. Again, the idea of We do not have any objection to all forms of changing the amounts that can be claimed gambling contributing to the community under that fund does cause us some concern. benefit fund. I am suspicious that 8.5% of all The thing that the Opposition is gaming revenue—this is a figure that has been particularly concerned about is the bandied about by the Treasurer—will in fact establishment of the Statewide programs. It compensate for the revenue lost from the seems to me that this is simply a mechanism adjustment of the gaming machine tax for redirecting the funds into areas that ought because of the GST. to be funded through the normal consolidated With the implementation of the GST, revenue appropriation process. I discovered gaming machine tax has been reduced, but with interest that the examples that were given the State still gets that revenue in the form of of the potential uses of the Statewide program GST payments. It would be possible to fund included things like crime prevention, calculate how much of the GST revenue community renewal and job creation. I would 8 Nov 2000 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 4069 have thought that those uses were part of the colleagues will talk more about their areas and Government's normal responsibilities to fund the concerns that their clubs, social through consolidated revenue. organisations and hotels have with respect to What concerns me and members of the this change. Opposition is that the establishment of this There is one other issue that I would like Statewide program is simply a mechanism for to address before I conclude my speech in this moving funding away from community projects part of the debate. Given the fact that the into funding the political projects of the Government supposedly conducted a review Government. That is interesting because it and was open with the clubs and hotels, when goes directly against what the clubs and hotels the Bill was introduced into Parliament and I have always said to me and, I am sure, what sent copies out to organisations it was the clubs and hotels have said to the current interesting that that was the first thing that Government. That is this: that they want to most of those organisations knew about the change the amounts that go into what will be Bill. That was a general comment. It was called the Community Investment Fund or the particularly disconcerting, I think, for the surf- Gambling Community Benefit Fund to fund lifesaving association because it was not more local projects—projects in which the aware that the Bill was being introduced. Other individual club or hotel had some say in being clubs simply were not aware that the Bill was funded. So the push from the industry was going to be introduced until I sent them the always, "Let us try to get the money down to copy of it after it was introduced on 19 July. where it comes from", that is the clubs and That fact illustrates the lack of communication hotels, and get them to have some direct say between the clubs and hotels and this in the kinds of projects that will be funded in Government. their area. But, most importantly, they were not But this program of the Government is aware of the significant time restrictions going in exactly the opposite direction; it is contained in the clauses in the Bill. In taking some of the funds that were legitimately particular, they were unaware that there would part of the Gaming Machine Community be a cut-off date of 12 or 13 December and if Benefit Fund and putting them into a clubs or hotels did not have their machines in Statewide program, a program that will be and operating by that date, their licence would controlled by we do not know whom. That is lapse. The surf-lifesaving movement was not even specified, but presumably it will be particularly concerned because it had controlled by the Government and the conditional approval for the introduction of Ministers who, instead of funding projects of a machines in new clubs. The movement was Statewide significance, will more likely be awaiting final approval from Government funding projects of political significance to the agencies before buildings could be erected. Government. When the Bill was introduced in July, We believe that that is a less transparent there was no way in the world that the surf- process. We believe that that is not the way to lifesaving movement would be able to obtain go about funding things like job creation the necessary Government approvals, such as programs or crime prevention programs. If we building approvals and liquor licensing are to establish those kinds of programs, they approvals, and have the machines operating must be open to the normal appropriation by 13 December. I will be moving an process, to the normal scrutiny of the amendment to that clause. Eventually, the Parliament through the Estimates process and Treasurer was approached by the not be hidden in some kind of fund that comes representatives of clubs and hotels. The under this more broadly defined Community Opposition drafted amendments which met Investment Fund. the approval of the industry and, as a result, Of all the criticisms that have been made the Premier and the Treasurer relented and about the Government process and of all the decided to amend the clause. We can talk letters of criticism from clubs and community further about this matter during the Committee organisations around the State, this is the one stage. area in which they are consistent. They do not This is an industry that is important to like this change. They suspect that this change Queenslanders. It is disappointing that is politically motivated. They suspect that they negotiations between the Government and the will have less say in the way that these industry were so poor. As a result, it was left to revenues are being used in their communities. the Opposition to provide the industry with The Opposition will oppose that and we will talk details of the legislation that was to be more about that. I am sure that some of my introduced in this Parliament. 4070 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 8 Nov 2000

Mr Hamill: Not so. industry. In other words, the policy direction is Dr WATSON: It was so. The first time they clearly different from the Opposition's stance knew about it was when they received copies on this matter. This legislation represents a of the Bill provided by the Liberal Party. The decisive and comprehensive initiative of the Government made a very poor effort in Government in an attempt to address the discussing this legislation with the industry in social and economic issues that have arisen an open and transparent fashion. from the recent rapid growth in gambling in Queensland. The Treasurer and I both represent electorates that are covered by the western I want to go back to the middle 1980s zone. Had the Treasurer turned up at some of when the Bjelke-Petersen Government was in the meetings, he would have learned the power. The member for Moggill is still in the attitude of the clubs first-hand. During the Chamber and he might be interested to hear Committee stage, the Opposition will be this. This was at a time when the first two moving amendments in relation to the Gaming casinos were being established in Machine Benefit Fund. The Opposition also Queensland. At that time, I was Mayor of proposes to move amendments in relation to Townsville. As many honourable members the timing mentioned in the legislation. know, the Government of the day decided that Townsville and the Gold Coast should be the The Treasurer has circulated the recipients of those casino licences. amendments that he proposes to move. I thank the Treasurer for handing me those The Townsville and Gold Coast amendments at the last sitting of this communities welcomed the casinos into their Parliament. That enabled me to study the areas. We saw them as very important proposed amendments in detail. The initiatives in regard to jobs and economic Opposition will not be supporting the Bill. growth. We also saw them as being of great benefit to the tourism industry. Mr REYNOLDS (Townsville—ALP) (3.03 p.m.): It is with pleasure that I rise to However, I had a particular concern at speak on the Gambling Legislation that time. Together with community groups Amendment Bill. May I say first of all that it such as Lifeline, the Salvation Army and the should not come as any surprise to members churches, I was concerned that the on this side of the House that we have had to Government of the day would do nothing endure 33 minutes of the Leader of the Liberal about looking at the social impact of gambling Party floundering and wandering. Today, we on individuals and families. We were have heard whingeing and whining from the concerned because no baseline studies were Liberal Party. We understand it because we being conducted in order to understand what hear it so often. The whingeing, whining and the impact would have been on the negativism of the member for Moggill clearly community. That has been one of the illustrates that the Liberal Party in this House difficulties for the Government. It has been has no understanding of working with this necessary to define the baseline. Government in a productive way in order to What we saw from the Sheraton bring about good legislation. Breakwater Casino—now Jupiters Casino in The Liberal Party is about whingeing and Townsville—was strong economic whining and negativism. The member for development and tourism growth. That is Moggill is well aware of that. He whinged and something that I will continue to commend for whined this afternoon for 33 minutes. The only Townsville. positive thing that the member for Moggill did What we see before us in the House this afternoon was to thank the Treasurer for today is strong and responsible legislation supplying him with information of the which will address the community's concerns, Government's proposed amendments. In this whilst at the same time providing for a long- House, we have become used to the whining, term, viable industry. It recognises that the whingeing and negativism of the Liberal Party. tourism industry, the club industry and the This Bill implements the high priority policy leisure and recreation industry will benefit. initiatives of the Government's policy directions Long-term jobs will be provided through for gambling in Queensland. I congratulate the gaming and gambling in Queensland. The Treasurer on this proactive stance that the outcome of this legislation is commendable. It Government is taking. Despite what the is in keeping with the objective that the member for Moggill has said, this legislation is Government set itself at the commencement the result of a very broad-ranging review into of the review, namely to restore the balance gaming and gambling in this State. This between the social and economic impacts of legislation is the result of consultation with the gaming. 8 Nov 2000 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 4071

That aspect has been neglected in Queensland Gaming Commission will be able Queensland over many years. The Bjelke- to seek public comment and require the Petersen Government introduced casinos into preparation of a community impact statement Queensland with little or no consideration for any proposed increase in gaming being given to the social and economic machines. That community impact statement impacts of gambling. In those days, the will be required to accompany all applications Liberals, as the member for Moggill would for new gaming machine sites and all know, were wimps. The Liberals had no impact significant increases in gaming machines. on the coalition Government. They were not I am very pleased that that community prepared to stand up to the then Premier and impact statement will also need to address the his Government. The same situation applies economic and demographic characteristics of today. Today, we witnessed the Leader of the the local community where applications will be Liberal Party's wimpish attitude. made. It will analyse social impacts, including It should also be noted that the gambling the anticipated patron numbers, disadvantage industry in Queensland has contributed to the factors, social infrastructure and local views on current strength of the tourist industry. This has the proposed venue. It will also provide a meant jobs for a significant number of proposed method of dealing with any Queenslanders, either directly through the predicted adverse impacts as well as details of impact on community-based clubs, or indirectly the venue's proposed responsible gambling through levies on casino profits, benefit funds program. or general revenue which supports all In conclusion, again I will just make some Government services. However, as I have comments on what the member for Moggill earlier indicated, and as the Treasurer has indicated about the changes that have enunciated in his second-reading speech, the been proposed in this Bill to revenue and Government also recognises the need to funds. Under Part 4 of the Bill, the community balance the economic and social benefits will also continue to benefit directly from taxes against the social costs of gambling. on gambling. The whining and the whingeing I welcome the increased powers that are that we heard from the member for Moggill being given to the Queensland Gaming that people are not sure of the intent of the Commission. To some extent, these increased Government is the best that he can come up powers are overdue. The powers and with. Let me say this: currently, taxes from responsibilities of the Queensland Gaming most—not all—forms of gambling contribute to Commission are to be expanded significantly. community benefit funds. Under the Bill, a new The Bill requires specifically that the fund is established called the Community commission must consider the likely effect of a Investment Fund that will receive revenue from proposed decision on the local community. all forms of gambling. That will form part of the commission's regard Firstly, the fund will make allocations to to the social implications of its decisions. the Gaming Machine Community Benefit I am sure that other members find Fund, which is also to be renamed the themselves in exactly the same position as I Gambling Community Benefit Fund. As the do as the State member for Townsville when I Treasurer has indicated, this name change get a letter that asks me to comment on my acknowledges that all forms of gambling concerns about the impact of an increased contribute to the operation of the fund, not just number of machines going into hotels. Quite gaming. In effect, it is a name change only, as often it is difficult to assess that without a the highly successful fund will otherwise broader impact statement being done. One is continue with its current format and processes. looking at these things on a one-off basis and Again, the campaign of negativism waged in it is very difficult indeed to look at them in that the community by the member for Moggill is a way. rather unsuccessful attempt to try to scare off I am very pleased that embodied in this the clubs and those community organisations Bill will be community consultation. Public that will not be affected. However, he will try to comment will be sought and considered on run a scare campaign and a fear campaign applications for new gaming machine sites as that they may be affected. We know that they a matter of course. Such comment will also be are not going to be. sought on applications for significant increases Secondly, funds will go into gambling in gaming machines at a site. A regulation will research and dealing with social issues arising be made specifying "significant" to mean an from gambling, such as responsive gambling increase of 20 machines or more at a club or initiatives. I know that, like other casinos, the 10 or more machines at a hotel. The casino in Townsville has a very responsible 4072 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 8 Nov 2000 gambling initiative program. However, let me electorate the Toowoomba City Golf Club is a say that it is surely a very strong responsibility very successful club. Even before the of Government to ensure that we monitor the introduction of poker machines, it was a social impact and work proactively on those successful club. That club had the second social impacts. Thirdly, the funds will also assist biggest liquor licence in Toowoomba because programs of Statewide significance. They are it always provided good service and a warm, ones that this Beattie Government has friendly environment. That club has gone on to created. They will include job creation, be a very, very successful club. Recently it community renewal and crime prevention. underwent a major extension. It paid off that They are very, very important programs. extension in about half the time that it thought I congratulate the Treasurer on this it would take. It has now opened a further legislation. Let us forget and dismiss out of extension. In total, that club has about $12m hand the whining and the whingeing and the of outstanding facilities. It is still providing that negativism of the Leader of the Liberal Party, good service to people. When I go in there the member for Moggill, because basically that and have a look, I see people enjoying is all it is. themselves. I see family groups being able to sit and have a meal on Friday nights and Mr HORAN (Toowoomba South—NPA) Saturday nights, and I see golfers being able (3.14 p.m.): I want to speak fairly generally to to benefit from the nice facilities that they have this Bill, but I also want to have something to downstairs with their club rooms and change say about the Gaming Machine Community facilities and the improvements to the golf Benefit Fund and how successful it has been course. I congratulate the club on the way in and the concerns that the Opposition has which it never really forgot that the core about the arrangements that are proposed by business of the Toowoomba City Golf Club this Bill. When we consider a city such as was the golfers themselves. Even though that Toowoomba, which is a regional city, I think we club has become big and successful, the can make some judgment on the benefit or benefits to the golfing membership of the club otherwise of the introduction of gaming have been its prime objective. machines in both clubs and hotels over some period of years now. I know that within my Likewise, in recent years some of the electorate there are some highly successful hotels in Toowoomba have been able to make clubs and some clubs that are probably just improvements through the introduction of battling along and experiencing difficulty in poker machines. I congratulate our shadow even paying the rent on their poker machines. Treasurer who, when the coalition was in It has been nine years since the introduction of Government, did a lot of work behind the poker machines. In most regional cities there scenes on research and developing legislation are probably two or three mega clubs, then to ensure that hotels also had an opportunity there are a number of clubs that are to benefit. Hotels are competing with clubs. As moderately successful, and then there are I said in my earlier remarks, if we open more other clubs that may be struggling with six or clubs or increase the number of gaming seven machines and do not have the machines, the money that will go to them has patronage to pay the rent on them. to be transferred from somewhere else. The important thing is that we get some balance in When it comes to the installation of the community so that small businesses and additional gaming machines—with the family businesses as well as club businesses exception of tourist areas, where there is the can all survive and have a reasonable possibility of bringing in some extra money opportunity to prosper. from tourists who come with money in their pockets—in a regional city where international What I have noticed is that, through the visitors are not a major tourism market, then previous legislation, the hotels have been able extra machines really mean a divergence of to overcome what was really a trough in the money from some other part of that economy, history of hotels. We saw a number of hotels whether that be the clothing shops, the close. We have now reached a stage where restaurants, other hotels, other parts of the hotels have been completely refurbished; they leisure industry, or other important things that have moved with the modern trend and people should be spending money on for their installed bistros and lounges. The whole style family like shoes, clothes and groceries. That is of hotels has changed. In almost every case, the thing that we in this Parliament should an essential part of that refurbishment is the always consider very, very carefully. installation of a gaming lounge for people which, in turn, provides the hotels with the Clubs provide people with a wonderful cash flow to be able to repay their bank loans opportunity for friendship and relaxation. In my for those improvements. 8 Nov 2000 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 4073

In Toowoomba's CBD area, one hotel has That leads me to the Community Benefit improved itself. It is located in a part of the Fund. I believe this fund has been enormously town that was pretty dead following the popular with groups, small clubs, small opening of the big Myer centre, which is associations, little groups that get together—it adjacent to the CBD, a couple of years back. might be a writers' group or historical For some time, that drained people from the group—and do not have the normal capacity CBD. The refurbishment of one hotel in to go out and raise money. These groups are particular, the Burke and Wills, has brought a not like the Police Citizens Youth Club bit of life back to that end of Ruthven Street because they cannot organise a big Sunday and may be the catalyst for the shops around market and that type of thing. All of these it to follow suit and revitalise that part of the organisations are really grateful for having this city. Community Benefit Fund and being able to However, there can be cause for concern. apply for funds from it. In the past it has been I heard a previous speaker talk about restricted as to the amount of funds available. decisions that have to be made by local In many ways, the fact that it was restricted members when they are asked to provide kept it as a more localised type of grant—the something, for example, when a hotel wants to sort of grant that was more attractive to smaller put in poker machines, or increase its number organisations—and meant that more of poker machines to the maximum, and local organisations were able to access it. Instead of members have to make some form of three or four people getting great big licks of judgment— money, a large number of smaller organisations were able to access these Mr Hamill: Comment. smaller grants. Mr HORAN: I take the Minister's point; the When organisations get their $5,000 or final judgment is made by the fund. $7,000 for maybe a little bit of office Mr Hamill: It is just part of the equipment for what they are trying to run— consultation. maybe it is sporting equipment that they are Mr HORAN: I realise that it is part of the trying to get; or maybe it is $15,000 and it is consultation. I always write in that the half the cost of a bus they want to get to do department would have the figures on the things for their particular organisation, and they effects of additional machines. I would hope have to raise the rest of the money—in all the Treasury does have those figures. If 40 cases it is highly appreciated. I believe it is a more machines go into a town, what is the very good system. I join with our shadow effect of that on a town with a population of Minister in expressing great concern about this 90,000 and what is the shift in spending from concept of the Community Investment Fund retail, motor vehicles or sporting over to the and that Community Investment Fund then recreational area? It is difficult to make that having three elements to it of the community judgment. The shopkeepers and small benefit scheme, the gambling research fund businesspeople will tell us that it is difficult in and the Statewide program fund. business, and they get very concerned about I agree totally with the comments made the amount of moneys that go through poker by our shadow Treasurer. Statewide programs machines. So I think it is important that the are always funded out of the bulk of the social and economic aspects are always money that the Treasury has and it provides it considered. to the 18 departments of Government. Those A number of organisations—and I give programs that are mentioned, be it job the example of the Police Citizens Youth Club creation, crime prevention or community in our town—used to rely upon bingo, the renewal, are the sorts of things that are the Sunday markets and so forth. Their income province of either the Police Department, the from bingo has dried up with the introduction Department of Public Works and Housing or of poker machines, and it has made it very the Department of Employment, Training and difficult for some of those clubs to generate Industrial Relations. That is the core business the sort of income they had previously. The of those departments. They should be going in Police Citizens Youth Club has to rely on and arguing for their slice of the cake when it Sunday markets, raffle tickets, subscriptions comes to Budget time and saying that they and memberships, and often times it is trying want a slice because they need so much for to provide facilities for people who do not have operational, they need so much for capital a lot of money, and that membership has to works, or they require money for some special be restricted, otherwise they do not get the programs of community policing or crime kids involved in the club. prevention. 4074 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 8 Nov 2000

The legislation is taking that money that strength of this particular fund was that, whilst was normally going directly to the Community it was not a large amount of money, it was Benefit Fund. I know that this fund takes 8.5% significant to clubs and organisations. It meant of all gambling money, not just money from that the money could be spread around the gaming machines. How are we to know that town more often. Say, for example, the the amount of money that used to go to the Government decided there was about Community Benefit Fund will still go to that $120,000 to go to a particular area, and three fund? It was a set percentage and we knew clubs received $30,000, that only leaves what was going to the Community Benefit $30,000 to be spread around the others; but if Fund. If the Government is a bit light on with everyone is getting around $7,000 or $8,000, money in, say, the Public Works Department that means that a large number of clubs and for community renewal or if it is a bit light on in organisations can actually get some money to the Police Department for some form of crime help them with what they are doing. prevention, there is now the opportunity for the I join with the shadow Treasurer in Government to say it will siphon off some of expressing great concern and opposition to that money that has been going to little groups what is being done to the Community Benefit around Queensland, push it aside under the Fund. One of the lessons of recent elections is CIF and put it into Statewide programs and the disconnection that people are feeling. then announce that it is doing some Increasingly, people are seeing the community renewal which should have been Government taking over things and not done anyway in one of the Government allowing localised decisions to be made. Here departments through this normal process. we have something that involved a simple We are seeing a shift from a truly process. If a writers' club wanted to do a localised and decentralised system where particular project or furnish a club room or put genuine small community groups throughout in a computer for those involved in the club, our communities were able to apply for funding that club would apply to the fund and hope through this scheme. If they were judged to be that it would be successful in getting the worth while to receive that money—they put money needed. forward a good argument for the funds and the application had local support—they were Now there is going to be this big, overall able to access these funds. investment fund covering three different areas of responsibility, including one area of We are seeing it go into a Big Brother, big responsibility that should have remained and Government type arrangement where it will be should always be the responsibility of used for the political needs of the Government departments, be it the Police Department, the of the day. The political needs of the Department of Public Works and Housing or Government of the day should be subject to the Education Department. the normal departmental and Cabinet and Treasury processes; they should not be going So obviously any political shortfalls they through this fund. have can be covered by this Statewide program that is going to siphon off some of I say again that we will see the loss of this the money that should have been available for wonderful system where pubs can come in these local clubs and organisations that and apply for anything between $5,000 and wanted to make applications. That is why $15,000. It is going to be increased to people are becoming disenchanted and $50,000, so we will see larger applications— disconnected with Government—because they Mr Hamill: $30,000. are losing the direct approach. Once again we are seeing the Big Brother approach of this Mr HORAN: It is going to be increased. fund and no doubt the very real danger that Let us say that the money did stay the same Treasury has found another way of being able and the Government did not siphon off more to tap into another bit of money. Some would for this Statewide program— say they are creating another hollow log, that Mr Hamill: I can assure you there is no they are actually constructing and building the money to be siphoned off. hollow log so that they can access a bit of Mr HORAN: If it stays the same at money. When they do not have enough $30,000, it means that— money in the normal budgetary process to be able to provide funding for, say, police, then Mr Hamill: Maximum. they will say, "Look, we'll give you something Mr HORAN: Maximum. It means that out of this Statewide program." I certainly join fewer clubs and organisations can be with our shadow Treasurer in condemning that successful in obtaining funds. I think the particular action. 8 Nov 2000 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 4075

There is a need for a tremendous amount machines in recent years. They range from of thought and balance to be put into the local community clubs, such as the Banyo allocation of machines. I know that there is Rugby League Club; the North Star Sports concern amongst the clubs in that regard. I Club; Eagles Sporting Club; Norths football realise that the number of poker machines in club; Banyo, Geebung, Toombul and the clubs is capped. Certainly no clubs in former Nundah Bowls Clubs; and, of course, Toowoomba have 280 poker machines; I think the Geebung-Zillmere RSL. I have only two the maximum of the bigger clubs is hotels, one being the recently rebuilt and somewhere in the order of 120 or 140. refurbished Homestead Hotel at Zillmere and Apparently there are only about three clubs in also the Banyo Tavern. Queensland that could have 280 machines. I want to make a quick comment on some But in casinos there is no limit. There can of the matters raised by the member for literally be hundreds of thousands of machines Toowoomba South in relation to the in casinos, dragging people away from the amendment to allocations from the Gaming regional towns. Machine Community Benefit Fund from Mr Hamill: That is not right, you know. $15,000 to $30,000. I must admit that I felt Mr HORAN: That is the concern of the that most of the arguments he put forward had clubs. I have talked to the people who run the some merit. However, I think he has missed clubs in my town and they are concerned that the point in one significant area in relation to a capping process applies to clubs and pubs which I have come to the conclusion that it is a but that capping process does not apply to good move to increase it to $30,000. casinos. There are a number of clubs or Mr Hamill: Casinos have a ratio of organisations in poorer areas that do have machines to gaming tables—there is a set significant difficulty in fundraising. Whereas the ratio. $15,000 limit has allowed a lot of small parcels to be spread among a lot of community Mr HORAN: Does the Treasurer have any organisations, there are others which simply do control over the number of gaming tables? not have the capacity to raise those funds to Mr Hamill: Yes. It's part of the licensing make substantial improvements to their arrangements. clubhouse, to the facilities or the resources Mr HORAN: Anyway, those are the they have there. For instance, the member concerns. I have spoken to some of the referred to the purchasing of a bus, a vehicle people in the club industry, and that is a or some other larger item. It is simply out of particular concern that they have. their reach in some of those poorer areas. I think the increase to $30,000 is a positive In the allocation of additional machines move in that a lot of the clubs in those areas and the formulas that are used, it is important will now be able to access those larger items that Treasury is always required to ensure that which under the previous schemes were simply the economic impact is considered and that not available to them. As I said, I have a the social and economic problems that may number of clubs and hotels in my electorate. occur are always taken into account and So like most members, I do have a direct balanced against the benefit that those interest in ensuring that any legislative change additional machines might bring to that is made in a way that balances the needs of particular establishment. clubs, pubs and the community generally. I want to conclude by saying that I can This Bill is a result of extensive community see real danger in this change to the consultation extending back into last year. It Community Benefit Fund. It has been good. It puts in place a number of provisions that will has been localised, it has been small, but strike an appropriate balance between the multiples of small amounts of funds have been social and the economic impacts of gambling very, very important to small organisations and or gaming in particular. It is important that clubs throughout my electorate and the City of statements like that are not just empty rhetoric. Toowoomba. I wholeheartedly agree with the The Government is serious about ensuring approach of this investment fund and splitting that this is not rhetoric. In each of the seven the money off to use it for purposes which gambling Acts a clear objective will be spelt out should have been provided for by Treasury right up front in the Act, that is, that on through the relevant departments. balance the State and the community as a Mr ROBERTS (Nudgee—ALP) whole will benefit from gambling. Those (3.33 p.m.): In common with most members, I amendments which will be spelt out in each have a number of licensed clubs in my Act are very significant and will be achieved in electorate that have or have had poker a number of ways. 4076 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 8 Nov 2000

One of the most important decisions that and the coalition are with community concerns has been taken by the Government is the about these sorts of issues. decision to halt the coalition-inspired escalation Dr Watson interjected. of the number of poker machines allowed in clubs and hotels. The coalition had proposed Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! I think the that from July 2001 clubs would be entitled to member for Nudgee seeks my protection. I am up to 300 machines and hotels up to 45. The going to give it to him. Labor Government has blocked that Mr Schwarten interjected. unnecessary and excessive increase to a lower Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! The level of 280 for clubs and 40 for hotels. We Minister! know from the community consultation that has taken place over the past year or so that Dr Watson interjected. there is real concern in the community that Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! The there are too many poker machines and that member for Moggill! we had to put a brake on the numbers that Mr ROBERTS: As I was saying, this were appearing in some organisations. shows just how out of touch the coalition is on It is interesting to contrast that position this and a number of other community issues. with that of the Leader of the Liberal Party, It has a laissez-faire approach to the gaming Dr Watson. In the Courier-Mail he was quoted industry which would allow the numbers to as saying that there should be no limit on the increase. It has lost the plot on a number of number of poker machines that exist in clubs key issues. These are the same principles it is and pubs because the free market principles applying to the fuel excise. that the Liberals hold so dearly to their hearts Dr Watson interjected. would enable clubs and pubs to find their own Mr Hamill interjected. level in terms of machine numbers. In other words, he would allow market forces to dictate Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! I will warn the number of machines that might exist in a members very shortly. My patience is wearing club or a pub. Of course, in relation to the thin. The speech of the member for Nudgee larger clubs we would have an absolutely has been interrupted. excessive increase in the number of machines. Mr ROBERTS: I was making the point Dr WATSON: I rise to a very small point of that the Liberal Leader and the coalition order. There was a slight misquote in that appear to have lost the plot on a number of particular article. We were talking about important community issues such as concerns aggregate machine numbers. about gaming machines. Similarly, they do not recognise the very strong concerns in the A Government member interjected. community in relation to the fuel excise. It has Dr WATSON: I am just saying that there been shown again today that those opposite was a misunderstanding. The issue was the are failing to support the Government in its aggregate machine numbers. There has endeavours to limit the fuel excise increase always been a limit on the numbers per club or which is to apply from February next year. The hotel, which we have always supported. fuel excise and gaming machines are examples of issues about which those Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr Fouras): opposite do not have a feel for the grassroots Order! The Chair has been quite tolerant on concerns in the community. the point of order. Another important initiative in this Dr Watson: I know the member for legislation is that it ensures that the community Nudgee has actually supported the legislation has a far greater say in decisions as to where previously. poker machines are located and where a club or hotel proposes to significantly increase the Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! I think my number of machines it operates. The Bill tolerance will actually wear out if the member provides that, in considering a licence continues. application, the Gaming Commission must Mr ROBERTS: Of course, the aggregate take into account the likely effects of that level would be taken up significantly by the decision on the community. Under Labor's larger clubs, and we all know that the numbers proposals, the public will have an opportunity would grow significantly under a system where to comment on the spread and growth of there was no limit put in place. Those sorts of poker machines in their local community. comments from the Leader of the Liberal Party One of the main instruments for gathering are interesting, because it really is an information as to the potential impacts on the illustration of how out of touch the Liberal Party community will be the new community impact 8 Nov 2000 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 4077 statements which all applicants will have to Department are developing a responsible submit as a part of the application. Some of gaming curriculum for use in schools, which is the issues covered by the statement are where again something which other States are it is located with respect to schools, churches, showing some interest in. As I have indicated, shopping centres, Centrelink offices and so on; there are a number of licensed clubs and pubs some of the characteristics about the in my electorate which are operating their community in which the applicant operates or venues in a responsible manner. It is my view intends to operate, including issues such as that these new provisions will not disadvantage the social disadvantage and age distribution of those genuine and hardworking clubs or the area in which the club is putting the professionally managed hotels in the way they machines; and the predicted social impacts of derive benefit from gaming machines and, in the proposed development. As I understand it, turn, the community derives benefit. With consultation is well advanced in the those few words, I commend the Bill to the preparation of the community impact House. statement document. However, concerns have Mr FELDMAN (Caboolture—CCAQ) been raised with me by local clubs in relation (3.45 p.m.): I rise to speak to the Gambling to what are perceived to be the onerous Legislation Amendment Bill. In his second- nature of some of these requirements. reading speech, the Treasurer referred to the Once again, it is an issue of balance. I growing community concern about the hope that the final document takes account of continuing rapid growth of the gaming industry those concerns and that we balance the and its effects on individuals, families and the needs of the community and industry in community at large. That would have to be developing the final guidelines for what is an one of the greatest understatements of the important and crucial element of our plan to blindingly obvious that has ever been uttered ensure that the community gets a genuine in this place, even by such a bumbling opportunity to comment on the impact of politician as the Treasurer. This is not, as the machines within our local communities. Treasurer would suggest, a growing concern; Another important concern to the community is the level of concern is way past growing and addressed by this Bill, that is, access issues rapidly approaching outrage. Either the soon that relate to poker machines such as the to be erstwhile Treasurer does not appear to need for guidelines about the proximity of have a clue about what is going on in the machines to schools, shopping centres and wider community or he simply does not care. other community venues. The Bill allows the The Bill is a classic example of far too little too Gaming Commission to restrict the hours that late. gaming is allowed on the premises which, In country towns around Queensland under this Bill, could well be less than the families are breaking down and businesses are hours allowed by the club or hotel's liquor going broke because of the all-pervading licence. gaming machines, or pokies as they are There is another concern in the universally known, interacting with and community as to the growing availability of impacting on families. It can be argued that it note acceptors on machines. The experience is up to the individual whether he or she of note acceptance is that where they are in decides to gamble or whether he or she place the machine gives a greater return to the decides to gamble in excess. In a purely club. In other words, people lose a lot more theoretical sense, that contention is correct in money through note accepting machines than that nobody is forced to put their money into those which they have to put a bucket of coins one of these machines. into. The experience is that the bigger the note In practice, though, the greater the one puts in the more money gamblers lose. availability of these machines the greater the This Bill puts in place what I consider to be a temptation for people with gambling-related very sensible and important brake on the use problems to throw their money into them. The of note acceptors and limits them to $20 method of presentation and operation of these notes. gaming machines is designed specifically and Another important and significant part of with the intention to influence people who are the legislation is that it provides for the setting least able to resist the temptation to put their up of a responsible gaming fund to provide money in. Flashing lights, ringing bells, music assistance to organisations that assist problem and repetitive actions are all designed to gamblers and funds research into gambling- encourage gamblers to continue past the point related issues. I also note that the Gambling of entertainment and to the realm of financial Policy Unit of Treasury and the Education harm. 4078 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 8 Nov 2000

When a significant portion of the Mr FELDMAN: No point of order, Mr disposable income of a town is fed into a Deputy Speaker? I will continue. This is the poker machine, the amount of money left over man who obviously sees no problem in giving to pay for food, rent and discretionary items is preferential treatment to somebody as severely reduced. Small businesses in the offensive as D'Arcy. town then suddenly find that their income is Mr HAMILL: Point of order, Mr Deputy reduced and they in turn have trouble paying Speaker— their bills. When a business is struggling to pay its bills, the almost inevitable reaction is to Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr Fouras): reduce overheads by reducing staff. This of Order! Can I suggest that the matters referred course is of little consequence to the to are going very close to sub judice. This Treasurer, who obviously does not live in the morning the Attorney-General indicated that real world where real people are working or the matter was not concluded and that living. This is the same man who, through therefore people should be very careful about personal greed, allowed his office to be tainted mentioning these matters. Secondly, I think with the scandal of the net bet affair. This is the Minister did ask for a withdrawal— the man who gave the State's first Internet Mr HAMILL: The claim that I gave gaming licence to Gocorp, which included Bill preferential treatment to anybody is offensive. D'Arcy and a couple of his Labor mates It is quite wrong. It is erroneous. It does not amongst its shareholders. stack up according to the evidence presented in the inquiry of the CJC or the Auditor- In his article in the Courier-Mail, Matthew General. It is offensive and I ask that it be Franklin summed up the Treasurer well when withdrawn. he said— Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! The Mr HAMILL: I rise to a point of order. The member will withdraw. honourable member is deliberately misleading the House in relation to his claims with respect Mr FELDMAN: I will withdraw. Let the to Gocorp. I find the implication offensive and I record stand as it stands and the people of ask that it be withdrawn. For his information, I Queensland know what is going on. suggest he read the report of Mr Gotterson, This is why the Treasurer has been QC. promoting Internet gambling in this State: so that problem gamblers can lose their family's Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: The Minister food money even faster, and now from the seeks a withdrawal. I ask the member to comfort of their own home—if they have not withdraw. already lost that. He obviously does not care Mr FELDMAN: I withdraw. I refer to about the cost to the community or individuals, Matthew Franklin's article in which he summed so long as this Government can take money up the Treasurer when he said— out of it. "Beattie could hardly believe his The biggest problem with the gambling Treasurer's political stupidity. industry in this State is that the State Government receives huge amounts of money But the full horror of Hamill's mistake in the form of gambling taxes. It is not could not have been publicly appreciated prepared to forgo this money in the interests at the time. This was because Hamill and wellbeing of the community generally. Of knew when he gave Gocorp the licence course, this is not the attitude present in the that D'Arcy was facing child rape charges. Labor Party alone. Even worse, the bureaucrats who run Mr Mickel: What taxes would you probity checks on casino operators to increase, then? ensure they're squeaky clean also found Mr FELDMAN: I certainly would not be that pending child rape charges were no taking it out of the mouths of the people who impediment to D'Arcy being given what can least afford it. The member for Logan was effectively a licence to print money." represents an area whose residents can least Mr HAMILL: Point of order, Mr Deputy afford it. Maybe he should be looking at how Speaker. Whilst the honourable member may he presents and at how he takes money from be quoting an ill-informed statement from the the taxpayers of this State. Maybe he should media, for the record it ought to be stated that not be representing those people who can the Office of Gaming Regulation had a least afford to throw money away. Perhaps he watching brief in respect of the interests of Mr should be promoting how they should not. D'Arcy, who I might say was neither a director Both the coalition and this Government nor a shareholder of the company in question. are equally to blame. No doubt both are 8 Nov 2000 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 4079 equally reluctant to take the sort of decisive Treasurer to explain to this House and the action necessary to combat what has become people of Queensland exactly how he arrives a cancer in Queensland. In the very next at the conclusion that investment in gambling sentence of his second-reading speech the venues provides a net benefit to the people of Treasurer referred to the need to preserve the this State. All that happens is that large benefits that the gambling industry has companies set up casinos in our State and provided in this State, such as employment, take huge sums of money out of the tourism, investment and recreation and leisure community. They pay some to the facilities. I will address each of these supposed Government, give an infinitesimal amount to benefits individually. charities and community groups and keep the The Treasurer's first stated benefit was huge profits for their shareholders. the good old favourite—employment. I It never ceases to amaze me how some certainly cannot argue on this score. After all, apparently well-educated people can be so the gambling dens in this State that are stupid. The mathematics of this situation are passed off as high-class casinos provide jobs, quite simple. When a company decides to especially for our young. They teach our youth invest money in a casino in Australia, it is how to serve drinks and wait on tables and because it can see a profit to be made. The gamble professionally. In other words, they reason that successive State and Federal teach them how to be obsequious servants of Governments have encouraged investment in gamblers. We must not forget all the other gambling venues is that they, too, can see the people they keep in employment— profit waiting to be made. Mr Reeves: You'd boo Santa Claus, you So if the Government is making money would. and the casino owners are making money, Mr FELDMAN: The member for Mansfield then where is the money coming from in the talks about the gambling dens of this State first place? Is it coming from international being a bit like Santa Claus. Obviously it is not tourists losing their money in Australia? Not the same Santa Claus I know. He actually much. Maybe some, but certainly not much. brings gifts; he does not take them away. The vast majority of it is coming out of our We must not forget all the people these communities. It is coming out of the mouths of organisations keep in employment—family small children who are not being fed properly counsellors, the people who distribute because their parents are addicted to emergency food parcels and all the others gambling. It is coming out of the many charity involved in cleaning up the trail of social groups who struggle to feed and clothe those destruction and misery that problem gamblers people who are gambling more money than leave in their wake. Last but not least, we must they can afford. It is coming out of their remember the police, ambulance and fire pockets, and they have to clothe and feed the officers whose daily job it is to deal with the orphans of this gambling addiction. The successful and unsuccessful suicides which people of Queensland are left once again to occur with monotonous regularity as a result of clean up the mess and pick up the bill. the hopelessness and loss of self-esteem The Treasurer's final benefit claim is in the brought on by gambling addiction. field of recreation and leisure facilities. I I suggest that tonight honourable assume by this he means those community members opposite watch A Current Affair or facilities that are assisted from time to time by Today Tonight, on which they will see an Asian entities such as Jupiters Trust. For the life of problem gambler who has twice locked his me I do not know how the Treasurer can stand child in a car outside one of these facilities that up in this House and quite blatantly I think a member opposite referred to as being misrepresent the truth about the myth that the a bit like Santa Claus. I do not remember proceeds of gambling somehow enhance our Santa Claus locking anybody in a car to go quality of life. Nothing could be further from the and gamble. truth. The fact of the matter is that any The vast majority of the jobs generated by gambling money that is directed towards gambling in this State are in fact unpaid, community facilities is money that already voluntary positions with the likes of St Vincent belongs to that community and which has de Paul, Lifeline and the Salvation Army. I am simply been stolen out of one pocket and quite sure that these people would rather be placed in another, accompanied by much self- engaged in more productive enterprises than glorification. The only reason Jupiters Trust cleaning up the results of gambling. exists is to provide a public relations The next big benefit the Treasurer claims camouflage to hide the real extent of the is tourism investment. I would dearly love the gambling related costs to our community. 4080 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 8 Nov 2000

The provision of money to our community being lined up in banks. I ask him to ensure as in this way is simply designed to draw attention he said in this House that, in cases where the away from the real problem and allow our commission previously had placed no time limit sanctimonious leaders to make out that they on the installation of machines, under the Bill are truly looking after the welfare of the people existing licensees will have to install the of Queensland. If they were in fact really approved number of gaming machines by 1 worried about the people of this State, they September 2000. During the meetings of the would have introduced a far more wide-ranging Scrutiny of Legislation Committee I asked reform of gambling laws long ago. whether that meant that those machines had They would start by capping the total to be in full working order when they were number of gaming machines licensed in installed or if licensees could do exactly what Queensland and then commence a structured they intended to do in the first place, that is reduction of those numbers on a preset just bank those machines up and leave them schedule. They would continue by removing there hooked up but perhaps not working. In the capability of gaming machines, as the the view of those licensees, the provision of member for Nudgee said, to accept currency the legislation would be met simply by having notes and prevent the future use of credit a full complement of machines. So I ask the cards of any description. They would require Treasurer to ensure that every machine that is gaming machines to display clearly the real installed is in full working order. odds against winning and force them to have It would be remiss of me not to talk about automatic shutdown periods to break the some of the clubs in my area. I will touch on paying cycle so that those who are trapped in what I consider to be a good aspect of some that cycle actually have to have a break before of them, and I refer to only some of them. they stick more money in a machine that they Mr Reeves interjected. can ill afford to put it in. Mr FELDMAN: Yes, I bagged gambling They would prohibit the capability of and I still bag gambling, but there are some machines to play automatically so that the clubs that are trying to do the right thing. The punter has to at least press a button each time Caboolture sports club, for example, was he or she wants to play. They would require sponsored by six sporting clubs in my area: the payment of winnings above a certain cricket, soccer, touch, softball, Rugby Union amount to be made in the form of a non- and the dog obedience school. This club is negotiable cheque and prohibit the locating of trying very hard to put something back into the automatic teller machines within or near community, not just direct people to the gaming venues, or at least very severely limit gaming machines. the amounts that can be withdrawn at those Mr Reeves: Like all the clubs. facilities. Mr FELDMAN: No. Unfortunately, it is not They could totally prohibit the advertising like all of them. Some of them are not doing of gambling itself and any reference to the right thing, but some are. This club, for gambling when promoting venues such as example— pubs or clubs. They could insist on a display of anti-gambling messages on gaming machine Mr Reeves: And they just happen to be screens at preset intervals, similar to health in your electorate. warnings on tobacco products. "Gambling may Mr FELDMAN: It is actually in be addictive" or "Do your children have Mr Hayward's electorate. We were both there enough to eat?" might be a good start. No not so long ago. doubt there are some decent, community- Some of these clubs are receiving some minded members still left in the ranks of the benefit after six years. It has taken six years to Labor Party sitting opposite, but unfortunately get some of the benefits back to these clubs; we have seen time and time again that those there is now some benefit in what some of few decent, honest and good ones are these clubs are doing. They are directing some hopelessly outnumbered. That is why the good of their money back to supporting the ones are not often heard. They are forced to community. At the cricket club, the soccer club be subservient to the totalitarian party machine and the touch football fields they are paying that controls every aspect of that party. for a groundsman to do some of the work, Of course, I could go on and on about which is saving some of these club patrons a exactly how much gambling is affecting and lot of time and hard work. hurting our society. Mention has been made of There are some pubs that have been machine licences lapsing, and the Treasurer doing the right thing for some time, but that stated that at some facilities machines were does not necessarily mean that we should be 8 Nov 2000 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 4081 increasing the number of gaming machines community. All of the profits go back into the that these venues have, because they know community for the community. that those same machines are going to reduce While I recognise that there are a number the number of their own clientele. There are of problem gamblers using poker machines, still some, but very few, mum and dad type the problem gamblers are definitely in the pubs out there that I know support certain minority. As a community, as legislators and sporting clubs in their own communities. The the clubs and hotels as identities need to Woodford Hotel and the D'Aguilar pub are address the personal and community examples. But, as I said, they are mum and consequences of these people's gambling. dad enterprises with the owners living and working in the community. They are not large I firmly believe that this legislation is a hotels. I sometimes wonder exactly how much start and that the clubs and hotels are large business enterprises actually put into the addressing the matter as well. However, while community or whether they direct any inquiries this may not be politically correct, we should for community funding to the Gaming Machine remember that only a small minority of users of Community Benefit Fund and hope they get machines have these problems. We should something in return. not condemn all players of poker machines as having a problem, nor the clubs and hotels as I agree with the concerns that the a mob of crooks, as the member for member for Toowoomba South raised about Caboolture was hinting, because they have building another hollow log in which this machines in their establishments. The clear Government can hide a Statewide program majority of people who play the pokies do it for that draws together all the funds but at the entertainment—in the hope that maybe they end nobody gets anything out of it. will crack the big jackpot, the same hope that These are the concerns that I have and I some people had with the Melbourne Cup hope that they will be addressed. I hope that yesterday. They go in with the attitude that the problem I raised about the number of they will lose a certain amount and that machines is addressed and I hope that the anything they win is a bonus. Who are we as a people who have gambling problems will be society to tell people how they should spend able to have the cycle of their gambling their money? What may be someone's addiction broken by the types of devices on boredom is someone else's fun. I never tell a machines that will prevent them from gambling fisher that they should stop fishing because it and gambling and gambling and losing is costing them a fortune and I find it as boring everything. as watching paint dry. Mr REEVES (Mansfield—ALP) I give the example of my father, who is (4.04 p.m.): It gives me great pleasure to restricted due to a stroke he suffered a few speak to this Bill because it gives me an years ago. I can tell the House that his number opportunity to express my thoughts on some one enjoyment in life today is having a punt of the rubbish I have heard regarding gaming every day and, when he gets out to the local in clubs and hotels. There is no finer example club, to play a game on the pokies. than the rubbish that we just heard from the I once again state that I recognise that member for Caboolture, who spent 17 minutes some people have a problem, but the majority bagging clubs and hotels and then just of those who play the pokies do it for fun and happened to thank a couple of them located entertainment—and, yes, hopefully to have a in his electorate. What a hypocrite! win. Before I contribute to the debate, I should Some of the major critics of gaming in declare my interest. I am unashamedly a clubs have been those within the retail sector. strong supporter and active participant in the While I strongly support the stopping of club industry. Fortunately—or unfortunately, gaming centres in or near shopping centres— depending on which way you look at it—I am as was the case with Dicey Reillys' application the president of the Mt Gravatt Sporting & in my electorate—I believe some within the Workers Club Inc. The garbage that we have retail sector have been hypocrites, just like the heard from a range of sources regarding member for Caboolture. Some within the retail gaming, particularly poker machines, needs to sector have overexaggerated the problems of be rebutted. What many people forget is that gaming and its consequences on people's these clubs are made up totally of local personal budget, particularly those with community members and exist for the benefit children. of that same local community. Licensed clubs Where are these same people when the were established by those associations to big retailers and the financial institutions assist in the delivery of benefits to the local continue to exhort people to spend 4082 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 8 Nov 2000 excessively, particularly at Christmas, knowing comes to gaming machines, there needs to be full well that many of these people cannot a balance. We cannot allow an industry such afford it and that they will be caught in the as the hotel industry to be wiped out. We need credit card trap. They should not say that the to find a balance. I believe this Bill achieves clubs are exploiting people when they do not just that. have their own house in order. Where is the To illustrate my point about the role of retailers' code of responsible shopping? What hotels, I wish to talk about the Rochedale about all these buy-now, pay-later schemes Rovers Soccer Club, of which the member for with huge interest bills? What a load of Springwood is the patron. The club started garbage some within the retail sector promote. from humble beginnings and now has 800 I believe that, particularly in February, this sort soccer players and over 6,000 club members. of shopping has an impact on a greater The first life member of this club is Mr Brian number of people than those classified as Fitzgibbon, the owner and operator of the Glen problem gamblers. Hotel. He was awarded this honour because of Clubs contribute greatly to our society. his assistance in establishing the club. The Historically, they have assisted many club commenced operation at the Glen Hotel. individuals and organisations in a number of Mr Fitzgibbon helped the club to find a base. worthy causes. All these clubs are controlled As a result, the club was on its way to by volunteers who give their time freely for achieving its present position. This story is not community benefit—whether it be a supporting unique, as many of the clubs that exist today group, charity, RSL or other community started in hotels. Many of tomorrow's clubs will organisations. The licensed clubs' contribution also start this way. Some within the club means that those organisations can survive. industry should not forget this. Clubs and hotels are major employers. I must say that I have been extremely There is no doubt that without gaming disappointed with some comments made by employment would decrease dramatically. The Clubs Queensland. On a number of occasions construction industry has benefited I have heard Damien Messingham criticising tremendously over the past eight years the Government in the media for increasing because of expansions of clubs and hotels. the maximum number of poker machines in As I said previously, clubs are made up of hotels from 35 to 40. He has not been honest. members of the community and all the profits In fact, the present Act, which was introduced are used for the benefit of the community. If I by the member for Moggill, allowed for up to started to list the benefits of the club industry, I 45 gaming machines in hotels. This would have to ask for about 284 extensions of Government has decreased the number time, so I will not. allowed in hotels and we have also put back However, I have been disappointed with the time when hotels can have 40 machines. I some in the club industry in relation to this hope that Damien Messingham was merely gaming debate. I think a small section within displaying his political past with these the industry needs to take notice of the old- comments. He is not assisting Clubs fashioned term "pull your head in". Whether Queensland by his selective analysis of this they like it or not, hotels have played, and still Bill. play, an important role in the Queensland way I have a great deal of respect for some of of life. Although it is true that the profits of the employees and representatives of Clubs hotels go into the pockets of the owners—and Queensland, and this leads me to the belief this includes some gaming revenue—the that it is only Damien Messingham who has reality is that they offer benefits to the chosen to be dishonest. If he wants to criticise community. Apart from being big employers, the Government for not decreasing the many sporting organisations, charities and number of poker machines by 10 instead of associations gain funding as a direct five, that is fine, but he should not go around consequence of assistance from hotels. How telling the community that the Government is many organisations do honourable members increasing the figure by five. We must know of that still have raffles on Thursday remember that he was an adviser to the nights or Saturdays at the local hotel? The Government which increased the number to raffles help these organisations to survive. 45 in the first place. Hotels are an institution in Queensland, Whilst talking of the previous particularly in country and remote parts of the Government's decision, I want to refer to State. They are the very centre of activity for another matter. The two decisions crippling the local community. Although I am not saying clubs at this time are the changes in relation to that they should have open slather when it purchasing machines by clubs themselves and 8 Nov 2000 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 4083 the introduction of the licensed machine of these club managers are sending the clubs operator, which is an absolute impediment. I down the drain. Some managers have not have not spoken to anyone who has a good matched their incomes with performance. They word to say about licensed machine operators. have wildly committed clubs to maximum I fail to understand their real purpose. I expansion and increased numbers of poker suppose it was a good idea at the time to get machines so that they can put up their hands a quick $2m for consolidated revenue, but I for extra salaries. believe it costs clubs more than that in the I should say, however, that I am not process. classing all club managers in this category, as I briefly mentioned that some clubs are in many of the club managers are doing a first- crisis. This is no understatement. A number of class job. A number of them are personal clubs are battling at the moment. The reasons friends of mine. I believe that I am a for this are varied. One reason is that clubs reasonable judge of successful clubs after have been either badly planned or managed. being involved in the industry for a number of The optimistic projections made a few years years. Many managers of clubs have been ago have simply not been delivered. Boards involved with the clubs for a number of made decisions in hope. years—many prior to the introduction of gaming machines—or were board members I believe that it is not only the boards that who decided to take on management. should be responsible for some of the problems, financial institutions must take a fair I wish to mention three examples in order share of the blame. They jumped on the gravy to make my point. Ken Mogg, whom I regard train that they thought poker machines would as one of the best club managers in this State, bring, and only now, when it has become a bit has been involved with Kedron-Wavell for over tough, we find that they want to reverse out of 15 years. I believe his first job in the industry at the club industry as quickly as they can. Kedron-Wavell was as cellar man. His expertise has been used by a number of What the banks are doing to the club clubs. industry is similar to what they continue to do to farmers in rural Queensland. They talk the Dr Watson: A good bloke. talk when it comes to lending when they think Mr REEVES: A good bloke; that is 100% everything is on the up, but they fail to walk accurate. Arthur Hingst is the manager of the walk when it gets a bit tougher. If the Easts Carina Leagues Club. He was a one- rumour mill is correct, banks are putting man band well before poker machines were enormous pressure upon a number of clubs. I ever thought of in Queensland. He is now say this to the banks: if they think they have performing superbly in a facility which is trouble when they close a local branch, they second to none in its area. Mark Hannelly is "ain't seen nothing yet". If they start to the manager of Brothers Ipswich club. Mark foreclose on community clubs—clubs which decided to give up a secure job in the railways play a vital role in our communities—I am sure in order to take on the challenge of managing many members of this House will not be silent the club when he was on the club's board. if the banks act in a way which is detrimental to Since Mark became manager the club has not the local community. looked back. I firmly believe that another major cause I use these three clubs as an example of problems for clubs has been those whom I because in these instances the so-called call the spongers on the industry. I am gaming experts were not brought in from referring to some of the so-called consultants interstate. These managers are people who who jumped on the gaming bandwagon a few have contributed greatly to club development. years ago and in some cases exploited They are people who have delivered. boards' inexperience in the area of gaming. It is vital that we ensure the survival of the These people offered apparent expertise. club industry. I have five clubs either in or close However, some of the advice received from to my electorate, namely, the Mount Gravatt these consultants was flawed. They introduced Sporting and Workers Club, the Southside unrealistic projections that were the basis of Community Club, the Mount Gravatt Bowls loans and building plans for clubs. These Club, the East Mount Gravatt Rugby League projections have been flawed and many clubs Club and the Rochedale Rovers Soccer Club. I are in trouble today because of these will continue to work with the club industry with spongers. the aim of ensuring their survival. Another reason clubs are in crisis is the I am also conscious of the three hotels in overinflated egos of some club managers. I my electorate and the contribution that they believe that the overinflated salaries of some make to local charities and local community 4084 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 8 Nov 2000 groups. I refer to the Mansfield Hotel, the Glen out that they have a gambling problem. Hotel and the Newnham Hotel. Limiting the note acceptors to $20 notes will Whilst we must ensure that responsible have a major impact on limiting the amount gaming takes place—and I believe that this Bill that people will spend. does that—we must also ensure that the club Mr Roberts: Did you have any better luck industry continues to survive and prosper. The backing the horses? member for Caboolture spoke about the Mr REEVES: No, I probably had worse Jupiters fund. What he failed to mention was luck backing the horses yesterday. the Gaming Machine Community Benefit Fund. Since the introduction of poker Dr Watson: Did you get some good machines, well over $118m has gone to returns yesterday? 15,144 local community organisations and Mr REEVES: No, I got a bad return charities. yesterday. I think I should have stuck to a Mr Musgrove: That's fantastic. poker machine. I probably would have had better luck. Mr REEVES: I agree with the member for Springwood. That is fantastic. We all know of I commend the Bill to the House and I little clubs that needed a little handout, and congratulate the Treasurer not only on this Bill they have received this gaming money. That is but also on the way in which it has come about putting the money back into the local through the gaming review carried out by the community for the benefit of the local member for Archerfield, the member for community. Cleveland and the member for Cairns. I think they have done a terrific job for the people of Mr Pearce: A craft club—a new sewing Queensland, and this Bill is a direct result. machine, things like that. I remind members, particularly members Mr REEVES: That is exactly right. The such as the member for Caboolture, that member for Caboolture talked a load of before they start criticising the club industry rubbish. He did not even think about the they really should get involved in it. They money that has been put into the sports should understand the contribution that the development funds and a number of sporting club industry makes to the social fabric of and community facilities as a direct result of Queensland society. The member for putting gaming money into the Consolidated Caboolture should get involved with the clubs Fund. I know that the member for Nudgee is and understand fully what they are all about soon to establish a youth facility— instead of spending 16 minutes criticising Mr Roberts: The PCYC. them, then being hypocritical and trying to get their support. I commend the Bill to the House. Mr REEVES: That is a direct result of the money generated from gaming put into the Mr TURNER (Thuringowa—IND) Sports Department. (4.24 p.m.): The odds of winning Powerball are 54,879,155 to 1. The odds of winning a $5 Like I said at the outset, I am Lotto are 140,000 to 1. The odds of a person's unashamedly a supporter of the club industry marriage ending in divorce are 2 to 1. and I will continue to be so. However, I think it Australians love to gamble. is important that we continue with responsible gambling activities. I accept wholeheartedly The Minister states that this Bill addresses that part of the legislation that deals with note the social and economic impacts of gambling acceptors. I think that, at present, for people to occurring mainly from the recent rapid growth be able to put a $100 note or a $50 note into in gaming machines in Queensland. The a note acceptor is disgraceful. I do not mind Minister states that the reforms will ensure that having a punt every now and then. When I gaming develops in a balanced and socially occasionally use a poker machine, if I happen responsible manner. However, does this Bill go to have not too much change in my pocket far enough? I understand that further and I have a $50 note I say to myself, "I will amendments will follow to complete the put in the $50, but I will take out $30." I just do Government's policy. However, I must still ask: not do it. I put in the $50 and I spend the $50. does it go far enough? Does this Bill suitably We must take steps to stop people who address bad decisions made by Queensland cannot afford to do that from being able to do Governments over the past 10 years? it. I think a limit of $20 on note acceptors is Over the past 10 years Queenslanders' acceptable. If people with a gambling problem spending on gambling has quadrupled, mainly have a $50 note or a $100 note, it is much due to the increase in gaming machines at harder for them to ask for change at the more accessible venues such as hotels. The change counter for fear of someone finding Minister acknowledges that the majority of 8 Nov 2000 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 4085 gambling problems come from gaming While the majority of Queenslanders machines. Already hotels account for three- engage in some form of gambling without quarters of the growth in gaming machines in suffering any harm, a minority of the past few years. Yet since the Beattie people—2%—gamble to the extent that they Government came to power, the maximum encounter significant financial difficulties as a number of gaming machines for hotels has result of their losses. Those 65,000 people increased from 30 to 40. The Minister stated in have serious gambling problems. It has been his second-reading speech that provision is estimated that each of those gamblers affects being made for greater community input in 10 to 15 other people. Their spouses and regard to gaming machine applications, yet children suffer emotional damage such as public comment will be sought only on stress, grief and the breakdown of family applications for "significant" increases, which relationships as well as financial damage such means an increase of 20 or more gaming as loss of income. Those people also impact machines at a club or 10 or more gaming on the community by causing loss of machines at a hotel. productivity and pressure on social services. I believe that any increase is significant. In The gamblers who spend more than other words, average hotel gaming machine $1,000 a year on machines account for more numbers will be able to effectively double in than 25% of a casino's total income from the next two years without any community gaming machines. The 13% of gamblers consultation. The community should be spending more than $1,000 on table games consulted for any new applications for gaming account for more than 50% of the total income machines. The Minister stated further that the from table games. It stands to reason that Queensland Gaming Commission's powers are providers of gambling services would face being expanded significantly. He stated significant revenue losses in the absence of further— heavy gamblers. Clubs and hotels advertise extensively to attract patronage. We need "... the commission may choose to issue determined policies to curb advertising that guidelines outlining its views on the entices heavy gambling. location of gaming machines in a site or the proximity of gaming machines to The Government needs to play a leading ATMs." role in ensuring that responsible gaming practices are adopted by gaming venues and Or it may choose to issue guidelines are monitored by independent bodies. It is not about the commission's position on the responsible government to allow the gaming proximity of gaming machines to schools, industry to write and monitor its code of shopping centres. This industry does not have conduct. Gaming practices must not be left to a good reputation for self-regulation. These choice by gambling venues. This lack of matters must be governed by regulations and responsibility is very apparent with windowless not dealt with in such a wishy-washy way. rooms with no clocks and no natural light that The Bill recognises that many larger clubs are clearly designed to create a timeless are no longer maintaining their focal point of atmosphere so that patrons are encouraged to funding charity, sporting and community gamble continuously. All gambling venues projects. I welcome the inclusion of the annual should be required to display clocks and, community benefit statement for clubs with where possible, to admit natural light. more than 50 gaming machines. Shouldn't all We must have strong codes of conduct community clubs be accountable to the with independent bodies to monitor the community supporting them? effectiveness of these practices. Will the Under Part 4 of the Bill, the Community Minister advise the House of what portion of Investment Fund will be distributed into three the 8.5% of the total tax received from activities. The destination of these levies is gambling will go to dealing with social issues very unclear. The Gaming Machine arising from gambling such as research on the Community Benefit Fund was designed to impact of gambling in the community and compensate communities for some of the harm minimisation? Will the Minister also damage done in our society by having advise the House what portion of the 8.5% of gambling establishments. This compensation the total taxes received from gambling will go is set at 8.5% of the taxes received from to support welfare and church organisations to gaming. Could the Minister advise the House meet demands placed on their services due to what proportion of the 8.5% of the total taxes problem gambling? received from gambling will go back to the The third activity for distribution of a public for their community projects? portion of the 8.5% of the total taxes received 4086 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 8 Nov 2000 from gambling is for programs such as job gambling-related hardships; and, finally, creation and crime prevention. Isn't this reviewing and amending the previous funding another term for consolidated revenue? Is this system to achieve optimum community benefit third activity just a smokescreen? Is the from gambling-derived funds. Government simply returning a portion of the 8.5% to consolidated revenue? Will the It is very clear from looking at this Minister advise the House what portion of the legislation, and at the reports upon which it is 8.5% will go to this third activity? based, that we as a Government are putting a very heavy emphasis and focus upon the In summary, providers of gambling issue of community development. Really, in services should be required to act in a way many ways a community development outlook which minimises problem gambling. is embodied in the provisions of these Advertising should be prohibited. Venues amendments, especially as they relate to should be required to display clocks and, gaming machines. In my view, that is entirely where possible, to admit natural light. Services consistent with the way in which we should be to assist problem gamblers should be working in the local community. expanded and financed from gambling taxes. New forms of gaming should be subject to In the electorate of Ferny Grove there are social impact studies. Public comment should a number of developments taking place that be sought on any application for increases in involve opportunities to develop the local the number of gaming machines. With this Bill, community in a way that is quite supportive of the Government is only scratching the surface community organisations, families and young of the problems created in our society by people. This community development outlook gambling. This Bill is inadequate in addressing can be seen in the way we should be the social and economic impacts of gambling. approaching any new major shopping centre It does not balance the benefits and damage development, such as the Great Western to our society. Supercentre that is being built on the corner of Settlement Road and Samford Road. Equally, Gambling is here to stay, but will gaming the approach to community policing around machines remain our worst nightmare or will the major shopping centre at Brookside is Internet gambling soon become our worst another example of where we are trying to nightmare? create a community development outlook in Mr WILSON (Ferny Grove—ALP) coming to grips with local issues and concerns. (4.32 p.m.): It is my great pleasure to stand and support the Gambling Legislation Some of the businesses of the shopping Amendment Bill 2000. Following the review of strips in the area are getting together and gaming in Queensland report to the Treasurer developing a business community around their in December 1999 and the Green Paper in shopping strips because they wish to build up December 2000, the release of the policy the support for those shopping areas in the direction for gambling in Queensland heralded local community. The way in which we treat a broad range of responsible gambling public spaces, especially for young people, initiatives for the State with the aim of must be from the viewpoint of developing the achieving a greater balance and better friendliness and the supportive environment of coordination of gambling services. the local community for young people. The initiatives under the new direction In another area, the development of include, firstly, gaming machine limits of 280 multipurpose sporting venues is best for clubs immediately and 40 for hotels by 1 approached from a community development January 2001; secondly, limits on note angle whereby we are trying to coordinate and acceptors, with their being able to accept only integrate various sporting clubs at single up to $20 notes within 12 months; thirdly, venues to maximise the outcome for a broad expanded powers for the Queensland Gaming range of sports, especially junior sports. The Commission in relation to approving list could go on. The way in which clubs are applications for new gaming machine site approached in the local community is clearly licences and increased machine numbers at from a community development outlook. The existing sites, involving increased consultation way in which community organisations are with the community and local authorities; supported, for example, through the Gaming fourthly, the dedication of funds to support Machine Community Benefit Fund also shows strategic research programs and responsible that we as a Government are very anxious to gambling initiatives; fifthly, expanding and do whatever we can to support the extending support services, especially development of local community initiatives. So counselling, to those individuals experiencing when one comes to the gaming machine area, 8 Nov 2000 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 4087 it is very important to see consistency with this prepared for any increase in machine numbers preoccupation with community development. where there is cause for concern. One area I wish to address particularly It is anticipated that the information to be connected with the gaming machine issue is addressed in the community impact community impact statements. It is very clear statements will include, firstly, venue that over the last several years there has been information, including proximity of the a growing anxiety and concern within the proposed development to community areas community about the overall impact of such as churches, schools, shopping centres gambling generally, and gaming machines in and other public areas; proximity to areas such particular, on communities, families and as Centrelink, St Vincent de Paul and other especially working people and socially treatment or activity centres will be considered; disadvantaged areas. This Government, and proximity to areas frequented by minors, through its review and now this amending such as amusement arcades and cinemas. legislation, is fully taking on board that Secondly, characteristics of the local community concern. community will be assessed, including age distribution, economy, tourism patronage and Certainly I have clearly seen in my local areas of social disadvantage. Thirdly, it will area that concern. When a recent application include predicted social impacts of the was notified for the grant of a licence for 35 proposed development, including anticipated gaming machines additional to the area, patron numbers, disadvantage factors such as except for one instance the community levels of unemployment in the area, welfare response was overwhelmingly against any dependency and so on, and the attitude of increase in gaming machines at any new site local residents to the proposed gaming venue. in my local area. Those concerns and views have been passed on to the appropriate The Government is well advanced in authorities to take into account when developing the requirements for community considering that particular application. impact statements in consultation with the community, broadly advertising in the print I come to the community impact media and on the Internet for public comment statements. The extensive consultation on a draft model. The Clubs Queensland and associated with the review of gaming in the Queensland Hotels Association Queensland and the Green Paper on gaming submissions on the draft community impact in Queensland very clearly indicated statement were broadly supportive of improved community concern with the continuing growth community consultation. The Government of gaming. The growth of gaming machines believes that clubs and hotels that hope to was identified as the area of greatest concern. benefit from machine gaming decisions would The Government has decided that the Gaming be expected by the general community to Commission should be provided with more contribute to a comprehensive impact information on the impact of decisions on new assessment process. In this regard, the gaming machine licences and significant initiative of the community impact statement is increases in the number of machines at a key component of our policy direction for existing premises. A regulation has been gambling in Queensland and strives in effect drafted specifying "significant" to be an to balance the social and economic benefits increase of 20 or more machines at a club or and costs of gambling in Queensland 10 or more machines at a hotel. Queensland communities. is at the forefront of ensuring consideration of This legislation deserves the support of the community impact likely to be associated this House. For all of the reasons put forward with gaming machines. Accordingly, the by the Treasurer and the other speakers in commission's decisions will be better informed support of the Bill, I also endorse the by the use of community impact statements, legislation and commend it to the House. which are expected to be developed by qualified experts in the field. Mr BEANLAND (Indooroopilly—LP) (4.40 p.m.): In rising to participate in this To this end the Bill allows the commission debate today, I wish to raise a few of the to seek public comment and requires the issues that I think need to be aired. The preparation of a community impact statement legislation covers gambling, particularly gaming when there is an application for a new gaming machines—a very important and major growth machine licence and where there is an area, particularly in recent times. I often listen application for a significant increase in the to people who tell me about gambling in the number of machines. The legislation also United States. People do not really appreciate requires a community impact statement to be that in the United States gambling outside of 4088 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 8 Nov 2000

Las Vegas and Atlantic City is quite restricted. necessarily included in this second round of In some States it is very restricted indeed, consultation and who are fairly busy looking even in the horse racing industry. There is not after their small club. I am not talking about the breadth of gambling across the United the larger clubs; I am sure they would be up States that we have in Australia generally. with it. However, it will be a fairly tall order for People in this State do not generally seem to the smaller clubs in particular and some of the be aware of that. I suppose they see the smaller hotels that will be picked up in this Hollywood sagas which normally show Las legislation if they have poker machines. Vegas or Atlantic City with gambling 24 hours I think the Minister needs to give a little a day, with the big casinos that have a whole leniency in regard to some of the smaller range of poker machines and various other operators to give them time to make sure that forms of gambling. In those two centres they have changed their programs to be in line gambling is a major industry. with this legislation, which does have some Gambling arrived in Nevada in the United significant effects on the industry. We cannot States because Nevada, apart from having a walk away from that. silver resource, is a fairly poor State. They were I notice also that we still have not got this looking to gain from an industry and they saw year's gaming machine annual report, which I that gambling was not operational in other hoped we might have. I asked a question of States of America. They saw this as an the Minister some time ago about an issue to opportunity for Nevada to gain something. do with poker machines, and he referred me to Honourable members will notice that it is not in the annual report, but of course the annual the capital of Nevada, Carson City; it is down in report still has not arrived. I am sure the Las Vegas, which has grown enormously since Minister will want to get the legislation before the war years. the annual report arrives, because that will I return to the legislation that the Minister contain the number of poker machines that has before us today. I note that the have been approved over the past 12 months commencement date of this legislation has and a whole range of pertinent information been changed from 1 September 2000 to 1 relevant to this debate. For some reason the December 2000. I noted that from the Minister will not even answer the questions on amendments the Minister sent around a while notice in relation to those issues. ago. I was wondering how this was all going to I wonder what the Minister has to hide. occur without changing that date. But even if Perhaps it is the fact that I happened to that date is changed to 1 December, it is now notice, when the Budget came out this year 8 November and the commencement date that the gaming machine tax collected by the would still be 22 days away. That is not a great State Government had reached a record deal of time for clubs and hotels to be able to $309m for the 1999-2000 year. Since July adhere to the new legislation the Minister is 1998—a couple of years ago—it has gone up putting through today. After all, in various by $124m to $309m, an increase of 67%. It places there are some significant changes of went up by $124m to $309m over two years in which people would be aware. the time of this Government. That is based on I am sure that the Minister has consulted the Treasurer's own figures from his annual with the club industry. It has probably indicated statements. I presume that is correct. The to its members the range of changes, and the annual statement for 1998-99 contained those same goes for the hotel industry. figures. That is the latest official record. Nevertheless, these industries still have to look The amount of revenue that the State at the legislation and the amendments and be receives is a major issue. It has been growing informed exactly of the changes. There are a rapidly in recent times, as has the number of lot of stiff penalties if they do not adhere to this machines both in hotels and clubs to a lesser legislation, and rightly so. I am not complaining extent. The issue always raises a number of about that at all. The point I want to make, other pertinent matters which I want to touch though, is that there are only 22 days from on briefly. One of those issues relates to the today in which to ensure that these people are terminology that is used in a number of fully aware of this legislation. taverns. I refer to the use of the word "clubs" With respect, even though the Minister by taverns. I did not see anything in the has consulted widely—I am not arguing that legislation, having gone quickly through it, that point; I am sure he has, particularly with the relates to this, but I am concerned about it. I club industry office bearers, the senior people would like the Minister to address this issue. within industry—I am concerned about the I have noticed some taverns promoting people in the smaller clubs who are not themselves as clubs. I am not sure how they 8 Nov 2000 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 4089 get away with this, but it seems they do. I was 77% of problem gamblers make extensive use going to write to the Minister about it, but then of gaming machines fitted with note acceptors I noticed that we have this Bill before the and that note acceptors on gaming machines Parliament so I thought I would wait and raise in all venues, including casinos, will be limited it here. I hope to get an answer in relation to to receiving $5, $10 and $20 notes. The how these taverns are able to use the word acceptance of higher value notes will be "club". I do not know how that occurs, but I prohibited. That is desirable. I notice that the have seen it displayed and a couple of clubs Minister has relayed this message in a number have raised it with me. I was going to write to of other forums. I have heard the Minister the Treasurer, but because we have the making similar statements on the airwaves. ability— However, I am concerned as to how this is Mr Hamill: And I have raised the issue going to be implemented. Who is going to pay with the Minister for Tourism because I think it for this? is an issue over licensing. It will be quite expensive to change the Mr BEANLAND: The Minister may give machines. Like most things, I am sure me an answer later. I appreciate that. someone can come up with the technology to change the way they operate. It probably Mr Hamill: I will suffice with that one now. exists already. However, I am not aware of the Mr BEANLAND: I want to get the proper way in which the system will operate and I am answer—the correct answer—from the Minister very concerned as to who is going to pay for because I want to report back to my clubs changing the machines. Many smaller exactly what is going on in relation to this. I operators are certainly not in a position to pay. was going to write to the Minister, but when I I dare say that even some of the larger saw that this Bill was before the House I operators will find it somewhat difficult. I am thought I would raise it now, save writing and sure casinos can well afford to pay for get the answer from him in the House on the changing the machines, but I am concerned spot. about the small club and hotel operators in the Mr Hamill: I have just given you the suburbs around the State, particularly in the answer and now you are filibustering. smaller towns. Who is going to pay for it? What is the cost? The Treasurer has Mr BEANLAND: I say to the Minister that mentioned this a number of times, but he has there is no point duckshoving it off to the not given the costs, the time span and so on. Minister for Tourism because that is not going There needs to be further information as to to get us anywhere. how the system will work. Mr Hamill: I don't have responsibility for I understand that hotels and clubs have the Liquor Act. I don't have the Liquor Act. no credit betting and that, in fact, credit betting Mr BEANLAND: I want this Minister to do is illegal. The maximum bet at one time for a something about it, as my clubs do. I think it is club is $5. However, I believe there are no only fair to say that clubs are clubs and taverns limits for casinos, and the Treasurer can and hotels are that—taverns and hotels. There correct me later if I am wrong, because the is no point in sending it across to the Minister rules have changed in recent times. Gambling for Tourism. I am not having a go at the addiction is a problem within the community. It Minister. She is not here at the moment. She is not something that one can get away from. may not even be aware of the whole issue. It For example, personal bankruptcies in is a matter for the Treasurer as the Minister Queensland account for 80% of all responsible for this legislation to ensure that bankruptcies in the State. Fewer than 20% of this is brought to the attention of the Minister bankruptcies are business bankruptcies. These for Tourism—if that is the case—and to have matters are difficult to understand, but one some action taken in relation to it. If that is the reason for this statistic is gambling addiction, case, then I am surprised that he did not because people get into financial difficulties. include something in this legislation to amend Alcohol and drugs are other issues that can the Liquor Act, if that is the Act in which the also come into play, but one of the major issue is picked up. This relates to poker causes is gambling addiction. It is a soul- machines. I am sure this relates to taverns and destroying issue. It destroys families, hotels, as there are some that seem to marriages and homes. This is an issue which advertise themselves as clubs. needs to be looked at very seriously indeed. In the Minister's ministerial statement on Unfortunately, it is a growing problem within 12 April 2000 in this House, he said that the the community. Productivity Commission report on the The Government must ensure that a Australian gambling industry shows that some responsible gambling strategy is put in place. 4090 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 8 Nov 2000

The Treasurer will say that in recent times the Explanatory Notes in relation to the ABS Government has put a strategy into place, and figures on retail trade states quite clearly— the Government has certainly made some "... wholesale sales; takings from repairs, changes. However, whether that strategy is meals and hiring of goods (except for appropriate and goes far enough is another rent, leasing and hiring of land and matter altogether. Clubs also have to ensure buildings); and commissions from agency that they have a code of practice in place and activity (e.g. commissions received from that they abide by that code of practice. To be collecting dry cleaning, selling lottery fair, I think most clubs do that. However, there tickets, etc." are a number of other issues that we as a community and the Government need to look Therefore, net takings from gaming at in relation to this issue. machines are included as part of the retail trade figures. However, this figure is often There has not been any real effort in the overlooked. When the retail trade figures are area of public awareness and public education booming, it should not be forgotten that one to ensure that people are aware of the component is the net takings of gaming problems of gambling addiction. There are machines. many ads about gambling on television and There are a couple of other issues I want radio, in brochures and so forth, but there is to touch on. The Bill proposes that the not much effort put into the problem of Queensland Gaming Commission can issue gambling addiction. This is a separate issue guidelines. In his second-reading speech, the that needs to be looked at. There is a whole Minister talked about the proximity of gaming range of advertising for scratchies and other machines to schools, shopping centres and forms of gambling, but again there is no public the like. It is all very well to mention that, but awareness or public education when it comes the fact is that there is no indication of where to gambling. these are going to be and how the system is In relation to cigarette smoking, it is very going to operate. As I understand it, there will clear what the message is. In relation to drink- be no gazettal of this by regulation but an driving, the message is very clear—that is, a instrument will be put in the Gazette. The person is an idiot if they drink and drive. Scrutiny of Legislation Committee picked up However, there is no public awareness or on this fact when it went through the Bill. The education in the community about the committee made comment on this at pages problems of gambling addiction and how these 16 and 17 of Alert Digest No. 10, tabled on 22 issues take hold. The Government has a long August. It stated— way to go in looking at this issue—further than "The committee has previously it has gone in recent times. The figures speak commented adversely on provisions which for themselves. permit matters, which it might reasonably I mentioned the increase in revenue from be anticipated would be dealt with by gambling, particularly gaming machines, that regulation, to be processed through some this Government has received over the past alternative means which does not couple of years. It is quite a windfall. Last year constitute subordinate legislation." $1.2m was spent on gambling addiction That is an important issue. The guidelines programs, and I understand that that is going the commission is going to pursue will be to increase this year. However, the published in the Gazette. These are the sorts Government spent only $1.2m when it of things that the Parliament ought to be received well over $300m—in fact, $309m—in made aware of. The only way to do that gaming machine taxes in the last financial adequately is to ensure that they are put year. There is a huge gap to make up in through by regulation and then tabled in this relation to public awareness programs in this place. area. I make reference to the fact that Labor I continually hear that retail trade figures previously found this sort of proposal have increased enormously in recent times. unacceptable when some time ago the According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics coalition introduced a Bill that did something information I have been given, we should not similar in relation to another matter. It is forget that retail trade figures include net interesting that in this case the Treasurer finds takings from gaming machines. Gambling is it completely acceptable. fairly prosperous at the moment. There is a Another matter raised by the Scrutiny of large amount of it. The retail trade figures are Legislation Committee relates to the "creep propped up by the increase in gambling. The provisions", which allow for increases in the section headed "Definition of Turnover" in the number of machines in clubs, hotels and so 8 Nov 2000 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 4091 on, up to the maximum number. Of course, are effectively under receiver/manager the Minister has made some changes in arrangements. It seems that small to medium relation to this but, at the end of the day, sized clubs are having the greatest difficulties, increases will be able to occur without the but large clubs are not excluded. For example, need to advertise or inform the public in a the Southport RSL club is experiencing real whole range of circumstances and situations financial difficulties. Some of the problems are that will arise. self-inflicted, resulting from poor management Because saturation point is being reached and overcapitalisation, but some of the in the community, particularly in relation to problems unquestionably relate to changing shopping centres, there need to be improved economic and social circumstances quite provisions. Councils have them under town beyond the control or influence of even the planning requirements, whereby people have best-managed club. to advertise their intentions, people have the I invite any honourable members who right to object, objections are considered by think the club industry is booming to speak to the councils and appeals go to the local their own clubs. They will get a very different government court. picture. There is also no question that the club That sort of process does not occur in this industry is facing greater competition from instance. In this situation, people go to the gaming machines in hotels and other forms of commission. I think there might be recourse to gaming and wagering. The competition from the Minister in some instances, but there are hotels results from the decision by the no independent appeal rights and provisions Borbidge Government to substantially increase as there are in relation to local government the number of machines that can be installed matters under the town plan. I think this is a in hotels—an increase of 50% over a four-year vastly different situation. There ought to be period. In the same period, the maximum provisions similar to those, provisions that are number of machines in clubs increased only vastly different from what the Minister is marginally, and this Bill actually reduces that proposing. increase and imposes a cap on machine Time expired. numbers. There is also increased competition from lotto, which is now marketed more Mr MICKEL (Logan—ALP) (5 p.m.): The effectively, sports betting and now Internet Bill before the House is a result of extensive gaming. consultation with all stakeholders in the gaming machine industry. It seeks to make It also needs to be pointed out that clubs changes which stakeholders broadly support. make a greater contribution by way of levies or However, some stakeholders, notably the club taxes on gaming machine operations used for industry, have concerns about several aspects community benefit purposes than do hotels. I of the Bill, and I hope the Minister and the urge the Minister and his officers to keep a Government will keep these concerns under very close watch on the viability of the gaming very careful review when the legislation machine industry and that of clubs in becomes law. In this debate I will focus on the particular. importance of the club industry to the The industry is a major contributor to the Queensland economy and on the contribution State's economy and, importantly, to local to the community of Logan by clubs and by communities, and it is entitled to have its the Greenbank RSL in particular. concerns and problems considered as any Since the introduction of gaming other industry does. In that context, I urge the machines in Queensland in 1992 there has Treasurer to very seriously revisit the question been major growth in the State's club industry. of whether well-managed clubs can provide Today some 637 clubs have gaming management support for other clubs that have machines. These clubs range from small, management and financial control difficulties. I community-based bowls clubs, sporting clubs can understand why the Government stepped and community social clubs right through to in to prevent interstate clubs providing major clubs, of which the Greenbank RSL is management and related services to clubs in now the second largest in Queensland. Queensland, and I believe the issue of well-run Queensland clubs providing management and Just because there has been spectacular financial control support to struggling growth in the club industry does not mean that Queensland clubs deserves to be re- the industry is booming in financial terms and examined. free from major problems. The opposite is in fact the case. There are many clubs in Earlier this year I had extensive Queensland today doing it really tough. A discussions in Sydney with leaders of the club number have gone under and a number more industry—an industry which is also 4092 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 8 Nov 2000 experiencing difficulties and challenges. I also and beverage and office administration areas, visited the Penrith Leagues Club, which is the all of whom undertake TAFE training and that largest club in Australia and which provides a provided by private colleges. About 50 staff central beneficial role in the community of have completed an extensive training program Penrith in Sydney's west. The club was a in providing superior standard service to pioneer in community relations and community members and guests and wear "club host" support programs. It is now providing badges to indicate their special training to management support and financial control provide assistance to customers. assistance to a number of struggling clubs What is just as exciting and praiseworthy elsewhere in New South Wales. There are at is the unique partnership between the club least two clubs, in Newcastle and Bathurst, and Logan TAFE, which has located a satellite which would have closed their doors, resulting campus next to the club, on property owned in significant job losses, without the by the club. In an effort to address the management advice they now get from the problems of high youth unemployment in the Penrith club. Logan West area, Greenbank RSL club, The reality is that clubs in Queensland Logan TAFE, Bremer TAFE and Club Training have had to undergo enormous expansion Queensland have formed a partnership to and development in a very short period of provide an entry level hospitality club training time. Not all clubs have been able to secure program. This is a unique arrangement. It is good management and the right financial the first time that there has been a partnership controls as well as sound marketing and between a Government agency, a non- promotional programs. To me, it makes sense Government training provider and a private to allow well-run clubs, of which there are employer to deliver a comprehensive training many, to provide management and other program for young men and women. The support to clubs experiencing difficulties young men and women who have taken part without actually taking them over. I hope this in this program have not been club employees issue is kept under review and that a change but have been keen to undertake training so of attitude can result. that they can enter the club industry and wider I am fortunate to have in the heart of my hospitality sector. electorate and community the Greenbank RSL The results really speak for themselves. A club. At the outset, I declare my pecuniary total of 36 students have graduated with a interest. I am proudly a member of that club. level 2 certificate in hospitality. Of those In under a decade the club has grown from a graduates, 16 have become employees of the modest one to the second largest club in Greenbank RSL club and a number of other Queensland. It has won many awards, graduates have gained employment with other including RSL club of the year in 1998, 1999 local employers. I believe that further evidence and this year. of the success of this program is to be found in It is a massive contributor to the life of the the fact that there was a waiting list of young community I represent. It employs hundreds of men and women wanting to take part in the people. It supports many other local second year of the program, this year, and the businesses through its purchases and fact that a number of other industries are contracting requirements. It is also a very planning to adopt this unique program. generous contributor to a whole range of The Greenbank RSL club not only community organisations and causes, and it is undertakes its own extensive staff training a leader in staff training and in providing programs and employs 31 apprentices, but it is training opportunities in the hospitality industry also a vital cog in a unique program to provide for young men and women who are not club training for non-employees from the Logan employees but who are seeking a career in the West area. It is a record that the club can be hospitality industry. I want to tell the House proud of and one I am proud to support and about the extent of the club's contribution to reveal here in this debate. the community and training for young people, The club's contribution to the local because the record of the Greenbank RSL community is massive. It is a contribution our club is one it is entitled to be proud of. It is a community simply could not do without. I know benchmark for other clubs and even hotels to the same can be said for many other follow. Let me deal with staff and youth communities right around Queensland which training first of all. benefit both directly and indirectly from their The Greenbank RSL club conducts local clubs. Last year the Greenbank RSL club extensive training programs for its own staff. It contributed more than $650,000 to community employs 31 apprentices in the catering, food services, schools and charities in the Logan 8 Nov 2000 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 4093

West area. The list of organisations which It is extremely well run and I want to record my benefited runs to three pages and includes own appreciation and that of my electorate for just about every school, every sporting group, the excellent work being done—not only in every charitable group and every welfare group running the club, but in supporting our in the Logan West and nearby areas. In community—by the general manager, Mr John addition, the club also contributed to no less Limbrick, by the chairman, the board and all than 40 Statewide organisations including staff. BoysTown, the Endeavour Foundation, various Mr Musgrove interjected. Lions clubs, the Royal Children's Hospital Foundation, the Breast Cancer Association, Mr MICKEL: I notice the interjection of the the Sporting Wheelies and the Surf Life member for Springwood and his support for Mr Saving Foundation. Limbrick. I have quite deliberately outlined just a pen picture of the contribution made by the I want to give just a couple of examples of Greenbank RSL club to the Logan West the club's contribution to the community I have community and the wider region because the the honour to represent. The club is a joint kind of unique contribution this great club sponsor of the Battle of the Schools makes is something that I am proud of and I Community Development Program, won of am grateful for. I know that there are other course last year by one of the schools in the clubs large and small that contribute electorate represented by the honourable generously to their communities as well, but member for Woodridge. Over the last two Greenbank RSL's contribution really stands years it has contributed $12,000 in prize out. It is, quite frankly, a contribution my money and $20,000 towards facilities and electorate and community could not do expenses for this program which directly without. benefits schools. The club has contributed $40,000 towards the Logan Paediatric Hospital A strong club industry is important to the through the organisation of annual fundraising communities in which clubs operate today. golf days. With another sponsor, it jointly Clubs are major employers; they benefit local donated a vehicle for the Browns Plains businesses such as trade suppliers; they community police program and subsidises bus contribute generously to community, welfare, trips for senior citizens and respite centres at a education and sporting bodies; and they cost of $100,000 last year alone. provide excellent facilities for their members and guests. The growth of the club industry Another project close to my heart is the and the services clubs provide have been the Logan West Respite Centre, which now beneficial outcomes of the introduction of operates from modern premises and enjoys gaming machines. It is vital that the very generous sponsorship and other support Government of the day and the Parliament of the club. Each year the club generates make laws that encourage sound and around $35,000 for community groups which responsible growth in the club industry while at operate free of charge bingo games on the the same time addressing the gambling club's premises. addiction and related problems which a Not surprisingly, the club and its closely minority of gamblers fall victim to. affiliated RSL sub-branch provides an In supporting the Bill, I hope that the extensive range of services to the returned Minister and the Government will keep an servicemen, ex-servicemen and their wives, open mind on the particular concerns I have widows and families. The club has two raised. They deserve to be kept under review dedicated staff positions to work full-time and I am sure that the Minister will do just that. helping veterans and their families with claims, Mr HEGARTY (Redlands—NPA) with emergency assistance, funeral (5.16 p.m.): In rising to make a contribution to arrangements, hospitality visits and more. The the debate on the Gambling Legislation club hosts a range of functions for ex- Amendment Bill, I would like to state that, in servicemen during the year and provides a the main, the objectives of the legislation range of services for our diggers and their seem practical. The increase in the powers of families such as meeting rooms, a free library, the Queensland Gaming Commission, in movies, as well as special events. It also particular, is long overdue because there has stages the largest Anzac Day parade outside been some concern in recent times, of Brisbane and has a record of support from particularly by local government authorities, in its ex-servicemen and their families probably relation to the proposed establishment of unparalleled in Queensland. gaming machines in shopping centres. The club is now the second largest in An increase in gambling sites throughout Queensland with more than 60,000 members. Queensland will impact those who can least 4094 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 8 Nov 2000 afford to gamble. The placing of gaming who do not have the financial capacity to machines in shopping centres may prove to be repay a loan. They do not have the financial too great a temptation to some members of discipline to be able to regulate their saving the community to resist, with the result that and meet commitments that should come funds usually expended for the nourishment of before gambling. the family—children, in particular—will be used Gambling cannot be stamped out; it is by problem gamblers to test their luck to try to very much a part of society. However, the make a windfall. It is a very wise move to opportunities for gambling have been enable the Queensland Gaming Commission extended far beyond what they were in to issue very firm guidelines and, if possible, previous years. Historically in Australia we have prevent gaming machines from being placed had the punter who regularly went to the race in shopping centres in general. track. We also had the person who had a bet The attitude of the community when on the Melbourne Cup each year—such as faced with the possibility of gaming machines myself—with no expectation of a return. or other gaming outlet being situated next to Another form of gambling was where mums an area of interest to them—whether it be their and dads had a flutter on the Golden Casket. home, the school their children attend or some That was a fairly innocuous form of other community location—must be borne in expenditure on gambling. Most of that money mind. It is all very well to say, "Well, it is went into the Government's coffers. covered under the gaming machine licensing Historically, in Queensland a lot of that money provisions, or the Liquor Act if it is a club that went into our public hospital system. People will serve that sort of beverage", but the two would buy a casket ticket with the thought in Acts are separate and the provisions of one mind, "Oh well, I am probably going to lose, will not necessarily reflect the concerns of the but at least there will be some benefit for other. So empowering the Queensland possibly myself, but certainly for the Gaming Commission to be more cognisant of community at large." That type of gambling the views of the community and taking those was tolerated to a certain extent. community views into account before issuing any gaming machine licences is a very Gambling now receives much wider proactive step. publicity. Gold Lotto is promoted on television and is watched by a vast number of people on I think that today most people recognise a regular basis. If one buys a ticket in the that this is sometimes how people start on the afternoon, one has an instant decision that road to gambling. They make a small evening. In the present day we have a contribution, a few dollars or so, to try to plethora of opportunities for people to gamble. improve their fortune and it sometimes leads The temptation to gamble is greater because to bigger and better things, but soon it is a the prize money available can lead to one gambling habit out of control and their becoming an instant millionaire. lives—and those of people associated with them, their families and perhaps friends—are The other area addressed by this Bill also caught up in that web and the impact is concerns the amalgamation of other forms of usually quite catastrophic. They are not happy gambling, namely, Keno, lotteries and so on. in themselves, of course, because they keep Proceeds from the amalgamation of these on looking to regain their past losses. Their forms of gambling will be placed in a new fund whole lives become consumed with an which is to be called the Community obsession to try to survive through the Investment Fund. 8.5% of the revenue of this gambling habit. fund will be allocated to the new Gambling The harm minimisation provisions in this Community Benefit Fund to promote gambling Bill are very well thought out. Most members of rehabilitation, job creation programs, the community now have the opportunity to community renewal and crime prevention, not indulge in credit betting. Banks and financial strictly to community organisations, as was the institutions are touting to give people credit. case with the Gaming Machine Community There is so much money in the community Benefit Fund. that financial institutions are finding it The Gaming Machine Community Benefit necessary to try to maximise the return on the Fund has been one of the real pluses in terms moneys that are deposited with them. As a of revenue from gambling taxes in this State. result, they are now encouraging people to The fund has obviously grown exponentially in take loans and to extend lines of credit. These recent years. It was a modest fund in 1992 but offers are being made to people who, has now grown to a considerable size. generally speaking, should never be entrusted Community organisations have been able to with such an opportunity. These are people apply for grants from those funds. Larger 8 Nov 2000 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 4095 grants are being issued more frequently Over the period that I have been the because of the fund's growth. member for Redlands, my electorate has I can understand the Government benefited tremendously from the Gaming wondering whether there is an oversupply of Machine Community Benefit Fund. Many money going into the fund and whether the worthwhile organisations have received money money could perhaps be better used that they could not have possibly raised elsewhere. That is always the dilemma faced through their own resources to fund much- by Governments. Governments have to needed community facilities and activities. A consider how best to spend the taxpayer's couple that come to mind are those dollar, whether from gambling or some other associated with youth. I think that all source, for the benefit of the community. I am honourable members would acknowledge the not particularly referring to the current Labor need for us to maintain an interest in any Government, but generally money derived youth activity to make sure that we give the from taxes is not always spent in the best youth of today every possible opportunity to possible interests of the community in every develop themselves in productive ways, to get situation. Because of the reconfiguration of the a sense of responsibility and to give them Gaming Machine Community Benefit Fund we opportunities that their own families' financial may find that there is a diminution in the circumstances may not permit. That is current level of funding going into the paramount. community. The money will be spread among That funding has been provided the areas the Community Investment Fund will substantially through allocations from the cover, namely, dealing with social issues Gaming Machine Community Benefit Fund to arising from gambling—gambling research— organisations such as the scouting movement, Statewide job creation programs, community the guiding movement, the various defence renewal and crime prevention. force cadet organisations and a plethora of I am certainly not against community other community organisations such as senior renewal or crime prevention. They are a vital citizens. I can probably reel off a list to part of our commitment to the community. highlight what I am saying, but I am sure that Gambling research is an important area for all honourable members realise the point that I investment because we are deriving funds am making. All of those organisations have from gambling. As a result, it is only relied heavily on the allocation of funds from reasonable that those who have an addiction the Gaming Machine Community Benefit and should not be gambling should receive Fund. If the current level of funding is assistance to either get them away from diminished in any way, that would be a gambling or ameliorate their activities to a backward step. sensible level that they can afford. I believe I will just digress and single out the that funds directed towards job creation, Macleay Island Golf Club, which is in my community renewal and crime prevention electorate. It has a unique clubhouse, which should be met from consolidated revenue. I has existed for a number of years. I have believe the Government has an obligation to heard honourable members opposite extol the the Queensland taxpayer to come clean and virtues of the wonderful clubs that they have in announce what amount of money will be their electorates. The Macleay Island Golf allocated to each of those areas. Clubhouse consists of a galvanised iron roof, Unfortunately, in the past Labor Governments rough sawn supporting posts, a wraparound have opportunistically seized upon surpluses shadecloth wall and a dirt floor. That does not from funds such as the Auctioneers and diminish the level of community spirit that is Agents Fidelity Guarantee Fund, the electricity evident in the members of that club. However, industry and the Ports Corporation and used recently the Gaming Machine Community the money elsewhere. Benefit Fund gave that club $30,000. Money derived from gambling is indirect All honourable members would know that, taxation. When such funds are distributed to to put up a semblance of a respectable areas which have specific portfolio building that meets local government responsibility, such as police, the money guidelines, tens of thousands of dollars are should come from consolidated revenue. A needed just to put down a slab and a few question for the Treasurer is the extent to basic facilities such as toilets and ablution which he may diminish the amount of money facilities. However, through the assistance of derived from the funds that will be allocated to the local government authority and, hopefully, the community organisations which benefit from the Jupiters Casino benefit fund, at long from the Gaming Machine Community Benefit last that club may have the opportunity to Fund at present. construct a clubhouse that would be 4096 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 8 Nov 2000 considered to be an acceptable structure. singled out by this Government as new ways Although I have highlighted that example, of minimising harm and keeping a proper organisations from elsewhere in the State control on gambling in this State. The first of could now be precluded from any possibility of those directions is the community impact raising reasonable amounts of money that will statements that will now be required by the enable them to get such a facility. commission in seeking public comment in I ask the Minister to address that issue relation to all new gaming machine licences particularly, because honourable members and for significant increases in the numbers of who have spoken previously also expressed machines—20 for clubs and 10 for hotels. That concern. I think that it is of grave concern if the is really going to make a difference. I have idealism of this Bill has a cloud over it because seen it operating already in the Cairns area of a perception that the Treasurer and the and it is of some relief to some groups in the Labor Government may be using it to fill the community to discover that they have a way of Treasury coffers because they are afraid to influencing, in the first place, the decision as to raise taxes in the usual way to meet the venue and, secondly, in alerting the community obligations in the respective Government to ensuring that there really is portfolios. I ask the Minister to address that consideration by the commission of the wider issue in his summation. impacts that increasing numbers of machines might have in an area. Ms BOYLE (Cairns—ALP) (5.33 p.m.): It People are pleased, too, that factors such is my pleasure to support the Gambling as the proximity of the venue to churches, Legislation Amendment Bill 2000. I thank the schools, shopping centres or other public Treasurer for his compliment in appointing me areas can be taken into account. They are as one of the members of the gaming review pleased, too, that the age demographics of an committee, which has been part of the area, the existing distribution of other gaming consultation process, particularly leading up to opportunities, the effects of gaming on the this Bill being brought to the House. It certainly local economy, influences such as tourism was a very instructive experience. We patronage or even influences such as the consulted widely with industry participants who contribution that gaming makes to social were clear and loud in expressing their views to disadvantage are all issues that can be taken us. In terms of the many issues that we have into account. To this date, that has not been addressed in this Bill, there is not a consistent so. Therefore, all of us should be very pleased industry stance. Of course, there is that the positive sides of gaming can be considerable competition between hotels, addressed much better by the community clubs and casinos and other forms of being allowed to have a say and, in particular, gambling. That meant that those industry requiring the venue to consider the issues that submissions varied quite a lot. go into that community impact statement We also spoke to the people of before they make their application. Queensland—those who wished that we had The second element that I would like to never brought gaming machines into draw to members' attention about which I am Queensland and those who enjoy the particularly pleased is the combination of the pleasures that come to them from occasional funds and, to an extent, the reorganising of flutters through various forms of gambling but them under the new Community Investment who nonetheless have concerns about those Fund. The Community Investment Fund, people who go too far and get themselves into operated through Treasury, will allocate serious difficulty. We considered, too, the moneys to gambling research, and we need legalities of trying to stop the clock, as it were, that. We have to monitor the people—who are of holding back the further roll-out of gambling the great majority—who can enjoy various opportunities and gaming machines in kinds of gambling opportunities. We also have Queensland. We looked at the benefits that to monitor the kinds of people—a small come to the funds and at the harm that can number, but nonetheless an important come to individuals, their finances and the group—who do not gamble wisely and get into flow-on effects to their families. I am satisfied difficulty. We need to look, too, at other areas indeed that, with the help of Treasury and in of change within the gaming industry and particular the people from the gaming office, attempt at least to be a little bit ahead of the the Treasurer has brought forward a Bill that industry in terms of any changes that we might contains much in the way of reform. require in legislation. I would like to bring to members' attention This Community Investment Fund will also some elements of the Bill that, in fact, have look at programs of Statewide significance— already made a difference just by being and that is an important phrase—including job 8 Nov 2000 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 4097 creation and, in terms of my experience as the of facilities and services to its members, member for Cairns, one of the most important nonetheless clubs are taxed at a lower rate programs, and that is community renewal. By than hotels with gaming machines. definition, community renewal targets those As honourable members may also be communities where there are statistics aware, concerns have been raised suggesting indicating high social disadvantage, particularly that some clubs may have been using their where there is a large public housing revenue from gaming machines to build larger component. These communities need the premises to house more gaming machines same opportunities, they need upgrading not rather than to provide benefits to the only of their housing but also their employment community. It is important, therefore, that we and training opportunities, their health as a Government and the Treasurer in services, and their community pride and hope particular are able to track which clubs, and in order to join all other communities in pubs for that matter, are genuinely providing Queensland on an equal basis. Unfortunately benefits to the wider community; which ones they are frequently the communities where do provide benefits to their members and those involved, who may go for a short time to which ones in fact seem not to be providing a club or a pub and put some money into benefits so much as looking after their own gaming machines, can least afford to overdo it entrepreneurial growth ambitions. and least afford to develop a problem with gaming. So it is right and proper, directly These community benefit statements will through their contributions in gaming and be required at this stage only for those clubs through their social disadvantage, that some with more than 50 machines. So that is a of the money that we all contribute through relatively small number of the gaming machine having a good time in various gambling venues around the State. Having those benefit venues goes back to those in our community statements will be a tremendous benefit for us who most need it. to make the community aware of any large The changes to establish the new clubs that are not contributing widely to their Community Investment Fund will of course be broader community, to assist those venues implemented in such a way as to ensure that that are doing the right thing—to really existing funding levels for what was formerly publicise that to their members and their known as the Gaming Machine Community general geographic area—and for us to be Benefit Fund are maintained while providing aware of the tremendous benefits that can additional funds for new responsible gambling flow on from good club management, and support programs and research. I, too, join good pub management, through gaming with other members in this House in machines to the wider community. recognising the tremendous, widespread The honourable member for Logan could benefits there have been from the Gaming not resist informing the House in some detail Machine Community Benefit Fund. of the tremendous benefits that the It will, however, be welcome news to Greenbank RSL club has passed on to his those who have not yet heard it that there will community. I am tempted to take the time to be opportunities now for the gaming funds to tell him and other members of the wonderful distribute more widely to regional areas and clubs in Cairns that do similarly. For example, that the grant limit will be increased from the premises of clubs such as Brothers are $15,000 to $30,000. Certainly in an area such forever being used by all kinds of community as Cairns where many of the community groups. It gives concessions to a large number groups have become quite practised at of groups—to older persons' groups, young knowing where to locate some funds that may people engaged in sport and IT groups. A be of assistance, I know of several groups community benefit statement for that club wanting to band together to apply for a larger being made public would be to its amount of funds than would previously have advancement. been available in order to provide a more I would also like to pay tribute to the substantial piece of community infrastructure smaller clubs. We do have to take care with than could be obtained with lesser amounts. smaller clubs. Many are finding difficulty The third part of the legislation that I competing with the larger clubs and hotels. particularly support—though I hope we extend They recognise that their management may it further as the years go on—is the not be as sophisticated as the management of establishment of community benefit larger venues and that they need some statements. While gaming machines were assistance, and I am hopeful that we will as a originally introduced to help the then financially Government find a way to provide them with ailing club industry and improve the provision that assistance. We do have in the broader far 4098 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 8 Nov 2000 north area some smaller clubs that are going the ostrich and pretend there is not a lot of well and that take every opportunity to benefit suffering out there because of gambling. I those in the community around them. heard the member for Mansfield extolling the An example of a small unsung hero in virtues of the gaming fund because it Cairns is the Cairns West Bowls Club. distributes money to communities to support Community groups are in and out of that club various community projects. I personally do not every day and every night and many not well see that distribution as a virtue but as an publicised benefits are widely distributed. I obligation. It is because of the support of must say the same for Les Nash and the Tully many vulnerable individuals that they have the RSL. Les is particularly active in the clubs' money to be so generous. organisation in far-north Queensland and is a In saying that, I bring to the attention of strong advocate for making sure the regional the House one person who was very point of view gets through to the Clubs vulnerable; she is now dead. When her Queensland headquarters in Brisbane, as well husband died she was 75. She sold her house as to this Government. to live with her daughter and son-in-law, and On balance, this is a good Bill. It has over the next eight and a half years due to taken into account the feeling that I heard loneliness she gambled away every last penny widely expressed across the State that, while of her money on the social outings which she there are some who do not believe in shared with a machine that whistled, screamed gambling, the great majority see it as a and played bells. That was her sad legacy in relatively harmless pastime and a choice they life. This is not an isolated instance, as the are entitled to make. They believe that it is member for Cairns says. There are a lot of quite proper for the Government to oversee people out there in the same boat. this, to control it, to regulate it, and to take Having been involved in many charitable money from it to distribute for the benefit of organisations and sporting clubs prior to the the wider community. One person even said to introduction of gaming machines, I can only me that it is the nicest way that he knows of to reflect on the disastrous effect that they have contribute to the Government's coffers. had in many communities. I have seen the I think this is a balanced Bill. It also does financial input by communities to sporting and what the community requested us to do, and charitable organisations cut dramatically. I that is to slow down the further roll-out of have seen the numbers of volunteers and gaming machines. There are sufficient members of the many service and other machines in many communities around charitable groups plummet. I have witnessed Queensland and we should now take account the increasing age of many members of clubs of that and be reluctant to allow the roll-out, at and heard many of those members speak of a fast rate at least, to go much further than it the fact that perhaps their clubs did not have a has already gone. future. I give my compliments to all of those who The cost to organisations such as St have worked on the drafting of this Bill, both in Vincent de Paul, the Salvation Army and the the Office of Gaming Regulation and in churches has been enormous as they are Treasury in general, to the Treasurer and most called on more and more for assistance, particularly to all of those groups and people whether it be for food, accommodation or who contributed to the consultation process protection, while at the same time they are during the gaming review. receiving less and less to cope with it. When Mrs PRATT (Barambah—IND) do we say enough is enough? When do we (5.48 p.m.): Australians will gamble on decide in favour of the community rather than anything, and that has been reflected on introduce more and more machines under the many occasions. Many foreigners watch in mistaken belief that it is good for amazement as, on one of the most important communities? days of our year, the day we honour and Many have said in this place today that it recognise the efforts of our Anzacs, we bet on is good for communities. If we must have it, a couple of obsolete coins in an illegal game then let it be great. I would like to see much of which police turn a blind eye to on that special this revenue used for the greater good by day. addressing more pressing needs in I do not stand here today to condemn or communities in the form of facilities to address praise those who choose to gamble, but the those who are adversely affected because of effect on many communities, families and an inability to control their gambling individuals is and must be of great concern to weaknesses. This would include their families each and every one of us. Nobody can play as well. It could go to mental health, because 8 Nov 2000 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 4099 a lot of people are driven to gambling through fast-growing industry and its effect on being abused or being in debt. individuals and the community. The cost in One thing that would bother me—and I time may be greater than any one of us could think this would be a shame—is if we saw ever have imagined. much of this revenue filling Government Mr MUSGROVE (Springwood—ALP) coffers. Are we getting to a stage where our (5.53 p.m.): In supporting this Bill, I want to Governments are surviving only on the gaming place on the record my great appreciation of taxes? Are we at the stage where we are and admiration for the mighty Rochedale illegally stealing from the people and giving a Rovers Soccer Club in my electorate, which I pittance back—perhaps the modern-day am very proud to be the patron of, in addition version of Robin Hood: taking from the poor, to the Slacks Creek Soccer Club, which is also the unwise and the vulnerable? I see nothing in my electorate. Both of these clubs rely to be proud of in that. extensively on poker machine revenue to fund It has been reported that Australia has their junior soccer programs, which are without approximately 22% of the world's gaming a doubt the very best in Queensland. machines. That is something I do not believe Those clubs have over 1,000 junior soccer we should be proud of, either. Gambling will be players in my electorate. I think all members with us forever while there are individuals, would agree that, without clubs like that groups or Governments prepared to support it. pumping 100% of their poker machine We are all given free will to pursue avenues of revenue into junior sport, we would have a lot pleasure when the community as a whole of problems with our young people. As the encourages it or if there is the possibility to saying goes, idle hands make for mischief. It is raise revenue or to become an instant not just a case of occupying the time of young millionaire. Smoking once readily raised a lot of people. Through the local club many local revenue but is now socially unacceptable and young people have gone on to professional Governments are endeavouring to curtail it. soccer careers, both in Australia and Only when the pain that gambling inflicts hurts internationally. It does provide a very real the community enough will the people want career path for local young people to make greater restraint or even perhaps—but their way into the Queensland premier league inconceivably—to end it. Internet gambling and then potentially on to one of the great may be the catalyst to do just that. It is national clubs. necessary to bring in strong laws to govern this In relation to national clubs, it is an bittersweet community disaster. ambition of the Rochedale Rovers Soccer Club In saying all that, we must also recognise sometime in the next five or six years to enter the benefit communities receive from clubs the national league. The reality is that this club socially, financially and as work providers. That has been supplying the national league with is why I describe this area of our communities the very best of talent for many, many years. as bittersweet. In smaller communities clubs Its incapacity to compete in that league at have become the social centre, supplying present is due principally to issues of facilities most of the entertainment, the facilities for at the club, not to the talent which resides in functions and the opportunities for the club. It is certainly noteworthy that many of employment in the hospitality industry—an the junior players who come up through the industry which is becoming one of the fastest club often reject substantial financial offers growing. Many small communities have from competing clubs because of their loyalty benefited from the gaming fund and have to the Rochedale Rovers Soccer Club. Without sporting facilities and such that they may a doubt it is Queensland's premier youth club never, ever have necessarily got otherwise. I and it generates far more than its fair share of take nothing away from those clubs which the new and exciting talent coming onto contribute to our communities—and they are Queensland's soccer scene as we see the plentiful—but we in this House have world game expand into the suburbs. Often responsibilities which we must ensure we these days many parents prefer their children meet. to play soccer rather than some of the more I have always believed that it is the injury prone sports such as Rugby. We see a obligation of the strong to protect those who club like Rochedale Rovers growing from cannot protect themselves. Those who have a strength to strength. weakness to gamble to excess have the right This club really does put in 100%; every to expect us to protect them, not subject them last cent it gets from poker machines goes into to greater temptations. I believe this Bill could its youth coaching program. The coaches do a go a long, long way further in controlling this fantastic job. It is great to see everyone from 4100 Electricity Industry 8 Nov 2000 the under 5s all the way up through to Rochedale Rovers. Very briefly, the article professional paid senior players out there on states— the field every night of the week, including "State Governments should not limit weekends, making great use of the facilities the number of poker machines allowed in there. I will certainly be doing everything I can pubs and clubs because a free market to help that club achieve what its goal has would 'find its own level', ... David Watson always been, and that is to enter the National said yesterday." Soccer League. What a load of economic rationalist That club started some 27 years ago in a rubbish! tin shed. The facilities it now enjoys are very much better than they were then. It is the pride Dr WATSON: I rise to a point of order. As of the local community and it certainly holds I have explained previously, that was applying the local community together. It is the premier to the aggregate number of machines in the sporting club on the whole of the eastern side State, and it is exactly the same policy as his of Logan City. It really holds the social fabric of Government's. the community together. If it were not for the Mr SPEAKER: Order! There is no point of poker machines in that club, it simply would order. not be able to offer the massive service of Debate, on motion of Mr Musgrove, coaching so many junior soccer players for the adjourned. whole community. I pay tribute to some of the members of the board. The whole of the board does a ELECTRICITY INDUSTRY great job, but some of the members really Mr SEENEY (Callide—NPA) (6 p.m.): I have earned themselves a reputation for hard move— work over many years. They have different "That this House condemns the points of view on some occasions, but by and Minister for Mines and Energy for failing to large this board functions very, very effectively. meet his core responsibility of ensuring a In particular, I acknowledge the work of Sue safe, reliable and economic supply of Wake, Thomas Gribben and the president, electricity to all Queenslanders and calls Arthur Moore, in addition to Keiran Cooper, on the Premier to replace Minister who runs a lot of the coaching and soccer McGrady with someone better able to programs. His contribution over many years manage the electricity industry." has been well recognised by the community. This Government is fighting to retain any The Slacks Creek Soccer Club now has credibility. It is fighting to avoid the conclusion entered into a joint arrangement with that it was not legitimately elected, and it is Rochedale Rovers. It recognises that, with the distracted from the administration of the State. financial capacity of Rovers flowing from its In so many areas this administration is poker machine operations, it will be able to crumbling, no more so than in the operate as a feeder club to Rovers. While administration of the electricity industry. Rochedale Rovers now operates as a feeder Minister McGrady's performance can be club to some of the large national teams, judged by its impact on power consumers. ultimately that will give it the critical mass to Queensland consumers now pay more and enter the National Soccer League in its own receive an inferior service from a distribution right. system that is becoming a public safety threat. In relation to poker machines, this Bill When the National Party left Government in provides a framework whereby Rochedale 1989, Queensland's electricity industry was in Rovers can go ahead and plan with certainty great shape to meet the supply needs of the for their future, both in terms of their coaching State into the future. program and also in terms of their capital Mr McGrady as Minister inherited a infrastructure program. It is something for spectacularly successful system. He wrecked which the Treasurer is to be commended and the system then, and he is wrecking it again which contrasts very sharply with the now. In the six and a half years from 1989, he Opposition, in particular the approach of the neither approved nor planned any new major Leader of the Liberal Party. The headline in generating projects. His inaction and inability to the Courier-Mail on 9 May 2000 was "Watson understand anything back then has had a wants no pokie limit in pubs". We know what long-term impact on the structure of the that would mean. That would mean big pubs, State's industry. It is an effect that is still being privately owned taj mahals, knocking over felt by the industry today. He was warned good community-based clubs such as continually from 1990 to 1996 that his inaction 8 Nov 2000 Electricity Industry 4101 would lead to major supply problems by 1997, number of power blackouts. And that was and so it was. The coalition had to pick up the before the storm season started! These pieces on coming to Government. The blackouts can only get worse. Communities consequent load shedding during 1997-98 affected by blackouts are located all over the was the direct result of Minister McGrady's State. Some of the most notable examples failure to comprehend the situation. The are the Gold Coast hinterland, Mount coalition fixed the problem with some Tamborine, Logan, the Sunshine Coast, the emergency action on coming to power and the Glasshouse Mountains, the Burdekin, west of construction of an 840 megawatt power station Townsville and so the list goes on. at Callide C, which incredibly the Minister tried When this issue was last raised in this to stop. However, this time around, it is Parliament, the Minister stood up and made increasingly apparent that the Minister has silly excuses about possums tangling wires found new ways to wreck the industry. and trucks hitting poles. What we are seeing at The provision of electricity services is now the moment is not the ordinary and expected totally driven by the need to make huge profits type of outage; it is evidence of a basic and to prop up an ailing State Budget. The far-reaching decline in the reliability of the electricity industry, and more specifically electricity distribution system. We are seeing a Government owned corporations, are being basic and far-reaching decline that has been managed on a "profits before all else" basis at brought about by the Minister's demand for a the instruction of the Minister. The pursuit of "profits before all else" approach from Ergon profits to pay to the Government in dividends and Energex. It is clear that electricity has superseded all other considerations and consumers are facing an increasingly less the safety, security and reliability of the system reliable supply, as the frequency of local power are deteriorating rapidly. That is not just my outages increases, as the lack of maintenance judgment. The evidence is out there in the takes its inevitable toll and the timely public arena in many forms, only some of replacement of poles and other infrastructure which I have time to cover today. is abandoned in the pursuit of increasing profits. Energex conducted a safety audit which was finalised in April 1999. It identified large Not content with sacrificing the viability of areas of the distribution system as dangerous. the distribution system, Mr McGrady has also Some 160 kilometres of the distribution system increased the price of electricity for most in south-east Queensland alone was found to Queenslanders. The wholesale price of power be in a dangerous condition. In response, the has fallen and will continue to fall because of Government ordered Mr Ray Dempsey, a the initiatives the coalition took in the two and former Industrial Relations Commissioner, to a half years it was in Government. The head a task force to investigate safety issues coalition took those initiatives to correct the in the industry. Mr Dempsey's report not only horrendous lack of generating capacity caused backs the Energex report; it goes further. He by Mr McGrady's incompetence when he was identified a range of concerns besides the last Minister. The average wholesale price of highly visible problem of deficient power poles electricity this financial year has fallen overdue for replacement. His report lists for all approximately 40%, yet the Minister has to see unsafe construction methods, exposed allowed a rise in retail tariffs of 3% to take live parts on services, poor training, poor effect as from 1 July. That was also cleverly maintenance of a range of infrastructure and confused by the implementation of the GST. much more. Such is the depreciation of our The contestability provisions that were system that it is now a real public safety issue part of the National Competition Policy agenda for many people. Evidence of that, too, is have failed to deliver cost savings to all but the available for anyone who cares to look. biggest corporate consumers. Indeed, the final A quick perusal of the media in recent tranche of contestability which supposedly months produces a disturbing number of would have provided benefits to a majority of reports about fatal electrocutions. It also Queenslanders is in danger of being reveals a report about two horses being blown abandoned altogether under Mr McGrady's apart at the base of a power pole, a report of administration. Every electricity consumer in an inner Brisbane street being showered with Queensland can quite rightly demand to know shrapnel as a powerline exploded, reports of what happened to the promises of the powerlines starting bushfires, reports of major National Competition Policy and how a 3% rise blackouts in Brisbane's central business district in the retail price of electricity can be justified at being caused by bushfires and many reports a time when a massive fall in wholesale prices of communities frustrated by the increasing is set to continue. 4102 Electricity Industry 8 Nov 2000

All Queenslanders should be enjoying the on power consumers. Consumers are benefits of cheaper electricity. That was one of undoubtedly paying more and receiving an the major benefits of the National Competition inferior service from a distribution system that Policy changes. Instead, all Queenslanders is becoming a public safety threat. Surely there are being ripped off to subsidise the economic is enough talent on the Government back incompetence of a bungling Government as bench to ensure that this Minister is replaced the benefits of falling wholesale prices are by someone who can properly administer the intercepted by a cash-hungry Minister. That is power industry. For the sake of Queensland simply unfair and unjustifiable. It is blatant electricity consumers, that needs to happen profiteering on the part of a financially soon. The Parliament should pass this motion desperate Government. Queenslanders are tonight. The Parliament should condemn the paying more than they should for a power member for Mount Isa for his inexcusable lack supply that is becoming less safe and are of understanding of a critically important suffering more and more power outages as portfolio. Like the Government, he is distracted the Minister continues to rip money out of the by the struggle to survive. Those opposite are industry at an unsustainable rate. distracted by their struggle to maintain any sort Queensland's distribution system used to of credibility. They are distracted, and they are be able to withstand the elements of the failing in their duty to administer the State. environment in which it was built. There are Dr WATSON (Moggill—LP) (Leader of the always some localised interruptions in extreme Liberal Party) (6.10 p.m.): I rise to second the weather events, and most centres had local motion moved by the member for Callide. It is crews who went to extraordinary lengths to hard to get the numbers against the AWU; return supplies to consumers. Under Minister people have to be parachuted in. McGrady's management policy of "profit The Beattie Government stands before all else", there has been a two-pronged condemned for its approach to many things in attack on reliability. The assets have been Queensland, but its neglect of maintenance in allowed to run down, as I have outlined. When the electricity industry borders on the criminal. the inevitable happens and a storm brings It is ironic that for a breach of the Electricity Act down those old poles and the substandard which may result in a fatality the fine is just infrastructure that should have been long since $1,500, but for stealing electricity one can be replaced, there are now no local crews to fined up to $75,000. I put it to this House that return supply. The local depot is a thing of the Mr McGrady, Mr Hamill and Mr Beattie should past, especially in country areas. There are all be fined, because in effect they have stolen now regional crews with large areas to cover the profits of the electricity industry and they and no local knowledge. Obviously the have left the electricity industry fatally response times and the power outages are underfunded. Genghis Khan himself could not longer. have raided more from the electricity industry The "profit before all else" approach has in Queensland than Beattie, Hamill and also been applied to new connections. The McGrady. real reason this Minister is denying mains These people were warned by the power to western Queenslanders is that he directors of those enterprises that they could cannot see himself making a sufficient profit not go on taking 95% of the after-tax dividends from it. There are no thoughts of community from public trading enterprises without service. It is based simply on his expectation consequences. The directors of those that he will not be able to make it pay. He companies recommended that the level be believes that there is no profit in supplying 70% or 75%, but not 95% of after-tax profits. power to western Queensland, so he persists We have all the documentation here. They with discredited arguments about RAPS said to the Treasurer and to the Minister for systems that he hopes someone else will Mines and Energy, "You cannot go on taking finance. New customers face massive dividends out at that level. You have to leave connection costs and lengthy waiting times, us some money to fund capital expansion and especially in far-flung areas. Once again, with maintenance." They left them very little. new connections it is "profit before all What were the corporations forced to do? else"—more profits, more dividends to the They were forced to borrow, just to fund some Government. Forget about community service of the capital expansion and maintenance. or the concept of electricity being a vital Secondly, they recently had to raise prices by essential service. 3%, which the Government tried to slip in This Minister's management of the under the guise of GST. electricity industry must be judged by its impact Mr McGrady: How about the GST? 8 Nov 2000 Electricity Industry 4103

Dr WATSON: That is what the suburb in the last two years Energex has Government tried to have people believe, but replaced just nine power poles. Across the we caught it out. The third thing the suburbs that make up the electorate of corporations had to do was simply cut costs. Greenslopes just 84 poles in total have been How did they cut costs? They cut costs by replaced. cutting maintenance. The current member for Greenslopes, Mr Early last year a special audit committee Fenlon, is understandably quite sensitive advised the previous Energex board that it about the issue. He made big noises in the would cost about $13m for pole replacement House in August 1998 about how he was and another $15m to clear the dangerous going to fix the problem of rotting power poles overhangs. Apparently Mr McGrady did not like in his electorate. He has done precious little. In what he was hearing from the Energex board fact, to cover up just how little he has done he about the need to spend more money on claimed to the South-East Advertiser last week maintenance, so what did he do? He sacked that 241 poles had been repaired in the the entire board. Talk about shooting the electorate since the change of Government. messenger! That audit commission report The fact is that only 84 poles have been showed that 159 kilometres of powerlines in replaced. I trust that Mr Fenlon was better at south-east Queensland were dangerously counting up the numbers in the dubious overgrown. The report also showed that there preselection contest he ruled over as branch were around 8,000 badly leaning poles, some chairman—the one mentioned in dispatches at of which were associated with over-tensioned the Shepherdson inquiry. The issue here— service wires to houses and sagging mains Time expired. that had become dangerous. Hon. T. McGRADY (Mount Isa—ALP) Energex and the Labor Government tried (Minister for Mines and Energy and Minister to bury this report. They did not want the Assisting the Deputy Premier on Regional people of Queensland to know the truth. But Development) (6.15 p.m.): The Opposition in thankfully there are some people in our this place is knocking the electricity industry at community who would not be kept silent on every single opportunity. It is trying to create a this issue. In the process of door-knocking for perception of an industry plagued by problems the next State election, two of our Liberal with safety and reliability and by economic candidates have had so many people express mismanagement. It is trying to give the concern to them about dangerous power poles impression that these problems are something that they asked me to come out and new. It is the oldest trick in the book: if personally inspect some of the worst affected something is repeated often enough, areas. eventually people are convinced that it is true. The former member for Mount Ommaney What is true is that this Government and our candidate for that seat in the next inherited from the Borbidge Government an State election, Bob Harper, showed me one electricity industry that was falling down around power pole, on the corner of Yallambee Road us. From day one of the Beattie Government and Sinnamon Road at Jindalee, that was we took a fine toothcomb to the generation leaning 20 to 25 degrees off the sector to ensure appropriate maintenance to perpendicular. It was a major pole carrying guarantee supply. We have since done the high and low tension wires, located next to a same with the networks and we are working bus stop and just feet away from a service hard to implement the recommendations from station's gas tanks. No doubt this would have this report. Yet the Opposition continues to been one of those 8,000 poles referred to in contribute nothing constructive. These are just the audit commission report. It is interesting to a few more examples of how we work and they note that nothing had been done, but after I whinge. went out there and we made an issue of it, of During the past two years we have had a course the pole was replaced. This is one of total restructure of the electricity industry, and it those poles that no-one would do anything went without a hitch. It received no opposition about before. at all. It has been successful. As part of the Another one of our candidates, Andrew process we have also allowed for the Edwards, who will stand for the seat of community to have a real say on the industry Greenslopes, has had so many concerned through the establishment of regional citizens talk to him about the issue that he has electricity councils. done some extensive research. Andrew invited It is also notable that this year the me to inspect one of the worst affected areas electricity corporations are spending in Camp Hill. Official figures show that in that $1.37 billion on capital works programs, 4104 Electricity Industry 8 Nov 2000 covering new generation of capacity, I also recently set up a group of people to maintenance and upgrade. This is more than investigate the possibility of undergrounding double the amount spent under the coalition electricity cables throughout the State. This Government just a few short years ago. During group contains many technical people, the the coalition days we had blackouts and unions, public servants and people from Ergon brownouts on a regular basis—these were and Energex. Let me say this: this project will caused by a lack of generation supply—but be controversial and it will be costly, but it will that is not the situation today. need the support of the community. Unless we get that support, it will not happen. Tonight is The problems in the industry during the an opportunity for the Opposition to tell us coalition years were so great that they were where it stands on that issue. debated on the floor of the Liberal Party conference, when the then Treasurer and Hon. K. W. HAYWARD (Kallangur—ALP) shareholding Minister claimed that all of the (6.20 p.m.): It is a pleasure to speak tonight in problems were the result of sabotage by the opposition to this motion. I was speaking to electricity unions. And there were massive the member for Logan about the blinding problems. I use that point just to demonstrate hypocrisy that we hear from the Opposition in that under the coalition the industry certainly its 6 o'clock motions. The blinding hypocrisy was in chaos. Of course, today we still have that we have heard tonight came from the blackouts and we still have outages, but the mover and the seconder of this motion. It difference is that they are caused usually by generally happens with most of these 6 o'clock storms, animals up poles, trucks knocking motions, but tonight was the best we have had poles down, bushfires and other such for a while. I was expecting the usual wild problems. They are not caused by a shortage speech from the member for Callide but, in a of generation in this State. They are the facts. sense, he was controlled and that worried me more. Tonight he talked about things like how Safety in the industry is obviously of great terrible it was that money had been taken out importance to each and every one of us, but in of the industry. Unlike the seconder of the all of the time the member for Callide has motion, he had not been elected to this House been a member in this place I have not heard when the previous National/Liberal coalition him raise the question of safety in the Treasurer took $850m— electricity industry. Let us look at what we have done. I have sent out a number of groups to Dr Watson interjected. investigate safety, particularly in the Energex Mr Johnson interjected. area. A number of recommendations have Mr HAYWARD: They bleat because the been made. A task force is dealing with these reality of life is that the hypocrisy has been now. It will be coming back to me with ways to exposed. She took $850m straight out of the implement these recommendations. industry. I can tell that the member for Callide More recently, my ministerial colleague knows that happened; he is sitting there Paul Braddy and I set up a joint ministerial task quietly. The two people who have been force under the chairmanship of a very interjecting and bleating away about it know it capable and experienced person. This task happened, too. We all know it happened, and force has come forward with a discussion we all know what a disgrace it was. paper, which is now out in the public arena for Dr Watson interjected. comment. We are inviting the public to Mr HAYWARD: I thought I heard another participate in this process. I understand that one interjecting, but I didn't. The then we are receiving an excellent response. We Treasurer took $850m straight out of the have also made some major changes to the industry, and the members opposite have the electricity safety office, with new personnel. gall to come in here tonight and complain and Combined with the outcomes from the joint whine and say that this is about taking money ministerial task force, I am confident that we out of the industry and how terrible it is. will be able to deliver improved electrical safety outcomes. When the previous coalition Treasurer was challenged as to why that money was With regard to the economics of the taken out of the industry, we were told it was industry, there has been one real increase in simple: because it was lazy equity. There was prices over many years. The hide of those lazy equity there, so it had to be taken out. So opposite to talk about increases in prices! if it was lazy equity that was taken out, of Almost 8% of the increase came as a direct course she still had to balance the balance result of GST—imposed on the consumers by sheet. So how was that done? By putting in the friends of those opposite in Canberra. loan moneys. That is exactly what happened. 8 Nov 2000 Electricity Industry 4105

Tonight we heard the member for Callide Mr JOHNSON (Gregory—NPA) complaining and bleating about the loans and (6.25 p.m.): I rise to support the motion moved the interest that has to be paid on the loans. by my colleague the member for Callide Well, it is quite simple. He should talk to some condemning the failure of the Minister for of his colleagues who were part of the policy Mines and Energy to provide a safe, reliable decision to do that. As I said, the member for and economic supply of electricity to all Callide made a perfectly controlled speech, Queenslanders. and in many ways it worried me. Tonight he Tonight the member for Kallangur came in with a new policy change. He mentioned hypocrisy. I would like to talk about launched an attack on the profit motive. Fair the Labor Party's hypocrisy. He talked about dinkum, he launched an attack in this place on the $800m that the coalition took out of the the profit motive. He said how terrible it was fund— that the Minister would consider on some occasions that the electricity industry should Mr Hayward: 850. work on the basis of the profit motive. Mr JOHNSON: He can call it whatever What sort of signal does that send out to figure he likes, but that money was spent in businesspeople in Queensland? Every day Queensland for the betterment of the industry they must wonder when they hear utterances and for the betterment of Queenslanders. like that from the Opposition in this State because business in Queensland in general, I I might also draw attention to the $1.2 would think, would expect the Opposition in billion that the Goss Government pulled out to this State—given that it is usually their ally—to prop up the poor economic management of be talking about the importance of the profit the Keating Government in Canberra. That motive. But what we had tonight was an attack was typical. That money was sent out of the on the profit motive and what is so bad about State; there was no benefit whatsoever to it. I find it quite astounding that the people Queensland. And he talks about hypocrisy! who claim when they come in here— The Minister is the true icon of hypocrisy. There is no greater example of the failures of Opposition members interjected. this Minister than his continued failure to Mr HAYWARD: Listen to them bleating address the provision of power to rural and again. They claim when they come in here that remote Queensland. It is a fact that they represent business, that they represent communities need that access to reliable and small business, that they represent people economical electricity if they are to participate who are battling and, whack, they launch an in society today. Access to TV, radio and the attack on the profit motive. It is quite Internet is essential if people are to be interesting. Tonight at 6 o'clock we had a informed about current affairs or be educated. policy challenge; a new position was put by the Those are things that most citizens take for member for Callide. It will be interesting to see granted today. But the members opposite how that develops. forget that there are families in our State who Mr SEENEY: I rise to a point of order. I must do without adequate light, refrigeration must put on record that the member is and communications, let alone the benefits of misrepresenting what I said. I find that modern technology that people in the cities objectionable and I ask that it be withdrawn. and other larger towns and centres throughout this State take for granted. Mr HAYWARD: For the sake of the member for Callide's sensitivities, I will withdraw What the people of the west find it. As I said before, in the 6 o'clock debate particularly galling is that the Minister for Mines hypocrisy runs absolutely wild. The hypocrisy of and Energy is a representative of the the mover and the seconder of this motion electorate of Mount Isa and he knows about tonight has been unbelievable. the problems but he is continuing to let the people of the west suffer. The Minister is I have to say that the seconder of this presiding over a power system that continues motion, Dr Watson, is usually a very sensible to separate Queensland into a State of the person who makes a genuine, if misguided, haves and the have-nots. Are we social contribution to this Parliament. Again, he went outcasts for living in isolated, remote areas in on about the issue of it being underfunded. He the far west and the far north? was a role player. At least the member for Callide can be excused to an extent, but the Mr McGrady: What did you do in your member for Moggill was a role player when the years? Treasurer took $850m out of the electricity Mr JOHNSON: I have to say that we industry. started to put a program in place. Then the Time expired. Minister came along and dismantled it. 4106 Electricity Industry 8 Nov 2000

Mr McGrady: You did not. I'll show you mains power to rural and remote Queensland the figures. You did nothing at all. where the majority of commodities in this State Mr JOHNSON: In today's society the are produced for the benefit of people on the provision of secure, reliable and economical eastern seaboard. It is necessary to give these electricity services should be a core people quality of life and a chance to enjoy responsibility of any State Government and quality of life. that is also applicable to this Labor Time expired. Government. That certainly will be a fast-track Mr MICKEL (Logan—ALP) (6.31 p.m.): item on the agenda of a coalition Government We have heard it all tonight from the National when the member for Callide, Jeff Seeney, Party. The thing that would send shivers down becomes Minister next year. I reiterate that the spine of industry is the statement that the here tonight. We have seen this Minister member for Callide will become the Minister ignore the fundamental rights of next year. If anything was more calculated to Queenslanders and pursue increasing profits stop investment in this State, it is those few from the energy suppliers. He then rips these words from the member for Gregory. They profits off the service providers to prop up the would stop it dead in its tracks. Why? I will tell failed Beattie Budget. honourable members why—because the I saw the Treasurer here a while back but honourable member tonight has broken new he has left the Chamber, unfortunately. This ground for the National Party. He has criticised Government that pretends to represent the the word "profit". Have honourable members less fortunate in our society conveniently ever heard anything more ridiculous than the excludes the people of the north and the west National Party criticising something because of from its agenda. That is where the real wealth profit? These are people who would sell their and jobs of this State and this nation are grandmothers, given half a chance. generated. In recent weeks the Minister has Mr SEENEY: I rise to a point of order. The told the Burke Shire Council that its plan to member is quite knowingly misrepresenting extend mains power to Gregory was not likely what I said. I find that offensive and I ask that to be reliable because of the storms in the wet it be withdrawn. season. That applies to the whole State. Perhaps the Minister could indicate where he Mr SPEAKER: Order! I think you are does guarantee power for 365 days a year. As touching on frivolous points. the chief executive of the Carpentaria Shire Mr MICKEL: What we have also found Council, Matthew McGoldrick, pointed out in tonight from the honourable gentleman is this: the North West Star last week, the wet season we have watched him here for weeks and is no reason to deny mains power to these weeks abuse Ministers left, right and centre in people in need. Mr McGoldrick pointed out the most vile way. But tonight, when it is his that mains power was extended to stations in turn to sit there and cop it, he cannot. We the Carpentaria Shire from Normanton 10 have a glass jaw for a shadow Minister—a years ago without major difficulties. complete glass jaw. People can get by without mains power Mr Seeney interjected. for a while during the wet season. Most of Mr MICKEL: My friend, you are more these station people have back-up power of broken than a New Year's resolution, let us be their own. What the Minister is trying to do is honest about it. Since he has become shadow deny mains power to rural and remote Minister he has also walked away from the Queensland and force people into accepting mining industry. We saw that a few weeks ago remote area power— RAPS. That is still in the in the motion moved by the member for embryonic stage and is still a very expensive Gladstone which would have put in another exercise. The Minister is promoting RAPS not hoop before one could get a mining project off because it is the best solution for people in the the ground. It was good old populist stuff, but west but because he can pass the buck to the it was absolutely ruinous for the mining Federal Government. industry. The National Party was in there The Minister is trying to save money by supporting it. seeking funding from the Commonwealth The other thing we heard from the Government's Greenhouse Office but, of member for Gregory was this: a concession course, in the long run RAPS will cost more to that those opposite did rip $850m out of the run and maintain. I am not denying that RAPS electricity industry. The worst thing they did may be a short-term solution where there is with it was that they put it into recurrent now power, but the Minister must recognise funding. They took a one-off grant and put it the obligations of the Government to supply into recurrent funding. This is the Brazilian 8 Nov 2000 Electricity Industry 4107 option. What we have on the front bench Mr SEENEY: I rise to a point of order. I opposite— find the comments made by the member for Mr JOHNSON: I rise to a point of order. I Logan offensive and I ask that they be did not say that at all. I said it was put into withdrawn. They are demonstrably untrue and proper programs in Queensland to make it he knows that they are untrue. He was fishing better for Queenslanders, and at the same for a point of order— time it stayed in Queensland. Where did the Mr SPEAKER: Order! You have made $1.2 billion go that you took? your point of order. Resume your seat. The Mr MICKEL: What we have is the member's time has expired. Will the member Brazilian option. Have a look at the boys from for Logan withdraw that comment? Brazil over there. That is what they did. They Mr MICKEL: What, "glass jaw" or ripped it out and put it into recurrent "boofhead"? funding—a Brazilian high-debt option. That is the budget situation they left us with. Mr SPEAKER: Order! No, the name. Have a look at what those opposite did Mr MICKEL: I withdraw the term when they were in Government. They opposed "boofhead". I did not mean to be so Eastlink. They hated Eastlink. They were going unparliamentary. to change it all right. They changed the Time expired. direction of Eastlink and it became Westlink. It cost another $150m extra to put it further west. Mr MITCHELL (Charters Towers—NPA) It delayed electricity reform in this State by (6.36 p.m.): Rural and regional Queensland in about three or four years. That was the particular is going to learn a lot about the Opposition's only contribution to it. incompetence of this Minister in terms of his ability to manage the Queensland electricity I notice that there has been criticism of supply industry when we see the round of the Minister. This Minister does not deserve annual reports this year. We should be seeing any criticism because what we have found in those reports within days. Beyond any doubt, this year's Budget, in a growth area such as those reports are going to confirm a number of Logan City, is $24m to be spent on things about the state of the industry which we infrastructure over the next couple of years. on this side of the House have been The Browns Plains substation will receive a emphasising for quite some time. massive increase to cater for those people in Heritage Park. The same will apply to the The simple fact is that this Minister and people in North Maclean who are suffering this Government are irresponsibly starving the outages. These outages are caused by industry of funds. As a result, the industry is maintenance problems which were left to us by struggling to deliver outcomes. Service delivery the previous Government. in rural and regional Queensland is going to be seen to be in an absolutely parlous state I notice that the member for Waterford is under this Minister and this Government, in the House. The member for Waterford principally because of greed. knows all about the Loganlea connection, which is so vital to the growth areas down For instance, we are going to see that the there. Another $18m over the next few years dividend rate almost certainly right across the will be spent in that area. This Minister is industry for 1999-2000, and payable this deserving of praise for recognising the great financial year, is going to be in the vicinity of contribution of growth in the Logan City area. 95%. That is an unsustainable level of Instead of praise, what do we receive dividend. No business can survive if it from the National Party? We have a walking continually has to provide 90%-plus of its after- away from profit, for goodness' sake. Did the tax profit to shareholders. That is the level of member for Ashgrove ever think during the dividend that has been demanded by this 1980s that he would hear such people as Government. That is especially the case in Russ Hinze say, "Look, I don't believe in relation to the performance of the generating profit." What has the member for Callide industry last financial year, where we saw the brought the National Party to? I cannot believe second successive major blow-out in the that he has brought this once great political average cost of power in Queensland. party to its knees by simply moving a couple of In 1998-99 we had an average year price seats. The member for Callide sits there of $60 per megawatt hour, which was far and laughing because he has a biro jammed away the most expensive power on the between his teeth by all the other members of eastern seaboard. In 1999-2000, we had a the National Party who realise, "Oh! Oh! We slight improvement. I am pleased to see that have done it again. We have put in a this financial year the price appears to have boofhead as the mines spokesman." stabilised somewhat with the addition of 4108 Electricity Industry 8 Nov 2000 coalition-inspired generating projects. It should between them they have put in 62 years in the improve further when the first stage of the electricity industry and have now been paid out coalition's Callide C project comes on line early at the ages of 45 and 47 and have to find next year. other employment. They have known only the But the result is that the relatively poor electricity industry for the full period of their performance of the generating sector in 1998- working lives. They have received a 99 cost the taxpayer $400m to ensure that the reasonable payout, but nowhere near enough community service obligation of providing to retire at such a young age. They wonder power around the State at a uniform tariff what employment will be available to them, could be met. The liability is not going to be and I wonder how many others are going to be much smaller this year. That, in turn, is going in the same boat. I can see that that will have to be a drain on Ergon Energy because, under only detrimental effects on some of the smaller the new arrangements for meeting the CSO towns and the future of the long-serving under this Government, at least the bulk of the employees. money to meet that cost is going to come from At this stage, I would also like to refer to Ergon and not from the consolidated fund. the Cowell Electric Supply Company—I might That is going to place more pressure on the add, a South Australian company—debacle in ability of Ergon to service its market effectively, the north-west area of the State. That both in terms of service quality and cost company has gone into liquidation, leaving effectiveness. debts owing to small businesses in the Winton, The same is going to be true of Powerlink, Richmond, McKinlay and Flinders Shires. I am which runs the high voltage distribution very concerned about just what checks and network, at least in relation to the pressure on balances are done on the qualifications of its ability to do the job, given the very high these contractors before they are given the dividend level. Squeezing the profits of these contracts. organisations too hard might, in the short term, I have the same concerns about another help the Government to fill the successive Government contract on Mosman Hall in black holes in its Budgets, but it is certainly Charters Towers where a contractor has gone sowing the seeds of disaster in relation to broke leaving many of the local contractors service levels, particularly in rural and regional holding the can for work carried out. Queensland where the cost pressures are Time expired. already very high. The clear danger is that we are going to see jobs go and see service Mr ROBERTS (Nudgee—ALP) quality decline as Ergon, and the other (6.41 p.m.): The previous Government's elements of the industry servicing rural and feeding frenzy where it stripped hundreds of regional Queensland, run out of money millions of dollars from the electricity because the Government is just being far too corporations resulted in supply and reliability greedy. problems and safety problems within the Energex network. The size of the problem that I cannot conclude without referring to the the Government inherited was enormous. The sale, or the close-down, or whatever one likes previous coalition Government left the network to call it, of the retail outlets in the previous badly in need of increased maintenance and NORQEB area—the now merged Ergon capital expenditure. Why was that so? It was regime. I remember particularly when the because the coalition used the industry as a merger of the electricity boards was cash cow. It demanded not 100% of dividends announced we were told that no-one would but 115% of dividends. Yet tonight the lose his job and be forced to take a coalition has the gall to come into this place redundancy in the areas of current operations and complain about the 95% that occurred in being carried out by the various boards. one particular year. NORQEB was the only board area with retail The coalition was directly responsible for outlets in Townsville, Charters Towers, stripping the money that was necessary to Hughenden, Richmond, Julia Creek and the adequately maintain the network, particularly north-west. throughout south-east Queensland. Today, However, now they have all been sold off the Energex network comprises more than and long-serving employees have been told 39,000 kilometres of powerlines, 500,000 that they have to take redundancies because power poles and 36,700 substations. The this section is no longer viable to Ergon. Many network delivers power to over one million of those employees have worked in the customers throughout south-east Queensland, electricity boards since they were kids. Last including some of the fastest-growing areas in week, two people rang me and told me that Australia. 8 Nov 2000 Electricity Industry 4109

This Government has made sure that to establish new electricity feeders to cater for Energex has taken the decisive action future growth. necessary to further improve the reliability of Accelerated maintenance plans were the network and provide enhanced customer actioned for the management of poles, satisfaction. The facts speak for themselves. In overhead powerline structures, components, 1997-98, maintenance expenditure was $68m; overhead low voltage services, vegetation, in 1998-99, it was $98m; and in 1999-2000, it street lighting, cables, transformers and was $91m. Budgeted expenditure for this switchgear. All of these works, along with a financial year is $105m—an increase of more focus on network management and an than 50% over three years. The maintenance unusually quiet storm season, contributed to strategy of Energex is aimed at maintaining a relatively few power interruptions, delivering safe and reliable network that meets regulatory greater reliability and quality of supply to requirements and customer expectations. Energex customers, as the customers and the Under this Government, Energex has also Government expected. increased capital expenditure. In 1997-98, it was $127m; in 1998-99, it was $174m; in Energex will further improve its 1999-2000, it was $225m, and this year it has performance through steps to minimise a budgeted capital expenditure of $306m—an vegetation interference with its network increase of 140% over the past three years. All customer-focused programs such as the safe of that is directed at improving the capacity tree program and a continual review of its and the reliability of the network. So now the maintenance policies and sophisticated maintenance and capital expenditure of electrical tests of vital equipment. Energex fully meet the requirements that Time expired. Energex is required to meet, and that is to Mr SANTORO (Clayfield—LP) (6.46 p.m.): provide an adequate, economic, reliable and Before making my substantive contribution, I safe supply of electricity to its consumers. would like to be one of the first members of That is in sharp contrast to the mess that this Parliament, if not the first, to recognise we inherited when we took over Government in and congratulate the election of Governor 1998. Energex recognises the importance of a George W. Bush on his election as the next reliable network as more and more customers President of the United States of America. I rely on the distribution network for a variety of am sure that all members of this place would different applications, such as home offices, recognise that Queensland indeed does have security systems and, in rural areas, for electric a very good friend in Governor George Bush. water pumps. Those and other customers are He has met with the Leader of the Opposition telling Energex that they want improved quality and with the Premier. I can also claim and and reliability of supply. boast of the privilege of having met with him personally and I can assure the House that, as Energex has invested substantial Queenslanders, we have a very good friend in amounts of maintenance and capital-related the next President of the United States of upgrades and extension works across the America, Republican Governor, G. W. Bush. south-east electricity network. For example, it is going to invest more than $136m on projects, Tonight, we have again heard including the establishment of new substations meaningless words and breathtaking hypocrisy at west Maroochydore, Browns Plains, Cade's from members opposite. There is no doubt County and Postman's Ridge, and 33,000 and that, during his time as Minister, the member 11,000 volt substations at Mount Cotton, North for Mount Isa has demonstrated his total Maclean and Arundel. As well, Energex has incapacity to manage his portfolio recently completed a number of substations, competently. He has a vindictive streak that including substations at Morayfield, Victoria manifests itself in rampant nepotism both to Point and Samford and in 2001 will be working reward Labor mates and to punish particularly to complete substations at Beaudesert, those people who are not on side. Beerwah, west Bundall and Sunrise Hills. It will The Minister's abject failure to promote also continue to upgrade its network mineral exploration and development is well throughout the year, including major projects known as is his incompetent handling of the to upgrade its substations at Taringa, Queensland electricity industry. Whether one Tingalpa, Cleveland and West End to help looks at the Tarong fiasco, the Chevron gas improve reliability and the quality of the supply pipeline, the scandal over the lack of adequate to south-east consumers. As well, it will maintenance work, the gutting of GOCs by continue to upgrade existing substations and taking over-the-top dividends or the inability to refurbish or replace parts of its ageing network develop a coherent policy for a stable power 4110 Electricity Industry 8 Nov 2000 generating sector, one sees the fingerprints all On top of that, the North Queensland over of the member for Mount Isa. Electricity Council is headed by Christine Scott, I want to deal with the issue of rampant a former Labor candidate for Charters Towers cronyism, which is one of those less savoury and a person who has got under the skin of manifestations of this Minister's and this the member for Currumbin by her claims of Government's modus operandi. After staff reductions in rural Queensland. But, of scrapping the six regional electricity distribution course the most notorious appointment of the corporations in favour of Ergon, headed by Minister is that of Keith de Lacy, the former Keith De Lacy, the Government established member for Cairns and Goss Government various regional electricity councils. Treasurer, to head Ergon Energy. Another Appointments to a number of these boards mates rates deal. Again, I acknowledge that were so obviously designed to stack them with he was the Treasurer of this State, but again ALP cronies and there was indeed a very big that appointment of a crony simply sends a public outcry. The Minister appointed five high- very, very bad signal to the business profile Labor identities to its seven-member so- community. called community power watchdog group in This motion is very, very critical of the way far-north Queensland, the Far North that the member for Mount Isa is going about Queensland Electricity Council. Included in the his job as a Minister of the Crown, and so it line-up were two Labor mayors, Tom Pyne should be. His approach to his job is to bully from Cairns and Chris Lewis from Mareeba. At his way through and blame others for his own least I am happy to acknowledge that these mistakes. I recall with a great degree of two gentlemen have a community focus. concern the Minister's ongoing attacks on the However, in addition the Minister appointed mining warden of the State after he disclosed the ALP Cairns Branch President, Michael that the Minister and his department had not Bailey, and the Cooktown President, Colin sent him one report into any serious non-fatal Burns. He even appointed the former mining accident since the Beattie Government President of Labor's Leichhardt Federal was sworn in. This Minister's explanation was Divisional Executive and poultry farmer, John to attack the messenger. Since then, of Phillips. course, the mining warden has effectively and professionally ceased to exist. The South West Queensland Electricity Council was also stacked. Of its seven So too with the electricity industry. What members, six have ALP links. Maurice we see is an approach by the Minister that is Passmore was the endorsed ALP candidate vindictive, and that is laden with hypocrisy— for Carnarvon in 1989; August Johanson was Time expired. Labor's failed candidate for Roma in 1986 and Mr MULHERIN (Mackay—ALP) 1989; Frances Harding is the wife of Gordon (6.52 p.m.): This Government inherited an Harding, the ALP candidate for Warrego in unwieldy mess in terms of the distribution of 1986 and 1989; Robyn Fuhrmeister was electricity, transmission of electricity and endorsed to stand for Labor in Maranoa in generation of electricity throughout 1998; Gary Ryan is the south-west district Queensland. We can all remember the 35 secretary of the AWU; and Phillip Doyle is a year backlog of maintenance at Tarong Power Labor identity from Warwick. Station; the former Minister just sat there and So blatant was this stacking that former did nothing. We can recall the blackouts that Toowoomba Labor stalwart, Hugh Wilson were caused by the inaction over Eastlink and said— the delays in the construction of Westlink. We "It is a great shame that Peter can look at the structures like Omega Energy Beattie would endorse such a move. They that never got off the ground. It disappeared are not elected people; they are without trace. They could never get the supposed to represent the community, structure right. It took this Government to and as such there should be a range of address these problems and create a single people on the council. In this State, with distribution company in regional Queensland, its history of corruption, it behoves with the retailers as subsidiaries of this single Governments to behave properly and this corporation. doesn't look good." This strategic restructure under this Mr Mickel interjected. Government has paved the way for Ergon Energy to make major gains, including Mr SANTORO: That was one of Labor's reliability and safety. This aligns with the own who said that. Not only doesn't it look Government's priorities. Unlike the previous good, it wasn't good. It was rotten to the core. Government, at no time has the Government 8 Nov 2000 Ministerial Statement 4111 compromised these priorities through ripping SWER, lines in the north west is also under excessive dividends out of Government-owned way. In the St George area the program to corporations. Ergon Energy is answering the replace the large number of condemned poles challenge of maintaining the largest and most and address the lines reliability problem has diverse electricity network in Australia, and been completed at a cost of about $1m. probably one of the largest of its kind in the In addition to addressing these localised world. Queensland's regional electricity problems, Ergon Energy has introduced a network—Ergon Energy's network—covers comprehensive, coordinated and proactive 97% or one million square kilometres of the program embracing such matters as pole State of Queensland. This extensive inspections and replacement, line inspections infrastructure comprises more than 135,000 and refurbishment, testing replacement of kilometres of electricity networks, 800,000 transformers and other infrastructure, and power poles and thousands of substations. vegetation management. The Ergon Energy Ergon Energy networks deliver power to board has also approved an additional $14m 560,000 customers throughout the State, to address the maintenance backlog inherited including some of its most remote areas. from six former regional distribution Naturally, in a network of this size Ergon corporations. Energy has made a major and increasing Despite the challenges presented in commitment to its ongoing maintenance and taking over the operations of the previous six support. Indeed, it has committed $80.8m in corporations, Ergon Energy was able to meet 2000-01, up from $76.9m in 1999-2000. Since the reliability targets it agreed with the its formation through the merger of the six Government for its first year of operation. It is regional electricity distributors in July 1999, now confident enough with its management of Ergon Energy has been able to take a strong the network to offer to its customers and coordinated approach to maintenance. guaranteed service levels. This Government Above all, Ergon Energy and the Government has continued to service the needs of the are determined to ensure that the supply of bush and regional centres of Queensland. A electricity is characterised by high standards in record capital works budget has been terms of reliability and quality. achieved this year under this Government. We The Government's decision to merge the are determined that regional Queenslanders old distribution boards came just in time. One will reap the benefits of an effective and of the first actions of the new board was to reliable electricity supply. commission an audit of the network that it had Question—That Mr Seeny's motion be inherited. This identified a backlog in pole base agreed to—put; and the House divided— and pole top inspections, replacement of AYES, 36—Beanland, Black, Borbidge, Connor, condemned poles in the south west, Cooper, Dalgleish, Davidson, Elliott, Feldman, Gamin, ineffective vegetation management programs, Grice, Healy, Hobbs, Horan, Johnson, Knuth, and inconsistencies in design and construction Laming, Lester, Lingard, Littleproud, Malone, standards. These were manifested in Mitchell, Paff, Prenzler, Quinn, Santoro, Seeney, extremely poor network performance in the Sheldon, Simpson, Slack, Springborg, Stephan, Cooktown, north-west and St George regions. Veivers, Watson. Tellers: Baumann, Hegarty Ergon Energy has moved to address these NOES, 47—Attwood, Barton, Beattie, Bligh, Boyle, problems. Braddy, Bredhauer, Briskey, Clark, E. Cunningham, J. Cunningham, Edmond, Elder, Fenlon, Foley, In the Cooktown area, prior to the Fouras, Hamill, Hayward, Kaiser, Lavarch, Lucas, summer storm season Ergon Energy has done Mackenroth, McGrady, Mickel, Miller, Mulherin, extensive vegetation management and access Musgrove, Nelson, Nelson-Carr, Palaszczuk, Pearce, work along the Mossman to Cooktown Pratt, Reeves, Reynolds, Roberts, Robertson, Rose, corridors and line works to improve the Schwarten, Spence, Struthers, Turner, Welford, Wellington, Wells, Wilson. Tellers: Sullivan, Purcell reliability of the lines during storms. Ergon Energy has also installed stand-alone Resolved in the negative. generation capacity in Cooktown sufficient to Sitting suspended from 7.01 p.m. to carry the entire Cooktown regional load. The 8.30 p.m. total costs of these works exceeded $5m.

In the north west $10m has been spent MINISTERIAL STATEMENT on completely rebuilding the 66 kV network between Hughenden, Julia Creek and Winton Superannuation and Other Legislation to maximise the ability of the system to endure Amendment Bill 2000 severe electrical storms. A further Hon. D. J. HAMILL (Ipswich—ALP) refurbishment of the single wire earth return, or (Treasurer) (8.30 p.m.), by leave: It has come 4112 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 8 Nov 2000 to my attention that there was an omission Soccer Club and a terrible effect on their from the Explanatory Notes in respect of the capacity to deliver low-cost coaching services Superannuation and Other Legislation to many hundreds and hundreds of local Amendment Bill 2000. It relates to clause children and teenagers who benefit from those 15(2) of that Bill. I regret that there was this services that they provide. omission from the Explanatory Notes. I In conclusion, I congratulate the Treasurer therefore table the missing clause and its on his fine work and the relevant committee on explanation for the information of members of their fine work in putting together this proposal the House to assist them in the debate on that and this Bill. I urge all honourable members to Bill when it comes before the Chamber. accept it and not the arrant garbage put forward by the Leader of the Liberal Party. GAMBLING LEGISLATION AMENDMENT Mr NELSON (Tablelands—IND) BILL (8.34 p.m.): I will make a brief contribution to Second Reading this interesting debate we are having tonight. Before I became a member of Parliament, I Resumed from p. 4100. never understood why politicians got all Mr MUSGROVE (Springwood—ALP) wrapped up in the gaming debate, and (8.31 p.m.), continuing: As I was saying before especially on a day like today. Yesterday the break, the Leader of the Liberal Party well Australians bet over $100m on a horse race. I and truly let the cat out of the bag. bet a fair bit of money on Mr Nelson which, of Dr Watson: I would have thought you course, got flogged. The point of the matter is would have got it right the second time that Australians are gamblers by nature. around. I was just looking through the speech of Mr MUSGROVE: I can tell the Leader of the member for Barambah, who mentioned the Liberal Party that I have certainly got it two-up and so on. The fact of the matter is right. The Courier-Mail also got it right when it that Australians have always been gamblers. quoted the Leader of the Liberal Party saying Australians have always loved a bet. things like "poker machine numbers had Mr Kaiser: Life's a gamble. expanded since they were introduced in 1991 Mr NELSON: Life is a gamble in this because of pent-up demand". That is the country, especially in the seat of the member ludicrous supply and demand argument put for Woodridge. Walking down to Woodridge forward by the Leader of the Liberal Party in plaza is a gamble. the Courier-Mail, which well and truly let the cat out of the bag in relation to their true policy on Mr Musgrove: That's a disgraceful slur on poker machines. We saw their policy in the good people of Woodridge. Government, which had the ratcheting up Mr NELSON: Damned straight it is. effect—more and more pokies—particularly for Mr Kaiser interjected. the hotel industry, at the expense of clubs. Mr NELSON: Kingston State High School We know what the ultimate agenda of the is in a much better area—in the electorate of Liberal Party is when we look at this article. It Logan. The point is that Australians love a bet. very clearly says that State Governments Betting has been an institution in this country should not limit the number of poker machines for— allowed in pubs and clubs because a free market would find its own level. This would Mr Hamill: Did you win the tie? have to be one of the most socially Mr NELSON: It depicts the frogs from irresponsible policies ever seen in this place in Kuranda. I ask the member for Cairns to back a very long time. My community and my me up. It is the Kuranda Skyrail tie. I digress sporting clubs would be devastated if this after being rudely attacked by the Treasurer. policy were ever put into practice. The point of the matter is that Australians Recently we had an application in my love a bet. We have casinos in every capital local community for a new hotel just up the city in this country. The TAB is an institution. It road from the Rochedale Rovers Soccer Club. is a well-known fact that Australians love to I can inform the House that some 700 gamble and bet. Personally, I do not know objections to that application have been what the hysteria is all about. As the member lodged with the Brisbane City Council, for Mansfield says, the Gaming Machine principally because of the increase in the Community Benefit Fund is a wonderful number of poker machines. This is a very large institution. It gives money to people who would development application which would have usually not receive it. It gives money to clubs, had a terrible effect on the Rochedale Rovers organisations and community groups that 8 Nov 2000 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 4113 usually would not get access to that level of think that should send a message to funding. Recently, my electorate received everyone, and it is not a bad message. It is a $11,000 to do up a hall. That hall would never message that as Australians that is the sort of have received money under any other thing we do, and I do not think it is a bad Government funding scheme. It allows thing. kindergartens to access a large pool of funds. Ms STRUTHERS (Archerfield—ALP) The very few people in the community (8.38 p.m.): In common with me, many who misuse poker machines or allow thousands of Queenslanders probably did their themselves to get bitten by the gambling bug dough yesterday through not knowing that are the same as those who misuse alcohol. A none other than a horse named Brew would few people in the community overindulge in win the Fosters Melbourne Cup. It seemed drinking and get drunk, but that does not pretty sensible, but none of us really clicked to mean that we should limit the amount of that simple thought. We love to gamble, and alcohol out there for everyone. I guarantee many speakers in the House today have that if legislation were brought in tomorrow to talked about that. ban the rampant use of alcohol there would be There has, however, been increasing hell to pay. community concern about the growth of I make this statement right now: I am not gaming and the impact on families of problem much of a gambler. I do not see the point in gamblers. In response to community concern, poker machines. They do not impress me and the Treasurer acted decisively to set up a I do not go to the casinos. gaming review committee. I was honoured to Mr Hamill: Nor me. work on this project last year. I am pleased to support this Bill as it is a further step in creating Mr NELSON: No. I am lucky to go to the and maintaining a responsible gaming casino once or twice a month while I am in environment in Queensland. The Directions Brisbane. The point is that these things are Statement for Gaming, introduced by the around. I do not have a problem with them. Treasurer, seeks to maintain a balance Most of the people in my electorate to whom I between the economic and social impacts of speak do not have a problem with poker gaming. We have many clubs and hotels in machines being put into clubs, hotels or pubs. Queensland offering great entertainment, It is about time that as politicians and as responsible gaming activities and, importantly, community leaders we grew up in relation to lots of jobs. this issue and said that it is up to the people to make a decision. We put these things into I know first-hand of the community benefit clubs. If people want to use them, they use that a local club, such as the Ridgewood them. If they do not want to use them, they do Heights Bowls Club or a local pub like the not. We are not chaining grandmothers to Calamvale Hotel in my area, can generate. poker machines and telling them that they There are a lot of jobs in those clubs and have to spend their money there. That is an hotels. There is a lot of good entertainment for active choice that people make. We have to local people. One of the things I have been stop mollycoddling people and saying, "We will really impressed by in the last 10 years or so is protect you from the horrors of gambling." It is that it is women, too, who now are very much a conscious decision that adults can make if at ease in going into those clubs and hotels they want to make it. whereas before they were generally the As I said, the Gaming Machine domain of men. In many ways, that has Community Benefit Fund is a fund that gives helped to break down some of the isolation much-needed funds to community that women in local communities have organisations that otherwise would not receive experienced by being able to get the $2 meal, them. That is an institution that we have to the entertainment and the other things that go protect and maintain in its current state. on at the clubs and hotels. Having said that, I for one think that we need It is important that the Government to back off on all of this. Of course these continues to support the club and hotel things need to be regulated. However, we industries. We want them to prosper. We want should think long and hard before we go about the club industry to continue to get the sorts of making some of the rampant statements that benefits it has been getting from gaming are made. Regardless of their politics, there machines. It was always the intention to are a lot of people who make some heavy- introduce gaming machines as a fundraising handed statements about poker machines, vehicle for the clubs and hotels, even though the evils of gambling and so on, yet yesterday they would be limited in their access to as a nation we bet $100m on a horse race. I machines; they could have some but not too 4114 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 8 Nov 2000 many. The Sheldon/Watson free-for-all gaming can be put in place to deal with that. The plan gave hotels a significant boost in machine Government is very willing to hear of solutions numbers. With big players like Carlton United and remedies that it can be supportive of. It is Breweries buying up more than 60 hotels in important that there is a lot more work done to Queensland, the club industry and many build the business skills and the acumen smaller pubs, particularly family-owned pubs, amongst members within the club industry. have struggled in the competitive gaming Clubs Queensland and others are playing a environment. role in that, but there is a lot more that can be The industry has a lot of problems at the done. moment in coming to grips with this I am not sure that I am supportive of the competitive environment after having been a idea of bigger clubs taking over smaller clubs community-based, non-profit club industry in in the sense of then having access to their the past. I do not like seeing smaller clubs and poker machine numbers. It is important that hotels struggle in the way they have been in bigger clubs give a helping hand to smaller recent times, and full credit must go to Greg clubs, but that has to be done in a way that Robbie and members of the Ridgewood does not give them a backdoor way of getting Heights Bowls Club in my electorate. They more poker machines. The issue of support for have pulled the club out of some difficult times smaller clubs is an important one. I hope that in the past 12 months. It looked like it was the clubs industry handles that responsibly in heading for some real financial difficulties. the future. As a responsible Government, we They have worked hard on a new business must ensure that gaming operators continue plan to get the club back on track. However, it to act responsibly. Queensland has a world- is a difficult time for people in the industry. class system of accountability. However, it will They have not come to grips with the growth, be difficult. Growing areas such as Internet the money and the responsibility that comes gaming will pose challenges for us into the with a burgeoning gaming industry. Most of future, but it is to the credit of the Queensland the clubs are run by volunteer management Gaming Commission and the Office of Gaming committees. These members have been Regulation Queensland that we have a very required to be, in effect, big-time employers tight, responsible and accountable system in managing billion dollar budgets and big staff Queensland. groups with many human resource and The Bill before the House expands the industrial issues. They have needed to be role of the commission. Already the creative in a highly competitive scene. commission has incorporated social impact It has been a tough job. The member for information in making decisions about Mansfield spoke well on this issue earlier licences, gaming machine numbers and today. He talked about the fact that we cannot related matters. This practice will be just blame it on gaming machines. These strengthened as public comment will be problems are not just about gaming machines; sought on applications for new gaming they are about how clubs and some of the machine sites or an increase in gaming hotels have managed themselves in this machine numbers, and community impact changing competitive environment. One of the statements can be called for. These are all difficulties is that those responsibilities have important developments to give local people grown enormously and that there has not input into these decisions. It is good, been the level of business acumen and other responsible practice. skills on those volunteer committees. At the I commend members of the Queensland same time, it is not expected that that would Office of Gaming Regulation and the be the case. They have grown from being Queensland Gaming Commission for their small volunteer groups to now having to be commitment to these responsible practices high powered corporations in their activities and the clubs and hotels that have taken up and management regimes. many of these responsible gaming practices of After the gold rush of the mid to late their own initiative. The Queensland public also 1990s, the industry has plateaued to some wants to be confident that the hard-earned extent. The full-year metered wins are high at cash fed into gaming machines and other $15m in my area—that is, the outer south forms of gaming is returned to players through region—in clubs and $16.7m in hotels. The fair payouts and that gaming taxes build more competition amongst those venues is very health facilities, community services and fierce. The venues with the new machines provide other much needed community seem to attract the punters and the smaller facilities. I am sure there is some satisfaction clubs with the older machines are having some for patrons who leave a gaming venue with a difficulty. However, there are strategies that lighter wallet in knowing that they are 8 Nov 2000 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 4115 contributing to a worthy community facility. have to be more vigilant. Rather than agreeing They probably would not be thinking that at with the member for Tablelands, who spoke the time, but the money invested is going back earlier in the debate, I and many other people into the local community, particularly through see a great many dangers in gambling, the club industry. particularly the excesses of those who cannot The new Community Investment Fund will control their obsession; they as individuals and attract 8.5% of taxes from Keno wagering, their families suffer significantly as a result. interactive gaming, lotteries and gaming Leaders of the community in my machines. In turn, these funds will be electorate have come to my office to discuss distributed widely to community groups and at great length their concerns about gaming Statewide job generation and crime prevention machines and the millions and millions of activities. The change in the structure of the dollars that leave the electorate and, from their funds is a very important one. In the past, the perspective, the pittance that is returned Gaming Machine Community Benefit Fund through gaming machine funds. Those leaders provided a lot of one-off, ad hoc funding to were not criticising the Gaming Machine communities which has been essential in Community Benefit Fund or the Jupiters providing small infrastructure, facilities and Casino benefit fund. They saw many activities. That has to continue and will organisations which benefited as a result of continue, but it is important that now that we those allocations. Rather, they were criticising have seen such growth in the revenue coming the quantum. The actual turnover of the into this area we can strategically direct that combined clubs and hotels in the area versus into Statewide Government priorities and link the amount of money returned as a that to the communities and people who are percentage of that gaming money was of disadvantaged, that is, those who can least great concern to them. afford to be contributing money to the gaming Acquisition Highlights, issued by the activities but in fact are. The initiative of Parliamentary Library, states under the directing money into job creation projects, heading "Major Findings"— crime prevention and other related activities from gaming revenue is an important direction. "As a result of this 'remarkable' I certainly advocated for that in my role on the growth, the total expenditure (losses) on gaming review committee. gambling is more than double what it was 10 years ago, and treble what it was 15 I commend the majority of Queensland years ago—in 1997-98 Australians lost clubs, hotels and gaming agencies who have $10.8 billion." adopted responsible gaming policies and practices. These industries and the jobs they That is such a significant amount, and it generate will prosper, so long as the patrons of has escalated markedly since then. At the time gaming activities are treated fairly and there were 7,000 businesses throughout decently, not as fodder to line the pockets of Australia providing gambling services and over gaming operators. In the main, I believe the 37,000 people employed in businesses where industry is acting very fairly and responsibly. I gambling is the predominant activity. Over urge all stakeholders in the gaming industry in 120,000 people were employed in clubs, pubs, Queensland to continue to foster a well- taverns and bars where gambling is a balanced, leisure-based industry. With the secondary activity. Ten per cent of gamblers great confidence people have in the Treasurer accounted for some 70% of total gambling and this Government, people are committed to expenditure. The final statistic in the report this objective. shows that the States where people spent Mrs LIZ CUNNINGHAM (Gladstone—IND) least on gambling are also the States that (8.47 p.m.): I rise to speak to the Gambling offer least access to gaming machines—that Legislation Amendment Bill and to put before is, Western Australia and Tasmania. the Parliament some concerns that have been That high expenditure on gaming raised with me over a period with regard to the machines comes from an income base that negative impacts of gambling. However, certainly has not matched it in terms of growth. before addressing those issues, as other So particularly families—individuals as well— speakers in this debate have said, it is have redirected their spending from what I important to acknowledge that many in the imagine would be more family-based activities community responsibly use gaming machines to this one, single focus: gaming. Had as part of their entertainment. For those increases in people's income matched people, the decisions of this Chamber will not increases in gaming machine expenditure, one have as much import. It is for those who find it could say that it was just allocated income, but difficult to control their expenditure that we increases in income have not matched 4116 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 8 Nov 2000 increases in gaming machine expenditure. significant leagues club that can offer much Therefore, the money has to have come from higher jackpots—meant that their major somewhere. fundraising activity may be completely The high social impacts have been undermined. The club is now at financial risk. highlighted not just in this State but across Bingo had always been a reliable and Australia. A number of Federal members of reasonably successful fundraising venture for Parliament and high-ranking leaders in them. churches have highlighted the social impact of One option we discussed, which I raise the increase in gaming. I think all of our here for discussion, was for a threshold to be electorates would have charities such as St applied whereby clubs and facilities that have Vincent de Paul and the Salvation Army who maybe half a dozen poker machines—often are crying out for assistance. They would be they are the smaller bowls clubs, leagues the first to admit that gambling is not the only clubs, et cetera—have no restriction placed on source of their problems—I am not trying to them in relation to bingo. These people said to advance that view—but they are certainly me that they would like to see places that seeing the on-the-ground impact of some of have large banks of poker machines restrained these recreational activities. They see in relation to their running bingo and the husbands or wives coming to them for jackpots they offer. They see this as a very assistance week in and week out because significant threat that they certainly cannot their budget just does not allow for them to compete with. They see that the motive of make basic purchases. these larger clubs is merely to get the people I have a great deal of concern about in and that bingo is not a major fundraiser for Internet gambling. It is the one area of them. gambling in which it is impossible to monitor I commend the Minister on the inclusion problem gamblers. In this legislation and in of community impact statements. This gives existing State legislation, obligations are people the opportunity to articulate their placed on gaming machine premises owners concerns. If the approving authority genuinely to identify people who come in on a regular has regard for their concerns, it will alter the basis and spend excessive amounts of money number and positioning of licences issued. and they are asked to assess whether that Many people feel disempowered. I think every person may be developing a problem. With one of us would have had constituents come Internet gambling, where the person remains to our offices with an issue of concern but in their home, there will be no checks and when we say to them, "Why don't you put a balances. I think that has raised the spectre of letter in?", or, "Why don't you put a submission a problem which will take some years to be in to the Minister?", they will shrug and say, fully realised. "What's the point? I'm only"—and they will say I am not sure how many other members who they are. They have forgotten that they have had representatives of smaller clubs are individuals of importance in the electorate come to speak with them, but in recent times I and that their point of view is of great have had representatives of a number of clubs importance. It is important that elected come to talk to me about the problems they members, Ministers and decision makers, are having with competition in relation to irrespective of their position in the department, bingo. This really is an allied issue to this Bill, hear those people's points of view. Community but it is related. In previous years bingo was impact statements give individuals that the activity used mainly by small clubs— opportunity. The section dealing with particularly junior sporting clubs, the local community impact statements states— leagues club or the RSL—for generating "The chief executive must make income. Some of them had quite significant available for inspection, in the office of the followings, but they were regular followings. department at Brisbane, a list of all These clubs have raised with me that in applications currently before the chief recent times the larger clubs with a lot of executive ..." gaming machines have been using bingo as How will people who live external to an enticement. They get people in to play Brisbane be able to access that information? I bingo and then divert them to gaming know that there are advertising obligations on machines. A couple of small sporting clubs in applications of significant community impact. my area do not have any gaming machines. A The legislation refers to its being in the gazette member of one of them who recently came to and appearing twice in a newspaper circulating see me said that the drop-off in the number of in the locality. Smart applicants will put the people attending bingo there—there is a very notice in the Courier-Mail and not in the local 8 Nov 2000 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 4117 rag. A lot of people only buy the local paper There are another couple of elements and not the Courier-Mail. The legislation does that I wish to raise with the Treasurer today. not say "the local newspaper", it just says "a The Explanatory Notes talk about newspaper". Applicants also must display a "strengthening harm minimisation provisions copy of the notice on the premises. such as preventing credit betting". I would While I welcome all of those obligations, I certainly commend the Treasurer for that. highlight that it would be possible for Again, it recognises not that people in somebody who wanted to circumvent the Australia are inveterate betters—because that intent of the process to endeavour as best is right; we will bet on two flies crawling up a they could to avoid appropriate community wall—but that some people pass the point scrutiny. As I said, it is fine for people who where they can easily contain themselves. have a concern in this area who live in Those people would put on credit an Brisbane and can commute to the city. They enormous amount of money if there was not can on a regular basis make it part of their some constraint placed on them. So I agenda, if you like, to go and have a look at commend the Treasurer for that provision. the list that will be available at the department. Another intention of the Bill is to increase For people who live externally, though, that the amount of money that can be made opportunity will not be available. available in grants from $15,000 to $30,000. I Certainly not everybody subscribes to the know a number of organisations in my local paper in my electorate and even fewer electorate have applied for $15,000, which subscribe to the Courier-Mail. People may miss may have been $5,000 or $10,000 under what those advertisements when they are placed in they really required. The Bill does not obligate the local newspaper. Again, I am not casting the granting authority to go up to the $30,000; aspersions on anyone, but if people wanted to the flexibility remains. However, it does give a avoid scrutiny they would find out the two days broader scope for schemes, especially with the of lowest circulation in the lowest circulating increased cost of building renovations and paper and stick the notices in there. They will modifications to facilities. It just recognises that have complied with the Act but not with the those costs are escalating and also that, with spirit of the Act. I am sure that the Minister's the increasing complexity of communication intention is to ensure that as many people as and technology, the cost of the purchase of possible are made aware of the proposal. equipment is escalating as well. Another issue I raise relates to the I would have to say that many groups in increased power given to the Queensland my electorate have benefited from the Gaming Commission in relation to issuing community benefit fund. They have made guidelines, particularly in respect of the applications for finance for equipment or for location of gambling. The Bill gives as an alterations to buildings that they probably example the commission's views on gaming would not have been able to afford for 20 machines in shopping centres. It then goes on years. What in the scheme of things is a small with some other examples. Overwhelmingly amount of money is really, in their estimation, parents in particular and the community in a huge encouragement for them and a great general oppose gaming machines at shopping benefit to the particular enterprise that they are centres for a lot of reasons, such as the working on. conflict that it places on people who have no The Yarwun hall is in the middle of a fruit willpower, the temptation that it places on kids growing area. That community has been who are out shopping with mum and the impacted by industrialisation and it really does access and exposure that it provides to those struggle to raise funds. It has a limited young people. I am sure that this issue has fundraising ability because of geographical come up in the House before, that the spread. During drought the fundraising ability is Treasurer has actually said that he does not constrained because everybody is feeling the support gaming machines in shopping centres. pinch, and we have been in drought for a lot of I would have been happy to see in the years. It has had a couple of extensions legislation that they were banned. There are added to its hall. That has been a magnificent other areas where it is inappropriate—for benefit to the social activities of the example, near Centrelink offices, near charities community. So that increase is certainly one to and near other outlets like St Vincent de Paul be commended. and other organisations that offer help to people. Games arcades where children I would, however, have to say that the congregate and cinemas are inappropriate for allocations must always be made by the exactly the same reason. It makes exposure responsible committee in an even-handed far too easy. manner. Whilst I am not casting aspersions on 4118 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 8 Nov 2000 the membership of that committee, the machines and they are supposed to be able to allocations must always be on the basis of show visibly where they have benefited the need and not on any other consideration such community and the investment they have as politics, political persuasion or anything made in the community. Over the years that else. Now that the new committee has been has been gradually undermined so that it is appointed, I guess that is yet to be tested. difficult to see any investment in the The other issue that I wanted to raise is community. That audit that has been perhaps a more general concern, but I am introduced will be welcome in the sense that it concerned about the restructure of the will require not only that the clubs advise that Community Investment Fund. The money is some investment has been made in the local now going to be divested into three areas. community from which they have extracted the One is the Gambling Community Benefit Fund, funds, but also they will be required to show which is similar to the current one. The second proof that that has occurred. is to go into research, but that research is As I said, gaming is one form of reasonably undefined. There does not seem entertainment that can be listed with any other to be an end to the timing for funding of number. However, history shows that it has research. Perhaps that can be explained by introduced into this State— saying, "Well, our investigations probably will never cease." Time expired. However, the third area that is labelled Mr SULLIVAN (Chermside—ALP) "other Statewide projects" is a matter of (9.07 p.m.): In 1992 when the then Treasurer, concern. One of the previous speakers Keith De Lacy, dropped the first coin into a explained that part of the restructure by using legal poker machine in Queensland at the the term "Statewide Government priorities". I Kedron-Wavell Services Club, I was standing share the concern that has been expressed by beside him. That event, as we know, changed some that it is going to provide another the face of clubs and pubs across our State. opportunity to increase consolidated revenue While I acknowledge that there are certain for allocation to party political or political concerns with aspects of gaming, particularly objectives. This money is raised through when people become addicted to gambling, in people gambling their money away. If we are this very brief contribution I wish to comment going to allocate it, it must be for the benefit of on two positive aspects of gaming. the community—not political benefit. It must Firstly, the Gaming Machine Community be for areas such as in health that cover Benefit Fund provides a positive return to the issues of addiction. It must be in the area of community. I congratulate former and current family support where gambling creates such committee members who have, in a fair and tension in families that they ultimately implode. conscientious manner, returned significant It must be there for children who are affected funding to local groups which could otherwise by either family stress or family breakdown not have provided the improvements for their directly related to gambling. Those young members. people will have problems for many years in Secondly, I would like to thank and gaining an adequate education, re- congratulate the Kedron-Wavell Services Club, establishing self-esteem and making sound which is a magnificent example of a well-run career choices themselves and not falling into club and which provides benefits not only for the same trap. I just reiterate the concerns that its own members but also for the surrounding have been expressed by some that "other community. The Kedron-Wavell Services Club Statewide projects" does not just end up being has provided assistance to schools for their a political milking cow. sporting days and through citizenship The other issue that I want to raise is one scholarships, and to church and community that the community has raised with me, that is groups in a variety of ways. It has provided a the obligation under clause 17 that requires all significant contribution to the development of clubs with more than a prescribed number of the Chermside site by contributing to the city machines to submit an annual community council library, to the expansion of the benefit statement. When gaming machines clubhouse which provides facilities for people were first introduced, I think many communities to meet, to the sporting fields which are behind could see where the clubs invested their the clubhouse and to the Chermside Historical money to improve community infrastructure. Precinct which is becoming a major focal point Over time, that local investment has for residents in the area. Through its subsidiary diminished to the point where some residents Shawsportz it is helping provide healthy would say that the club or the hotel—but recreational activity to hundreds of children particularly the clubs—have got the gaming and adults in a wide variety of sports. They are 8 Nov 2000 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 4119 doing so much for the local community by undertook through the gaming review. The providing wholesome activities in a well-run, very clear message came from the people of well-supervised venue. Under chairman Paul Queensland that they had concerns about the O'Brien, Shawsportz is becoming a major force proliferation of gaming venues and access to on the north side of Brisbane. gaming in the community, and they wanted I will give one brief example. A Girl Guides the community to be able to have a direct say. group in the area had a problem with the This legislation does just that. electrical power board and did not have the The legislation builds on important money to fix it. As a result, they could not amendments we enacted last year in order to meet at their premises for their normal night- enable the Gaming Commission to take into time meetings. A seniors group that did craft account social and economic considerations work in the building was also unable to meet. I with respect to its determinations. With the approached Kedron-Wavell Services Club with passage of this legislation, we will have a clear a quote from a local electrician. pathway for the people of Queensland to have Representatives of the club said to me, "Do a direct say with respect to matters to do with you trust this sparky?" I said, "Yes, he is a sites for gaming machines, new sites and good local electrician; he is involved with the machine numbers. local swimming club and he contributes to the As I said, this legislation comes as a result community." They said, "Get him to do the job of a widespread review. I heard some and we will pay the bill." The club did that. The comments made in the context of the debate Girl Guides were back in their hut, with the where it was alleged that certain provisions in power on, in a safe environment. The seniors the legislation were a surprise; that the industry group was able to carry on with their activities would have been unaware of the direction of all because a service club had the community this legislation. Nothing could be further from at heart. the truth. After all, if it was a surprise, it would I congratulate the president, Fraser Allom, have to be the most heralded surprise ever in vice president Paul O'Brien, board member the history of this Parliament. The operative Jim Whalan, who is also the president of the dates which are contained in the legislation sub-branch of the RSL, all the board members were also the subject of consultation with the of Kedron-Wavell Services Club and Ken industry. Mogg, the secretary-manager. Kedron-Wavell For the information of the Opposition, as I Services Club, as well as working with and indicated to the Scrutiny of Legislation supporting dozens of local groups, also assists Committee and others, I point out that there other clubs. Some clubs have found was never any intention at all to make these themselves in difficulties and, instead of taking provisions retrospective. That is why, as the them over or benefiting from their plight, legislation had not been debated in the House Kedron-Wavell Services Club has provided by 1 September, I made it clear to the Scrutiny assistance to those clubs to help keep them of Legislation Committee that another date on their feet. would be proffered. It was a matter of clearing Whilst I am aware of the excesses of up the backlog of approvals. some people who gamble, I wish to This is not only legislation which puts in congratulate the Kedron-Wavell Services Club place important principles; it is also legislation on what it does. I also congratulate the which cleans up the legacy of perhaps a rather Minister on his approach in making sure that more laissez faire approach to gaming which the community benefits through the had evolved over a number of years through Community Benefit Fund. successive legislative enactments in this place. Hon. D. J. HAMILL (Ipswich—ALP) One of the things that concerned me very (Treasurer) (9.11 p.m.), in reply: I thank greatly was the fact that there were probably honourable members for their participation in upwards of 6,000 approvals for gaming what has been a wide-ranging discussion of machines which have not been acted upon by the matters that have been before the House hotels and clubs. My view is that, as they had in terms of this Bill. There seems to me to be not been acted upon, I could only assume that widespread support for the fundamental they were not required. principles of this Bill. I refer particularly to the My view is that we should wipe the slate empowerment of local communities. To me, clean and put rigour into this process. If there this is one of the most significant facets of the are venues that want to increase their number piece of legislation that is before the House. It of gaming machines, let them be brave is a direct result of the widespread community enough to ask their communities what they consultations which the Government think, and give the communities an opportunity 4120 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 8 Nov 2000 to clearly express themselves. We have also established some years ago. The committee enabled members of Parliament to have a always had the discretion to allocate a larger say. For some time, the Gaming Commission sum in relation to an application if it saw fit, has circulated members of Parliament in and it still has that power. relation to many applications before them with As some members have said, there are respect to various electorates. It gives organisations that have a very limited capacity members of Parliament an opportunity to to raise funds. The committee, in its discretion, express a view. If a member wants to express has the power to be able to allocate funds a view, he can; if he does not want to express according to need and according to the quality a view, he does not have to. If there are of the submission before it. The ability to significant community concerns and if local allocate $30,000 to an organisation may be members wish to articulate those concerns, sufficient to provide, perhaps, a mini bus to a the avenue is there. The same applies to local group and thus allow members to have councils. Frankly, I believe that is a refreshing mobility which they otherwise would not have. development in the law in relation to these matters. From my experience as a local member, lots of organisations say, "We only wish we One of the issues that has been had a mini bus. We only wish we could offer mentioned on a number of occasions in this transport support for the various activities of debate by a number of members concerns the our community groups." I believe that is a future of the community benefit fund. I want to worthwhile purpose and I am pleased that the state quite categorically that it was a Labor community benefit fund is available to support Government that established the community those sorts of purposes. I want to stress that benefit fund—and for a very good purpose. It we will not countenance any diminution of was established in recognition of the fact that funding to the Gaming Machine Community the implementation of machine gaming in Benefit Fund, or the Gambling Community Queensland may well have a significant impact Benefit Fund as it will now be known. It upon the fund-raising activities of a range of provides a very important avenue of support to small community sporting and charitable a wide range of often small community organisations. organisations that do a tremendous amount of The Government realised that there was a good in the communities they serve. significant impact on bingo. The member for In relation to the legislation, at times I get Gladstone referred to bingo being played in the feeling that the Opposition is not clubs. Bingo is a form of not-for-profit gaming. necessarily clear about what attitude it should It is community fundraising-type gaming. The be taking in relation to gaming machines. I proceeds cannot be used as profit for the know that the Leader of the Liberal Party has individual proponent. The Gaming Machine a much more laissez faire view about gaming Community Benefit Fund was crafted to try to machine numbers than I do. ensure that community organisations that may Dr Watson: That's not true. You and I have been impacted upon by the advent of have the same view. machine gaming had another avenue by which they could receive support for their Mr HAMILL: The member has a greater ventures. I am a very strong supporter of the faith in market forces than I have. Gaming Machine Community Benefit Fund. A Dr Watson: That I have. succession of committees has discharged its Mr HAMILL: There he goes, by the responsibilities very well indeed in distributing member's own admission. those funds around the community. There are other honourable members It is the case that regional and rural areas who perhaps would like to have a much more have done better out of those distributions regulated environment than I think is than the metropolitan area. I do not begrudge appropriate or feasible. This Bill seeks to strike that. I do not think any honourable member an appropriate balance and to empower that would begrudge that. That succession of independent commission to make decisions committees has basically allocated funds about applications, but listening to the according to the merits of the submissions it community. I think that is the important point. received. It has done a fine job. I also want to recognise the role of those One of the things we did was to increase commissioners. During the life of the the maximum amount that could be accessed legislation, there has been a succession of from the fund to $30,000. There is nothing commissioners. Those commissioners have magic about $15,000. That was the sum that done a fine job. I particularly want to pay was in place when the fund was first tribute to the work of the current commission, 8 Nov 2000 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 4121 which has sought to embrace the new policy Question—That the Bill be now read a directions that the Government has sought in second time—put; and the House divided— democratising the whole issue of machine AYES, 42—Attwood, Barton, Bligh, Boyle, Braddy, gaming and the licensing. I believe that the Bredhauer, Briskey, Clark, J. Cunningham, Edmond, commission has done a very fine job in Fenlon, Foley, Fouras, Hamill, Hayward, Kaiser, seeking to reflect community concerns in the Lavarch, Lucas, Mackenroth, McGrady, Mickel, way in which they approach their task. Miller, Mulherin, Musgrove, Nelson, Nelson-Carr, Nuttall, Pearce, Pitt, Reeves, Reynolds, Roberts, We have here legislation that puts in Robertson, Rose, Schwarten, Spence, Struthers, place a rigorous framework, one of which Welford, Wells, Wilson. Tellers: Sullivan, Purcell Queensland can be proud. I think that it is NOES, 40—Beanland, Black, Connor, Cooper, worth while noting that in the run-up to the E. Cunningham, Dalgleish, Davidson, Elliott, Feldman, recent Council of Australian Governments Gamin, Grice, Healy, Hobbs, Horan, Kingston, Knuth, meeting in Canberra the Prime Minister Laming, Lester, Lingard, Littleproud, Malone, proffered some various views about the need Mitchell, Paff, Pratt, Prenzler, Quinn, Rowell, to strengthen player protection and community Santoro, Seeney, Sheldon, Simpson, Slack, concerns in relation to gaming. I looked Springborg, Stephan, Turner, Veivers, Watson, Wellington. Tellers: Baumann, Hegarty through the check list of the things that the Prime Minister was interested in canvassing Resolved in the affirmative. and I am very pleased to be able to tell the House that Queensland was not simply up Committee there doing all of those things; in fact, it has done those things. We are leading the way in Hon. D. J. HAMILL (Ipswich—ALP) having a very responsible approach to gaming. (Treasurer) in charge of the Bill. In that context, I just want to close with Clause 1, as read, agreed to. this point: as I said, this legislation is the result Clause 2— of the work that was taken up with the gaming Mr HAMILL (9.30 p.m.): I move the review, giving expression to community following amendment— concerns in the form of the legislation. One of "At page 10, line 7, '1 September the other key areas of recommendation from 2000'— the gaming review was the development of codes of practice. It is not as one of the omit, insert— honourable members suggested that we are '1 December 2000'." going to leave the gaming industry to In so doing, I just want to reiterate the determine what it should do and what it should point that I made in my reply to the second- not do with respect to operating gaming in reading debate, and that is that it has never Queensland. Far from it. We have a been my intention that this legislation would responsible gaming advisory committee, which have retrospective effect. This amendment draws among its number representatives not substitutes 1 December 2000 for the date that only from the clubs, the pubs, the casinos and was already in the Bill of 1 September. the TABs but also from those organisations Therefore, it makes consistent, in relation to that work directly with those who have a existing sites and new sites, the cut-off date for problem with gambling and with the various the mopping up of old approvals. community welfare organisations. They have Dr WATSON: The 1 December date is come together in a very constructive and right. I have some issues with respect to dates collaborative manner to put together a code of later on. responsible practice. I am confident that the industry across-the-board will embrace that, Amendment agreed to. because responsible operators recognise the Clause 2, as amended, agreed to. importance of that work. I believe that Clauses 3 to 5, as read, agreed to. Queensland as a whole will benefit from the advice that comes from that committee in the Clause 6— very near future. Mr HAMILL (9.31 p.m.): I move the following amendment— I thank honourable members for their support in relation to these measures. I believe "At page 11, lines 16 to 19— that the legislation before us strengthens what omit, insert— has been a very responsible and now ' '(3C) A casino operator must ensure the increasingly responsible framework of number of gaming machines in the regulation for gambling in Queensland. casino, or a particular part of the casino, 4122 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 8 Nov 2000

does not exceed a limit fixed for the "At page 21, after line 22— casino, or the part, by the Minister under insert— subsection (3D). 'Replacement of s 9 (Meaning of "jackpot Maximum penalty—200 penalty units. payout") '(3D) The Minister may, by written notice 22A. Section 9— given to a casino operator, fix a limit on the number of gaming machines to be omit, insert— permitted in the casino or a particular part 'Meaning of "jackpot payout" of the casino.'.'." '9. For this Act, a "jackpot payout" is a This provision merely clarifies existing payment by a licensee or licensed powers under the Bill and it is of its nature a monitoring operator to a player for a technical amendment. winning result or promotions on a gaming Amendment agreed to. machine if— Clause 6, as amended, agreed to. (a) the payment does not increase the credit meter of the gaming machine; Clauses 7 to 9, as read, agreed to. and Clause 10— (b) the payment is not discharged from Mr HAMILL (9.32 p.m.): I move the the hopper; and following amendment— (c) for promotions, the gaming machine "At page 12, line 16, after 'finds a is operated under an approval under person guilty of'— section 287 for a linked jackpot insert— arrangement.'. ', or accepts a person's plea of guilty for,'." Amendment of s 10 (Meaning of "metered payouts") The amendment inserts some further words after "finding a person guilty of or 22B. Section 10(1), after 'winning accepts a person's plea of guilty for". This is an results'— amendment that has been made at the insert— suggestion of the Chief Stipendiary Magistrate 'or promotions'.'. " and enhances the application of clause 10 of the Bill to make counselling available to Again, this is consistent with the earlier persons guilty of an offence relating to a amendment ensuring that certain link jackpot problem gambling behaviour as an alternative arrangements will be deductible for gaming to a penalty. machine tax purposes. The amendment of section 10—the insertion of new clause 22B— Amendment agreed to. is actually a minor amendment that addresses Clause 10, as amended, agreed to. a technical error in the Bill. Clauses 11 to 21, as read, agreed to. Amendment agreed to. Clause 22— Clause 23— Mr HAMILL (9.33 p.m.): I move the Mr HAMILL (9.35 p.m.): I move the following amendment— following amendment— "At page 21, after line 10— "At page 22, lines 16 to 23— insert— omit, insert— '(2A) Section 2, definition "monthly ' '(5) The chief executive must keep taxable metered win", paragraph (a), ', copies of a guideline issued under this other than promotions,'— section available for inspection and permit omit.'." a person— This amendment will ensure that certain (a) to inspect the guideline without fee; link jackpot arrangements will be deductible for and gaming machine tax purposes. (b) to take extracts from the guideline Amendment agreed to. without fee. Clause 22, as amended, agreed to. '(6) Also, the chief executive must keep copies of the guideline available for Insertion of new clauses— supply to persons and permit a person to Mr HAMILL (9.34 p.m.): I move the obtain a copy of the guideline, or a part of following amendment— the guideline, without fee. 8 Nov 2000 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 4123

'(7) For subsection (5)— Clauses 24 to 26, as read, agreed to. (a) copies of the guideline— Insertion of new clause— (i) must be kept at the head office and Mr HAMILL (9.37 p.m.): I move the any regional office of the following amendment— department; and "At page 24, after line 8— (ii) may be kept at any other place the insert— chief executive considers appropriate; and 'Amendment of s 55 (Gaming lawful and does not constitute nuisance) (b) the copies kept under paragraph (a) must be available for inspection 26A. Section 55(2)— during office hours on business days omit, insert— for the office or place. '(2) Without limiting subsection (1)(a), the '(8) The commission may on its own other information or material the initiative, and must if asked by the'." commission may have regard to Amendment agreed to. includes— Clause 23, as amended, agreed to. (a) information or material about social and community issues; and Insertion of new clauses— (b) relevant guidelines issued by the Mr HAMILL (9.36 p.m.): I move the commission under section 17.'.'." following amendment— This amendment ensures that the "At page 22, after line 29— commission has specific power to have regard insert— to relevant guidelines issued by the 'Amendment of s 18 (Commissioners) commission in addition to the information or material about social community issues when 23A. Section 18(1), '5'— they are considering a grant of an application omit, insert— for a gaming machine licence. '7'. Amendment agreed to. Amendment of s 25 (Meetings) Clause 27— 23B. Section 25(5)(a), '2'— Mr HAMILL (9.38 p.m.): I move the omit, insert— following amendment— '3'.'." "At page 27, line 24, 'substantial'— This arises as a result of a submission I omit, insert— received from members of the Gaming 'significant'." Commission, recognising that their workload I am seeking to make the words in the has expanded considerably as a result of the legislation consistent. The Bill actually used the requirements now for the commission to take term "substantial", and elsewhere in the on board community input, and it seemed to legislation the term "significant" is used. It is me that it was reasonable that the commission more appropriate to keep the terminology be further resourced through the addition of consistent, hence the replacement of two extra members to enable the commission "substantial" with "significant". to adequately discharge its responsibilities. Dr WATSON: I appreciate that Dr WATSON: The Treasurer was good explanation. I admit there are some questions enough to tell me some time ago that his as to the difference between "significant" and proposal was to move to increase the number "substantial". on the commission from five to seven for a couple of reasons: firstly, the one he has just Mr HAMILL: I think they are not indicated, that the work of the commission is substantial. expanding; and, secondly, I think he Dr WATSON: These are probably fairly understood at times there were difficulties detailed, technical legal issues. The question I getting quorums, and this was a mechanism have is with respect to applications that initially for ensuring they could get sufficient people for are very small in number. It has been a quorum. The Opposition has no difficulty with suggested to me that requiring a significant that. I think under the circumstances with the community impact statement by an existing increased workload it is a reasonable club or hotel which is only going to increase proposition. the number of machines by a small Amendment agreed to. number—for example, if it is a hotel going from 4124 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 8 Nov 2000

20 to 25, or a club which may be going from Mr Hamill: Yes. 20 to 30—might be putting an unreasonable Dr WATSON: Okay. That is fair enough, cost on such a small increase. because they certainly do not want to do that. I ask the Treasurer how this is going to be Secondly, the question is: is the Treasurer applied. A small increase in numbers which saying that there are going to be different pro does not really have any substantive impact formas developed that will be given to clubs still seems to require a community impact and hotels with respect to addressing this statement. issue? Mr HAMILL: In response to the Mr HAMILL: Just to reiterate, the honourable member's inquiry, as luck would commission will entertain applications for have it, I currently have before me some increases in respect of any particular site only proposals from the Gaming Commission as to once in any 12-month period. The commission this very issue. The Gaming Commission is is working on guidelines and pro formas that cognisant of the need to not overly burden will address different scales of applications applicants in respect of what may not seem to from different clubs, sites or hotels. As I said be unduly significant increases in numbers of before, it is neither the Government's intention machines. The commission has been working nor the commission's desire to unduly burden with clubs and hotels to put in place some applicants with an excessive administrative general pro formas which would be used to task. Nevertheless, where there is a significant distinguish very significant increases from or potentially significant impact on the rather less significant ones. community, the commission has the discretion It is not the desire of the Government nor to require the furnishing of supporting data to of the commission, as I said, to overburden back up any application. applicants in cost or in administrative time. Amendment agreed to. Nevertheless, if there is a new site where there Clause 27, as amended, agreed to. may be an application for a significant number of additional machines, then in those Clauses 28 to 32, as read, agreed to. circumstances the commission has a discretion Clause 33— to require a much more rigorous appraisal of Mr HAMILL (9.43 p.m.): I move the the impact on a local community. I would following amendment— suspect, for example, that in the case of a club which may already have 20, 30 or 40 "At page 33, line 22, 'community machines, an application to increase numbers comments'— by, say, five, six or seven would not require a omit, insert— great degree of effort on the part of the club to 'relevant community comments'." be able to substantiate the basis on which that application would be made. However, in the This amendment is a minor amendment case of a new site which suddenly wanted 50 to ensure that the terminology is consistent in or 60 machines, the commission quite properly the Bill so that instead of "community would wish to see a rigorous and extensive comments" we require "relevant community community impact statement undertaken. That comments". is why the pro formas that they are working on Amendment agreed to. would cater for those different circumstances Clause 33, as amended, agreed to. of different applicants. Clauses 34 to 41, as read, agreed to. Dr WATSON: As I understand it, there are at least two issues. One, of course, is that we Clause 42— do not want to put up a situation where Mr HAMILL (9.43 p.m.): I move the someone can increment us to death by having following amendment— over a reasonable period a set of small "At page 37, line 25, 'approved increases of 5 or 10 machines and suddenly from'— go from 20 to 100 machines in the space of a few months, bit by bit. I understand the omit, insert— Treasurer does not want to end up doing that. 'approved form'." I think we have to have some kind of time limit. This merely corrects a typographical error Mr Hamill: There is. The commission will appearing in the Bill. countenance only one application for an Amendment agreed to. increase in any 12-month period. Clause 42, as amended, agreed to. Dr WATSON: Okay. That is part of the commission's operating standards? Clauses 43 to 57, as read, agreed to. 8 Nov 2000 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 4125

The CHAIRMAN: Please note that the (a) if the gaming machine is part of a following amendment proposes a new clause. multiple site linked jackpot Insertion of new clause— arrangement for which a licensed monitoring operator has an approval Mr HAMILL (9.44 p.m.): I move the for its operation under section following amendment— 287—the licensed monitoring "At page 50, after line 9— operator who has the approval; or insert— (b) otherwise—the licensee.'.'." 'Amendment of s 227 (Gaming machines Likewise, this amendment corrects a not to be played if not installed in gaming minor technical error in the legislation. machine area) Amendment agreed to. 57A. Section 227(3), from 'the licensee'— Clauses 63 to 72, as read, agreed to. omit, insert— The CHAIRMAN: Please note the '— following amendment proposes a new clause. (a) if the gaming machine is part of a Insertion of new clause— multiple site linked jackpot Mr HAMILL (9.45 p.m.): I move the arrangement for which a licensed following amendment— monitoring operator has an approval for its operation under section "At page 57, after line 19— 287—the licensed monitoring insert— operator who has the approval; or 'Amendment of s 287 (Requirements for (b) otherwise—the licensee for the approvals for linked jackpot gaming machine. arrangements) '(4) Subsection (3) applies to winnings 72A. Section 287(3) and (10)— whether the winnings are attributable to omit.'." obtaining a winning result or promotions.'.'." This amendment is designed to simplify the requirements for approvals which follow the This amendment is necessary to correct a approval of linked jackpot arrangements. minor technical error in the legislation. Amendment agreed to. Amendment agreed to. Clause 73— Clauses 58 to 62, as read, agreed to. Dr WATSON (9.46 p.m.): I have a couple The CHAIRMAN: Please note that the of questions on this clause for the Treasurer. following amendment proposes a new clause. Firstly, I refer to section 305(1)(d) on page 57 Insertion of new clause— of the Bill. On page 58 of the Bill, section Mr HAMILL (9.45 p.m.): I move the 305(1)(e) states— following amendment— "if the licensee operates more than a "At page 53, after line 8— number of gaming machines fixed for this paragraph under a regulation—a insert— community benefit statement detailing all 'Amendment of s 243 (Gaming by financial contributions made, and other employees of licensees) support given ..." 62A.(1) Section 243(1)(b), after 'winning The question that has come up during my result is'— discussions is: will that statement require insert— support to be detailed in relation to what might be given both in cash and in kind? When we ', or promotions are,'.'. look at the tenet of that statement, it looks like (2) Section 243(2)— it is all financial transactions. Of course, some omit, insert— things could actually be given in kind rather than in cash. '(2) No amount is payable to the employee for the winning result or The second question I have relates to promotions, and any winnings produced subsection (3) of section 305. It states— by obtaining the winning result or because "(1A) The profit and loss statement to of the promotions remain the property be given to the chief executive under of— subsection (1)(c)"— 4126 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 8 Nov 2000 and then there are proposed two subsections, Dr WATSON: I understand the rationale in (a) and (b). In the first case we have to that we do not want cash from liquor sales distinguish between the revenue received from mixed up with the cash flow from gaming. I the sale of liquor for consumption on the understand that. However, what is achieved by licensed premises and revenue received from splitting liquor sales into off premises and on the sale of liquor for consumption off the premises? I am having a hard time licensed premises. What is the rationale for understanding why that is a relevant issue in that? After all, as I understand it, these relate evaluating gaming. I understand the idea to gaming establishments. This is about behind keeping away liquor sales from gaming establishments. I would like to know gaming, but why on site, off site? The third what the rationale for that distinction is. part of my question which the Minister did not Secondly, subsection (b) states— answer last time related to examples of other "... must comply with any other requirements the chief executive might require reasonable requirements notified in writing in the second part of the provision. I refer to to the licensee by the chief executive." clause 73(3) on page 58 and to the insertion of proposed subsections (1A)(a) and (b). What What is envisaged under subsection (b)? would be included under that? Mr HAMILL: Firstly, in relation to this Mr HAMILL: Let me traverse this territory general provision, perhaps it would be worth again. It would be of concern to the while if I gave a little general information to the Government if a site which purported to be a Chamber as to its purpose. One of the issues community club was in fact not really that arose during the gaming review was some performing the task of a community club but community concerns that, contrary to the was basically a takeaway liquor site running assertions of some larger institutions, perhaps gaming machines as well. As I said, this is the committee was not receiving as much about transparency and to give an assurance community benefit from those community that premises are in fact being operated for clubs as was allegedly the case. A number of the purposes for which they were intended. I clubs also had the view that their efforts on the do not mind sharing this observation with committee perhaps were not fully recognised. honourable members. It is of some This was designed to allow some proper considerable concern to me that I have community recognition to be given to the encountered circumstances where proprietors efforts of community clubs in supporting a of establishments have sought to establish range of charitable, sporting and other cultural bistros only to obtain a liquor licence and all of activities in their communities. Yes, it is a sudden they do not run a bistro anymore; intended that—and these words are sufficiently they want to fill it up with gaming machines broad—those clubs be able to recognise both and sell takeaway grog. That subverts the cash and in kind support. This is not meant to purpose for which the Government has be an onerous task for clubs. In fact, I would enacted this legislation. This is a mechanism have thought that most clubs would welcome for us to ensure that premises are being the opportunity to be able to say to their operated for the purposes for which they are communities exactly how they are aiding purported to be operated. worthwhile community activities. In response to the other matter raised by In relation to the other part of the the honourable member, I am advised by the provision as to why there is a distinction executive director of the Office of Gaming between liquor on site and liquor off site, it is Regulation that this is designed to give the about understanding the financial viability of Office of Gaming Regulation the opportunity to the business in order to prevent gaming establish some fairly standard accounting revenues being clouded by bar revenues. In practices across sites. The Office of Gaming the context of changes to the Liquor Act where Regulation has been in consultation with clubs clubs will have rather more liberal provisions in this regard to try to get some standard with respect to the sale of liquor to be accounting. The power here to put other consumed off site, we do not want a situation reasonable requirements in place would be to where the overall health of the gaming site is seek compliance with reasonable standards in clouded or obscured by an overreliance ON the format for which those reports could be cash flow from the off-site liquor consumption returned to the Office of Gaming Regulation to or indeed the on-site liquor consumption. It is fulfil the objectives of the particular provision. about having transparency in relation to the soundness or otherwise of the gaming activity Clause 73, as read, agreed to. on the site. Clauses 74 and 75, as read, agreed to. 8 Nov 2000 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 4127

Clause 76— This legislation maintains the Sport and Dr WATSON (9.55 p.m.): It is these Recreation Fund and the Gaming Machine clauses which cause the Opposition a great Community Benefit Fund, albeit under a deal of difficulty. The clauses from here on, different name, for the very reasons I particularly clauses 76 and 78, change the explained before. We believe that that fund structure of the community gaming funds. In provides very important support to a wide essence, they eliminate the existing fund and range of community organisations. We have establish the Community Investment Fund. increased the maximum grant to be made Under the Community Investment Fund is the available from that fund in keeping with our Gambling Community Benefit Fund, a desire for community organisations to receive research fund and another fund for issues of support for various endeavours. Statewide significance. Quite frankly, we have However, the gaming review identified concerns about the lack of transparency in that that there was a greater need to focus on the process. We have concerns that the gaming problems of addictive gambling behaviour in machine revenue which the Government gets the community. To that end, the gaming will be subverted and moved to other activities. review saw that the Community Investment There is nothing in this legislation which ties Fund would be able to gather to itself moneys the amount of revenue that comes in for which could be distributed to undertake gaming in any explicit fashion to the amount important research into gambling activity in the that goes into the Gambling Community community and also to support, to a greater Benefit Fund. That is a major concern to us. extent than was the case under the old We understand the relevance of the Charities and Rehabilitation Fund, the activities research, and we support money going of organisations such as Break Even and towards the research of social issues others that provide quality services in the associated with gaming. However, we have community. great reservations about money being moved This framework is about delivering on that away and put into "programs of Statewide objective. It also recognises, as has already significance". We think that is a mechanism been pointed out in debate here this evening which is going to lead to problems in the by the honourable member for Archerfield, that future. It is a mechanism which we think is there are significant community issues that totally inappropriate. As I said, we believe that need to be addressed with respect to the the funding of these activities ought to take impact of gambling on the community. It is in place through the consolidated revenue that context that the gaming review process—through the normal budgetary recommended the establishment of the process—for examination in the Estimates Community Investment Fund as the committees. We oppose this change to the overarching body for the receipt of a set structure and will be opposing clause 76. I will percentage of gambling proceeds—that is why also be moving amendments in the debate on the figure of 8.5% was adopted—embracing a clause 78. range of other gambling activities in the Mr HAMILL: Perhaps my comments here community that hitherto did not contribute to might suffice in relation not only to addressing the important community objectives which this the Opposition's opposition to clause 76; they legislation seeks to put in place. That is why might also be appropriate in relation to the the likes of Golden Casket, other forms of amendment that has been foreshadowed by gaming, including Keno and other gaming the Leader of the Liberal Party. It is important machine revenue, will contribute. All activities that honourable members understand the of gambling will contribute. genesis of these provisions. To understand That was also important as a result of the that, one needs to go back and reflect upon tax changes that took place at the the funds which were originally established Commonwealth level. Honourable members when gaming machines were introduced to would realise that there was a requirement on Queensland. There was the Gaming Machine the States and Territories to reduce their Community Benefit Fund, the Sport and gaming taxes to make way for the goods and Recreation Fund and the Charities and services tax. Had we not sought to effect these Rehabilitation Fund. Of those three funds, only sorts of changes, changes to the tax regime two operated as distinct funds. In fact, the would have resulted in the likes of the Gaming Charities and Rehabilitation Fund was basically Machine Community Benefit Fund being operated through the Department of Families, starved of funds, because having to make way Youth and Community Care and its for the GST would have directly impacted on predecessors. the amount of money flowing into that 4128 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 8 Nov 2000 particular fund and also into the Sport and going to these funds because of the reduction Recreation Fund. in gaming revenue directly received by the This framework is a very responsible one, State Government, after taking into account recognising that there are social obligations on the reduction from the goods and services tax the part of Government to address gambling being applied, there is no doubt that the issues and the communities that are affected amount available would decrease. I can by gambling, as well as provide ongoing appreciate the Government wanting to make support for sport and recreation and sure that did not happen and, in order to see community organisations through the Gaming that it did not happen, bringing in each of Machine Community Benefit Fund. On that these other forms of gaming and applying an basis I urge honourable members to support 8.5% tax to them as well as to gaming the clauses as they stand. I foreshadow my machine receipts. It does not matter. That is opposition to the amendment the Leader of just a mechanism for getting the amount of the Liberal Party proposes to clause 78. money going to the Community Investment Fund. It does not matter how that is done. Dr WATSON: There is no question that Provided the amounts going in there are not money is well spent in gaming research, less than before, that would be acceptable. particularly research into the social impact of The problem is: once it is in the Community gaming on the community. The Opposition Investment Fund, what happens to it then? does not object to the establishment of a fund. There are no guarantees within the structure of It does not object in any way whatsoever to the funds. That is what the Opposition research being conducted in that area. That is opposes. not our concern. Our concern is that the original purpose of the community benefit fund Question—That clause 76, as read, stand was to make sure that projects were funded at part of the Bill—put; and the Committee the local level. divided— In his speech in reply to the second- AYES, 42—Attwood, Barton, Bligh, Boyle, Braddy, Bredhauer, Briskey, Clark, J. Cunningham, Edmond, reading debate the Treasurer said that the Fenlon, Foley, Hamill, Hayward, Hollis, Kaiser, original intention was to make sure that those Lavarch, Lucas, Mackenroth, McGrady, Mickel, organisations that were funding these things, Miller, Mulherin, Musgrove, Nelson, Nelson-Carr, through bingo and so on, and which would not Nuttall, Pearce, Pitt, Reeves, Reynolds, Roberts, be able to get their funds would have access Robertson, Rose, Schwarten, Spence, Struthers, to a pool of funds to essentially replace the Welford, Wells, Wilson. Tellers: Sullivan, Purcell normal flow of funds to them. Our concern NOES, 40—Beanland, Black, Connor, Cooper, E. relates to the potential subversion of that Cunningham, Dalgleish, Davidson, Elliott, Feldman, original intention. Gamin, Grice, Healy, Hobbs, Horan, Kingston, Knuth, The Community Investment Fund is an Laming, Lester, Lingard, Littleproud, Malone, Mitchell, Paff, Pratt, Prenzler, Quinn, Rowell, overarching fund. Once the money gets there, Santoro, Seeney, Sheldon, Simpson, Slack, there is no information about how it will be split Springborg, Stephan, Turner, Veivers, Watson, between the Gambling Community Benefit Wellington. Tellers: Baumann, Hegarty Fund, the research fund and the Statewide programs. There is no structure in place which Resolved in the affirmative. guarantees a certain amount going from the Clause 77, as read, agreed to. Community Investment Fund to the Gaming Clause 78— Machine Community Benefit Fund. The problem is the lack of transparency in relation Dr WATSON (10.12 p.m.): I move the to how that is to be done. following amendment— I take issue with the Treasurer when he "At page 61, lines 11 and 12— says that it is impossible to get a formula which omit." would take account of the fact that the GST has been imposed and that the States agreed The effect of this amendment is to remove to adjust their gaming take to take account of from section 322(5)(c), which is the programs the GST. It would be quite feasible to work out of Statewide significance— the amount of GST related to gaming turnover The CHAIRMAN: Order! There is much and for that to be taken from the GST receipts too much conversation in the Chamber. Order! to supplement the Gaming Machine I cannot hear the member for Moggill. Community Benefit Fund. It may be Dr WATSON: The effect of the complicated, but it could be done. amendment is to remove subsection (c) If no adjustment was made for the fact "programs of Statewide significance, including that there was a reduction in the percentage job creation, community renewal and crime 8 Nov 2000 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 4129 prevention". As I stated in my speech during 81A. Section 338(5), from 'the licensee'— the second-reading debate and earlier in omit, insert— relation to the previous clause, the Opposition does not believe that it is appropriate to be '— funding these kinds of activities from the (a) if the gaming machine is part of a Community Investment Fund. multiple site linked jackpot The CHAIRMAN: Order! The member for arrangement for which a licensed Mooloolah will leave the Chamber and put a monitoring operator has an approval coat on. The member for Burdekin is not for its operation under section properly dressed. He will put a coat on. 287—the licensed monitoring operator who has the approval; or Dr WATSON: As I indicated, the (b) otherwise—the licensee. Opposition does not believe that this is an appropriate way to go about funding these '(5A) Subsection (5) applies to winnings types of activities. The appropriate way to do whether the winnings are attributable to this is through the normal Appropriation Bills, obtaining a winning result or through the normal appropriation of promotions.'.'." consolidated revenue. We do not believe that Like a series of other amendments I have this is a mechanism that should be used in this already moved, this amendment corrects a way. It is a mechanism that is fraught with minor technical error in the drafting of the Bill. dangers. It is a mechanism that is not Amendment agreed to. transparent. The only way to fix the issue is to remove this kind of activity from being a use of Clauses 82 and 83, as read, agreed to. the Community Investment Fund. Clause 84— Question—That Dr Watson's amendment Mr HAMILL (10.22 p.m.): I move the be agreed to—put; and the Committee following amendments— divided— "At page 64, line 3, '13 December AYES, 41—Beanland, Black, Connor, Cooper, 2000'— E. Cunningham, Dalgleish, Davidson, Elliott, Feldman, omit, insert— Gamin, Grice, Healy, Hobbs, Horan, Kingston, Knuth, Laming, Lester, Lingard, Littleproud, Malone, 'the relevant date'. Mitchell, Nelson, Paff, Pratt, Prenzler, Quinn, Rowell, At page 64, line 6, '13 December Santoro, Seeney, Sheldon, Simpson, Slack, 2000'— Springborg, Stephan, Turner, Veivers, Watson, Wellington. Tellers: Baumann, Hegarty omit, insert— NOES, 41—Attwood, Barton, Bligh, Boyle, Braddy, 'the relevant date'." Bredhauer, Briskey, Clark, J. Cunningham, Edmond, All the amendments that relate to clause 84 Fenlon, Foley, Hamill, Hayward, Hollis, Kaiser, give effect to an amendment which has Lavarch, Lucas, Mackenroth, McGrady, Mickel, Miller, Mulherin, Musgrove, Nelson-Carr, Nuttall, already been passed in the House with regard Pearce, Pitt, Reeves, Reynolds, Roberts, Robertson, to putting the December date in place in Rose, Schwarten, Spence, Struthers, Welford, Wells, relation to mopping up the old approvals in Wilson. Tellers: Sullivan, Purcell relation to gaming machines and sites. The numbers being equal, the Chairman I am aware that Dr Watson has cast his vote with the Noes. foreshadowed an amendment that he will be moving. I suggest that the foreshadowed Resolved in the negative. amendment has exactly the same effect as Clause 78, as read, agreed to. amendment number 18 which I shall move. No doubt the amendments come about for the Clauses 79 to 81, as read, agreed to. same reason—not only to achieve the The CHAIRMAN: Please note that the mopping-up of the old approvals, but to following amendment proposes a new clause. recognise that particular applicants, because of factors outside of their control, may face Insertion of new clause— circumstances whereby they are not able to Mr HAMILL (10.21 p.m.): I move the get their premises in place in order to be able following amendment— to have the approved number of machines in "At page 63, after line 3— place. insert— There is no intention here to penalise any organisation if it is operating and is bona fide. 'Amendment of s 338 (Certain persons Consequently, the commission is given power not to play gaming machines) by virtue of these amendments to exercise its 4130 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 8 Nov 2000 discretion in relation to such sites. As such, I granting of a club liquor licence under the commend the amendments to the House. Liquor Act. That was obviously at the discretion Amendments agreed to. of the Government. The surf-lifesaving organisation was waiting for all of these Dr WATSON: I move the following Government restrictions to be satisfied before amendment— it went ahead and erected the building. "At page 64, after line 10— The building would have to satisfy all local insert— government requirements. There was a whole ' '(4) Despite subsection (2) or (3), on series of Government requirements which application by the licensee under a would stop the organisation from meeting the gaming machine licence to which this deadline proposed in this Bill. That is the section applies, the commission may, by reason for moving the amendment to clause written notice to the licensee before 13 84. The effect of the amendment is to say that December 2000, fix a date falling after 13 the commission may set a different date from December 2000 as the date applicable to that which is contained in the legislation the licence, if the commission is provided there is good reason for such a satisfied— deferment. There are examples given of good reasons. They include such things as the (a) the licensee has used the licensee's licensee having applied for certificates under best endeavours to start conducting the Building Act 1975 but having yet to obtain gaming on the licensed premises, or the certificates. to install the full number of gaming machines approved for the licensed That is the situation that the surf-lifesaving premises, by 13 December 2000; association faced. It needs to have all and certificates in place before it goes ahead and erects the building. Any delay in this matter (b) there is a good reason to allow the has nothing to do with the surf-lifesaving deferment. organisation's wish to get the premises up and Examples of good reasons— running and to have the licence in operation. 1. A reasonable time before 13 December The effect of this amendment is to say this: 2000, a licensee has applied for the grant "We want to clean up the backlog but there of a liquor licence under the Liquor Act are some situations which, through no fault of 1992 for the premises but has yet to the organisation, do not allow the organisation obtain the licence or has appealed to meet the deadline proposed in the against a refusal of the application. legislation." The surf-lifesaving association cannot meet the deadline because of a 2. A reasonable time before 13 December number of Government requirements that 2000, a licensee has applied for all have yet to be fulfilled. certificates under the Building Act 1975 that allow the premises to be used for the I believe it is a reasonable proposal. I intended purpose but has yet to obtain recognise that, subsequent to my developing the certificates. this amendment, the Treasurer has put forward a proposal which perhaps says the '(5) If the commission fixes a date under same thing. However, I want to be sure that subsection (4) for a gaming machine the surf-lifesaving association can meet the licence, subsection (2) or (3) applies to the types of examples that I have mentioned if the licensee as if the date fixed by the Government's amendment is accepted. commission were substituted for 13 December 2000.'.'." Mr HAMILL: The proposition that the honourable member is moving is very I had representations from a number of substantially similar to amendment No. 18 organisations, the most vociferous being the standing in my name, which I foreshadow that surf-lifesaving association, which had to deal I will be moving. However, there is an with the situation where it had conditional important distinction. The honourable member, approval for a gaming machine licence, but from the remarks that he has made, has the final approval was subject to a whole series crafted his amendment with one specific of conditions that had been put on the purpose in mind. association by the Queensland Office of Gaming Regulation. Dr Watson: No. Those conditions included the condition Mr HAMILL: It would appear that he was that the commission would be satisfied that concerned about one particular case, and that the association would not breach certain was a circumstance of a surf-lifesaving sections of the Act and that there would be the supporters club which had received certain 8 Nov 2000 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 4131 approvals but had not actually completed ' '(4) The commission may fix a date work. Indeed, I think it probably had not even falling after 13 December 2000 as the started work on its site. relevant date for particular licensed It had come to my attention that there premises if— were other examples around where some (a) the licensee— other premises had construction work in (i) applies in writing to the commission progress. Therefore, I thought it would be before 13 December 2000 for unreasonable, on the face of it, to frustrate deferment of the relevant date; and work that was being proceeded with at some considerable expense where, for no reason (ii) provides the commission with within the control of those entities, that work information and materials for which it had not yet been completed. reasonably asks to help it decide the application; and That is why the amendment that I am foreshadowing, amendment No. 18, is cast in (b) the commission is, after considering broader terms. It gives the power to the the application and any supporting commission, which has access to the information and materials, satisfied information, to exercise a discretion based on there is good reason to allow a the information that can be presented to the deferment of the date for the commission. So it was not with any particular licensed premises. case in mind but just the general circumstance Example of good reasons to allow a in mind. It is cast more broadly and I think it deferment— addresses the concern of the honourable The commission might consider member but in a way that is not specific to any the fact that licensed premises particular case. are under construction and the Dr WATSON: I will speak to my construction work is substantially amendment again. I just say that I am complete or has been delayed satisfied that the Treasurer and I are moving for reasons outside the along the same line. A number of other licensee's control are good organisations had also approached me and I reasons for deferment of the am aware that there are other circumstances relevant date. involved. My own feeling was that the '(5) The commission may grant a amendment that I had moved really took deferment of the relevant date on account of the most extreme kind of case in conditions the commission considers which they were waiting to meet certain appropriate and, if a condition is not Government requirements and waiting for the complied with, the deferment does not Government to act and they had not yet operate beyond the date of the started. My amendment was certainly noncompliance. designed to make sure that, in that circumstance where people could not even '(6) In this section— start the building to be able to house the club "relevant date" means— and the machinery, that would be taken care (a) 13 December 2000; or of and anything else that was further advanced would automatically be taken care (b) for premises for which the of in that general proposition. commission has fixed a later date under subsection (4)—the date fixed However, we will move the amendment. I by the commission or an earlier date will not call for a division on it, because I on which the deferment ceases to recognise that the Treasurer is going to move operate under subsection (5).'. his foreshadowed amendment. To a substantial degree, it does the same as my At page 64, lines 23 to 30— amendment. I accept the Treasurer's omit, insert— assurance that the kind of position that I ' '(4) The commission may fix a date outlined with respect to the surf-lifesaving club falling after 13 December 2000 as the would be covered by his amendment. relevant date for particular licensed Amendment negatived. premises if— Mr HAMILL: I move the following (a) the licensee— amendments— (i) applies in writing to the commission "At page 64, after line 10— before 13 December 2000 for insert— deferment of the relevant date; and 4132 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 8 Nov 2000

(ii) provides the commission with '(2) However, the chief executive may, by information and materials for which it written notice given to the applicant, reasonably asks to help it decide the require the applicant to give the chief application; and executive a community impact statement (b) the commission is, after considering and a statement of responsible gambling the application and any supporting initiatives within the reasonable time, not information and materials, satisfied less than 30 days, stated in the notice. there is good reason to allow a '(3) If the applicant is required to give a deferment of the date for the community impact statement and a licensed premises. statement of responsible gambling Example of good reasons to allow a initiatives, section 55B(2) to (5) applies to deferment— the statements and the preparation of the statements. The commission might consider the fact that licensed premises '(4) If the applicant does not comply with are subject to major renovations the notice, the applicant is taken to have or a major extension and the withdrawn the relevant application. work is substantially complete or '(5) Subsection (6) applies if a member of has been delayed for reasons the public, individually or as a member of outside the licensee's control are a group, has commented or comments good reasons for deferment of on the relevant application, by writing, the relevant date. given to the chief executive before the '(5) The commission may grant a commission decides the application. deferment of the relevant date on '(6) The comments are taken to be conditions the commission considers relevant community comments on the appropriate and, if a condition is not application. complied with, the deferment does not '(7) However, the commission may operate beyond the date of the disregard comments on subjects that lie noncompliance. beyond a scope indicated in a relevant '(6) In this section— guideline issued by the commission under "relevant date" means— section 17. (a) 13 December 2000; or '(8) In this section— (b) for premises for which the "member of the public" see section commission has fixed a later date 55D(4). under subsection (4)—the date fixed "relevant application" means an by the commission or an earlier date application of a type mentioned in on which the deferment ceases to section 55A(1) that was made, but not operate under subsection (5).'. decided, before the commencement of At page 65, line 3, '1 September this section. 2000'— 'Application of guidelines to existing omit, insert— applications '1 December 2000'. '398.(1) This section applies to any of the At page 65, line 4, '1 September following applications made, but not 2000'— decided, before the commencement of this section— omit, insert— (a) an application for a gaming machine '1 December 2000'. licence; At page 66, line 5, (b) an application for additional licensed 'commencement.'.'— premises; omit, insert— (c) an application to have the approved 'commencement. number of gaming machines for 'Applications of significant community licensed premises increased. impact '(2) To remove doubt, it is declared that a '397.(1) Subject to this section, sections guideline issued by the commission under 55B to 55E do not apply to a relevant section 17 applies to an application application. mentioned in subsection (1) in the same 8 Nov 2000 Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 4133

way it would if the application were made ' '113.(1) Each month, the Minister must after the commencement.'.'." pay into the community investment fund Amendments agreed to. established under the Gaming Machine Act 1991, section 314(1), a percentage of Clause 84, as amended, agreed to. all amounts received by the chief Clauses 85 and 86, as read, agreed to. executive by way of keno tax and keno The CHAIRMAN: I point out that the licence fees for the previous month. following amendment proposes a new clause. '(2) The amounts paid into the community Insertion of new clause— investment fund are administered receipts under the Financial Administration and Mr HAMILL (10.34 p.m.): I the following Audit Act 1977. amendment— '(3) The percentage mentioned in "At page 67, after line 9— subsection (1) is the percentage insert— prescribed under a regulation.'.'." 'Amendment of s 116 (Payment of tax for Amendment agreed to. community benefit) Clause 90, as amended, agreed to. 86A.(1) Section 116(1), from 'The Minister' Clauses 91 to 95, as read, agreed to. to 'subsection (2)'— Clause 96— omit, insert— Mr HAMILL (10.35 p.m.): I move the 'Subsection (2) applies to the following following amendment— amounts'. "At page 70, lines 18 to 25— (2) Section 116(2) and (3)— omit, insert— omit, insert— ' '99A.(1) Each month, the Minister must '(2) Each month, the Minister must pay pay into the community investment fund into the community investment fund established under the Gaming Machine established under the Gaming Machine Act 1991, section 314(1), a percentage of Act 1991, section 314(1), a percentage of all amounts received by the chief the amounts received by the chief executive by way of lottery tax for the executive for the previous month. previous month. '(3) The amounts paid into the community '(2) The amounts paid into the community investment fund are administered receipts investment fund are administered receipts under the Financial Administration and under the Financial Administration and Audit Act 1977. Audit Act 1977. '(4) The percentage mentioned in '(3) The percentage mentioned in subsection (2) is the percentage subsection (1) is the percentage prescribed under a regulation.'.'." prescribed under a regulation.'.'." This amendment, along with Amendment agreed to. amendments Nos 24, 25 and 26, all deal with guaranteeing the flow of funds from the Clause 96, as amended, agreed to. various forms of gambling activity into the Clauses 97 to 99, as read, agreed to. Community Investment Fund. As I indicated Clause 100— earlier, the significance of this legislation is that it ensures that all forms of gambling contribute Mr HAMILL (10.35 p.m.): I move the to the community and social purposes, which following amendment— are established under the legislation. "At page 72, lines 1 to 8— Amendment No. 23 is certainly that, and it omit, insert— relates to the Interactive Gambling (Player Protection) Act. 'Replacement of s 169 (Application of wagering tax, authority fee and authority Amendment agreed to. administration fee) Clauses 87 to 89, as read, agreed to. 100. Section 169— Clause 90— omit, insert— Mr HAMILL (10.34 p.m.): I move the 'Application of wagering tax following amendment— '169.(1) Each month, the Minister must "At page 68, lines 11 to 18— pay into the community investment fund omit, insert— established under the Gaming Machine 4134 Appropriation Bill (No. 2); Appropriation (Parliament) Bill (No. 2) 8 Nov 2000

Act 1991, section 314(1), a percentage of SUPERANNUATION AND OTHER all amounts received by the chief LEGISLATION AMENDMENT BILL executive by way of wagering tax for the Second Reading previous month. Resumed from 19 October (see p. 3879). '(2) The amounts paid into the community Dr WATSON (Moggill—LP) (Leader of the investment fund are administered receipts Liberal Party) (10.43 p.m.): I indicate that the under the Financial Administration and Opposition will support this Bill. We will support Audit Act 1977. the Bill going through expeditiously and let the '(3) The percentage mentioned in Treasurer go. subsection (1) is the percentage Mr HAMILL: I thank the honourable prescribed under a regulation.'.'." member for his comments. As I indicated in Amendment agreed to. my second-reading speech, these measures Clause 100, as amended, agreed to. bring consistency in Queensland legislation with the requirements of the Commonwealth in Clause 101, as read, agreed to. a range of pieces of Commonwealth legislation Schedule, as read, agreed to. impacting on public sector superannuation and Bill reported, with amendments. I thank the Opposition for its support. Motion agreed to. Third Reading Hon. D. J. HAMILL (Ipswich—ALP) Committee (Treasurer) ( (10.36 p.m.): I move— Clauses 1 to 48 and Schedule, as read, agreed to. "That the Bill be now read a third time." Bill reported, without amendment. Dr WATSON: I just want to indicate that the Opposition will be opposing the third Third Reading reading. We are opposing it because a Bill, on motion of Mr Hamill, by leave, read fundamental change has been made to the a third time. Gaming Machine Community Benefit Fund. While we agree with most other aspects of this legislation, this is a fundamental change that APPROPRIATION BILL (No. 2) we cannot agree to. We believe it is a APPROPRIATION (PARLIAMENT) BILL (No. 2) retrograde step. We believe that it reduces the Cognate Debate transparency of the allocation process. As I Hon. D. J. HAMILL (Ipswich—ALP) have indicated previously, we believe that the (Treasurer) (10.48 p.m.), by leave, without appropriate way to allocate moneys to things notice: I move— like crime prevention and job creation "That so much of the Standing and programs is through the normal appropriation Sessional Orders be suspended to enable mechanism and for it to be examined by the the Appropriation Bill (No. 2) and the Estimates committees. Appropriation (Parliament) Bill (No. 2) Question—That the Bill be now read a being treated as cognate Bills for their third time—put; and the House divided— remaining stages— AYES, 42—Attwood, Barton, Bligh, Boyle, Braddy, (a) one question being put in regard to Bredhauer, Briskey, Clark, J. Cunningham, Edmond, the second reading; Fenlon, Foley, Fouras, Hamill, Hayward, Kaiser, Lavarch, Lucas, Mackenroth, McGrady, Mickel, (b) the consideration of the Bills together Miller, Mulherin, Musgrove, Nelson, Nelson-Carr, in Committee of the Whole House; Nuttall, Pearce, Pitt, Reeves, Reynolds, Roberts, (c) one question being put for the Robertson, Rose, Schwarten, Spence, Struthers, Committee's report stage; and Welford, Wells, Wilson. Tellers: Sullivan, Purcell (d) one question being put for the third NOES, 40—Beanland, Black, Connor, Cooper, reading and titles. E. Cunningham, Dalgleish, Davidson, Elliott, Feldman, Gamin, Grice, Healy, Hobbs, Horan, Kingston, Knuth, Motion agreed to. Laming, Lester, Lingard, Littleproud, Malone, Mitchell, Paff, Pratt, Prenzler, Quinn, Rowell, Santoro, Seeney, Sheldon, Simpson, Slack, Second Reading (Cognate Debate) Springborg, Stephan, Turner, Veivers, Watson, Resumed from 17 October (see p. 3683). Wellington. Tellers: Baumann, Hegarty Dr WATSON (Moggill—LP) (Leader of the Resolved in the affirmative. Liberal Party) (10.49 p.m.): These 8 Nov 2000 Appropriation Bill (No. 2); Appropriation (Parliament) Bill (No. 2) 4135

Appropriation Bills do not really change has been down. If there is any doubt about anything in Queensland. Labor's fiscal that, one has only to refer to Michael Knox's management of Queensland was summed up economic strategy, which he published earlier quite succinctly by the respected economist at this year. It showed quite clearly and the University of Queensland, John Stanford, unequivocally that the employment growth in when he made some comments at the time of Queensland had fallen from an annual rate of the last Budget. He said of the last Budget 65,000 in May of 1998 to just over 28,000 that it had no idea of the future, that it had no earlier this year. If honourable members look ideas and no vision. He went on to say— at the percentage growth, they will see that the "You really begin to wonder whether growth in employment had dropped from 4.2% the Government does in fact understand in May of 1998 to 1.7%. the important kinds of forces which drive What has happened in Queensland is growth in this State. This is really bad that relative to the rest of Australia we are news for those who are looking for jobs falling behind. When we take the critical because growth at that rate in this State is measures that the Premier said he and his not going to create enough jobs for all Government were to be judged on, the those who are coming into the work question of jobs, jobs, jobs, they are gone, force." gone, gone. The fact of the matter is that it Labor's core promise at the last election does not matter what we look at, whether it is was jobs, jobs, jobs, but of course in job things like the ANZ advertisement figures, the creation we have virtually seen nothing, ABS figures or an analysis like the one Michael nothing, nothing. Clearly this Government Knox has done, uniformly those figures and does not understand what drives a State. I those analyses are saying that Queensland's thought it was interesting this week that the rate of job creation is falling relative to the rest ANZ job advertising figures for October showed of Australia. If Queensland is getting any jobs a continuation of a trend that was established growth at the moment, it is because of the not too long after this Government came to policies that have been adopted by the power. In October the ANZ job series showed Federal Government and the fact that the that over the past year the fall in the number Australian economy as a whole is still charging of job advertisements has been some 24%. along, but the Queensland economy in The change in trend, which is obviously the comparison with other State economies is thing that is often used by this Government, starting to fall behind. has been nearly 19%. In terms of the number Mr Lucas: Tell us about the building of jobs, I will use as a comparison figures from industry; you wrecked that. October 1998, which was a few months after Dr WATSON: It does not matter what this Government came to power. In raw terms area you look at, compared with the rest of the number of jobs advertised per week in Australia Queensland is falling behind. October of 1998 was 3,154 or, seasonally adjusted, 2,790. In the past month the The Federal Government policies are number of jobs advertised per week was 2,708 actually saving this Government at the or, seasonally adjusted, 2,386. moment. Once upon a time Queensland used to lead Australia. We were above the national That is a substantial reduction in the averages. Irrespective of what the Federal number of jobs being advertised every week in Government was doing, Queensland used to Queensland. It is a reduction which is due to charge along. But now we are not charging the policies that are adopted by this ahead of the rest of Australia, we are being Government. Unfortunately, the kinds of things pulled along by the rest of Australia; we are that we see in the ANZ job figures are probably being pulled along by the Federal going to be reflected tomorrow when the Government. Clearly this Government does unemployment figures come out for not understand what actually drives the Queensland and Australia. The sad fact of the economy in this State, and quite clearly the matter is that unemployment is flatlining in this Government does not understand the very State. It is flatlining around the 7.6% to 8% simple equation that business investment level not only because of the historical drives job creation and that investment in situation, but because it reflects what the public infrastructure drives business Treasurer has indicated is expected in the investment. Budget. As I travel the State, people tell me there Since this Government has been in office, is virtually nothing coming down the pipeline in the trend in terms of the creation of new jobs Government projects. Why is there nothing in Queensland, in terms of the advertisements, coming down the pipeline? We have only to 4136 Appropriation Bill (No. 2); Appropriation (Parliament) Bill (No. 2) 8 Nov 2000 look at the gross fixed capital formation figures investment in this State. This is a Treasury that were contained in the last Budget. document. It states— Honourable members can see quite clearly "Business investment continued its that, over the period of this Government, the downward trend in March quarter 2000, gross fixed capital formation has fallen from falling 2.0% in trend terms following $4.5 billion, which was the legacy left to them declines of 3.5% and 4.1% in the previous by the coalition Government, to this year, two quarters respectively (rest of Australia, which is down to $3.8 billion. If they look at the up 0.5% in the March quarter)." forward estimates they will see it is going to fall to $1.9 billion over the next three years. That is It goes on to say— causing a fundamental problem in terms of "The outlook for business investment Queensland's public infrastructure. in Queensland remains subdued. In It was interesting that the Government particular, forward indicators point to a tried to pin its hopes on a slightly different further deterioration of investment in other measure, the Capital Works Program. When building and structures in the short term." we did an analysis of that Capital Works The fact of the matter is that it is the Treasury Program, we could see the kinds of problems documents which are confirming that that the Government was running into. Of the Queensland is falling behind in business $5.3 billion that was trumpeted across the investment. It is the Treasury documents headlines of this State, only $500m of that under this Government that confirm that we was new capital works. The vast majority of the are falling behind in private investment. It is capital works were works that had been carried Treasury documents which indicate that we are over, things that had already been started, flatlining in terms of job creation, and they things that were already in the pipeline. That is have concerns about how job creation is going why when we talk to businesses around the to go in the future in Queensland. State, when we talk to construction These are not the only statistics to have companies, they tell us that they cannot see come out recently. These are not the only anything coming down the pipeline. That of statistics which confirm the deterioration in the course induces a lot of uncertainty into relative performance of the Queensland business planning. It certainly reduces the economy. A poll survey put out by the amount that people are going to invest. When Queensland Chamber of Commerce and the amount that people are going to invest is Industry also supported the fact that the reduced, the number of jobs that are going to Queensland economy and confidence in this be created is reduced. State were deteriorating. They are The fact of the matter is that, when we deteriorating because of the policies of this look at the forecasting assumptions that were Government. The assessment of State and contained in the Budget, we already had an Territory Government policies and the attitudes idea back then that things were not going to of Queensland business to State Government go well for Queensland. In areas of business policies received the following responses. The investment, for example, they are forecast to net balance of those who believe that the fall some 4.5% in this financial year. When we policies are supportive versus those who look at investment in other buildings and believe that the policies are working against structures, it is to fall by 0.75%. When we look them was a negative 12%. In other words, at investment in machinery and equipment, it more Queensland firms believe that the is falling by 8.75%. Each of those figures that attitudes of this State Government work were forecast in this year's State Budget against them than work for them. compare unfavourably with the forecast for Not only that, that trend has been similar kinds of statistics or measures continuing for a considerable period. In August nationally. Again, if we look nationally and we 1999, the net balance was a negative 6%. In look at investment in things like machinery and November 1999, it was a negative 9%. There plant, we will see an investment which is going was a recovery in February when it rose to a to rise by some 9%. negative 2%. In May it was a negative 4%. In The Budget papers outlined it. But August of this year, it was a negative 12%. unfortunately the forecast seems to be coming Quite consistently over the past 12 to 14 through in other information published by months the consensus of businesses in Treasury or in other publications. It was Queensland is that the policies being applied interesting to note in the latest Queensland by this State Government are working against Economic Review of the third quarter of this them. More firms believe that the policies of year that Queensland Treasury sums up quite this State Government work against them than clearly what is happening to business work for them. It is no wonder there is a crisis 8 Nov 2000 Appropriation Bill (No. 2); Appropriation (Parliament) Bill (No. 2) 4137 of confidence. It is no wonder businesses are An issue that the Commission of Audit not willing to invest when they do not believe warned the coalition Government about was that the Government is working for them. It is that the policies of the Goss Government were no wonder we are not seeing the job creation leading to a blow-out in the operating costs of that ought to be occurring in this State when Government. One of the challenges that the we do not encourage businesses to invest. coalition Government had when it came to Mr Lester: Investment creates jobs, Dr power was to try to bring those in line. It was Watson, doesn't it? successful in doing that. The Minister only has to look at the Budget review contained in the Dr WATSON: The member for Keppel is Budget papers in relation to the way service so right. It is business investment which drives was provided under the coalition job creation. No business investment means Government— no job creation, and that is the problem. When one examines the kinds of policies that this Government members interjected. Government is implementing, one can Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr Kaiser): understand why businesses do not believe the Order! Members on my right are distracting the Government is there for them. In relation to member for Moggill. simple things such as payroll tax, this Government has increased the effective rate Dr WATSON: One only has to look at the of payroll tax on businesses by including figures contained in the Government's own superannuation in the base for the calculation Budget papers to see that when the Goss of tax. Government was in power the costs of running the Government in terms of total expenditure Mr Lester: It's an anti-employment tax. rose substantially. When we came to power, Dr WATSON: Yes, it is an anti- we controlled that. The interesting thing to employment tax. note is that the coalition reduced the costs of In relation to workers compensation, the running the Government, but most importantly effective rate of workers compensation has it increased the amount of money going into been increased. Not only has the effective rate two key areas—health and education. Yet, for workers compensation been increased; the under this Government, the amount of money kinds of policies that this Government is relative to the rest of the country in those two adopting will lead to a blow-out in workers areas is falling. While the costs of Government compensation problems in the future and are going up—these figures are in the therefore a blow-out in costs. We heard the Treasury papers; members can look at other day that the number of prosecutions has them—the two areas in which this Government fallen by 60%. No-one believes that behaviour claims some kind of moral superiority, that is, has changed; what has changed is the health and education, indicate that funding is willingness of this Government to prosecute falling. those who are trying to rort the system. They were the general figures contained Businesses know that in the longer term that in the Budget papers. Since we got the will increase the costs of having workers Budget papers, we have some further compensation. information in relation to education which Mr Lester: And that will mean more definitely confirms that trend. It is interesting to computers and less people employed. note the per capita expenditure for State schools in Queensland from 1991 to 1998-99 Dr WATSON: Eventually, of course, as and to compare it with the amount of money the member for Keppel says, increased costs spent per student in Queensland versus the to business mean that businesses have to get rest of Australia. From 1991 through to 1995- their returns somehow. It usually means 96, the period of the Goss Labor Government, reducing employment. in every one of those years the per capita Mr Lucas interjected. expenditure for State schools in Queensland Dr WATSON: The member for Lytton was less than the per capita expenditure in must have forgotten his economics. He knows State schools in other parts of Australia. In that that follows. The fact of the matter is that other words, we were below the national this Government does not know how to run the average. economy of this State. It does not even know In 1996-97 and 1997-98, the period in how to run its own business. Not only is it not which the coalition was in Government, putting money into gross fixed capital spending per student in Queensland was formation; it cannot put the money into it higher than spending per student in Australia because it is simply not running its day-to-day as a whole. To be precise, the amount spent operations in an efficient fashion. per student in 1996-97 was $5,420 in 4138 Appropriation Bill (No. 2); Appropriation (Parliament) Bill (No. 2) 8 Nov 2000

Queensland and $5,365 across Australia. In objectives of Government, which are an 1997-98 spending per student was $5,747 in important reason we get elected to Parliament. Queensland and $5,615 across Australia. We had a social commitment to health and to What happened in the first year of the the education of the children of this State. Beattie Labor Government, in the first year of There is nothing in the Appropriation Bills the supposed commitment to a Smart State? being considered by this Parliament that The Beattie Labor Government reverted to the changes that fundamental picture—the policies of the old Goss Labor Government. In fundamental picture of a Government that the first year of the Beattie Labor Government, does not know how to drive the economy of Queensland again lagged the rest of Australia this State, a Government that is committed to in State school spending. Queensland spent rhetoric but not to action in important areas, a $5,885 per student, while the average for Government that is not committed to Australia was $5,960 per student. substantial investment in public infrastructure and therefore is not committed to making sure Let us look at the decade of the 1990s. that business invests the maximum amount. For all bar two years and four months Without a commitment to public infrastructure, Queensland was governed by Labor Party to controlling our expenses and, in the process Governments. In every year in which the Labor of controlling those expenses, putting money Party was in power, spending per student in into the areas that are going to be important to State schools was lower than the Australian the future of this State, and to business average. The only two years in which more investment, then in the final analysis there can than the Australian average was put into State be no commitment to job creation. schools were those in which the coalition was in power. Mr Hegarty: Do you know that the Roads Implementation Program has now slipped It is interesting to see that in 1998-99 years behind what it was during the coalition Queensland's spending per student was years? $5,885. The national average for that year was $5,960. Per student, Tasmania spent $6,364, Dr WATSON: I would not be surprised at Western Australia spent $6,306 and South all. I can tell the member for Redlands that, Australia spent $6,187. In other words, the two from looking at my own area, the proposals for coalition Governments in Australia both spent expanding the major State roads in my area considerably more per student than did this have slipped years behind. The only time in Labor Government. The New South Wales the near future they will get done is when the Labor Government spent $5,910—more than coalition gets back into power. Queensland. The only State outspent by Mr Kaiser: Moggill is your priority for road Queensland was Victoria, with the Labor funding. Government there spending $5,640 per Dr WATSON: I was just reflecting what the student. member for Redlands said. I agree with him. I So much for a commitment to a Smart can see it and I can tell that is the case even State. So much for a commitment to State in my own area. If the member visits education by a Labor Government. The only Woodridge every now and again, unlike his Government committed to a Smart State—the predecessor, he may find that conditions are only Government committed to educating our deteriorating there as well. I suggest that the students through a financial commitment member goes and visits the electorate and greater than that made by the rest of does not try to do the same thing his Australia—was a coalition Government. I think predecessor did. that reflects precisely the reality of what goes The commitment of this Government— on under this Government. The rhetoric is commitment to business investment, public there, but the reality is that it was the coalition infrastructure, jobs, schools and health—is not that had a commitment to education. there. Nothing in the Appropriation Bills These figures show that it was the changes those basic facts. Nothing in the last coalition that had a commitment to the health Budget changes those basic facts. Nothing will of Queenslanders. The coalition Government change in this State until the Government controlled expenditure such that we actually changes. had money to put into capital formation, which Hon. B. G. LITTLEPROUD (Western led to greater public infrastructure and Downs—NPA) (11.17 p.m.): I listened carefully therefore greater private investment and to the contribution of the Leader of the Liberal therefore more jobs. The coalition Government Party. I note his in-depth review of what is had that commitment. Along with that going on in the Queensland economy. It commitment came a commitment to the social seems to bear out many of the things— 8 Nov 2000 Appropriation Bill (No. 2); Appropriation (Parliament) Bill (No. 2) 4139

Mrs Edmond: He hasn't even scanned region of north-west Queensland. Those areas the headlines. It was not an in-depth review. were using up all of the money and other parts Mr LITTLEPROUD: The Minister was not of the State which did not have the same rate listening. I represent a rural electorate. It has of growth had to make do with what they had. been said over many recent years— Sometimes it gets to the stage where a Mrs Edmond interjected. community like the Darling Downs, which has been settled for over 100 years—we are now Dr Watson interjected. into the fourth generation—gets resentful. it is Madam DEPUTY SPEAKER (Ms Nelson- probably 50 or 60 years since some of our Carr): Order! Could we have a bit of decorum? public buildings have been upgraded, and the Mrs Edmond interjected. resentment factor comes into it. My constituents are constantly coming to me and Dr Watson interjected. saying, "Well now, isn't it about time we got a Madam DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! The refurbishment of the school?", or ,"Isn't it time member for Moggill and Minister will refrain. the hospital was done up?" If one goes along Mr LITTLEPROUD: As I was saying, the and talks to the Treasurer of the day he can member for Moggill gave an in-depth critique always say, "There is a big demand because of what is going on in the Queensland all these people have moved here from the economy at present. I speak now as someone southern States and we have to meet their who represents a rural electorate. I have been demands." worried for a number of years because, in spite An honourable member interjected. of the downturn over the last couple of years Mr LITTLEPROUD: They have certainly under the Beattie Government, it can be slowed down, but it has been a problem for argued that the Queensland economy is Governments of all persuasions. We have extremely strong, that the Queensland tended to concentrate our capital works in economy is in good shape. To me, that is an areas where there is a boom. That leads to a overly simplistic statement, because the truth distortion of the Capital Works Program. is that some parts of Queensland are booming but other parts are lagging. I happen to represent a part of Queensland where things are not going too It always worried me when I went back to well. We feel that we have made a big my electorate and talked to constituents. I contribution over a long time. Certainly the would say, "Good figures produced by various industries that led to prosperity in our area are experts have been brought out by the changing dramatically at present and there is a Government." They would say, "Where is this need for Government to do something about boom you are talking about, because it is it. I am very concerned that under the present certainly not here?" The challenge for any Government they are not receiving the Government is to work at those things that are assistance that they need. bringing new prosperity to Queensland—the new sunrise industries. Also, there is a social Rather than speak only about my own responsibility to ensure that we try to bring electorate, I want to talk about the whole of some new opportunities to those places which the State. Of course, it could be said in a have made a considerable contribution to the generic way that change in the economy is economy of Queensland but which are lagging constant and that as some industries die, new somewhat. ones are born. Some examples of old I suppose the growth that is associated industries that have gone and have had to be with booms is also a big problem for the replaced are coalmining in the Ipswich area, Government. It can lead to a distortion of the dairying right across the Darling Downs and up Capital Works Program of a Government. If we along the coastal areas of Queensland, and go back over the last 10 or 15 years, at one mining at Mount Morgan. In some areas, there particular stage there were 1,000 people a has been a transformation on the arrival of week coming into Queensland. That put new industries. In other places, there are not enormous pressure on our infrastructure in the same number of options available. Mount terms of capital works to provide bridges, Morgan is now almost dead in terms of roads, schools, hospitals, public housing and industry, but it is certainly still a residential area so on. Invariably when in Government or in and is home to many people. In the Darling Opposition we become aware that there is an Downs dairying has been replaced by the grain enormous amount of infrastructure going into and cotton industries. places like the Gold Coast, Brisbane, the Then there are the new industries that Sunshine Coast, Mackay and the hinterland, have arisen. We have the new coalfields of Townsville and Cairns and perhaps the mineral central Queensland in the Bowen Basin. 4140 Appropriation Bill (No. 2); Appropriation (Parliament) Bill (No. 2) 8 Nov 2000

Whole new towns are being created and this is horticulture, because all of those things use creating all sorts of opportunities. In fact, some the natural resources that we have: fertile land people from the Treasurer's electorate have and some water. relocated to the Central Highlands and made a The councils in my area, the chamber of great life for themselves, and they are now commerce, the people involved in industry in probably some of the best paid people in the area all came to me and we had Queensland. workshops years ago. There were not too The grain industry has come to the many options, and we narrowed them down. Darling Downs. It probably provided no more We could go into more high-risk crops. We prosperity than the dairy industry did but it could store some water to give some more represented a new way of life, a better way of surety in the primary industries. We knew that life. In terms of manufacturing, I suppose we had coal out there that would enable us to Evans Deakin is almost a thing of the past, but develop mineral resources. That also gave us Fisher & Paykel and some of the more modern the chance of value adding and having a electronic industries have come into the south- power industry. So we had three things on the east corner. go. When we lost Government two and a half The duty of the Government is to years ago, we had three things on the go. All recognise that this change is going on and to three were knocked head over turkey by this assist in a smooth transition. The Government Government—the whole three. has to take responsibility for the social impact Now we have a Government that is calling of what is happening. I have heard people say for us to put up good ideas as to how we can that being in Government is not much different generate growth in our electorates. I have a from being in business. I always argue that briefing later this week with a fellow from the there is a great deal of difference, because it is Department of State Development and I am not just profit and loss that has to be taken going to put to him in a nice way that we had a into account; people have to be considered as lot of good ideas and this Government has put well. The people factor makes it pretty difficult them all aside. I am going to say, "You come for Government. up with the ideas that will work, because we The Government has to do what it can to have used the local expertise over many, retrain the community. It might provide some many years. We thought we had something venture capital to industries that it considers going, and now we have to start from scratch will be the industries of the future. Research again." has to be encouraged, as does value adding. That leads me to the coal in the Surat Obviously, Government has to provide the Basin. There are two proven fields of coal necessary infrastructure and, in doing so, reserves at present. One is at Kogan Creek make the best possible use of the natural and the other one is at Wilga Creek. The resources of the State. We are doing that to Kogan Creek coal was going to be the basis varying degrees. However, I have felt a bit for a powerhouse to be built. The coal was frustrated in that regard over the past couple going to be taken straight out of the ground, of years. My frustration was highlighted straight out of the mouth of the coalmine, and recently when the Government sent out a big put into a powerhouse and burned at $28 a document and asked local governments, megawatt hour. councillors and members of Parliament to put in submissions and meet with people from the Mr Hamill: They still will, you know. Department of State Development and Trade, Mr LITTLEPROUD: I will believe it when I which wants to put together a new strategy for see it. But let me finish. Kogan Creek is now the overall strategic development of 40% owned by a corporatised State authority. Queensland. That authority is competing against Tarong That is not a new idea. Governments Energy, which will also have access to the have been doing that for a long time. If you same coal reserves just down the road. It will are in trouble, you form a committee. I thought put it on a railway line 120 kilometres long and about it. I thought, "On the surface it looks a take it to the Tarong Power Station. I have pretty good idea", but I will tell members what written a letter to the Minister for State the realities are in terms of my area. It is an Development and put it to him that overall his agricultural area with not too many options. responsibility and the responsibility of the State We have changed from dairying to grain. From Government is to make the best possible use wheat and barley we have gone into high-risk of our natural resources. The best use of our crops. We have gone into cotton. We have natural resources in that case would be to take gone into irrigation and we have gone into that coal and burn it there, not incur the 8 Nov 2000 Adjournment 4141 expense of sending it by rail to a power station being mooted. Quite frankly, industry was in at Tarong. uproar. I spent two and a half years putting However, the policy introduced by the together policies where we could protect the Goss Government stated that corporatisation environment and industry could live with our was the way to go to drive inefficiency out of proposals. corporatised bodies. So we broke up the It is interesting to note that the present power generation of Queensland into three or Minister, the Honourable Rod Welford, has not four companies and now there are two changed one of those policies because they corporatised bodies—CS Energy, which has worked. However, this Government has got 40% of Kogan Creek, and Tarong changed the focus. In the last two and a half Energy—competing against one another for years the Minister has put a big stop on water the same amount of coal. CS Energy will wait with an overall plan for water which is for a number of years now because it has unworkable as far as industry is concerned. He been outbid by Tarong. has also put a big stop on vegetation Mr Hamill: The truth of the matter is that management. He was making such a mess of you guys broke up the generating industry like that that it was taken over by the Deputy that, not the Goss Government. Premier under the Regional Forestry Agreement. However, it does not appear as if Mr LITTLEPROUD: No, the Treasurer's that is working too well, either. Government brought in corporatisation. The simplistic argument is that we fixed Mr Hamill: You guys broke up the— up something as a coalition and made it work. Mr LITTLEPROUD: And I have always We were protecting the environment. We fixed been against it. I have always said, "I don't up all the mistakes that the Goss Government see that corporatisation is the be-all and end- made. The present Government is now all", and this is pretty good proof. dealing with water and vegetation The Government could back a 120 management and things have come to a dead kilometre long railway line to take coal over to stop again. As Joh Bjelke-Petersen would say, Tarong, which would provide 20 jobs in my this is the dead end of socialism. I support the area at a certain cost and cause a lot of member for Moggill when he states that the dislocation, or CS Energy, another State Queensland economy is slipping badly overall authority, could burn that coal on site, put it in in terms of what is happening in the rest of a powerhouse and create over 200 permanent Australia. This has come about through a lack jobs in my area. If the Government is thinking of planning. The points I have made with about getting the most efficiency out of two regard to the use of resources in the Surat statutory authorities, the National Competition Basin are a good example of the misuse of Policy makes a nonsense of it. The the National Competition Policy just for the Government should say, "Well, you fellows in sake of competition rather than for the best Tarong Energy have to do something else and efficient use of that resource for Queensland. use local coal to do it", because the most Debate, on motion of Mr Horan, efficient thing to do is to burn the coal where it adjourned. is and make the Kogan powerhouse a goer. I appeal to the Minister to consider that ADJOURNMENT argument, because that is just one of the options. It will use our natural resource of coal, Hon. T. M. MACKENROTH (Chatsworth— it will give us a value-added industry in the ALP) (Leader of the House) (11.32 p.m.): I generation of power and it will not dislocate the move— farming industries of the area. But what has "That the House do now adjourn." happened in the last two and a half years? It has been put aside. The last thing that I want to talk Vision 2000 about—because I know the hour is late—is an Mr HORAN (Toowoomba South—NPA) experience I had when I became the Minister (11.32 p.m.): Tonight, I want to talk about one for Environment. I came along after Pat of the most exciting proposals for south-east Comben, then Molly Robson and then Tom Queensland which will provide a major Barton. Those people were bringing in all sorts economic boost for the Lockyer Valley and of changes to the Environmental Protection Toowoomba and the Darling Downs. I refer to Act. About the time I became Minister, all sorts the proposal to pump recycled water from the of environmental protection policies dealing council areas of Brisbane, Ipswich and Logan with air, water, noise and such things were to the Lockyer Valley and the Darling Downs in 4142 Adjournment 8 Nov 2000 order to provide a secure, permanent irrigation have indicated that they would take the water supply. at a price of up to $150 per megalitre. This The proposal has been examined for would pay for the annual operating costs and some time. The scheme is making steady would also provide for a component to pay for progress. As we take each step along the way, the capital replacement of this equipment in the project is looking more and more feasible. years to come. This is required under COAG Some weeks ago, the Deputy Prime Minister, arrangements. John Anderson, visited Toowoomba for the It is good to see that the Brisbane City Carnival of Flowers and he met with the Council, through Lord Mayor Jim Soorley, has members of Vision 2000—the group that has been giving in-principle support to this concept. been putting forward this proposal for the The Brisbane City Council is facing a huge cost Darling Downs area. commitment in the future in order to meet As a consequence of that visit, I am COAG requirements in relation to the quality of pleased to be able to announce that the water that is pumped into the Brisbane River Deputy Prime Minister has people from his and into Moreton Bay. The quality of that department working with Vision 2000 on an water has to be increased. Thus, it is feasible application for funding of some $480,000. for the Brisbane City Council, the Ipswich City These funds will be used to keep Vision 2000 Council and the Logan City Council to direct working on this proposal. It will also assist in recycled water through the pipeline system to getting the CSIRO to look at the environmental the Lockyer area and the Darling Downs. impact of recycled water coming from south- Vision 2000 will provide those expressions east Queensland to the Darling Downs. of interest to the inter-agency committee some This is an exciting proposal. It is time next week. This committee has been something that can deliver a major economic established by the State Government as a benefit to Queensland. To put the thing in follow-on from the initial feasibility study that perspective, I will give some of the figures. It is the coalition Government put in place. The currently estimated that somewhere in the inter-agency committee is going extremely order of 110,000 to 140,000 megalitres of well. We are very hopeful that this very project water will be available—and it could be up to can come to fruition. 150,000 megalitres in the not-too-distant future. If we take that ballpark figure and look This is a very practical and sound plan, at some 50,000 megalitres being delivered to providing that the environmental impact of the the Lockyer Valley and 100,000 megalitres water on the Darling Downs is assessed and is being delivered to the Darling Downs, that given a tick by the CSIRO. The irrigation 100,000 megalitres of secure water would farmers themselves will contract to provide air deliver immediately, without any further space in their ring tanks to take 100,000 increase in infrastructure on the irrigation farms megalitres per year. Even if it is a wet season, on the Darling Downs, $100m of extra farm the water can still be taken and stored in the gate sales per year. That would have a $200m storages that are available on the properties. a year economic benefit for Toowoomba and This is a visionary project. The cost may the Darling Downs. That is just using about be somewhere in the order of $600m. Kinhill, two-thirds of the available water. Brown & Root are working on this matter and Let us look at the environmental benefit will have the estimate available by December. to Moreton Bay. The value of Moreton Bay as If the ballpark is about $600m, and if it a pristine environment has now been provides $200m a year in immediate economic established at $2.7 billion over 10 years. That benefits, it has to be one of the greatest things is the value of that pristine environment to that we can do for south-east Queensland fishing, tourism, recreation and so forth. and, indeed, Queensland. It will lead to more exports, security of water supply and fix the At the other end of the scale, we have the environment in Moreton Bay and in the concerns of various States about the Murray- Murray-Darling system. Darling system. This project would mean that there would be not as much pressure on the Time expired. Murray-Darling system, particularly in times of flood when the flood water would be allowed to travel down the system without being sucked Education Funding up by the flood-lifter pumps into the ring tanks. Mr MICKEL (Logan—ALP) (11.37 p.m.): So far, Vision 2000 has been able to A public policy debate is under way about the obtain expressions of interest from 210 level of Federal Government funding for farmers on the Darling Downs. These farmers education. I want to inform the House about 8 Nov 2000 Adjournment 4143 one of the initiatives of the Federal experience, to try to get them back we have to Government. build a climate of trust. That simply could not Two years ago, the Federal Government be achieved with the short-term nature of this decided to abolish the youth allowance. The project. money saved was to be allocated to schools to The worst aspect of it is that, initially, assist students to return to high school so that schools were led to believe that all the funding they could access skills for job training. Twenty had to be expended by December 2000. schools in the Logan/Beenleigh area were However, recently the schools were informed targeted for such assistance. It was targeted to that the programs have until June 2001 to achieve results for about 1,200 at-risk expend the funding. The fact is that the students. schools should have known about this up front The teachers and staff took the Federal so that they could go about the careful Government at its word. However, I have to planning that is needed. Instead, for the year say to the House tonight that this is the most 2001, there is going to be a shortfall in the hard-hearted Federal Government ever for the program. This is all brought about by fact that, Logan/Beenleigh area. The Government has rather than coming up with a long-term no understanding at all of the everyday needs solution for at-risk students, the Federal of the schools in this area. The trouble is that Government simply dreamt up a scheme as a most of the Federal Government Ministers Budget cost-saving measure. The ones who represent either the north shore of Sydney or have borne the brunt of this are the schools the leafy suburbs of Melbourne. They simply that are least able to do that—the schools in do not understand the needs of outer the electorates of Logan, Waterford and metropolitan areas. Woodridge and those in the Beenleigh areas; in other words, those with a high at-risk As I said, 1,200 at-risk students were clientele. identified. Teachers and staff had to write lengthy submissions to the Federal If the Federal Government was fair Government to access the funding for schools. dinkum about this, it would have set in train a This took away key personnel from their core long-term program. The teachers have worked business. very diligently and quite heroically under some impossible time lines set down by the Federal The time lines of payment were Government. It is high time that this hard- interesting. In spite of the fact that they were hearted Federal Government realised the told to submit applications for funding to the impact of its policies on these students. To Federal Government by December 1998, the offer them something and then snatch it away schools did not receive any funding until May does not build rapport. It does not build any 1999. In other words, six months elapsed trust at all for those people who have done it where they could not access anything at all for very, very hard in their schooling. I commend these students. The fact is that, with 20 the teachers on the great effort that they have schools, there was never enough funding to put in. Unfortunately, the Federal Government create a material difference for the high level has let them down. of eligible clientele. By the end of the year 2000 this region will only receive a bit over Time expired. $500,000 for all the students in those schools. The short-term funding initiatives of the Great Barrier Reef Federal Government made the continuity of any program and any long-term planning for Mr TURNER (Thuringowa—IND) those students either very difficult or next to (11.41 p.m.): In April I spoke about the risk to impossible. the Great Barrier Reef by ships travelling within the reef complex. I told the House that, in the It devalued the valuable personnel past five years, there had been 28 casualties employed to implement the program because and warned of the consequences of a major there was a lack of security in employment. spill. We have now had 39 casualties. Almost Teachers who took on the task to help those all accidents have been caused by human students at risk simply did not know when the error. Even with a pilot on board, groundings funding was going to give out. Often times have occurred. I related incidents of people who took on the job moved on groundings where the pilot was asleep or the because of the lack of employment security. pilot was not on the bridge or occasions when The other thing was that the programs there was no-one on the bridge. had to change continually. That meant that These are all human error, or we could there was a lack of trust. If there are students call it Government error as many of these who have left school because of a bad accidents would have been avoided with 4144 Adjournment 8 Nov 2000 stricter regulations. Back in April I asked the silly part is that the ships and the fishing Minister to include three more steps in vessels do not know where each other are. Queensland's preventive measures: clearly These vessels rely solely on radar, but storm marking the high-risk areas on charts to warn and sea clutter can completely obliterate the ship masters of the dangers and damages target and vessels may not show on the that could occur; developing a thorough screen, assuming someone is actually on the understanding of the ocean by monitoring bridge watching. Vessels made of wood and currents within the reef complex to conduct fibreglass are also difficult to detect, putting successful clean-up operations; and revising them in serious danger. the piloting system to help eliminate the I ask that the Minister for Transport, who human error factor. is responsible for the SRS at Mackay, and the The Bunga Teratai Satu, carrying Minister for Primary Industries, who is dangerous goods and fuel, was not required to responsible for the fishing VMS, work together use a pilot. This ship was off course and the for a solution for an integrated system. The accident appears to be human error once SRS could then warn both vessels of again. Pilots must be compulsory for all ships; impending danger. Once again, there would they must be on the bridge and awake whilst be a cost involved for the Government. But we navigating high-risk areas; and they must be have the technology; let us use it. This would held responsible for their actions while in be a major step in the prevention of collisions command of that ship. The penalties for error at sea. should reflect the seriousness of the offence. We have more chance of properly training and enforcing regulations using local navigational Australian Sports Medals pilots than depending on a foreign ship's crew Hon. K. W. HAYWARD (Kallangur—ALP) who may not be aware of the importance or (11.45 p.m.): Last Friday afternoon I had the dangers of navigating our World Heritage area. great pleasure and honour to present eight There will be a considerable cost involved Australian sports medals to a wide cross- in implementing this scheme. However, the section of residents of the Kallangur Bunga Teratai Satu has caused considerable electorate. It was a privilege to recognise the cost to the reef and considerable cost in great sporting contribution that these people salvaging, yet this is nothing compared to the have made to the Caboolture and Pine Rivers cost that one serious accident could cause. Shires, Queensland and Australia. One serious accident could destroy The medals are in celebration of the Queensland's tourism industry. For the future nation's wide sporting achievements. I told the of our World Heritage area, I once again urge gathering that the Governor-General the Minister to make navigational pilots authorises all awards within the Australian compulsory for all ships navigating the Great honours system and the Australian sports Barrier Reef. medal is being awarded during the year 2000 to commemorate Australian sporting This year, on behalf of the scientists of achievement and has been established as a AIMS I also called on the Premier for commemorative award within the Australian $200,000 to fund four ocean current monitors. honours system. This would provide important information in combating oil spills and also finding people lost Each recipient was informed by the official at sea. The Premier declined. secretary to the Governor-General by letter, which stated— There is another issue that I must raise. Safety at sea for small vessels could be greatly "The medal has been created to increased by departmental cooperation. The recognise the contributions of both current risk of collision between ships and small and former sports participants and for vessels is very real, and every precaution those who have provided support services should be adopted to prevent these disasters to sport. The medal is a unique way for happening. Ships travelling up and down the Australia to recognise the wide-ranging coast of Queensland are required to log in at efforts of those who have made Australia given points along their route with the ships a great sporting nation." reporting service. This service, controlled by Tonight, I want to take the opportunity to Queensland Transport, has the ship's position mention briefly to the Parliament the recipients plotted on screen and is in radio contact. With of those eight medals. One person who the now compulsory vessel monitoring system received a medal was Helen Madden of for fishing vessels, Queensland Fisheries and Burpengary. She is a founding member of the DPI know where every fishing vessel is. The Burpengary Jets Netball Club, which was 8 Nov 2000 Adjournment 4145 established in 1980. She was the club's first usually measured in days. To date, he is the president and has been honoured with life only Australian to run 1,300 miles in under 18 membership. She is a level 1 coach and has days. held numerous positions such as coaching Charmaine Wilson of Narangba is a convenor and grader. If Helen's name is member of the Narangba Demons Baseball mentioned within the Caboolture area, people Club. She has been involved in that club since immediately think of netball, such is the impact the 1980s. Currently, Charmaine is the that Helen has had on the netball scene in Brisbane North region's registrar as well as that area. being the Queensland team scorer since Another recipient was Bob Glover of 1994. Narangba, who is an absolute devotee of the David James of Burpengary is an athlete sport of baseball. He has held a variety of with a great future. His notable achievements coaching and administrative positions at both have been State champion in the high jump club and regional level. His specialty is junior and triple jump at school level, in the 14 years baseball. He was a founding and executive national high jump with a record jump of 2.04 member of the Narangba Baseball Club, metres, and a bronze medal in the triple jump. executive member of the Pine Rivers Rapids This year, he took out the Pacific School Baseball Club and is currently the executive Games under 17s, with a gold medal in the officer of the Queensland Rams Under 14 high jump, where he jumped 2.06 metres, and team. a bronze medal in the triple jump. Both were Many people in this Parliament would personal bests know Bruce McLachlan of Rocksberg. Of Time expired. course, anyone who has an interest in racing recognises his name. Bruce is a leading Queensland trainer with 16 metropolitan Mooloolah River premiership wins to his name. Mr LAMING (Mooloolah—LP) Donna Gifford of Narangba was a (11.51 p.m.): I take this opportunity to bring to recipient. She is an up and coming tennis the attention of the House what is probably the player and has represented Queensland for a most significant environmental challenge in the number of years in school teams; she has won Mooloolah electorate. I refer to the Mooloolah the Kawana Open singles; and she has River and the quality of its waters and littoral achieved a world ranking as an under 18 zones. player. As a junior player, she has achieved a My interest was first attracted to this issue State Open ranking; and as a university over 20 years ago when I first moved to the student, as exams and the year draw to a Sunshine Coast. At that time there were close, she is back on the tennis circuit with significant challenges to the river with canal playing commitments in South Australia and in estates on both sides of the lower reaches, a Victoria in the coming weeks in the satellite busy commercial harbour and agricultural tournaments. pursuits right to the river bank in many parts of Matthew Dux of Kallangur was a recipient the upstream reaches. of the award. He is a young man with a big I first became interested in the welfare of future in Rugby League. In the words of a life waterways generally when, in the seventies, I member of the Burpengary Junior Rugby was one of the last people to visit Lake Pedder League Club, he is the best player to ever play in Tasmania before it was flooded for hydro- for Burpengary Junior Rugby League Football electric purposes. Having worked briefly on the Club. He was selected in various schoolboy Snowy Mountains Scheme some years earlier, sides, in the Under 19s, and well as being a I could hardly say that I am not in favour of member last year of the Queensland hydro-electric schemes, and I do not. But Residents Team (A Grade). He is a member of environmental value judgments do have to be the Norths Rugby League Club State league made in relation to our waterways, and I side. Importantly—and let us hope that it all believe the flooding of Lake Pedder to have works out for him—right now he is trialling with been a mistake. Some icon waterways the Parramatta Rugby League Club in Sydney. deserve preservation; others deserve the best Ian Javes of Caboolture was a recipient. environmental management possible He is a world-renowned ultra-marathon runner. consistent with their best overall use. Of course, that is not everybody's cup of tea. Such were the tremendous pressures on He has competed in various races such as the the Mooloolah in those days that many Sydney to Melbourne, 24-hour races and in pundits gave up on the Mooloolah and turned numerous races in America in races that are their attention to other waterways on the coast. 4146 Adjournment 8 Nov 2000

Despite my good friend Stan Tutt's description and water flow, sustainability of the river, of the Mooloolah as a river in bondage over 20 turbidity, public awareness and ownership, years ago, a lot of people, including myself, discharges of litter, quantifying the problem, fortunately did not give up on the Mooloolah enforcement and compliance, chemical inputs, River. detergents fuel and salt brine, faeces In fact, the Sunshine Coast Branch of the discharged from vessels, litter blown in from Littoral Society was set up at that time and the south-east winds, integration of activities took a keen interest in all Sunshine Coast and education, sediment accumulation, waterways, including the Mooloolah. That integration of monitoring, education for society is now known as the Australian Marine schools, acid sulfate soils, stormwater run-off, Conservation Society and I am still a member. and on-site sewerage and grey water. It is fortunate, indeed, that the State Studies are one thing; putting Government many years ago had the foresight management practices into place is another. to establish the Mooloolah River National Park, Since the forum I have had discussions with and this has been a catalyst in encouraging an the Caloundra council regarding devices to environmental focus on the river and restrict pollutants entering the river from contiguous land holdings by both Caloundra stormwater drains, discussions with marina and Maroochy councils. Although the managers in regard to management of the risk awareness of the environmental value of the of pollutants from vessels and discussions with river is now considerably enhanced, the a major shopping centre manager about the population and therefore the pressure on the control of plastic bags which often find their river has doubled, so the battle to save the way into our waterways. Mooloolah's environmental integrity will never There is now an oil spill response plan in be over. place and substantial fines have been meted As recently as February this year I was out to offenders. I believe we should work fortunate enough to have had the opportunity towards a nil discharge of effluent into the to host a forum at the University of the river, not just for the environment but also for Sunshine Coast to ascertain which groups the benefit of the thousands of people who were actually working on catchment swim in the river, canals, La Balsa Park beach management and the river environment. This in the harbour and Mooloolaba beach where forum was chaired by Professor Alan Sheehy, the river's waters flow into the ocean. There is Dr Ron Neller from the University of the much to be done and sacrifices to be made by Sunshine Coast, assisted by my friend and all stakeholders, but I believe that progress is associate David Woodrow. I believe the forum being made thanks to the combined goodwill was a success and provided the opportunity to of all concerned. ascertain what research had been or is being undertaken; consider the current environmental status of the river and harbour; Remembrance Day identify any current or potential threats to that Mrs ATTWOOD (Mount Ommaney—ALP) environment; establish what courses of action (11.55 p.m.): Soldiers danced on the buses are desirable; identify which agencies might and on the lorries. They danced on the streets, need to be approached to provide further they shouted, they sang. They cheered again assistance; decide whether to establish an and again as the church bells rang out in peals unofficial steering committee for the ongoing of jubilation. Why? It is no wonder Australian maintenance; and to make recommendations soldiers were dancing in the streets. Armistice to councils and/or Government departments Day 1918 marked the end of the bloodiest war about beneficial changes to by-laws or the world had ever seen. Although Australia legislation. Attendance included environmental became a nation in 1901, strong loyalty ties groups, catchment coordinators, both councils, with Britain meant that the Australian commercial and recreational fishing groups Government was committed to supporting the and other commercial stakeholders such as British war effort during World War I. marina operators. At the request of the Australian men volunteered in their chairman, Professor Alan Sheehy, the group thousands to fight and die on the battlefields was asked to voice their issues and concerns of Europe, Turkey and the Middle East. Of a regarding the present and future state of the population of five million, 324,000 young Mooloolah River. Australian men went off to the Great War. Of Here is a list of the concerns: discharge of these, 60,000 died and 156,000 were diesel fuel, preservation of remaining natural wounded or taken prisoner. What a terrible environment, creation of riparian zone, incident loss of the young lives that fought for response to turbidity and fish kill, water quality Australia's and the Empire's honour. 8 Nov 2000 Adjournment 4147

Remembrance Day is commemorated to mark servicemen and their dependents. So the the signing of the armistice and the end of support movement started in a very humble hostilities on 11 November 1918. That day has way. come to symbolise the end of the war and Poppies were first sold on Armistice Day in provide an opportunity to remember those who 1921 in Australia the same year and were died. promoted by the Returned Sailors' and Northern France saw some of the most Soldiers' Imperial League of Australia. The concentrated and bloodiest fighting of the First league is now known as the Returned & World War. There was complete devastation. Services League of Australia, or RSL. Since Think of the moon's surface—no life, just then wearing a poppy has allowed us to show craters. Buildings, roads, trees and natural life that we have not forgotten over 100,000 simply disappeared. When it rained, where Australian servicemen and women who have once there stood homes and farms, there was given their lives in wars and conflicts this now a cratered sea of mud—a grave for the century. Today poppy selling raises funds for dead and where brave and gallant men still returned servicemen and women. In the lead- stood and fought and lived. Only one other up to 11 November each year, the RSL sells living thing seemed to survive in this harsh and red poppies for Australians to pin on their shell battered area—the poppy. Flowering lapels, with proceeds helping them undertake each year with the coming of the warm welfare work. weather, it brought hope, colour, reassurance I was recently privileged to officially and life to those survivors still fighting. recognise the work and dedication of local On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the poppy sellers Mr and Mrs Edwards. These 11th month an armistice was declared, ending caring local residents from Jamboree Heights the First World War. The war was a costly affair have long supported this worthy cause and for humanity. Thousands died for both sides; given much valuable service to the RSL. After thousands more were injured and scarred by World War II, Armistice Day was renamed their experiences. The survivors returned to Remembrance Day to commemorate the loss their homes, although for them the world of Australians in all world wars and conflicts. would never be the same. Their families and The central element of Remembrance relatives at home had learned to manage Day ceremonies is the minute's silence. A without them. All over Australia, there were Melbourne journalist first proposed a period of men and women, old beyond their years, silence for national remembrance on 8 May trying to fit back into an unrecognisable 1919. King George V requested that "all normality. This was a very traumatic time for locomotion should cease, so that, in perfect families right across the country, including my stillness, the thoughts of everyone may be own grandparents near Bundaberg. concentrated on reverent remembrance of the Many ex-servicemen found that they glorious dead". At 11 a.m. on 11 November could not fit in when they came home, much 1919, Australians for the first time paused and like the way many Vietnam veterans felt when stood in silent tribute to the men and women they returned. Family support mechanisms of the 1st Australian Imperial Force who had were scarce. The Government provided many died on battlefields in the Middle East, Gallipoli ex-servicemen with blocks of land to enable and Europe. These silences always bring back them to earn a living as dairy farmers, growing memories. small crops, raising pigs, growing bananas or some other crop. These soldier settlement I am proud that I have spent a small blocks were a great idea at the time for those proportion of my life as an Army reservist, and lucky enough to be able to make a go of it. I am privileged that I have become the patron But sometimes something else was needed, of the recently formed Centenary Suburbs and not everyone could work a farm. RSL. Although I know much about the history of war, I know little about how it feels to be part In 1918, Moira Michael wrote a poem We of a real war, and I admire those who fought Shall Keep the Faith in which she promised to and lived in those times of great hardship. wear a poppy "in honour of our dead". This Such courage and such sacrifice has been began the tradition of wearing a poppy in demonstrated for our welfare and security. Let remembrance. Miss Michael bought red us not forget those who fought gallantly in all poppies with money donated by work of the wars and let us celebrate our peacetime colleagues and, wearing one of the poppies as never before. she had bought, she sold the remainder to her friends to raise a small amount of money for Time expired. ex-servicemen in need. This led to the making The House adjourned at 12.01 a.m. of artificial poppies, and their sale, to help ex- (Thursday).