2813

PARLIAMENT OF NEW SOUTH WALES LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY

2003-04

FIRST SESSION OF THE FIFTY-THIRD PARLIAMENT

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QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

No. 84

WEDNESDAY 23 JUNE 2004

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(The Questions and Answers Paper is published for each sitting day and will contain, by number and title, all unanswered questions, together with questions to which answers have been received on the previous sitting day and any new questions. Consequently the full text of any question will be printed only twice: when notice is given; and, when answered.)

2814 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Q. & A. No. 72 8 June 2004 (Including Question Nos 1963 to 2010) Q. & A. No. 73 9 June 2004 (Including Question Nos 2011 to 2048) Q. & A. No. 74 10 June 2004 (Including Question Nos 2049 to 2091) Q. & A. No. 75 11 June 2004 (Including Question Nos 2092 to 2109) Q. & A. No. 76 15 June 2004 (Including Question Nos 2110 to 2142) Q. & A. No. 77 16 June 2004 (Including Question Nos 2143 to 2190) Q. & A. No. 78 17 June 2004 (Including Question Nos 2191 to 2220) Q. & A. No. 79 18 June 2004 (Including Question Nos 2221 to 2228) Q. & A. No. 80 6 July 2004 (Including Question Nos 2229-2271) Q. & A. No. 81 7 July 2004 (Including Question Nos 2272 to 2322) Q. & A. No. 82 8 July 2004 (Including Question Nos 2324 to 2356) Q. & A. No. 83 9 July 2004 (Including Question Nos 2357 to 2372) Q. & A. No. 84 27 July 2004 (Including Question Nos 2373 to 2404)

2815 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Notice of Question given on the date shown

4 MAY 2004

(Paper No. 72)

*1964 HAWKESBURY-NEPEAN GREAT RIVER WALK—Mr Pringle to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources—

(1) What is the status of the Great River Walk Project? (2) What projects are planned in the 2003-04 and 2004-05 financial years? (3) When is the project planned for completion?

Answer—

These matters should be directed to the project manager of the Great River Walk, the Great River Walk Incorporated Association.

*1965 WEEKEND AND OFF-PEAK TRAINS—Mr Pringle to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

When the new CityRail timetable is introduced, what action will be taken to ensure that all off-peak and weekend services are air-conditioned?

Answer—

I refer the Member for Hawkesbury to my previous answer on the Questions and Answers paper, number 1915.

*1967 STEERING COMMITTEE—GREATER LAKES REGION—Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Health—

(1) Did the Minister for Health set up a steering committee to assess public health options for the Great Lakes region? (2) If so, who is on the committee? (3) If so, has that committee met? (4) If so, when have they met? (5) If so, was the committee due to meet on 18th March to consider options to go to the Minister for the provision for public health services in the Great Lakes area? (6) If so, did that meeting proceed? (7) If not, why not? (8) If not, who cancelled it? (9) If not, on what authority was such meeting cancelled? (10) Has the Minister or his department or any officer of the Minister now received a report setting out options for the provision of public health services in the Great Lakes area? (11) If so, when was it received? (12) If so, from whom was it received? (13) If so, what is the status of the report at the present time? (14) If so, did the steering committee make final comments on the matters raised in the report? (15) If so, what were they? (16) If not, why not?

2816 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(17) If the report has been received, what are the options for public health facilities in the Great Lakes area contained in the report?

Answer—

(1) to (4) The Great Lakes Health Services Planning Steering Committee was convened by the Mid North Coast Area Health Service, on behalf of the Minister for Health, to undertake a planning study for the provision of public health services to the Great Lakes community. The Committee, which comprises representatives from the Mid North Coast Area Health Service, NSW Department off Health, Cape Hawke Community Private Hospital, Cape Hawke Community Hospital and Health Association, Ambulance Service and two members of the local Consumer and Community Health Forum has met on many occasions. (5) to (9) Following discussions between the Chair of the Great Lakes Health Services Planning Steering Committee and the NSW Department of Health, it was agreed that further work was required in defining and costing the health service options. As a result, the planned 18 March 2004 meeting was postponed. (10) to (17) The Procurement Feasibility Plan is still under development. When completed it will require endorsement by the Mid North Coast Area Health Service Board and the NSW Department of Health, prior to submission to me for consideration.

*1968 STAFF NUMBERS—PREMIER'S OFFICE—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Fair Trading and Minister for Assisting the Minister for Commerce representing the Assistant Treasurer and Minister for the Central Coast——

(1) How many people are employed by the Premier’s Department as part of its Central Coast Office? (2) Does the Premier’s Department’s Central Coast Office publish an annual report? (3) What is the location of the office? (4) How many non-SES staff are employed by the office? What is the grade for each such non-SES employee? (5) How many SES staff does the office employ?

Answer—

Four people are employed by the Premier’s Department at the Central Coast Office. The Premier’s Department’s Central Coast Office does not publish an annual report however Premier’s Department regional staff are required to provide information to central office as part of the strategic planning framework and reporting requirements. The office is located at Level 3, 131 Donnison Street, in Gosford. Four non–SES staff are employed by the Central Coast Office. These positions are graded at: Clerk Grade 3/4 Clerk Grade 9/10 Clerk Grade 11/12 Senior Officer Grade 1 The office does not employ any SES staff.

*1969 MINISTRY FOR THE CENTRAL COAST—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Fair Trading and Minister for Assisting the Minister for Commerce representing the Assistant Treasurer and Minister for the Central Coast—

(1) What is the annual budget of the Ministry for the Central Coast? (2) Does the Ministry for the Central Coast publish an annual report? (3) How many people are employed in the Ministry for the Central Coast? (4) Where are Central Coast Ministry staff located?

2817 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(5) How many non-SES staff are employed by the Ministry? What is the grade for each such non-SES employee? (6) How many SES staff does the Central Coast Ministry employ? (7) Does the Minister for the Central Coast have an office on the Central Coast as well as in Sydney? If so, where?

Answer—

The position of Minister for the Central Coast was created in April 2003. With the creation of the position, additional recurrent funding of $323,000 was allocated. This included funding to Mount Penang Parklands to advance the important regional objectives identified in the NSW Government’s Central Coast Moving Forward public consultation. It also is used to supplement the existing complement of Premier’s Department officers working as part of the Regional Coordination Program. There are four officers within the unit. The Office of the Minister for the Central Coast is currently located within the Premier’s Department at the Kensman Building, Level 3, 131 Donnison Street, Gosford. The Premier’s Department publishes an annual report. The Central Coast is enjoying a record capital works budget from the Carr Government. $250 million is being spent this financial year on new infrastructure, supporting 3,700 jobs – double the average amount from the last four years. $212 million is being spent by the NSW Government to rebuild and upgrade Gosford and Wyong Hospitals, providing new operating theatres, accident and emergency, and mental health facilities. Central Coast Health’s recurrent budget increased by 14 per cent this year to $260 million. The Government brought 500 quality jobs to the centre of Gosford with the biggest relocation of a Government department. Hundreds of local tradespeople worked on the new five-storey WorkCover headquarters. The $30 million relocation has been a great success for Gosford. In addition, the Minister for the Central Coast will have portfolio responsibility for the Festival Development Corporation, which operates Mount Penang Parklands, from July 1 2004. The parklands are being enjoyed by hundreds of people each week and has become a hub for quality jobs in a growing employment precinct. This year, this Government is spending $18 million on education capital works on the Central Coast, $68 million on health and $96 million on local roads.

*1970 RURAL FIRE SERVICE HEADQUARTERS—HOMEBUSH—Mr Humpherson to Minister for Police, representing the Minister for Rural Affairs, Minister for Local Government, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Lands)—

(1) How much was the tender asking for? (2) How many companies tendered? (3) What was the value of the final contract? (4) Who was the contract awarded to? (5) What other contracts with other government department or agencies has this company been awarded? (6) What is the completion date for the new headquarters? (7) What are the plans for the Rosehill facility after completion date? (8) How many employees currently work at the Rosehill headquarters? (9) How many employees are expected to work at the Homebush headquarters? (10) What was the fit-out cost for the Commissioner’s private bathroom? (11) Was there any variation in cost from tender to awarding of contract to final costs?

Answer—

(1) to (5) The RFS will be a tenant in its new accommodation. The tender process was managed by the former Department of Public Works and Services.

2818 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(6) Mid July 2004. (7) After the completion date the Rosehill premises will be made good, vacated and returned to the owner. (8) 220. (9) 232 – which includes 12 region east staff following the relocation of region east office from Penrith to Homebush. (10) The cost of the bathroom cannot be provided separately as it is included in the total fit-out cost of the Homebush headquarters. (11) There has been a rental variation of $300,000, amortised over ten years, for supplementary air- conditioning.

*1971 REMOVAL OF POSITIONS—Mr Stoner to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources—

In relation to the Government’s plans for reduction of expenditure in the Department of Infrastructure and Planning and Natural Resources: (1) How many positions are intended to be removed from the Department? (2) How many of these positions are from the Natural Resources (formerly Land and Water Conservation) division of the Department? (3) From which locations will the positions identified in Question 2 be removed? (4) How many of the positions identified in Question 2 will be transferred to Catchment Management Authorities and where will these positions be located? (5) What are the classifications and job titles of the positions identified in Question 2 above? (6) What will be the estimated savings arising from the removal of the positions identified in Question 2 above? (7) What is the timeframe for the removal of these positions? (8) What is the process for removal of these positions (eg. applications for transfer to Catchment Management Authorities; voluntary/compulsory redundancy)?

Answer—

(1) The exact amount of positions to be removed will be dependent upon the voluntary redundancy process, the expression of interest process for catchment management authorities (CMAs) and the intent to regionalise some head office functions. (2) The organisational structure of the Department reflects the merged and integrated functions of the former agencies that now constitute DIPNR. (3) See answer to (2) above. (4) Not applicable. However, some 240 staff will be transferred to the catchment management authorities. (5) See answer to (2) above. (6) See answer to (2) above. (7) and (8) The removal of positions referred to in (1) above will be managed through appropriate industrial arrangements.

*1972 SOLAR IN SCHOOLS—Mr Amery to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) When did the “Solar in Schools” program, which collects voluntary contributions from electricity customers, commence? (2) How much money has been raised through this program to date? (3) What projects have been funded through monies collected from this program?

2819 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Answer—

(1) This program commenced as the ‘Community Green Power Scheme’ in 1997, and was originally accredited by the Sustainable Energy Development Authority [SEDA] and marketed as a Green Power product. (2) Integral Energy currently has approximately $235,000 in the general ledger. Approximately $195,000 of this amount is for payment of the 16 latest school installations undertaken in conjunction with SEDA and the Department of Education and Training. (3) 44 schools have been involved in Solar for Schools projects. The following table lists projects funded and the year solar panel installation began.

Project location Year 1 Buxton High School 1997 2 St Bernadette's Primary School 1998 3 Blaxland High School 1998 4 Para Meadows Special School 1999 5 Wiseman's Ferry Public School 1999 6* Thirlmere Public School 1999 7 Blacktown West Public School 1999 8 Cooerwull Public School 1999 9 Parramatta Public School 1999 10 Robertson Public School 1999 11 Penrith High School 1999 12 Shoalhaven High School 1999 13 Hinchinbrook Public School 1999 14 Hay Public School 2000 15 Campbelltown TAFE 2000 16 Buninyong Public School 2000 17 Cobar Public School 2000 18 Mt Annan Public School 2000 19 Belmont High School 2000 20 Orange Public School 2000 21 Cooma Public School 2000 22 Port Kembla Public School 2000 23 Bellingen High School 2000 24 Gunnedah South Public School 2000 25 Wyrallah Road Public School 2000 26 Callala Public School 2000 27 Mount St Thomas Public School 2001 28 Schofields Public School 2001 29 Ambarvale High School 2003-04 30 Blaxland East Public School 2003-04 31 Ellison Public School 2003-04 32 Excelsior Public School 2003-04 33 Hawkesbury Independent School 2003-04 34 Hayes Park Public School 2003-04 35 Illaroo Road Public School 2003-04 36 Londonderry Public School 2003-04 37 Mawarra Public School 2003-04 38 Metella Road Public School 2003-04 39 Model Farms High School 2003-04 40 Northmead High School 2003-04 41 Seven Hills Nth Public School 2003-04

2820 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

42 St Helens Park Public School 2003-04 43 Ulladulla High School 2003-04 44 Warrimoo Public School 2003-04

NOTES: Projects 1-6 are listed in SunPower Schools IE GP December 1998. Campbelltown TAFE & Hinchinbrook Public School are listed as SFS –installations. Port Kembla Public School is listed as a community green project Solar for Schools (S4S). Mt Thomas Public School and Schofields Public School were prize winners from Neighbourhood Challenge with indications of funds from contributions.

*1973 CROSSING UPGRADE—Mr Page to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

(1) Following the recent fatal accident at the Adamstown rail crossing near Newcastle, does the Government recognise a safety problem at the crossing? (2) Have any costing estimates been conducted to upgrade the crossing to increase safety levels for pedestrian, cars and trains using the crossing? (3) How much was the costing estimate for the Adamstown Crossing upgrade? (4) What is the RTA’s preferred solution to the road safety problem at the Adamstown Crossing? (5) How long has the Government been considering the upgrade of the Adamstown Crossing? (6) What is the Government’s timeframe for the upgrade of the Adamstown Crossing?

Answer—

(1) I am advised there were no reported accidents at the Adamstown level crossing involving trains and vehicles, or pedestrians, in the ten years preceding the recent fatal accident. (2) and (3) Prior to the accident, the Level Crossing Strategy Council identified the site for an upgrade. As a result, $40,000 has been allocated in the 2003/2004 Level Crossing Program to investigate and plan safety improvements at the crossing. The cost of improvements to the crossing would vary significantly depending on the scope of work involved and the extent of supporting traffic management works required in the vicinity of the crossing. (4) and (5) The Government is considering a number of options. However, a preferred solution has not yet been identified. (6) Following a meeting I had on 6 May 2004, with the Minister for Transport Services, the Member for Newcastle and the Lord Mayor of Newcastle, it was determined that a traffic study would be undertaken to investigate the impacts of the various options and identify further improvements.

*1974 CONSUMER TRADER AND TENANCY TRIBUNAL—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—

(1) What is the reason for the delay in hearing the case of Mr B Flower and Ms E Valdes against builder, Mr G Glover, which was lodged with the CTTT on 22 January 2003? (2) How many other complaints against Mr Glover have been made to the CTTT, Office of Fair Trading or Home Building Service?

Answer—

(1) The majority of delays have occurred due to the parties failure to comply with procedural directions made by the Tribunal or the unavailibility of witnesses. (2) As of the 1 June, 2004 CTTT, OFT and HBS records indicate that no other complaint has been received.

2821 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

*1975 SEWAGE DEVELOPER CHARGES—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) Why have you not responded to the letter sent to you on 12 January 2004 by the Association of Consulting Surveyors NSW Inc regarding the Guidelines for Water Supply and Sewage Developer Charges in Country Regions? (2) Will you approve an independent review of the Guidelines that are being implemented on 30 June 2004 as requested by the Association of Consulting Surveyors NSW?

Answer—

(1) The Director-General of the Department of Energy, Utilities and Sustainability (DEUS) and other senior Departmental Officers met with members of the Association of Consulting Surveyors on 11 May 2004. (2) The Developer Charges Guidelines are based on the methodology developed by IPART for Sydney Water, Hunter Water and Gosford and Wyong Councils, with appropriate modifications to recognise the differing circumstances in regional NSW. Over 80 parties were provided with the 2001 Advance Copy of the Guidelines, including the Local Government Association of NSW, the Shires Association of NSW, the NSW Local Government Water Industry Directorate, a number of consultants and many local water utilities. The only objection received during the consultation process on the Guidelines was from a member of the Association of Consulting Surveyors. In particular, IPART has advised that it had no objections to the provisions in the Guidelines. The Association of Consulting Surveyors has since made a number of submissions objecting to the Guidelines. The Association was given the opportunity to present its concerns at a meeting with the former Minister. All submissions received on the Guidelines, including those from the Association Consulting Surveyors, were carefully considered before finalisation and release of the Guidelines in January 2003 pursuant to section 306 (3) of the Water Management Act 2000. Accordingly, I see no merit in an independent review of the Guidelines at this time.

*1976 RENAL DIALYSIS UNIT—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Health—

(1) Will the Renal Dialysis Unit at Goulburn Base Hospital be opened before 30 June 2003 as promised by the Premier in his announcement of 7 February 2002? (2) If not, why not?

Answer—

(1) & (2) Tenders have been called for the selection of a preferred provider and will close on 10 June 2004. The Area Health Service has also engaged a project manager, with specific responsibility for the satisfactory establishment of this service. The Renal Dialysis Unit at Goulburn Base Hospital is expected to be operational later this year.

*1977 DETECTIVES AND VEHICLES—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

In relation to detectives and vehicles: (1) For each Local Area Command (LAC), what was the authorised and actual number of designated detectives as at 30 April 2004? (2) For each Crime Squad, what was the authorised and actual number of designated detectives as at 30 April 2004?

2822 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(3) For each LAC, what was the actual number of police vehicles allocated solely for use by designated detectives as at 30 April 2004? (4) For each Crime Squad, what was the actual number of police vehicles allocated solely for use by designated detectives as at 30 April 2004?

Answer—

NSW Police has advised me: (1) and (2) Authorised and actual strengths are terms that relate to command units such as Local Area Commands. Designation as a detective, by contrast, is a qualification. The number of detectives in NSW Police varies on a daily basis, dependent on resignations, retirements, appointments, promotions and graduates from appropriate training courses. Police strengths are published every month on the NSW Police website. (3) and (4) Vehicles are allocated in NSW Police on the basis of need.

*1978 NATIONAL UNION OF STUDENTS DEMONSTRATION—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

In relation to assaults on police at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) on 31 March 2004: (1) During the National Union of Students (NUS) assault on police at UTS, did a demonstrator attempt to remove a police officer's Glock pistol from the officer’s holster? (2) If so, was the demonstrator arrested? (3) During the NUS assaults on police at UTS, did a demonstrator spray police officers with a liquid, and if so what was the liquid and was the demonstrator arrested?

Answer—

NSW Police has advised me: (1) Yes. (2) No the offender has not been identified. (3) Yes. The spray has not been conclusively identified.

*1979 POLICE MEDIA—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

In relation to Police Media: (1) What is the criteria by which criminal incidents are posted on the NSW Police website under the ‘Police Media’ section? (2) Does this criteria limit the number of violent offences posted on the NSW Police website under the ‘Police Media’ section? (3) Why is Police Media limiting the numbers of violent offences listed on the NSW Police website under the ‘Police Media’ section? (4) Does the Police Commissioner’s contract objective to reduce the perception of crime in any way influence the criteria by which violent offences are posted on the NSW Police website under the ‘Police Media’ section? (5) Does the criteria by which criminal incidents are posted on the NSW Police website under the ‘Police Media’ section include a call for public assistance with unsolved crimes? (6) Given Police Media limits the number of violent offences listed on the NSW Police website under the ‘Police Media’ section, does this action make it more difficult for the Police Commissioner to fulfil the other objective in his contract to reduce crime? (7) Who is responsible for determining which offences are posted on the NSW Police website under the ‘Police Media’ section?

2823 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Answer—

NSW Police has advised me: (1) Criminal incidents are not posted under the Police Media section. NSW Police media releases are posted on the NSW Police website under the ‘Police Media’ section. (2) All NSW Police are governed by the media policy. (3) See (2) (4) There is a Bill before the House on this matter. (5) All NSW Police media releases carry the Crimestoppers Hot-line number. The website also promotes this number. (6) See (2). (7) See (2).

*1980 RADIOLOGY DEPARTMENT—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Health—

When will the radiology department at Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Hospital be able to purchase computerised X-Ray processing equipment?

Answer—

All Area Health Services are in the process of establishing Medical Imaging Business Units for commencement on 1 July 2004. The Northern Sydney Unit will be preparing a business case for the implementation of an Area-wide imaging information system and picture archiving and communications system for all Northern Sydney Area Health Service medical imaging sites, including Hornsby/Ku-ring-gai Hospital. The assessment will include equipment requirements.

*1981 POKER MACHINE TAX—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Gaming and Racing—

How much revenue has been raised directly from clubs from the tax on poker machines in the Hornsby electorate during the financial years 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002 and 2003?

Answer—

Taxation revenue is a matter for the Treasurer.

*1982 RAILWAY CAR PARK—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

When will a multi-storey car park be built at Hornsby and Berowra Railway Stations to accommodate the extra platforms and increased passenger capacity?

Answer—

I refer the Member for Hornsby to my previous answers on the Questions and Answers paper, numbers 732 and 135.

*1983 CARRIAGE SAFETY—Ms Seaton to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

In respect of each type of passenger carriage in operation on the Southern Highlands rail line for (a) City Rail and (b) CountryLink:

2824 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(1) What are the emergency exit facilities on each type of carriage? (2) In respect of each type: (a) can passengers open doors from within a carriage? (b) can passengers force windows open to escape?(c) If a carriage is on its side, can passengers force their way out of any exit in the roof or floor of the carriage?(d) how many carriages have fuel tanks, and do passengers have any access to fire hazard equipment in the event of a carriage fire?

Answer—

I am advised: CityRail Endeavour and CountryLink Xplorer cars have Emergency Door Release devices located in every car vestibule adjacent to the door. These devices will not operate unless the train is stationary and are operated by a qualified passenger services attendant. CountryLink XPT cars have an Emergency Door Release device that requires a seal to be broken and a button level turned. These devices will not operate unless the train is stationary. Additionally, Xplorer cars have an emergency key in a “break glass” case on the wall in the passenger compartment. The key will not operate unless the train is stationary. Access and egress are currently being considered by the Special Commission of Inquiry into the Waterfall Rail Accident and the Independent Transport Safety and Reliability Regulator.

*1984 LGA LOCAL ENVIRONMENT PLANS—Ms Seaton to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources—

(1) Which local government areas across NSW have Local Environmental Plans (LEPs) and Regional Environment Plans (REPs)? (2) For each local government area which has an LEP and/or REP, what is the title and date of commencement of each of those LEPs and REPs?

Answer—

The diversion of public resources necessary to answer this question is not justifiable.

*1985 TERRACE ROAD LEFT TURN—Mr Pringle to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

Will the Minister investigate providing a “Left Turn on Red Permitted” sign in Terrace Road at the intersection with Bell’s Line of Road as requested by some residents?

Answer—

The upgrading of the intersection of Bells Line of Road with Terrace and Grose Vale Roads will be carried out in the 2004/05 financial year. The proposal is to modify the layout of the site and make changes to the traffic signal phasing in order to reduce delays on all approaches to the intersection. As a consequence of providing a dual right turn from Grose Vale Road into Bells Line of Road, it is not practicable on safety grounds, to install a “Left Turn on Red Permitted After Stopping” sign in Terrace Road.

*1989 DEPARTMENT OF PRIMARY INDUSTRY—Mr Aplin to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Primary Industries—

(1) Will the establishment of the Department of Primary Industry result in a reduction of frontline services in the Albury electorate? (2) Will there be a reduction in staff and if so, in which areas?

2825 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Answer—

The Minister for Primary Industry has provided the following response: (1) and (2) The four agencies involved in the merger have a proud history of servicing the State's agriculture, fishing, mining and forestry industries. The new Department of Primary Industries will continue to maintain close links with industry and have frontline service delivery as a priority. A new Director-General has been appointed and will commence on 1 July 2004. In the meantime, I have appointed an Interim Board to identify the key areas for integration of the four agencies and to identify where efficiencies in providing government services can be identified. The Interim Board and agency staff are working hard to develop detailed delivery strategies and structural reforms to meet the deadlines set by the Government so that clear directions can be announced at the end of June and the new Department can become operational at the start of the financial year.

*1990 SCHOOL SICK BAYS—Mrs Skinner to Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs—

(1) What are the minimum requirements for the provision of sick bays in public schools? (2) Are there varying requirements for different size schools? If so, what are they?

Answer—

All public schools are required to provide sick bay facilities.

*1991 WINE EQUALISATION TAX—Ms Seaton to Minister for Gaming and Racing—

(1) For each of the years from 2000 to present, what are the costs of administration and compliance of the portion of the Wine Equalisation Tax that is administered by the State Government? (2) How many staff are involved in the administration of this tax?

Answer—

(1) and (2) The Department of Gaming and Racing plays no role in the administration and/or compliance of the Wine Equalisation Tax. That is a matter for the Commonwealth Government.

*1992 COMPRESSION BRAKING—Mr Page to Minister for Police—

How many heavy vehicles have been fined in NSW for not complying with “Noise Level – Compression Braking” restrictions in urban areas over the past 12 months?

Answer—

NSW Police has advised me: There is currently no specific offence relating to heavy vehicle braking noise.

*1994 SOUTH COAST RAIL SERVICES—Mrs Hancock to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

What proposals are in place to cut South Coast rail services between Kiama and Bomaderry?

2826 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Answer—

I am advised by RailCorp: As announced on 27 May 2004 RailCorp has introduced timetable adjustments to the CityRail timetable to improve the reliability of peak hour services and to reduce reliance on overtime. The adjustments will commence from Saturday, 24 July and will: • Free up an additional 37 drivers for each weekday; • Increase reliability and reduce congestion on the CityRail network during peak periods; and • Support the principle of sectorisation and the estimated $1 billion Rail Clearways plan. On weekends three return late night/early morning shuttle services each way between Kiama and Bomaderry (Nowra) will be replaced with alternative public transport. I’m advised at last count, the total combined passenger numbers for all services between Kiama and Bomaderry after 9pm was 18 per night. In some cases these services carry only two or three people and rarely do they carry more than ten people per service. The adjustments are the first step towards simplifying the way the network operates and will pave the way for greater improvements to the timetable planned for 2005. These changes will help the Government deliver more reliable train services for the South Coast and complement the significant $2.5 billion investment announced as part of the Mini Budget.

*1996 SUTHERLAND HOSPITAL PARKING—Mr Kerr to Minister for Health—

(1) Does the Minister intend to charge the public for parking in the new multi-storey car park to be built at Sutherland Hospital? (2) What are these parking fees likely to be? (3) Will there be any free parking for the public within the grounds of Sutherland Hospital? (4) What paid and/or free parking facilities will be made available for staff?

Answer—

(1) and (2) The $83M redevelopment of The Sutherland Hospital includes the provision of additional on-site parking and traffic controls. It does not include the construction of a multi-storey car park. It is intended that the parking fees will reflect current parking rates. (3) Apart from an emergency entry/drop off zone dedicated free parking will also be provided for hospital volunteers, the financially disadvantaged, disabled persons and Chaplains. (4) Staff will have paid access to the increased parking capacity at The Sutherland Hospital.

*1997 CARINGBAH DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING DWELLINGS—Mr Kerr to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

(1) Does the Department of Housing plan to demolish two dwellings at 13 and 15 Cook Street, Caringbah and replace them with 9 dwellings? (2) Will these dwellings be townhouses or villas? (3) What is the total number of bedrooms proposed to be built in these dwellings? (4) What is the total number of garages proposed to be built for these dwellings? (5) Are these dwellings to be built as housing for the aged and disabled?

Answer—

Yes. However, the number and types of dwellings to be built on this site are yet to be determined.

2827 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

*1998 BURST WATER MAINS—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) How many incidents of burst water mains have occurred in the Wakehurst electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current? (2) How many megalitres of water were lost as a result of burst water mains in the Wakehurst electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current? (3) How many megalitres of water have been lost as a result of burst water mains in the Wakehurst electorate since the commencement of water restrictions on 1 October 2003 to current?

Answer—

(1) to (3) The detailed information requested is not readily available and its extraction would represent an unreasonable diversion of resources.

*1999 BURST WATER MAINS—Mr Merton to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) How many incidents of burst water mains have occurred in the Baulkham Hills electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current? (2) How many megalitres of water were lost as a result of burst water mains in the Baulkham Hills electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current? (3) How many megalitres of water have been lost as a result of burst water mains in the Baulkham Hills electorate since the commencement of water restrictions on 1 October 2003 to current?

Answer—

(1) to (3) The detailed information requested is not readily available and its extraction would represent an unreasonable diversion of resources.

*2000 BURST WATER MAINS—Mr Humpherson to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) How many incidents of burst water mains have occurred in the Davidson electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current?

2828 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(2) How many megalitres of water were lost as a result of burst water mains in the Davidson electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current? (3) How many megalitres of water have been lost as a result of burst water mains in the Davidson electorate since the commencement of water restrictions on October 1, 2003 to current?

Answer—

(1) to (3) The detailed information requested is not readily available and its extraction would represent an unreasonable diversion of resources.

*2001 BURST WATER MAINS—Mrs Skinner to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) How many incidents of burst water mains have occurred in the North Shore electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current? (2) How many megalitres of water were lost as a result of burst water mains in the North Shore electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current? (3) How many megalitres of water have been lost as a result of burst water mains in the North Shore electorate since the commencement of water restrictions on 1 October 2003 to current?

Answer—

(1) to (3) The detailed information requested is not readily available and its extraction would represent an unreasonable diversion of resources.

*2002 BURST WATER MAINS—Mr Richardson to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) How many incidents of burst water mains have occurred in The Hills electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current? (2) How many megalitres of water were lost as a result of burst water mains in the The Hills electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current? (3) How many megalitres of water have been lost as a result of burst water mains in The Hills electorate since the commencement of water restrictions on 1 October 2003 to current?

2829 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Answer—

(1) to (3) The detailed information requested is not readily available and its extraction would represent an unreasonable diversion of resources.

*2003 BURST WATER MAINS—Mr O'Farrell to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) How many incidents of burst water mains have occurred in the Ku-ring-gai electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current? (2) How many megalitres of water were lost as a result of burst water mains in the Ku-ring-gai electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current? (3) How many megalitres of water have been lost as a result of burst water mains in the Ku-ring-gai electorate since the commencement of water restrictions on 1 October 2003 to current?

Answer—

(1) to (3) The detailed information requested is not readily available and its extraction would represent an unreasonable diversion of resources.

*2004 BURST WATER MAINS—Mr Brogden to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) How many incidents of burst water mains have occurred in the Pittwater electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current? (2) How many megalitres of water were lost as a result of burst water mains in the Pittwater electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current? (3) How many megalitres of water have been lost as a result of burst water mains in the Pittwater electorate since the commencement of water restrictions on 1 October 2003 to current?

Answer—

(1) to (3) The detailed information requested is not readily available and its extraction would represent an unreasonable diversion of resources.

2830 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

*2005 BURST WATER MAINS—Mr Armstrong to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) How many incidents of burst water mains have occurred in the Strathfield electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current? (2) How many megalitres of water were lost as a result of burst water mains in the Auburn electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current? (3) How many megalitres of water have been lost as a result of burst water mains in the Menai electorate since the commencement of water restrictions on 1 October 2003 to current?

Answer—

(1) to (3) The detailed information requested is not readily available and its extraction would represent an unreasonable diversion of resources.

*2006 BURST WATER MAINS—Mr Roberts to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) How many incidents of burst water mains have occurred in the Lane Cove electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current? (2) How many megalitres of water were lost as a result of burst water mains in the Lane Cove electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current? (3) How many megalitres of water have been lost as a result of burst water mains in the Lane Cove electorate since the commencement of water restrictions on 1 October 2003 to current?

Answer—

(1) to (3) The detailed information requested is not readily available and its extraction would represent an unreasonable diversion of resources.

*2007 BURST WATER MAINS—Ms Berejiklian to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) How many incidents of burst water mains have occurred in the Willoughby electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current

2831 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(2) How many megalitres of water were lost as a result of burst water mains in the Willoughby electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current (3) How many megalitres of water have been lost as a result of burst water mains in the Willoughby electorate since the commencement of water restrictions on 1 October 2003 to current?

Answer—

(1) to (3) The detailed information requested is not readily available and its extraction would represent an unreasonable diversion of resources.

*2008 BURST WATER MAINS—Mr Tink to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) How many incidents of burst water mains have occurred in the Epping electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current? (2) How many megalitres of water were lost as a result of burst water mains in the Epping electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current? (3) How many megalitres of water have been lost as a result of burst water mains in the Epping electorate since the commencement of water restrictions on 1 October 2003 to current?

Answer—

(1) to (3)The detailed information requested is not readily available and its extraction would represent an unreasonable diversion of resources.

*2009 DOCUMENT ACCESS—NORTHERN SYDNEY AREA HEALTH SERVICE—Mr O'Farrell to Minister for Health—

(1) Is the Minister aware of difficulties experienced by Mrs Lyn Tonkin of West Pennant Hills in attempting to get access to documents held by Northern Sydney Area Health Service (NSAHS) concerning a complaint about her treatment at Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Hospital? (2) Was a Formal Review (Investigation Report) carried out into the incident as advised in three separate letters sent to Mrs Tonkin by the NSAHS? (3) Why have Mrs Tonkin’s Freedom of Information requests for a copy of the Formal Review into the incident been declined? (4) Was a separate Internal Review also undertaken and if so when will Mrs Tonkin be provided with a copy? (5) Why have her requests for copies of complaint management record forms and incident management reporting procedure forms relating to the incident been denied? (6) Have any parts of Mrs Tonkin’s case, treatment, information or complaints or any person connected to any of the matters been classified as exempt by either (i) the Qualified Privilege Committee or (ii) the Minister for Health?

2832 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Answer—

(1) (2) and (4) I refer the member to my response to Question 1937 printed in the Legislative Assembly Questions and Answers Paper No 76. (3) Northern Sydney Area Health Service advises that it declined Mrs Tonkin’s Freedom of Information application on the grounds that, at the time of her application, no documents were held that satisfied her request. Mrs Tonkin has subsequently received a copy of the formal investigation report undertaken early 2004. (5) Northern Sydney Area Health Service advises that it has no record of such documents. (6) (i) – (ii) No. 5 MAY 2004

(Paper No. 73)

*2011 AMBULANCE CHARGES—Mr Draper to Minister for Health—

(1) Will the charges levied by the NSW Ambulance Service to transport patients by ambulance, as published in the NSW Government Gazette, be the same charges that are billed by the Ambulance Service to Consolidated Revenue to recover costs of transporting non-paying patients such as pensioners? (2) If not, what is the amount billed to Consolidated Revenue? (3) Has the Minister considered offering alternative forms of transport to patients such as renal patients, who are willing to travel by alternate, less costly means such as by taxi? (4) If not, why not and will the Minister now give consideration to such a scheme?

Answer—

(1) and (2) inclusive. The Ambulance Service of NSW is allocated a budget by NSW Health from the Consolidated Fund for its operations and does not raise charges to Consolidated Revenue. (3) and (4) inclusive. The principles underpinning the provision of non-emergency health-related transport are that it should be appropriate to the needs of each individual, and cost-effective. Rural patients across NSW currently use a variety of means to travel to and from their dialysis treatment, including private vehicles, public transport, community transport with volunteer or paid driver, taxis and Ambulance Services including (non-emergency) Patient Transport Services. NSW Health is committed to ongoing liaison with the full range of transport providers to ensure the availability of an appropriate mix of transport options to satisfy different care and support needs of non- emergency health related transport passengers.

*2012 HORSLEY PARK EQUESTRIAN CENTRE—Ms Seaton to Minister for Tourism and Sport and Recreation, and Minister for Women—

Regarding the Horsley Park Equestrian Centre: (1) Does the facility have a plan of management? (2) What are the key features of the plan for the next 5, 10 and 20 years? (3) Are there any plans to introduce non-equestrian uses to the facility? (4) Are there any plans to sell off or lease any portion of the site for residential or other development? (5) Who owns the land?

2833 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Answer—

(1) to (5) The site has become a superb venue for many sporting, corporate and community pursuits including weddings, children’s events and product launches. The NSW Government designed the Sydney International Equestrian Centre for greater public use after the games. The site’s development has transformed depleted farmland into native parkland. It forms part of the Sydney Western Regional Park, 580 hectares of natural parkland, which was developed simultaneously to provide sustainable benefits to the local and wider community. The Centre is managed by the Department of Tourism, Sport and Recreation. The Department is committed to looking to options to ensure the facility is self sustaining and continues to be available to the equestrian community.

*2013 DUAL DIAGNOSIS—Ms Moore to Minister for Health—

What programs have been established for people with dual diagnosis in Bligh, following the audit due to be completed before the end of 2003, which examined the Management of People with Co-Existing Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Guidelines, as promised in the Government’s response to the Inquiry into Mental Health?

Answer—

The audit of the implementation of the Management of People with co-existing Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Guidelines has been completed. The purpose of the audit was to review progress with implementation, challenges and priorities for the future and to establish a baseline of existing models of collaboration and service delivery both in the government and non-government sectors in NSW. Both South Eastern Sydney and Central Sydney Area Health Services service the Bligh electorate. South Eastern Sydney Area Health Service has an integrated service delivery model in place, where mental health and alcohol and other drug services work together to offer individual therapy regardless of whether the person is experiencing an exacerbation of their mental illness or are experiencing difficulties managing their substance use. Co-management is the frequently used approach and both individual and group therapy sessions are conducted for people with co-morbid disorder. Central Sydney Area Health Service also offers co-management to people with co-existing mental health and substance use disorders. The Drug Health Plan 2002-2005 provides a framework for this work and ongoing collaboration between drug and alcohol and mental health service providers.

*2014 REDFERN COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTRE—Ms Moore to Minister for Health—

What action has the Government taken to ensure Redfern Community Health Centre allocates a caseworker to all clients, ensures that all staff positions are filled, and has the budget funds required to provide services to its clients?

Answer—

The Redfern Community Health Centre provides mental health, nursing and allied health services. In July 2003 mental health staff consisted of 4.2 Full Time Equivalent (FTE). Staffing levels have since been reviewed and additional staff have been recruited to the vacancies that existed. The current staff complement is 5.6 FTE. In relation to the community nursing service, while there are some staff vacancies at present, there is no waiting list and there are two case management allocation meetings per week. New clients of the service are generally allocated case managers within a week of referral. All HIV/AIDS clients are seen by the Allied Health Team and there are no staff vacancies.

2834 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

*2015 VINNIES EMERGENCY ACCOMMODATION—Mr Piccoli to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

(1) Were 52 families turned away from the Vinnies Emergency Accommodation Program in Deniliquin in 2002-03 with the most frequent reason being “insufficient support staff and/or accommodation options”? (2) Why does Vinnies Emergency Accommodation receive only approximately 20% of the funding that is provided to like services which address the same target group in other areas across New South Wales? (3) Will the State Government raise its level of funding to services in the Orana Far West region from $120,000 to $250,000 per annum to bring them into line with current funding trends as recommended by NCOSS in their social justice statement of 2003-04?

Answer—

This is a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Community Services.

*2016 INFECTION CONTROL PROTOCOLS IN HOSPITALS—Mr Pringle to Minister for Health—

What action is intended to improve infection control protocols in hospitals in light of apparent continuing problems with the multi-resistant staphylococcus aureus?

Answer—

Responding to the emergence of multiresistent organisms (MROs) such as Methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a high priority of the NSW infection control program. Existing and planned strategies include: Mandatory reporting of MRSA and other healthcare associated infections (HAIs) in all public health organisations. Analysis of this data enables identification and improvement of local clinical practices thus reducing their potential to cause HAIs, including MROs. The NSW Department of Health’s Infection Control Policy, Circular No: 2002/45 details infection control strategies that have been demonstrated internationally to prevent and reduce the emergence of MROs. The policy stipulates development of local antimicrobial utilisation plans, appropriate timing and use of antibiotic prophylaxis for surgery and prudent use of antibiotics in hospitals. Hand washing is the single most effective method of preventing HAIs including MRSA. Posters have been made available in public and private facilities to assist and encourage healthcare workers to wash their hands. Development of a Kit that will guide health care workers to appropriately manage and isolate patients with known or suspected infectious diseases that can be transmitted by the airborne, droplet or contact routes. The NSW Department of Health is currently collaborating with infection control experts to finalise the NSW Infection Control Strategy. This Strategy will facilitate development of additional initiatives to reduce local, and subsequently the State, incidence of HAIs including MRSA.

*2018 STRIKE FORCE UMAN—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

In relation to Strike Force Uman: (1) What were the terms of reference of Strike Force Uman? (2) Given your advice that investigations concluded in April 2003, what was the outcome of those investigations?

2835 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Answer—

NSW Police has advised me: (1) The terms of reference for the Strike Force were to investigate whether or not members of the NSW Police Service have been or are currently involved in misconduct with respect to the NSW Police Promotional System. (2) NSW Police have advised me that 76 of the 86 matters have been formally investigated. The remaining 10 matters were referred for information only and did not require formal investigation.

*2019 MENTAL ILLNESS—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

In relation to mental illness: (1) What changes have you initiated since 18 February 2004 (answer to Question on Notice 1278), to compile information on the amount of police time spent supervising and providing transport for mentally ill patients or offenders? (2) Does NSW Police compile other statistics on the impact on policing activities of mental illness in the community? (3) Does NSW Police compile other statistics on offences or incidents involving persons suffering from a mental illness? (4) Given your answer to Question on Notice 1632 ‘Police receive a variety of training both prior to attestation and as part of continuing education’, what specific training do police receive to assist police in managing their interaction with persons suffering from a mental illness?

Answer—

NSW Police has advised me: (1) to (3) See answer to Question on Notice 1632. (4) Police receive training in relation to: • Communicating with mentally ill people in crisis situations; • Station, field and investigative processes involving mentally ill people; • Inter-agency collaboration; • Understanding mental illness; • Guidelines for interviewing people who may have a mental illness; • Safe custody of people who may be mentally ill; and • The Mental Health Act 1900.

*2020 STRATA TITLE COMPLAINTS—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—

(1) Has the Office of Fair Trading received a complaint from Mr G Summergreene, PO Box 1469 Neutral Bay, regarding collusive tendering by certain strata managing agents for owner’s corporations? (2) Has this complaint been investigated? (3) What was the result of the investigation? (4) If the complaint has not been investigated, why has no action been taken about this matter?

Answer—

(1) Yes. (2) to (4) I am advised that Mr Summergreene’s concerns over the management of his strata scheme are currently being considered by the Consumer, Trader and Tenancy Tribunal.

2836 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

*2021 CORRECTIONAL EDUCATION OFFICERS—Ms Hodgkinson to Attorney General, and Minister for the Environment, representing the Minister for Justice, and Minister Assisting the Premier on Citizenship—

(1) Why are teachers at the Goulburn Correctional Centre paid less than their equivalent counterparts in the New South Wales Department of Education and Training? (2) Will you take action to ensure that Correctional Education Officers receive the same level of pay as their counterparts in the NSW Department of Education and Training? (3) If not, why not?

Answer—

The Minister for Justice advises me: I am unable to comment due to ongoing proceedings in the Industrial Relations Commission and negotiations with the NSW Teachers Federation concerning salaries for staff covered by the Crown Employees (Education Employees Department of Corrective Services) Consent Award 2002. I will make an announcement on the result of these processes in due course.

*2022 GOULBURN WORKCOVER OFFICE STAFFING—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce, representing the Special Minister of State, Minister for Commerce, Minister for Industrial Relations, Assistant Treasurer, and Minister for the Central Coast—

(1) Why has the number of staff at the Goulburn Workcover Office been reduced to a level where the Office is informing callers that they are unable to provide advice on the implementation of the new Occupational Health and Safety regulations? (2) Why were these reductions made when the Workcover web site recommends that advice be sought from Workcover offices?

Answer—

Permanent staffing levels in WorkCover's Goulburn Office have not been reduced. WorkCover advises there have been brief periods when the office has not been fully staffed due to recruitment action. However, during these times, the office has maintained its full complement of Inspectors. WorkCover further advises that service levels were not affected, due to support provided as necessary by neighbouring WorkCover offices. The role of the Goulburn District Office encompasses a range of functions, from the investigation of deaths and serious injuries in workplaces to the provision of assistance and advice. WorkCover provides assistance to employers to help them implement their obligations under occupational health and safety legislation. Practical guidance to employers on how to manage hazards and risks in their workplaces is provided through each of WorkCover’s regional offices and via its website.

*2023 CIVIL MAINTENANCE JOBS—Mr Piccoli to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

(1) Will the Minister confirm the future of the Civil Maintenance jobs, nine at Narrandera and five at Leeton? (2) Are these jobs being lost because of the proposed restructure of the Railway Track Maintenance Depot?

2837 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Answer—

I’m advised: An agreement between the NSW and Australian Governments to lease the NSW interstate track and Hunter Valley rail freight corridors to the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) was signed on 4 June 2004. The ARTC is wholly owned by the Commonwealth Government. The aim of the ARTC lease is to facilitate a more competitive national freight network. This agreement is critical to attracting more freight off regional roads and onto rail. The key features of the agreement are: • A 60-year lease to ARTC of the non-metropolitan interstate mainlines and the Hunter Valley network; • Management by ARTC of the NSW country regional network; • Clearly defined key performance indicators for performance to be set under the lease, including track performance and infrastructure condition; and • Safety standards across relevant infrastructure being set by the NSW Independent Transport Safety and Reliability Regulator; The lease agreement also provides important safeguards for NSW rail workers, with the majority of frontline country maintenance and train control staff to remain employed by the NSW Government as part of a comprehensive package. ARTC are also recruiting around 300 staff as direct employees. A transfer package will be available for country staff that resign to take up employment with ARTC. Under the ARTC’s proposed structure staff at Leeton and Narrandera will be within ARTC’s Wagga Maintenance Team Boundary. Under the arrangements with ARTC, staff matched to a position with ARTC but not currently located at one of ARTC’s nominated sites will be able to commence work from their existing location. Any staff who do not transfer to ARTC or any frontline staff not required by ARTC will be eligible for redeployment or a transitional voluntary redundancy package. There will be no forced redundancies from workforce changes resulting from the ARTC arrangements.

*2024 UPGRADE RAIL STATION FACILITIES—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

(1) Did the Government promise in the lead up to the 2003 State election to expand Woy Woy commuter car park with another 300 car spaces? (2) When is this work due to commence? (3) Have tender documents been prepared? (4) When will work on the promised improvement to Gosford station, including upgrades to bus shelters, commence? (5) Have tender documents been prepared for these improvements? (6) When is work due to commence on the promised new station at Warnervale to cater for the expected population increase? (7) Have tender documents been prepared for this work? (8) When is work due to commence on upgrading facilities at Wyong Station? (9) Have documents been prepared? (10) When is work due to commence on upgrading of Tuggerah Station including 200 extra car spaces? (11) Have tender documents been prepared?

Answer—

Woy Woy Station The Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources (DIPNR) advise they are currently reviewing commuter car parking at Woy Woy railway station.

2838 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Gosford Station The commuter carpark at Gosford railway station was upgraded in 2002 increasing capacity by 350 spaces to 1,100 spaces. DIPNR advise further improvements to Gosford rail station, interchange and car park will be based on the future growth of the Gosford town centre and the surrounding area. North Warnervale Station DIPNR advise planning for the delivery of the North Warnervale Station as part of a town centre development is underway. The developer Landcom and Wyong Council are working with DIPNR towards timing the delivery of the station to match the land release and development. Wyong Station RailCorp advise the installation of the additional easy access lift at Wyong is scheduled to be completed in 2004-2005 at an estimated cost of $1 million. Tuggerah Station DIPNR advise they are currently reviewing car parking at Tuggerah railway station.

*2025 MINISTRY FOR CENTRAL COAST —Mr Hartcher to Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce, representing the Special Minister of State, Minister for Commerce, Minister for Industrial Relations, Assistant Treasurer, and Minister for the Central Coast—

(1) As Minister for the Central Coast what action have you taken to prevent the downgrading of the Regional Office of the Department of Education and Training into a Sub-Regional office? (2) As Minister for the Central Coast what action have you taken to prevent the restructure of the Catchment Management Authorities? (3) As Minister for the Central Coast what action have you taken to prevent the restructure of the Department of Community Services, which will affect Central Coast jobs? (4) As Minister for the Central Coast what action have you taken to prevent the relocation of Coronial Services from Gosford to Newcastle?

Answer—

During the recent statewide restructure of the Department of Education and Training, I maintained that the region should stand alone. Following representations to the Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Training significant improvements were achieved on the original proposal. In the original proposal, the Central Coast was to be included with Northern Sydney. Under the revised proposal, the Central Coast has a special status within a new Hunter-Central Coast region, based on the Gosford and Wyong local government boundaries. The Coast will have its own Deputy Regional Director with an office and staff centrally located at Ourimbah, allowing for good linkages with the University and TAFE. The major upgrade works to many schools on the Central Coast are part of the region’s record State Government capital works program. Major expenditure is going into the rebuilding and upgrading of Gosford and Wyong hospitals and creating an employment and tourism hub and a new gateway to the region at Mount Penang Parklands. $2.1 million in funding has been allocated to the new Hunter/Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority to spend on priority natural resource management projects in their area during the remainder this financial year. The membership of the Board takes into account the spread of the members geographically within each catchment to ensure that all areas are represented. In addition, a new Service Delivery Centre, to be located at Gosford will maximise public access to the CMA and support the CMA’s work across this part of the catchment. The Restructure of the Department of Community Services, changes to regional boundaries, maintains frontline services. Child protection casework and out-of-home care services will not change, nor will funding arrangements with local services. The two people whose positions will be displaced will both be offered other positions in the department. It should be noted neither are involved in the provision of frontline services. There has been no relocation of Coronial Services from Gosford. However, since the retirement of the Gosford-based Government Medical Officer late last year, arrangements have been made for the conduct

2839 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

of post mortems from the Gosford area to be conducted by forensic pathologists at Newcastle. Arrangements are in place for the timely transport of deceased persons between the morgue at Gosford and Newcastle.

*2026 WOY WOY RAIL TUNNEL—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

(1) When was the Woy Woy rail tunnel last inspected for safety? (2) How often is it inspected? (3) Who inspects the Woy Woy tunnel? (4) Is there a rescue plan in existence to evacuate passengers should there be a train accident in the tunnel?

Answer—

I am advised: The last inspection of Woy Woy tunnel by the Structures Manager was completed in February 2004. The track is also inspected twice weekly by track patrol staff and surveyors conduct detailed alignment measurements of the track every six months. RailCorp also carries out other periodical track inspections with regard to safety and service reliability. For the member’s information in 2003 an examination of all safety critical infrastructure owned by government rail agencies was undertaken. The report - Audit of safety critical infrastructure 2003 by independent engineers Fellows Medlock and Associates - commissioned by the then Co-ordinator General of Rail, Vince Graham was publicly released on 31 July 2003 and made available on the Ministry of Transport’s website. RailCorp has network procedures and incident management plans in place in the event of an incident or accident occurring in a railway tunnel. Plans include evacuation procedures for passengers and staff and procedures to halt all trains in the area. RailCorp will continue to review and further develop its procedures in collaboration with emergency services.

*2027 WOY WOY ABATTOIR JOB CUTS—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce, representing the Special Minister of State, Minister for Commerce, Minister for Industrial Relations, Assistant Treasurer, and Minister for the Central Coast—

What action did you take as Minister for Industrial Relations and Minister for the Central Coast to assist the owners of Woy Woy abattoirs to prevent closure of the abattoirs resulting in the loss of 80 jobs?

Answer—

Woy Woy Abattoirs closed its operations on Wednesday 26th May 2004. 80 staff were employed at the meat works and management have paid all workers their full entitlements. On receipt of notice of the closure of the Abattoirs, the Premier’s Department convened a meeting of all relevant agencies to ensure workers were provided with support and assistance. An information package was developed that provided contact details for counselling support, financial management including rental and mortgage information, relocation financial assistance, job search and unemployment benefits, skills training programs and business start-up details. Expert advice was provided to workers on site in the last two weeks of the Abattoirs operation. These sessions included, mortgage relief and advice, public housing, rental assistance and advice, careers advice and training and skills assessment for accreditation purposes, relocation allowance assistance, starting and running a small business, credit management.

2840 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Contact details for businesses that had indicated they may have jobs available was also provided to workers. It is understood that a significant number of workers have secured positions at local industries such as Chickadee.

*2028 NEW CONTRACTS—Mr Tink to Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—

In relation to the Office of Fair Trading’s new suite of contracts regarding residential building as announced in your press release dated 16 February 2004: (1) Are all the legal implications of entering into the contract made clear to consumers without the need to obtain independent legal advice? (2) Is there any clause or warning in the contracts alerting consumers that they are open to interpretation and ruling by higher courts? (3) (a) Does a builder have to comply to the Building Code of Australia if he/she is not present the whole time his/her contractors are carrying out particular work? (b) If not, is this made clear to consumers in the new contracts? (c) If this is not made clear to consumers, why wasn’t such a clause inserted into the new contracts? (4) (a) Do all variations to a contract have to be made in writing even if the contract price does not vary? (b) If not, is this condition made clear to consumers in the new contracts? (5) (a) Are the legal ramifications of not obtaining a written record of any and/or all variations to a contract made clear to consumers in the new contracts? (b) If not, why not? (6) (a) Can a Court overrule Clause 1a of the Fair Trading contract which states that a builder must comply to the “law and requirements” of the local council? (b) If so, is this made clear to consumers entering these contracts?

Answer—

(1) Yes. The contracts, together with the Consumer Building Guide, deal with all the basic legal implications sufficiently for an average person to understand their rights and obligations and to enter into a contract without the need for legal advice. However, it is not the function of these contracts to comprehensively deal with all possible legal implications of entering into a contract. Consumers are advised to obtain legal or other advice if they are unclear about a clause before signing. (2) The Guide contains information as to the jurisdiction of the Consumer, Trader and Tenancy Tribunal and advises on dispute resolution procedures. (3) Yes. (4) (a) Generally, variations must be in writing, dated and signed by both parties. This requirement does not apply in urgent situations where there is likely to be a hazard to health or safety if the work is not done promptly. (b) Yes, if the work is over $25,000. The minor works contract does not specifically include this information, however, the exemption from the requirement in urgent situations applies under section 6 of the Home Building Act 1989. (5) The purpose of a contract is to set out the respective obligations of the parties, not to set out the ramifications of breaches of those obligations, which may be many and varied. (6) Clause 1 of the home building contracts do not contain such a requirement.

*2030 MURRURUNDI RAIL TUNNEL—Mr Souris to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

(1) Has the Government given any fresh consideration to the urgent need for a new tunnel through the Liverpool Range at Murrurundi?

2841 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(2) Will the development of coal and ethanol industries in the north and north-west of the state be impeded in the absence of a new tunnel? (3) Would a new, lower gradient rail tunnel at Murrurundi provide favourable logistics stimulating the development of these industries?

Answer—

I am advised: The Government has commissioned a number of independent feasibility studies to assess the proposal for a tunnel through the Murrurundi Range at Ardglen located on the Main Northern rail line. The studies concluded the project can not be justified. The Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) is scheduled to take up the lease and responsibility for the Hunter Valley rail network in 2004. As the Main Northern rail line is within the Hunter Valley rail network, should new opportunities improve the justification for the project, development of the Main Northern rail line may be considered by the ARTC.

*2031 GREEN WASTE COLLECTION—Mr Richardson to Attorney General, and Minister for the Environment—

(1) Which local councils, by name, in New South Wales operate separate kerbside collection bins for green waste? (2) What percentage of green waste collected by councils through the kerbside collection system was recycled and beneficially reused, and what tonnage does this represent, in each of the following years: (a) 1995-96 (b) 1999-2000 (c) 2000-02 (d) 2001-02 (e) 2002-03? (3) What percentage of green waste collected by councils through the kerbside collection system went to landfill in 2003-03, and what tonnage does this represent?

Answer—

I am advised by the Department of Environment and Conservation that the following councils operate separate kerbside collection bins for green waste: Armidale Dumaresq Council, Ashfield Municipal Council, Auburn Council, Baulkham Hills Shire Council, Botany Bay City Council, Broken Hill City Council, Burwood Council, Camden Council, Campbelltown City Council, Canterbury City Council, City of Canada Bay Council, Clarence Valley Council, Coonabarabran Shire Council, Eurobodalla Shire Council, Gosford City Council, Greater Queanbeyan City Council, Greater Taree City Council, Guyra Shire Council, Hastings Council, Hawkesbury City Council, Hornsby Shire Council, Hunters Hill Municipal Council, Hurstville City Council, Kiama Municipal Council, Kogarah Municipal Council, Ku-ring-gai Council, Lane Cove Municipal Council, Leichhardt Municipal Council, Lismore City Council, Manly Council, Mosman Municipal Council, North Sydney Council, Parramatta City Council, Pittwater Council, Randwick City Council, Ryde City Council, Shellharbour City Council, Sutherland Shire Council, Warringah Council, Waverley Council, Wollongong City Council, Woollahra Municipal Council, and Wyong Shire Council. Data for the period 1995-96 to 1999-2000 is poor and does not allow accurate presentation of green waste recycling. For subsequent years councils reported the following percentages (and tonnes) of green waste collected: Year Percentage recycled Tonnage recycled 2000-01 99% 189,473 2001-02 94% 195,220

2842 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

2002-03 98% 194,728 Aggregated data submitted by 46 Councils for 2002-03 shows that 2% or 3670 tonnes of green waste collected for recycling was disposed of to landfill.

*2033 CATCHMENT MANAGEMENT BOARD REMUNERATION—Ms Seaton to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources—

Regarding the members of the Hawkesbury Nepean Catchment Management Board: (1) How many members are there? (2) Are members remunerated? (3) How much are members paid in allowances and fees?

Answer—

(1) Four appointments to the Board of the Hawkesbury-Nepean Catchment Management Authority have been made. (2) All CMA Board members are remunerated in accordance with policy determined by the Premiers Department. (3) CMA Chairs receive an allowance of $50,000 plus superannuation. The CMA Board members will receive an allowance of $20,000 that is inclusive of superannuation. All CMA Board members are entitled to be compensated for actual and travel expenses related to the discharge of their duties.

*2034 POKER MACHINE TAX—Mr O'Farrell to Minister for Gaming and Racing—

How much revenue has been raised from (a) clubs and (2) hotels in the Ku-ring-gai Municipality for the years 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001 and 2002?

Answer—

Taxation revenue is a matter for the Treasurer.

*2035 MULGRAVE RAILWAY STATION PRECINCT—Mr Pringle to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

Noting that the lease on the former goods shed area in the Mulgrave Railway Station Precinct expires in December 2004, is it intended to make some or all of this area available for commuter parking?

Answer—

I am advised: RailCorp will continue to assess all options to provide car parking facilities at Mulgrave Station. Construction of a commuter carpark with approximately 60 spaces at Mulgrave railway station is scheduled to be completed in 2004/2005 at an estimated cost of $600,000.

*2036 SCHOOL BUS SEAT BELTS—Mr Pringle to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

Will the Government consider providing funding to allow the retrospective fitting of three-point seatbelts in school buses where practical? Answer—

This is a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Transport Services.

2843 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

*2037 LEVEL CROSSING ASSESSMENT—Mr Maguire to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

(1) When will the level crossing priority list referred to by the Premier on 5 May 2004 be made available? (2) How many level crossings have been identified as needing upgrades in New South Wales? (3) How many level crossings have been upgraded in 2001, 2002 and 2003 with boomgates, lights or improved signage?

Answer—

I am advised: The Level Crossings Strategy Council provides strategic co-ordination and oversights the assessment and improvement of level crossings in NSW. Members of the Level Crossing Strategy Council include the Rail Infrastructure Corporation (RIC), RailCorp, the Roads and Traffic Authority, the Local Government Association and Shires Association, the Independent Transport Safety and Reliability Regulator, the Australian Rail Track Corporation and NSW Police. Each of these agencies has distinct roles and responsibilities for ensuring safety at level crossings. Decisions on priorities and how to improve safety at each site are made according to a risk assessment model. RIC’s level crossings unit assesses level crossings and make recommendations on treatment options ranging from installation of new safety measures such as lights, bells and barriers, through to closure of the crossing. Over the past three years more than $15 million has been allocated to the upgrade of 213 level crossings and the closure of 20 others. Of these 213 sites, 191 have been upgraded with the remaining 22 sites scheduled to be upgraded by the end of the 2003/04 financial year. Over the next three years the Government will spend an estimated $18 million on upgrades at level crossing sites. The Level Crossing Safety Improvement Program for 2004/05 will be placed on the relevant agency websites once it has been finalised. In addition to capital works projects RailCorp has written to the Independent Transport Safety and Reliability Regulator proposing trains in high speed rail corridors be limited to 120km. The proposed maximum speed for all CountryLink services would apply on an interim basis while options for each high speed corridor were further considered. The Independent Regulator is considering this proposal which will provide additional protection at crossings across the state.

*2038 OXLEY HIGHWAY STATISTICS—PACIFIC HIGHWAY AND WAUCHOPE—Mr Stoner to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

In relation to the Oxley Highway between Wauchope and the Pacific Highway: (1) What is the average daily traffic volume on the road for each of the last 5 years? (2) How many road fatalities occurred on this stretch of road over the same period? (3) What are the Government’s plans for upgrading the stretch of road, including the provision of overtaking lanes, road widening, and intersection works?

Answer—

(1) The latest average daily traffic count on the Oxley Highway between Wauchope and the Pacific Highway is approximately 8,000 vehicles. (2) One.

2844 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(3) The Roads and Traffic Authority has previously carried out intersection and road alignment improvement works at Spencers Cutting and Rawdon Island Road under the National Blackspot Program. The need for further improvements and the provision of both an eastbound overtaking lane between Wauchope and Kings Creek Road and a westbound overtaking lane between Rawdon Island and Stoney Creek Roads has been identified. These projects will be undertaken subject to the availability of funds and the priority of the work in comparison with other projects throughout the State.

*2039 OXLEY HIGHWAY STATISTICS —PACIFIC HIGHWAY AND PORT MACQUARIE—Mr Stoner to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

In relation to the Oxley Highway between the Pacific Highway and Port Macquarie: (1) What is the average daily traffic volume on the road for each of the last years? (2) How many road fatalities occurred on this stretch of road over the same period?

Answer—

(1) The latest average daily traffic count on the Oxley Highway between the Pacific Highway and Port Macquarie is 15,000 vehicles. (2) Three.

*2041 STATE VALUATION OFFICE—ALBURY—Mr Aplin to Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce, representing the Special Minister of State, Minister for Commerce, Minister for Industrial Relations, Assistant Treasurer, and Minister for the Central Coast—

(1) Is the State Valuation Office in Albury to be closed at the end of this financial year? (2) How many staff will lose their jobs? (3) Will these staff be offered transfers or redeployment? (4) What forms of communication have been employed to advise staff of departmental plans and to assist them in any changes? (5) How will the Government valuation activities be conducted in the Albury electorate?

Answer—

(1) Yes. (2) With the closure of the Albury Office, there is one less position of Senior Valuer and Clerical Assistant respectively in the Riverina Western Region. (3) In filling the new structure, all staff at the respective level of Senior Valuer and Clerical Assistant will be assessed on a merit basis and the best applicant selected to fill the positions. Standard deployment processes will be applied to place unsuccessful staff in another position. (4) Staff have been briefed face to face by senior regional management on the restructure and this process is continuing. Staff have also been advised of key departmental contacts with whom they can discuss matters relating to the restructure. In addition, a Department web page has been created and all affected staff advised of its location. This page provides links to the Restructure Project Plan, Management Plan and Communication Plan and also the Fortnightly Staff Briefing notes. (5) The current minor level of government valuation business in the Albury district will be serviced out of other Riverina offices, such as Wagga Wagga.

2845 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

*2042 BUSHFIRE—CORYMBIA CIRCUIT —Mr Humpherson to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) What investigation occurred into the source of a bushfire in Corymbia Circuit in the summer of 2002-03? (2) Was your agency aware of observations by local residents that the fire was caused by sparking power lines? (3) How frequently do bushfires start as a result of power line sparking?

Answer—

(1) EnergyAustralia investigated the circumstances associated with the ignition of a bush fire in the vicinity of Corymbia Circuit Oxford Falls on 8 January, 2003. The investigation concluded that the fire was ignited by an EnergyAustralia 33,000 volt line that was blown sideways into adjacent vegetation during gale force winds that were gusting in excess of 100 km/h. As a consequence of the outcome of the investigation, EnergyAustralia has installed additional poles at the site to reduce the potential sway of the line, and has altered its vegetation management clearance specifications to ensure increased safety clearances are maintained for similar situations across its network. (2) Yes. EnergyAustralia immediately launched an investigation. (3) NSW Rural Fire Service investigations of bushfires over the period 2001/2002 and 2002/2003 found that 4.3% of bush fire ignitions formally investigated in New South Wales were associated with powerlines (some of these may be privately owned). Deliberate ignition (arson) was the most common cause, being associated with 68% of bush fires. EnergyAustralia is committed to managing bush fire risks associated with electrical assets, ensuring the safety of our customers and the wider community. EnergyAustralia has implemented a bush fire risk management plan to meet these commitments, using the following strategies: • identifying bush fire risks; • developing new standards for electricity assets; • effectively maintaining our assets; • managing safe vegetation clearances; • communicating bush fire risks and shared responsibilities to our customers (many powerlines are privately owned); • effectively handling enquiries and complaints relating to bush fire risk management; and • working with other agencies to ensure a coordinated approach to bush fire risk management.

*2044 BURST WATER MAINS—Mr Debnam to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) How many incidents of burst water mains have occurred in the Vaucluse electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current? (2) How many megalitres of water were lost as a result of burst water mains in the Vaucluse electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current?

2846 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(3) How many megalitres of water have been lost as a result of burst water mains in the Vaucluse electorate since the commencement of water restrictions on 1 October 2003 to current?

Answer—

(1) to (3) The detailed information requested is not readily available and its extraction would represent an unreasonable diversion of resources.

*2045 BURST WATER MAINS—Ms Seaton to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) How many incidents of burst water mains have occurred in the Southern Highlands electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current? (2) How many megalitres of water were lost as a result of burst water mains in the Southern Highlands electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current? (3) How many megalitres of water have been lost as a result of burst water mains in the Southern Highlands electorate since the commencement of water restrictions on 1 October 2003 to current?

Answer—

(1) to (3) The detailed information requested is not readily available and its extraction would represent an unreasonable diversion of resources.

*2046 BURST WATER MAINS—Ms Seaton to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) How many incidents of burst water mains have occurred in the Camden electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current? (2) How many megalitres of water were lost as a result of burst water mains in the Camden electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current? (3) How many megalitres of water have been lost as a result of burst water mains in the Camden electorate since the commencement of water restrictions on 1 October 2003 to current?

Answer—

(1) to (3) The detailed information requested is not readily available and its extraction would represent an unreasonable diversion of resources.

2847 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

*2047 BURST WATER MAINS—Ms Seaton to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) How many incidents of burst water mains have occurred in the (a)Kiama (b)Wollongong (c) Kiera (d) Heathcote (e) Illawarra electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current? (2) How many megalitres of water were lost as a result of burst water mains in the (a) Kiama (b) Wollongong (c) Kiera (d) Heathcote (e) Illawarra electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current? (3) How many megalitres of water have been lost as a result of burst water mains in the (a) Kiama (b)Wollongong (c) Kiera (d) Heathcote (e) Illawarra electorate since the commencement of water restrictions on 1 October 2003 to current?

Answer—

(1) to (3) The detailed information requested is not readily available and its extraction would represent an unreasonable diversion of resources.

*2048 BURST WATER MAINS—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) How many incidents of burst water mains have occurred in the Hornsby electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current? (2) How many megalitres of water were lost as a result of burst water mains in the Hornsby electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current? (3) How many megalitres of water have been lost as a result of burst water mains in the Hornsby electorate since the commencement of water restrictions on 1 October 2003 to current?

Answer—

(1) to (3) The detailed information requested is not readily available and its extraction would represent an unreasonable diversion of resources.

6 MAY 2004

(Paper No. 74)

*2049 FAR NORTH COAST TRADES COURSES—Mr Page to Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—

(1) What courses are available on the Far North Coast to meet the continuing professional development requirement for builders and tradespeople in New South Wales?

2848 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(2) If no such courses are available on the Far North Coast, will builders and tradespeople on the Far North Coast be penalised for failing to meet the Home Building Service’s requirement for continuing professional development? (3) If no courses are available on the Far North Coast, will the State Government be compensating builders and tradespeople for any travel incurred and missed work days incurred in order to meet the Home Building Service’s requirements for continuing professional development? (4) Given builders and tradespeople will be required to begin accumulating points from their next licence renewal date, when will the list of available training and professional development activities on the Far North Coast be finalised?

Answer—

I am advised that all continuing professional development courses, including those on the Far North Coast, are listed on the website managed by the Construction Industry Training Advisory Board on behalf of the Home Building Service. This information is updated to ensure that the range of activities and courses listed is accurate. In addition, builders and tradespeople may access courses by contacting trade associations direct.

*2050 LAND TAX—CRONULLA ELECTORATE—Mr Kerr to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development, and Vice- President of the Executive Council—

How much land tax will be collected in the electorate of Cronulla in the 12 months following the 2004 mini-budget?

Answer—

I have been advised that the Office of State Revenue does not collate land tax information based on electorates.

*2053 BURST WATER MAINS—HAWKESBURY ELECTORATE—Mr Pringle to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) How many incidents of burst water mains have occurred in the Hawkesbury electorate in the following years: (a) 2001-2002? (b) 2002-2003? (c) 2003 to current? (2) How many megalitres of water were lost as a result of burst water mains in the Hawkesbury electorate in the following years: (a) 2001-2002? (b) 2002-2003? (c) 2003 to current? (3) How many megalitres of water has been lost as a result of burst water mains in the Hawkesbury electorate since the commencement of water restrictions on 1 October 2003 to current?

Answer—

(1) to (3) The detailed information requested is not readily available and its extraction would represent an unreasonable diversion of resources.

2849 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

*2054 MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENTS—Mr Kerr to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

For the period between 1 March 2000 and 1 March 2004 what is the total number of recorded accidents between motor vehicles in the postcode areas 2229 and 2230?

Answer—

For the period between 1 March 2000 and 30 September 2003, there were 895 crashes where a motor vehicle hit another motor vehicle in locations which have a postcode of 2229 or 2230.

*2055 STATE RAIL PROPERTY—Mr Kerr to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

Is consideration being given to the sale of any State Rail property at Cronulla?

Answer—

I refer the Member for Cronulla to my previous answer on the Questions and Answers paper, number 985.

*2057 TELEGRAPH POLE AND VEHICLE ACCIDENTS—Mr Kerr to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

What are the total number of recorded accidents involving telegraph poles and vehicles in the postcodes 2229 and 2230?

Answer—

For the period between 1 January 1998 and 30 September 2003, there were 64 crashes where a vehicle hit a utility pole in locations which have a postcode of 2229 or 2230.

*2058 STATE TRANSIT AUTHORITY—Mr Debnam to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

In relation to the performance of the State Transit Authority: (1) Have you received representations from members of the public regarding the STA’s use of flawed performance indicators to obtain fare increases? (2) Why hasn’t the STA employed the STATS machines to produce whole of system sectional on-time running data? (3) Will you ask the Auditor General to assess all STA performance and financial reporting to IPART and within the STA annual reports dating back to 1995? (4) Will you ask IPART to explain why, in the absence of legitimate performance indicators this year, substantial fare increases were approved? (5) Will you initiate an external audit of STA Sydney Buses on-time running?

Answer—

I am advised: A letter from Mr Debnam MP on behalf of a constituent has been received. A reply was sent to Mr Debnam on 21 April 2004. State Transit advise there is no basis to the claims in the letter. State Transit does not have equipment known as STATS machines. The Auditor General audits all State Transit financial data in its annual report each year.

2850 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

State Transit did provide performance indicators in its submission to IPART for the 2003/04 fare increases. The new Independent Transport Safety and Reliability Regulator established on 1 January 2004 as a statutory authority has the power to make recommendations on performance standards and conduct performance audits. This includes bus services provided by State Transit.

*2059 OPERATIONAL POLICING—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

In relation to interference in operational policing, have you or your staff or your ministry received written or verbal complaints about: (1) The composition, terms of reference or voting system of your Expenditure Review Committee (ERC)? (2) The impact of ERC decisions on operational policing? (3) The undue influence in operational policing matters of your Chief of Staff, Jane Fitzgerald and/or the Director of the Public Affairs Branch, Ross Neilson?

Answer—

(1) to (3) No.

*2060 POLICE PROMOTIONS—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

In relation to police promotions and the Schuberg Report, a Ministerial Inquiry under Section 217 of the Police Act 1990 being chaired by Geoff Schuberg, which you have previously advised you have not received (answer to Question on Notice 920): (1) Are you aware of widespread concern within NSW Police with the delay in releasing the Schuberg Report and in reforming the promotions system? (2) As of 6 May 2004 have you received the final report? (3) If so, what were its recommendations? (4) What is your response to each of the recommendations? (5) What is the timetable for implementing the recommendations? (6) When will the report be made available to the public? (7) Were any particular allegations of corruption in the promotions system reported to the PMAC during the Inquiry and if so, are any individual officers being investigated or being considered for disciplinary action as a result, including under protocols with the Ombudsman's Office?

Answer—

(1) to (6) On 24 May 2004 I publicly released the report and have referred it to the Anderson Working Party for advice. (7) I am unaware of any allegations of corruption were reported to the PMAC during the Ministerial Inquiry under Section 217 of the Police Act 1990 chaired by Geoff Schuberg. However, if the Honourable Member is, he should refer them to the appropriate authority, either the Police Integrity Commission or the Ombudsman.

*2061 SPECIFIC INFORMATION ON PACIFIC HIGHWAY—Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

With reference to information previously sought by me concerning inspections of the Pacific Highway in the vicinity of the intersection of the Pacific Highway and Keels Road, why will the Minister not provide the specific information sought?

2851 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Answer—

The specific information sought by the Honourable Member is provided below: On what date did the Roads and Traffic Authority inspect the intersection of Keels Road and the Pacific Highway (as advised by the Minister in the House on 9 March 2004)? 29 January 2004 and 2 February 2004. Who, from the Roads and Traffic Authority, was involved with that inspection? A Road Safety and Traffic Officer undertook the initial inspection. The second inspection was undertaken by the aforementioned officer and also the Manager, Road Safety and Traffic Services. Both officers are attached to the Roads and Traffic Authority’s (RTA) Hunter Regional Office at Newcastle. If, as the Minister stated, the Roads and Traffic Authority found that the intersection did not need changes, how and why did the Roads and Traffic Authority reach that decision? During the inspections it was considered that the existing advance warning signposting, provided on both approaches to Keels Road on the Pacific Highway, provided sufficient advance notification of the side road. With the sight distance available on the approach to the junction, the signposting is of a higher standard than is normally provided. The existing double barrier centre-line marking ensured that overtaking manoeuvres were restricted on each approach to the junction. Sight distance for vehicles exiting Keels Road was considered appropriate and the seal provided on the Keels Road approach to the Highway ensured that vehicles could accelerate onto the Highway, without losing traction. On a traffic volume basis, the junction was considered to be in line with AUSTROADS guidelines.

*2063 WATER RESTRICTION INFRINGEMENTS—Mr Amery to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) Since the introduction of water restrictions, how many persons have been detected by Sydney Water enforcement officers breaching the water restrictions in the Mount Druitt electorate? (2) What are the number of these detections on a month by month basis? (3) Of these detections, how many persons have been: (a) issued with a caution or warning? (b) issued with an infringement notice?

Answer—

(1) to (3) Sydney Water’s water restriction infringement records are not maintained on an electoral district basis. Within the Blacktown Local Government Area, Sydney Water enforcement officers have detected 69 people breaching the water restrictions. The number of detections resulting in a warning or infringement, on a month by month basis, is:

Month Warnings Infringements November 2003 1 0 December 2003 2 4 January 2004 3 9 February 2004 2 13 March 2004 1 16 April 2004 2 12 May 1 to 12, 2004 0 4 Totals 11 58

2852 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

*2064 FEE CHARGES FOR REPLACEMENT OF WATER METERS—Mr Stoner to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Rural Affairs, Minister for Local Government, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Lands)—

(1) Are you aware of community unrest in relation to the fees charged by some local councils for the replacement of water meters, for example around $800 by Kempsey Shire Council compared to around $80 by Greater Taree Shire Council? (2) If so, what is the Government’s response?

Answer—

The Minister for Local Government has provided the following response: (1) Kempsey Shire Council is introducing a two part tariff for water supply comprising an access charge and a per kilolitre consumption charge in line with best practice pricing principles. The access charge is related to the diameter of the connection to the property at the water meter. Some consumers are choosing to downsize their water meters in response to the new schedule of access charges. The figure of $800 mentioned represents the approximate cost that a consumer would face in downsizing from a 25 millimetre connection to a 20 millimetre which is the most common residential connection size. The charge comprises a disconnection fee ($111) for the original meter plus a connection fee for the new 20 millimetre service ($700). Kempsey Shire Council advises that in the current circumstances it is offering customers wishing to downsize a 50% discount on the fees published in their 2003/4 Management Plan. Thus a customer wishing to downsize to a 20 millimetre connection from a 25 millimetre now would pay just over $400. Such a customer would offset this cost from reduced access charge payments ($252 for 20mm; $384 for 25mm) in a little over 3 years. (2) The Government supports Kempsey Shire Council’s adoption of best practice pricing. The schedule of charges for water connections and other supply related works is an operational matter for Council to determine. Kempsey Shire Council has published its fees and charges in its Management Plan as is required under the Local Government Act 1993. It has adopted a full cost recovery pricing policy in line with s.539 of the Act.

*2065 BURST WATER MAINS—SYDNEY WATER—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) How many incidents of burst water mains have occurred in the Sydney Water supply in the following years: (a) 2001-2002? (b) 2002-2003? (c) 2003 to current? (2) How many megalitres of water were lost as a result of burst water mains in the Sydney Water supply in the following years: (a) 2001-2002? (b) 2002-2003? (c) 2003 to current? (3) How many megalitres of water has been lost as a result of burst water mains in the since Sydney Water supply the commencement of water restrictions on 1 October 2003 to current?

Answer—

(1) to (3) The detailed information requested is not readily available and its extraction would represent an unreasonable diversion of resources.

2853 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

*2066 BURST WATER MAINS—MANLY ELECTORATE—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) How many incidents of burst water mains have occurred in the Manly electorate in the following years: (a) 2001-2002? (b) 2002-2003? (c) 2003 to current? (2) How many megalitres of water were lost as a result of burst water mains in the Manly electorate in the following years: (a) 2001-2002? (b) 2002-2003? (c) 2003 to current? (3) How many megalitres of water has been lost as a result of burst water mains in the Manly electorate since the commencement of water restrictions on 1 October 2003 to current?

Answer—

(1) to (3) The detailed information requested is not readily available and its extraction would represent an unreasonable diversion of resources.

*2067 SECURITY STAFF—GOULBURN—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Health—

(1) As a result of the security review conducted at Goulburn Base Hospital during late 2000 by Security Consultant T Colgan of the Webster Group, have all external door locks to censored areas been changed to a security key system in accordance with recommendations 3 and 8? (2) At the Goulburn Community Health Centre have alarms and cameras been installed in accordance with recommendations 3 and 4? (3) Why were recommendations 2 and 3 to install safety grills and upgrade locks at Springfield House not supported by the SAHS?

Answer—

(1) Yes. (2) A duress alarm, and security system have been installed. Cameras have not been installed as this type of surveillance is not suitable to the design of the building. (3) All locks have been upgraded at Springfield House since the refurbishment in 2000. All security measures are reviewed annually as part of safety audits conducted by the Area Health Service.

*2068 REGIONAL TIMBER BRIDGE PROGRAM—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

Which timber bridges in the Local Government areas of Greater Argyle, Upper Lachlan, Boorowa, Yass Valley, Gundagai and Tumut will be affected by the recent decision to delay the implementation of the Regional Timber Bridge Program?

Answer—

The bridges eligible for the program in these council areas are:

Local Govt Area Road Description Boorowa Gunning to Temora Bridge over Castles Creek Boorowa Boorowa to Cunningar Tarengo Bridge over Boorowa River

2854 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Gundagai Tumut to Yass Bridge over Adjungbilly Creek Tumut Tumut to Yass Bridge over Shaking Bog Creek Tumut Tumut to Yass Bridge over Reedy Creek Tumut Tumut to Yass Bridge over Brungle Creek No 1 Tumut Tumut to Yass Bridge over Brungle Creek No 2 Tumut Tumut to Yass Bridge over Brungle Creek No 4 Tumut Tumut to Yass Bridge over Killamacat Creek Tumut Wondalga to Tumblong Purcells Bridge over Adelong Creek Tumut Wondalga to Tumblong Rimmers Bridge over Adelong Creek Upper Lachlan Taralga to Boorowa Bridge over Kiamma Creek Upper Lachlan Taralga to Boorowa Bridge over Wowagen Creek Upper Lachlan Taralga to Boorowa Bridge over Commissioner Creek Upper Lachlan Taralga to Boorowa Bridge over Woolshed Creek Upper Lachlan Taralga to Boorowa Bridge over Abercrombie River Yass Valley Bookham to Burrinjuck Bridge over Carrolls Creek Yass Valley Bookham to Burrinjuck Bridge over Barren Jack Creek Murrumbateman to Yass Valley Bridge over Coots Creek Federal Highway

Some of these bridges may be considered for replacement under the REPAIR Program.

*2069 FAIR TRADING CALL CENTRE—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—

(1) Is the Fair Trading Call Centre at Penrith being relocated to Homebush? (2) If so when will this move be completed? (3) How many staff are currently employed at the Penrith site? (4) How many staff will be employed at the Homebush site? (5) Will any staff lose their jobs as a result of this move? (6) What re-employment options have been offered to staff who will lose their jibs as a result of this move?

Answer—

(1) No. The call centre will be relocated to Parramatta. (2) Relocation is due to commence late 2004. (3) There are currently 35.4 equivalent full time staff in the Penrith call centre. In addition, there are 6.4 equivalent full time staff in the Penrith Fair Trading Centre which will not be affected by the Call Centre Project. (4) N/A. (5) No. (6) A placement policy is currently being finalised that will provide equitable strategies for placement of staff. Staff will be assisted in being redeployed elsewhere in Fair Trading or elsewhere in the public sector.

*2071 WATER FINES—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) How many fines have Sydney Water patrol officers issued since March 3, 2004?

2855 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

For each fine issued by a Sydney Water patrol officer, in which suburb did the offence occur? (2) How many fines have local government councils issued on behalf of Sydney Water since February 16, 2004? (3) For each fine issued by a representative from a local government council, in which suburb did the offence occur and which council issued the fine? (4) For each fine issued by a representative from a local government council, in which suburb did the offence occur and which council issued the fine?

Answer—

The number of water restriction infringement notices issued by Sydney Water patrol officers by local government area between 3 March 2004 and 12 May 2004, follows.

Area No. Area No. Area No. Ashfield 5 Hornsby 5 Pittwater 4 Auburn 3 Hunters Hill 3 Randwick 11 Bankstown 11 Hurstville 1 Rockdale 10 Baulkham Hills 7 Kiama 0 Ryde 3 Blacktown 26 Kogarah 0 Shellharbour 0 Blue Mountains 2 Ku-ring-gai 5 South Sydney 2 Botany 2 Lane Cove 1 Strathfield 5 Burwood 8 Leichhardt 12 Sutherland 10 Camden 13 Liverpool 36 Sydney 8 Campbelltown 14 Manly 1 Warringah 4 Canada Bay 7 Marrickville 5 Waverley 17 Canterbury 2 Mosman 0 Willoughby 3 Fairfield 8 North Sydney 2 Wollongong 17 Hawkesbury 2 Parramatta 9 Wollondilly 0 Holroyd 7 Penrith 12 Woollahra 32 TOTAL 335

The Infringement Processing Bureau supplies Sydney Water with information on the number of water restriction infringement notices issued by local government officers. Based on this information, 48 notices were issued between 22 January 2004 and 11 May 2004. Based on the information supplied by the Infringement Processing Bureau, notices were issued in the following local government areas between 22 January 2004 and 11 May 2004.

Area No. Area No. Area No. Ashfield 1 Fairfield 2 Penrith 1 Auburn 1 Holroyd 1 Pittwater 1 Bankstown 7 Hornsby 1 Randwick 4 Baulkham Hills 1 Kogarah 2 Sydney 1 Blacktown 3 Ku-ring-gai 1 Warringah 1 Camden 3 Liverpool 7 Waverley 2 Campbelltown 2 Manly 1 Willoughby 1 Canada Bay 2 Mosman 1 Woollahra 1 TOTAL 48

2856 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

*2072 WATER PIPES RENEWAL—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) What is the length of water pipes forecast to be renewed by Sydney Water in: 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06? (2) In what suburbs will Sydney Water water pipes be renewed? What is the forecast budget for these water pipe renewals by Sydney Water in: 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06? (3) How many years will it take Sydney Water to renew its entire water pipe network?

Answer—

(1) to (3) Sydney Water’s water main renewals program will improve the performance of the water network by minimising the incidence of broken and leaking mains, which is always important but never more so than in the current drought conditions. Sydney Water has an extensive network of approximately 21,000 kilometres of water mains. The investigation and renewal of these water mains is carried out on a network wide basis and renewals are structured to target mains that are at the end of their operational life (based on performance criteria). These renewals will be distributed across Sydney Water’s area of operation. The length of water mains forecast to be renewed in 2003/04 is approximately 47 kilometres at a forecast budget of $38 million. Approximately 65 kilometres of water mains are planned for renewal in 2004/05. Renewals planned in 2005/06 will be confirmed following further analysis of the performance of water mains that are at the end of their operational life.

*2073 GREEN POWER 100 PERCENT USAGE—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) What actual numbers and what percentage of residential customers purchased 100 per cent of Green Power from each of the following energy companies for each year between 1997 and 2004: (a) Country Energy (b) EnergyAustralia (c) Integral Energy (d) Great Southern Energy (e) Advance Energy (f) Northpower (g) Australian Inland ? (2) What actual number and what percentage of business/commercial customers purchased 100 per cent of Green Power from each of the following energy companies for each year between 1997 and 2004: (a) Country Energy (b) EnergyAustralia (c) Integral Energy (d) Great Southern Energy (e) Advance Energy (f) Northpower (g) Australian Inland ? (3) Which Government owned corporations or departments purchased: (a) 100 per cent of Green Power between 1997 and 2004?

2857 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(b) Green Power as a proportion of total power between 1997 and 2004?

Answer—

(1) to (3) Australian Inland, Country Energy, EnergyAustralia and Integral Energy all offer Green Power packages to their residential and commercial customers. The Government is considering options to further encourage residential and commercial customers to purchase Green Power. Over the past four years, EnergyAustralia has had an average of 4,613.5 residential customers purchasing 100 percent Green Power. Over the past three years, Country Energy has had an average of 157.3 and Integral Energy has had an average of 892 residential customers purchasing 100 percent Green Power. Government Departments and agencies are encouraged to purchase Green Power to meet their energy reduction targets. Government agencies purchased 78,762 MWh of green power during 2001-02, avoiding 75,300 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions. Over the past six years, the NSW Government achieved a 21.2 percent reduction in office building greenhouse emissions. The Sustainable Energy Development Authority, NSW Crime Commission, and Advance Energy purchased 100% Green Power between 1997 and 2004. The agencies listed below purchased a proportion of Green Power during the years 1997 to 2003.

Agency EnergyAustralia* Great Southern Energy* NorthPower* Coal Compensation Board Environment Protection Authority Bicentennial Park Trust State Forests of New South Wales* National Parks and Wildlife Service Zoological Parks Board* Independent Commission Against Corruption Integral Energy* Country Energy Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games* Olympic Co-ordination Authority Department of Mineral Resources Department of Public Works and Services Macarthur Waste Board Olympic Roads and Transport Authority Parliament of NSW Pacific Power* Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust Art Gallery of New South Wales Police Integrity Commission Office of the Board of Studies Department of Planning Treasury Crown Property Portfolio State Library of New South Wales NSW State Records

2858 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Cabinet Office Parliamentary Counsel's Office Department of Information Technology and Management Community Relations Commission Ministry of Energy and Utilities Office of State Revenue Australian Museum Department of Sport and Recreation Sydney Opera House Trust* Historic Houses Trust of New South Wales NSW Lotteries Corporation* WorkCover Authority NSW Fisheries Department of Agriculture Department of Juvenile Justice NSW Police Service Department of Education and Training Attorney General's Department Waterways Authority Legal Aid Commission of New South Wales Department of Gaming and Racing Department of Industrial Relations Australian Inland* Department of Transport Department of Land and Water Conservation Department of Fair Trading Department of Community Services Sydney Water Corporation* Department of State and Regional Development State Sports Centre Trust NSW Fire Brigades Roads and Traffic Authority Sydney Catchment Authority* Home Care Service of New South Wales Department of Housing* Premier's Department Waste Service NSW* Department of Rural Fire Service Department of Health Department of Corrective Services * denotes public trading enterprises

*2074 PERCENTAGE OF GREEN POWER RESIDENTIAL PURCHASE—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

What actual number and percentage of residential customers purchased: (a) Less than 20 per cent

2859 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(b) Less than 50 per cent (c) Less than 100 per cent of Green Power from each of the following energy companies for each year between 1997 and 2004: Country Energy EnergyAustralia Integral Energy Great Southern Energy Advance Energy Northpower Australian Inland?

Answer—

Overall, the number of NSW customers using accredited and non-accredited green power has increased by 48% since June 2002. The scheme is still in its infancy. The Government is considering options to further encourage residential customers to purchase Green Power.

*2075 STORMWATER EXTENSION OFFICER PROGRAM—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) What is the Government proposing in relation to the NSW Stormwater Extension Officer Program beyond June 2004? (2) What initiatives or programs is the Government undertaking to ensure the advancement of stormwater management in NSW? (3) What is the Government’s response to the independent mid-term review of the Stormwater Extension Officer Program that highlights the positive outcomes of the program and notes the clear need for its ongoing implementation? (4) What will the Government do to ensure that it takes note of this review and acts on its recommendation?

Answer—

(1) to (4) This matter falls within the portfolio responsibilities of the Hon Bob Debus MP, Minister for the Environment.

*2076 FERTILISER RESTRICTIONS—Mr Richardson to Attorney General, and Minister for the Environment—

(1) Has the Environment Protection Authority placed any restrictions on or warnings against farmers using fertilisers in the Malpas Dam catchment in New England? (2) If so, what scientific evidence has the EPA used to justify its campaign against the use of fertilisers? (3) Which fertilisers has the EPA specifically been targeting? (4) Is it true that soils in the catchment are inherently high in phosphorus and that this natural phenomenon has been a contributing factor to the formation of blue-green algae in the Malpas reservoir?

Answer—

I am advised by the Department of Environment and Conservation that it has not placed any restrictions on or warnings against farmers using fertilisers in the Malpas Dam catchment in New England. The Department of Environment and Conservation has required Armidale Dumaresq Council to prepare a Plan for the Long-Term Management of Blue-Green Algae in Malpas Dam. The Plan will include

2860 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

identification of the major nutrient sources and strategies aimed at minimising the flow of nutrients from the catchment into Malpas Dam. The Department understands that the University of New England has been investigating catchment management issues in the Malpas Dam catchment on behalf of Armidale Dumaresq Council. The Department of Environment and Conservation has not seen the results of these investigations.

*2078 LINDFIELD SCHOOL PROJECT—Mr O'Farrell to Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce, representing the Special Minister of State, Minister for Commerce, Minister for Industrial Relations, Assistant Treasurer, and Minister for the Central Coast—

(1) Did the Department of Commerce manage the Department of Education’s project to remove fibrous material from the hall of Lindfield Public School? (2) How much did the Department of Commerce receive in management and other fees for this project? (3) What was the original (a) timeframe and (b) estimated cost of the project? (4) When did it become apparent that additional material was present and required removal? (5) What was the final (a) timeframe and (b) cost of the project?

Answer—

(1) Yes. (2) Commerce’s fee for managing the contracts for building work and removal of asbestos material is estimated at $62,660, inclusive of GST. (3) (a) The contract work, which included the preparation of the school hall for the asbestos removal work, commenced on 19 December 2003. Asbestos removal operations commenced on 27 December 2003 with an expected contract completion date of 13 February 2004. (b) The original cost of the project was estimated to be $425,000, inclusive of GST. (4) The licensed asbestos removal company discovered that friable asbestos material also filled the wall cavities while working in the ceiling space, in early January 2004. It was not possible to examine the five to nine metre high brick wall cavities before the asbestos material had been removed from within the roof space. (5) (a) All associated building works were scheduled to be completed by 30 April 2004. However, additional building work in the Hall, directly requested and funded by the school, extended the completion/handover to 21 May 2004. (b) The estimated final project cost is in the order of $570,000 with the contract yet to be finalised. The value of contract variations, and hence final project cost is subject to agreement by Commerce to the payment claim, which is currently being assessed.

*2080 RAILWAY CLOSED CIRCUIT TELEVISION—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

(1) Are closed circuit television cameras installed on the Newcastle to Hornsby railway line to monitor trains and rail passenger safety? If so, where? (2) Have there been any incidences in the last twelve months of track signals failing on the Newcastle to Hornsby line? (3) If so, when and where did these failures occur?

Answer—

I am advised: Closed circuit television cameras are installed on all 306 stations across the CityRail network.

2861 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

There are 6,116 cameras on stations as well as Help Points which are linked back to RailCorp’s security control centre. The principal causes of signal failures include storms and lightning strikes, computer equipment failures, signalling component failures and power supply failures. Significant signal failures are defined as those which cause delays to five or more trains. On the Newcastle to Hornsby rail line over the period 21 April 2003 and 19 May 2004 there were 39 significant signal failures. Over the same period over 190,000 CityRail, CountryLink and freight train trips were timetabled for this section of the network.

*2081 NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Police—

What are the Neighbourhood Watch groups currently operating in the Hornsby electorate, by suburb and number?

Answer—

NSW Police has advised me: Information regarding the Neighbourhood Watch Programs is not kept centrally as each Neighbourhood Watch Programme is a local initiative.

*2082 MEDICAL APPLIANCES—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Health—

(1) How much longer will medical appliances be provided to residents and patients at Hornsby Ku-ring- gai Hospital? (2) What measures will be undertaken to provide access to medical appliances when and if the service and Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Hospital closes?

Answer—

(1) and (2) Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Hospital provides medical appliances to residents and patients of the Hornsby Ku-ring-gai area through the Program of Appliances for Disabled People scheme and Equipment Loan Pool system. The hospital has no plans to discontinue this valuable service to the public.

*2084 GUN BUY BACK—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Police—

How many guns were surrendered and had compensation paid in the electorate of Hornsby under the gun buy-back initiative?

Answer—

NSW Police has advised me: The buyback runs until June 30 2004. Total accurate figures will not be available until that time.

*2087 WILLOUGHBY PADDOCKS—Ms Berejiklian to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources—

(1) In relation to the Willoughby Paddocks: (2) What is the role of the State Government in relation to future development of the site? (3) What is the State Government’s view on the future of the site? (4) What are the outcomes of meetings held between the former Minister for Planning, and Willoughby Council prior to the last State election?

2862 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Answer—

The Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources has been working with joint site owners Landcom, RTA and Willoughby Council and adjoining owner Shore School, to deliver a high quality, environmentally sustainable urban development on the Willoughby Paddocks site. The Department’s role is essentially that of land owner and facilitator of the proposal with Landcom acting as development partner and project manager. The NSW Government supports development of the site in accordance with a Council approved masterplan. The proposal is modeled on a whole-of-government approach, including lengthy community consultation and input. The development will deliver embellished open space, rehabilitated creek corridor and housing choice, including community housing and housing for older and less mobile members of the community.

*2088 SCHOOL MAINTENANCE—Mr Souris to Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs—

(1) What projects in the electorate of Upper Hunter are included in the $124 million school maintenance backlog identified by the Auditor-General? (2) What amounts pertain to each project? (3) What timeframe applies to each project?

Answer—

Since 1995, the Government has spent well in excess of $48,000,000 on capital works and maintenance in the Upper Hunter electorate.

*2090 SCHOOL MAINTENANCE WORKS—Mrs Skinner to Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs—

What are the details of maintenance works and funding required, included in the $124 million school maintenance backlog identified by the Auditor General at the following schools: (a) North Sydney Demonstration School (b) Neutral Bay Public School (c) Middle Harbour Public School (d) Mosman Public School (e) Beauty Point Public School (f) Mosman High School (g) North Sydney Girls High School (h) North Sydney Boys High School (i) Bradfield College?

Answer—

Since 1995, the Government has spent well in excess of $7,900,000 on capital works and maintenance in the North Shore electorate.

*2091 ENERGY AUSTRALIA SUBSTATIONS—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) Which EnergyAustralia substations, by name: (a) currently exceed their firm capacity ratings? (b) are forecast to exceed their firm capacity ratings over the next 12 months? (c) are forecast to exceed their firm capacity ratings in three years?

2863 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(2) What budget has EnergyAustralia allocated since 1999 to upgrade substations to ensure they are not loaded above their firm capacity ratings?

(3) What was the total amount of money EnergyAustralia has actually spent since 1999 to upgrade substations to ensure they are not loaded above their firm capacity ratings? (4) How much money is EnergyAustralia forecasting to spend over the next three years to prevent substations being loaded above their firm capacity ratings?

Answer—

(1) (a) Electricity networks are designed to have redundancy, which enables routine maintenance and other work to be carried out without interrupting supply to customers. The “firm rating” of a substation is less than its total capacity to supply power to an area. It refers to a substation that has spare capacity to allow for a major item of plant (such as a transformer) to be out of service, but still not affect supply to customers. Firm rating is an indicator for engineers to plan investments for future growth. The list of substations where load exceeds firm rating varies according to seasonal growth, overall load growth and as a result of infrastructure upgrades. EnergyAustralia has more than 28,000 substations on its electricity network. The following major substations have been identified as reaching firm rating but on average only reach this less than two per cent of the time. It is accepted industry practice to load substations above the firm rating to deal with peak demands, which occur once or twice a year.

Sub No. Zone Substation Sub No. Zone Substation HZ32004 Aberdeen ZN09700 Kirrawee HZ03080 Adamstown HZ03661 Kotara ZN12570 Avoca ZN12610 Long Jetty HZ32022 Avondale HZ30156 Maitland Central HZ32022 Baerami ZN03672 Maroubra ZN15003 Balgowlah HZ03024 Mayfield ZN12690 Berkeley Vale HZ32018 Merriwa ZN02400 Berowra ZN09037 Miranda ZN10991 Blakehurst ZN00180 Mosman HZ66003 Branxton HZ03340 Mt.Hutton HZ03043 Broadmeadow HZ03418 New Lambton HZ03461 Cardiff ZN00195 Pymble ZN15010 Careel Bay HZ03222 Raymond Terrace ZN09035 Caringbah ZN01287 Revesby HZ30065 Cessnock HZ03402 Salt Ash HZ03358 Newcastle City Main ZN10997 Sans Souci ZN00874 Concord HZ32010 Scone ZN03922 Drummoyne ZN03472 Sefton HZ03088 Dudley HZ66015 Singleton HZ30034 East Maitland ZN03154 St. Ives HZ03580 Edgeworth HZ03153 Tarro ZN02635 Epping HZ30010 Telarah ZN12580 Erina ZN15013 Terrey Hills ZN00847 Hornsby HZ03250 Toronto ZN10993 Hurstville North ZN01673 Turramurra

2864 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

ZN09252 Jannali HZ03172 Wallsend HZ03424 Jewells HZ03315 Williamtown Subtransmission Substation HT80000 Awaba STS HT80011 Singleton STS HT80003 Kurri STS HT80008 Waratah STS HT80004 Merewether STS TS16600 Warringah STS HT80010 Muswellbrook STS HT80007 Tomago STS

(b) This list is based on a forecast of load growth and, as such, will change.

Sub No. Zone Substation Sub No. Zone Substation Sub No. Zone Substation HZ32004 Aberdeen HZ30034 East Maitland HZ03340 Mt.Hutton HZ03080 Adamstown HZ03580 Edgeworth HZ32064 Muswellbrook ZN12570 Avoca ZN02635 Epping HZ03418 New Lambton HZ32022 Avondale ZN12580 Erina ZN01295 Padstow HZ32022 Baerami ZN00847 Hornsby HZ03232 Pelican ZN15003 Balgowlah ZN00129 Hunters Hill ZN00195 Pymble ZN12690 Berkeley Vale ZN10993 Hurstville North HZ03222 Raymond Terrace ZN02400 Berowra ZN09252 Jannali ZN01287 Revesby ZN10991 Blakehurst HZ03424 Jewells HZ03402 Salt Ash HZ66003 Branxton ZN09700 Kirrawee ZN10997 Sans Souci HZ03043 Broadmeadow ZN09301 Kurnell 11kV HZ32010 Scone HZ03461 Cardiff HZ30051 Kurri ZN03472 Sefton ZN15010 Careel Bay ZN12590 Lake Munmorah HZ66015 Singleton ZN09035 Caringbah ZN12610 Long Jetty ZN03154 St. Ives HZ30065 Cessnock ZN08000 Macquarie Park HZ03153 Tarro ZN03425 Castle Cove HZ30156 Maitland Central HZ30010 Telarah HZ03344 Charlestown ZN15009 Manly ZN15013 Terrey Hills ZN00080 Chatswood ZN03672 Maroubra HZ03250 Toronto HZ03358 Newcastle City HZ03024 Mayfield ZN01673 Turramurra Main ZN00874 Concord HZ32018 Merriwa ZN12640 Umina ZN03922 Drummoyne ZN09037 Miranda HZ03172 Wallsend HZ03088 Dudley ZN00180 Mosman Subtransmission Substation HT80000 Awaba STS HT80004 Merewether STS HT80007 Tomago STS TS09400 Kurnell STS HT80010 Muswellbrook HT80008 Waratah STS STS HT80003 Kurri STS HT80011 Singleton STS TS16600 Warringah STS

(c) This list is based on a forecast of load growth and, as such, will change.

Sub No. Zone Substation Sub No. Zone Substation Sub No. Zone Substation HZ32004 Aberdeen ZN01610 Homebush Bay ZN10994 Mortdale ZN10990 Arncliffe ZN00129 Hunters Hill ZN12620 Noraville ZN12570 Avoca ZN10993 Hurstville North ZN01114 North Ryde HZ32022 Baerami ZN09252 Jannali ZN01295 Padstow

2865 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

ZN12690 Berkeley Vale HZ03860 Kooragang West HZ30184 Paxton ZN10991 Blakehurst HZ30051 Kurri HZ03232 Pelican HZ66003 Branxton ZN12590 Lake Munmorah ZN10995 Riverwood HZ03043 Broadmeadow ZN12600 Lisarow ZN10997 Sans Souci HZ03344 Charlestown ZN12610 Long Jetty HZ32010 Scone ZN00080 Chatswood ZN15009 Manly HZ03293 Shortland ZN00874 Concord HZ03024 Mayfield HZ30010 Telarah ZN03155 Double Bay HZ32018 Merriwa HZ03250 Toronto ZN03922 Drummoyne ZN09037 Miranda ZN12640 Umina ZN12580 Erina ZN15014 Mona Vale Subtransmission Substation HT80004 Merewether STS TS16600 Warringah STS TS07220 Willoughby STS HT80010 Muswellbrook STS

(2) July 1999 to April 2004: $651m (3) July 1999 to April 2004: $691m (4) July 2004 to June 2007: $762m July 2004 to June 2009: $1 372m

7 MAY 2004

(Paper No. 75)

*2092 DIRECTIONAL SIGNAGE WINDSOR STATION—Mr Pringle to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

Will blue directional signage to Windsor Station be installed at locations such as Richmond Road and George Street?

Answer—

The Roads and Traffic Authority is in the process of drafting a policy for the signposting of public transport interchanges.

*2095 GREAT RIVER WALK—Mr Pringle to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources—

(1) What is the status of the Great River Walk? (2) What sections of the walk are currently suitable as a public walking track? (3) What funds have been expended to date on the project? (4) What funding is proposed for the 2003-04, 2004-05 and 2005-06 financial years?

Answer—

I refer the Honourable Member to my response to Question on Notice No. 1964.

*2096 COUNTRYLINK SERVICES—Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

2866 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(1) Does the Government or CountryLink have a policy of limiting the available seating for pensioner concessions on CountryLink services? (2) If so, what is that policy? (3) If so, why is there such a policy? (4) If so, who introduced the policy? (5) How many travel concessions were issued in 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, and 2004 to date? (6) How many seats did CountryLink provide for pensioner concession fare holders in 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, and 2004 to date? (7) What was the overall percentage of use of CountryLink trains by passengers for the years 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, and 2004 to date? (8) Is concession travel on CountryLink fully funded by the Community Service Obligation Fund or any similar fund? (9) If so, how much was paid from that fund to CountryLink or other relevant department or departments in the years 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, and 2004 to date? (10) What were the total bonuses paid to CountryLink staff for the years 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, and 2004 to date?

Answer—

I am advised: CountryLink introduced a policy in 1996 to cater for free travel by pensioners travelling on Pensioner Travel Vouchers to ensure there is sufficient capacity for full fare paying passengers. CountryLink’s policy is to reserve 30 per cent of seats for free travel on Pensioner Travel Vouchers during non-peak periods and 20 per cent during peak periods such as school holidays. If the free Pensioner Travel Voucher seating is full and there is still capacity remaining on a given service, reservations staff are able to request additional capacity to cater for pensioners travelling on free Pensioner Travel Vouchers. The number of tickets issued, including concessions for the years 2000 through 2004 are:

2004 to 2000 2001 2002 2003 April 30 40-50% Discount 1,144,050 1,073,046 1,048,153 913,735 279,889 Free or $2.20 Pensioner Excursion Ticket 804,987 870,134 843,274 830,271 267,128 Full Adult Fare 316,654 289,829 327,665 326,766 101,328 TOTAL 2,265,691 2,233,009 2,219,092 2,070,772 648,345

Information about seat utilisation is publicly available in StateRail’s annual reports. The Government subsidy for CountryLink includes the concession travel outlined above. This information is publicly available in the final report of the Ministerial Inquiry into Sustainable Transport in NSW by Professor Tom Parry. CountryLink does not pay bonuses to its staff.

*2098 CARINGBAH STATION—Mr Kerr to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

During what hours and on what days is the ticket office at Caringbah Railway Station closed?

2867 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Answer—

I am advised: The ticket office at Caringbah railway station is attended from 5.45am to 9.35pm weekdays and from 7.00am to 3pm on weekends. A ticket vending machine is also available for passengers at the station.

*2099 UROLOGY SERVICES—Mr Stoner to Minister for Health—

In relation to specialist urology services on the mid North Coast: (1) Has the shortage of urologists at Coffs Harbour and Taree contributed to the transfer of patients to Port Macquarie Base Hospital from areas outside the hospital’s patient catchment area? (2) Has this in turn adversely affected waiting lists including category 2 patients? (3) What action have you or will you undertake to resolve this situation?

Answer—

(1) to (3) A specialist urologist has been recruited for Coffs Harbour and will commence duty later this year. Where possible in the interim, locums are arranged for patients categorized as urgent and already booked. Recruitment action for a specialist urologist at Taree is continuing.

*2100 BURST WATER MAINS—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) How many incidents of burst water mains have occurred in the Manly electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current? (2) How many megalitres of water were lost as a result of burst water mains in the Manly electorate in the following years: 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003 to current? (3) How many megalitres of water have been lost as a result of burst water mains in the Manly electorate since the commencement of water restrictions on 1 October 2003 to current?

Answer—

(1) to (3) The detailed information requested is not readily available and its extraction would represent an unreasonable diversion of resources.

*2101 YASS VALLEY COUNCIL BOUNDARY ADJUSTMENT—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business representing the Minister for Rural Affairs, Minister for Local Government, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Lands)—

(1) Will you confirm the information provided by your office on 29 April that at the meeting of General Managers in Queanbeyan on 12 May a resolution on the transfer of the Kangiara area to Yass Valley Council would be sought? (2) In light of subsequent information will this issue in fact be discussed?

2868 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(3) What specific action have you taken to ensure that your statement in Parliament, of 18 March, that you ‘expect that the matter will be resolved before the councils go to an election on 26 June’ is accurate?

Answer—

The Minister for Local Government has provided the following response: (1) I confirm that a meeting was held with the Director General of the Department of Local Government and the Acting General Managers of Upper Lachlan Council and Yass Valley Council on 11 May 2004. I understand that the transfer of Kangiara to Yass Valley Council was discussed and the Director General advised that because of Upper Lachlan Council’s objections to the transfer, the matter would have to be referred to the Local Government Boundaries Commission. (2) See my response to question (1). (3) As I anticipated in my advice to the House on 18 March 2004, the Department of Local Government contacted both Councils on 25 March 2004 in relation to what, on the basis of the information provided in Yass Valley Council’s proposal of 18 February 2004, appeared to be an uncontentious boundary alteration proposal. On 31 March 2004, Upper Lachlan Council replied and advised that the statement made by Yass Valley Council in its proposal that Upper Lachlan Council was “not opposed to the proposal” was incorrect. Following the receipt of Upper Lachlan Council’s letter, it is now clear that the proposal to transfer Kangiara to the Yass Valley Area is unlikely to proceed as an uncontentious proposal and unfortunately is not expected to be resolved before the elections on 26 June 2004.

*2102 COMPOUND HUNTING BOWS—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Police—

(1) Can you confirm advice from the Federal Minister for Justice and Customs that the next Australasian Police Minister’s Council will discuss the merits of making compound hunting bows a prohibited weapon? (2) As neither the Attorney General nor the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research is able to provide any data on the number of criminal acts committed using compound bows in NSW in the past 10 years, why is this proposal being considered? (3) Does the NSW Police Force maintain statistics regarding the criminal use of compound hunting bows? (4) If so, will you provide information on the following: (a) In the past ten years how many criminal acts have been committed in NSW using compound hunting bows or target bows (as distinct from crossbows)? (b) How many deaths, if any, resulted from illegal use of these bows (not crossbows)? (c) How many injuries resulted from illegal use of these bows (not crossbows)? (d) How many armed robberies were committed using bows (not crossbows) during this period? (e) On how many occasions were Police threatened with bows (not crossbows)? (5) What is the NSW Government’s position on this proposal?

Answer—

NSW Police has advised me: (1) and (2) Last year I took an agenda item to the Australian Police Ministers Council (APMC). As a result it was requested that the Firearms Policy Working Group examine whether compound hunting bows should be made a prohibited weapon and to report back to the next APMC meeting this month. (3) Crime statistics are collected by the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research. (4) See (3). (5) The Government’s position was outlined in a press release of July 3, 2003. It said:

2869 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Mr Watkins took the crossbow debate to the council’s meeting in Melbourne after revelations NSW’s tough prohibited weapons laws were being compromised by a national loophole. “We have the toughest laws and the longest list of banned weapons here in NSW - but we’re ensuring there is no way to take advantage of different interstate legislation,” Mr Watkins said. “Prior to yesterday’s APMC decision, only NSW and the ACT banned all types of crossbow. But the council’s unanimous vote means we get a blanket ban, and the Federal Government will get its Firearms Working Group to examine proposed restrictions on cross-border trafficking. “Crossbows are killing machines – nothing else. Trafficking in these weapons is as deadly as drugs or guns. “And while we battle the importation of illegal weapons across our national borders, I want to ensure crossbows can’t slip through the back door from interstate.”. . .

*2103 POLICE MOTOR BIKES—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

In relation to police motor bikes:

Given your advice that “NSW Police uses motorcycles as an operational tool on a needs basis” (Question on Notice 1622): (1) How many police motor bikes does NSW Police own, lease and/or operate as at 5 May 2004? (2) What were the figures in relation to Question (1) as at 1 January 1999? (3) How many police are trained to operate police motor bikes as at 5 May 2004? (4) With reference to the training being conducted by the Education Services Command and the most recent course held in March, (a) How many police are currently undergoing motor bike training? (b) What is the cost to train an individual officer as a police motor cyclist? (5) Given your advice that ‘motorcycles are being replaced under a replacement schedule’, (a) How many BMW K1200P bikes are in operation as at 5 May 2004? (b) How many Honda ST1100 and BMW RT1150P bikes have been replaced by the BMW K1200P as at 5 May 2004? (c) When do you expect the full replacement of bikes as referred to, to be completed?

Answer—

NSW Police has advised me: (1) 83 as at 11 May 2004. (2) 95 as at 6 January 1999. (3) There are 394 trained riders on the Police Safe Drivers System. (4) (a) None. (b) It varies. (5) (a) 23 as at 11 May 2004. (b) 14 Honda ST1100’s and 6 BMW RT1150P’s. (c) Approximately October 2004.

*2104 NEW REJOINEES POLICY—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

In relation to the 26 former police officers that have rejoined the Force since the New Rejoinees Policy was introduced in March 2003: (1) In which specific LACs and other commands have they been stationed and how many for each ? (2) How many police officers who rejoined the Force through the New Rejoinees Policy departed the Force again in each of the Mount Druitt, Redfern and Bankstown LACs ?

2870 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Answer—

NSW Police has advised me: (1) Since March 2003, rejoinees have been placed in the following Local Area Commands: Lake Illawarra, Parramatta, Aviation Support, Surry Hills, Campsie, Wollongong, Hawkesbury, Court and Legal Services, City Central, Bankstown, Radio Network, Water Police, Kogarah, Balranald, Fairfield, Mascot, Liverpool, Commercial Crime and Forensic Imaging, Mount Druitt and Redfern. (2) Mount Druitt (1); Redfern (1) and Bankstown (1).

*2105 FIREARMS TRAINING—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

In relation to the Firearms Training: (1) How many hours of firearm training does each officer receive at Goulburn Police Academy ? (2) What is the maximum size of classes receiving firearms training ? (3) How many shooting bays does the Goulburn Police Academy Pistol Range have ? (4) Where the size of classes exceeds the number of shooting bays what firearms training do those officers without bays receive and is that time included in their firearms training time ? (5) How many hours of firearms training do officers receive in an allocated shooting bay ?

Answer—

NSW Police has advised me: NSW Police officers undertake firearms training from pre-attestation throughout their careers. If the Honourable Member wants more specific information about a certain aspect or stage of that training, he should make it clearer in the questions he asks.

*2106 FIXED SPEED CAMERAS—Mr Page to Minister for Police—

(1) How much does it cost to install a fixed speed camera in New South Wales? (2) What are the necessary requirements needed to justify the installation of a fixed speed camera in New South Wales? (3) How many motorists were photographed by fixed speed cameras in New South Wales in 2003 and 2002? (4) How many motorists were fined by fixed speed cameras in New South Wales in 2003 and 2002? (5) How much revenue is collected by the State Government from general traffic/vehicle infringements?

Answer—

NSW Police has advised me: (1) and (2) These are matters dealt with by the Roads and Traffic Authority which comes within the administration of the Hon P C Scully, MP, Minister for Roads and Minister for Housing. (3) to (5) These are matters dealt with by the Infringement Processing Bureau, which comes under the administration of the Hon M R Egan, MLC, Treasurer and Minister for State Development.

*2107 FIXED SPEED CAMERAS—Mr Page to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development, and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

(1) How much does it cost to install a fixed speed camera in New South Wales? (2) What are the necessary requirements needed to justify the installation of a fixed speed camera in New South Wales?

2871 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(3) How many motorists were photographed by fixed speed cameras in New South Wales in 2003 and 2002? (4) How many motorists were fined by fixed speed cameras in New South Wales in 2003 and 2002? (5) How much revenue is collected by the State Government from general traffic/vehicle infringements?

Answer—

I have been advised that: (1) This is a question for the Minister responsible for the Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA). (2) This is a question for the Minister responsible for the Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA). (3) The number of motorists photographed by fixed speed cameras for possible offences was 585,798 in 2002 and 499,443 in 2003. (4) The number of motorists fined by infringements issued by fixed speed cameras was 432,095 in 2002 and 347,724 in 2003. (5) Fine revenue is shown in the Budget papers.

*2109 SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS CITYRAIL SERVICE—Ms Seaton to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

Regarding the CityRail service departing from Central at 3.47pm to the Southern Highlands: (1) On how many occasions has the service at Macarthur been held up in the last six months as a result of delays in the arrival of connecting trains? (2) How many minutes has each service been held up? (3) Which services are delayed which cause these hold ups? (4) How many passengers are on the train that join the service at Macarthur? (5) On what basis are trains held at Macarthur? (6) Who authorises the holding of the trains?

Answer—

I am advised by RailCorp: The CityRail timetable does not currently provide for guaranteed connecting services to the 3.47pm Central to Goulburn service. However Southern Highlands services can at times be held at Macarthur or more commonly at Campbelltown to assist passengers to join these services provided any resulting disruption to the network can be managed. The holding of trains is authorised by staff in RailCorp’s Rail Management Centre. As announced on 27 May 2004 RailCorp has introduced adjustments to the CityRail timetable to improve the reliability of peak hour services, reduce reliance on overtime and to support the $1 billion Rail Clearways investment. In the event of service disruptions elsewhere on the network, the 3.47pm Central to Goulburn service can be held for passengers to join from such trains as the 3.05pm or 3.35 services from Central, arriving at Campbelltown at 4.17pm and 4.24pm respectively. In the past six months the 3.47pm Central to Goulburn service has been held around ten times in this way, with an average delay of seven minutes. RailCorp advise at last count approximately 20-30 passengers board the 3.47pm Central to Goulburn service at Macarthur during normal service. Under the timetable adjustments, the 5.32pm Central to Goulburn service will be replace with a new, fast service from the City to Campbelltown in line with the Rail Clearways plan. Additional capacity will be provided on this service. It will also provide additional capacity on this service. The connecting service at Campbelltown to Goulburn in the afternoon peak is guaranteed.

2872 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

RailCorp further advise following the introduction of the timetable adjustment, a Duty Manager will be on the platform at Campbelltown to assist passengers to make this connection smoothly.

11 MAY 2004

(Paper No. 76)

*2110 SCHUBERG REPORT—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

In relation to police promotions and the Schuberg Report, a Ministerial Inquiry under Section 217 of the Police Act 1990, chaired by Mr Geoff Schuberg: (1) What has been the cost of this review to date? (2) When was it established and when did Mr Schuberg finalise his report? (3) Who did Mr Schuberg deliver the report to and what is its status? (4) What is the delay in releasing the report?

Answer—

(1) Mr Schuberg was paid $60,000. There has been no other cost. (2) The inquiry was established on 27 June 2002. I released the report on 24 May 2004. (3) To the Ministry for Police. (4) See (2).

*2111 EDUCATION SERVICES—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

In relation to Education Services: (1) Has Jan McClelland been appointed to review Education Services? (2) If so what are the terms of reference? (3) Did the former Minister appoint Peter Anderson to prepare an Education Services report or review? (4) If so when was it completed, what was its cost and what were the recommendations?

Answer—

(1) No. (2) Not applicable. (3) No. (4) Not applicable.

*2112 EXPENDITURE REVIEW COMMITTEE—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

In relation to the Police Expenditure Review Committee (ERC): (1) Was the Expenditure Review Committee established without written correspondence between the parties involved in the ERC? (2) Are discussions, votes and decisions of the ERC not minuted or distributed to participants? (3) If so, have you received verbal or written complaints about the lack of documentation referred to in questions 1 and 2 above? (4) If ERC discussions and decisions are not minuted, who takes responsibility for the decisions of the ERC, especially in relation to implications for operational policing? (5) Have you discussed, with the Auditor General, the establishment, operation and lack of minutes of the ERC?

2873 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Answer—

(1) No. (2) No. (3) Not applicable. (4) Not applicable. (5) No.

*2113 LARGE CARNIVORE SIGHTINGS—Mr Pringle to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Primary Industries—

What action is the Minister proposing concerning the numerous sightings of a large carnivore in the Grose Vale/Blue Mountains districts in light of the recent report on the matter?

Answer—

The Minister for Primary Industry has provided the following response: NSW Agriculture has been working with local residents and businesses, Rural Lands Protection Boards, Taronga Zoo, the Australian Museum and other Government Departments to investigate these reports. Since the release of the Government’s report on information on the reported large black cat in the Blue Mountains on 31 October 2003, NSW Agriculture has investigated six reports of an unidentified large black cat in the Mudgee and outer western Sydney areas. This data was added to a database of information about these sightings. Only one of these reports, on 12 May 2004, offered solid evidence in the form of paw prints in mud and scat (faecal) samples which were associated with a sighting on 20 April 2004. A NSW Agriculture officer was immediately tasked to visit the site and collect information from the people involved, take photographs and plaster casts of the prints and collect any available scat samples for analysis. These samples were dispatched to appropriate experts on 14 May 2004 for examination and testing. Results and scientific comment on these tests and examinations should be available within two or three weeks.

*2115 WILLOUGHBY PADDOCKS—Ms Berejiklian to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources—

In relation to the Willoughby Paddocks: (1) Have you, your predecessor or your department discussed the issue of a potential aged care facility on the site? (2) If so, what are the details of discussions and what is your position?

Answer—

(1) The site, jointly owned by the Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources, Landcom and Willoughby Council, is the subject of a Council approved masterplan. The masterplan proposes a high quality and environmentally sustainable development which will deliver open space and a mix of housing choice, including some dwellings suitable for older or less mobile members of our community. (2) See answer to question 1.

*2116 ROYAL NORTH SHORE HOSPITAL—Mr Roberts to Minister for Health—

How many persons were treated at the Royal North Shore Hospital for injuries resulting from alleged assault during the period between 1 January 2003 and 10 May 2004?

2874 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Answer—

I am advised by the Northern Sydney Area Health Service that between 1 January 2003 and 10 May 2004 the Royal North Shore Hospital admitted and discharged 121 people for the injuries resulting from alleged assaults. NB: This figure excludes patients admitted before 10 May 1004, but who are still in hospital, or whose discharge details have not yet been transferred to the Health Information Exchange database.

*2117 AMBULANCE SERVICE UNIFORMS—Mr O'Farrell to Minister for Health—

(1) Did the NSW Ambulance Service trial new uniforms for its staff in 2001? (2) What were the results of the trial? (3) What plans does the Service currently have to review and/or change uniforms?

Answer—

(1) and (2) A new uniform for ambulance officers was trialled for six months during 2001 at selected metropolitan and rural ambulance stations. Feedback from the trial was that the uniform was not popular with staff. (3) The Ambulance Advisory Committee – Uniforms, is currently reviewing uniforms for ambulance officers.

*2118 MILLENNIUM TRAIN SERVICES—Mr O'Farrell to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

(1) Do Millennium trains operate on the North Shore line on (a) weekdays or (b) weekends? (2) If so, how many services daily for (a) weekdays and (b) weekends? (3) If not, why not?

Answer—

As I announced on 20 June 2003 information about the Millennium train timetable is publicly available on the CityRail website at www.cityrail.info.

*2119 "AREA OF NEED"—Mr O'Farrell to Minister for Health—

(1) How many “area of need” appointments to public hospitals exist, by Area Health Service, across NSW? (2) What area of specialities do these appointments fill, by Area Health Service, across NSW? (3) How are “areas of need” defined or assessed? (4) What agency undertakes recruitment of “area of need” appointments?

Answer—

(1) to (4) Information relating to the Area of Need Program can be found at the NSW Health Department’s website www.health.nsw.gov.au/othp.

*2120 NATIONAL LIVESTOCK IDENTIFICATION SCHEME—Mr Pringle to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Primary Industries—

2875 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Will the Minister arrange for a workshop concerning the National Livestock Identification Scheme, as conducted in other parts of the Moss Vale Rural Lands Protection Board Area, to be conducted in or adjacent to the Hawkesbury Electorate?

Answer—

The Minister for Primary Industry has provided the following response: NSW Agriculture advises that the Department plans to conduct two workshops in the Hawkesbury Electorate area, one at Windsor and another at Wisemans Ferry. The dates for both workshops are yet to be set. Mr Pringle’s constituents are welcome to attend either workshop. Information about NSW Agriculture’s National Livestock Identification System workshops is available from NSW Agriculture’s National Livestock Identification System Information Line on 1300 720 405 or from its website www.agric.nsw.gov.au.

*2121 WOLLAR TRANSMISSION LINE—Mr Souris to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) What is the latest progress on Transgrid’s proposal for the Wollar-Wellington electricity transmission line? (2) What is the planning timeframe for the line? (3) Has the proposed 60 metre easement for the 330kV transmission line been finalised for the whole length of the line? (4) Which site has been decided upon for the switching station? (5) When is the Environmental Impact Statement for the project expected to go on exhibition?

Answer—

(1) Investigation of route options in the vicinity of Cadonia Estate has been completed and a report entitled, “Development Options Involving Demand Side Management and Local Generation in the Advance Energy Area – Report to TransGrid and Advance Energy”, has been put on display for comment by affected residents, prior to selection of the preferred route. A meeting with the interested parties and Wellington Council was held on Thursday, 13 May 2004. Submissions on the Report close on 26 May 2004. Surveying of the notional route within the northern corridor is progressing. Preparation of the EIS has commenced. (2) The proposed 330kV transmission line is planned to be in service by 2007. (3) No, the 60 metre wide easement will only be finalised at the approval of the EIS. However, a notional centreline and the easement has been identified for the full length except for the last 4.5km at the Wellington end. The easement for this portion will be identified after the transmission line route is selected in the vicinity of Cadonia Estate. (4) An investigation is being carried out on two potential switching station sites east and west of Barigan Road. No decision has been made on the preferred site. A decision is expected by June, 2004. (5) The public exhibition of the EIS is scheduled before the end of the year.

*2123 MINING ROYALTIES—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Mineral Resources—

(1) How much money did the following companies pay in mining royalties for 2001-02 and 2002-03: (a) Centennial Coal and (b) Excel Coal? (2) How much is it estimated each company will pay under the new mining royalties set out in the Treasurer’s mini-budget of 6 April 2004?

2876 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(3) How many people are employed at the mining sites at: (a) Mandalong (b) Lake Munmorah (c) Mannering Park? (4) Will the Minister support a differential rate for coal mining companies that export coal and for coal mining companies whose coal is used for domestic consumption?

Answer—

(1) The release of individual company royalty payments is only possible with the consent of the company. (2) This depends on how much coal each company mines, whether or not the coal is produced by open cut or underground methods and the ex mine value of the coal, with allowable deductions. (3) At the 30 June 2003 167 persons were employed at mining sites at Mandalong, 144 at Lake Munmorah, while at Mannering Park, the only mine in the area, the Wyee Colliery, was closed in June 2002 and is presently on care and maintenance. (4) The NSW Government does not support a differential rate of ad valorem royalty between export coal and domestic coal.

*2124 STRESS CLAIMS—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce, representing the Special Minister of State, Minister for Commerce, Minister for Industrial Relations, Assistant Treasurer, and Minister for the Central Coast—

(1) How many claims, classified as stressed related, have been lodged with the Workers Compensation Commission since 1 April 2003? (2) What percentage do these constitute of all claims?

Answer—

(1) and (2) Nil. Claims are not lodged with the Workers Compensation Commission. Parties can lodge a dispute with the Workers Compensation Commission. The Workers Compensation Commission tracks matters according to the type of dispute lodged (eg compensation for death of a worker, injury management, return to work) rather than the type of injury. Note: "stress" is not a compensable injury.

*2125 COMMUNITY GRANTS—Mr Hartcher to Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for Citizenship—

(1) Do you have under your control a discretionary fund to assist community organisations? (2) What grants were made by the fund, to which organisations and in what amount from 1 April 2003 to 30 April 2004?

Answer—

(1) and (2) I refer the Honourable Member to the Annual Report of the Premier’s Department, in which details of various grants made are publicly reported.

*2126 BICKHAM COAL MINE—Mr Piccoli to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources—

With respect to the proposed Bickham Coal Mine in the Hunter Valley why has the water licence for this project been increased from 16M1 to 20 M1 in light of the fact that there is a moratorium on new water licences across NSW?

2877 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Answer—

I refer the Honourable Member to my response to his earlier Question No. 1956 on this issue.

*2128 FIXED SPEED CAMERAS—Mr Roberts to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development, and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

How many motorists were photographed by fixed speed cameras in the Local Government Areas of (a) Lane Cove (b) Hunters Hill and (c) Ryde in the years, 2001-2001, 2001-2002 and 2002-2003?

Answer—

I have been advised that: (1) The Infringement Processing Bureau does not capture information based on Local Government Areas (LGA). (2) N/a.

*2129 ASSAULTS IN HOSPITALS—Mr Roberts to Minister for Health—

During the period from 1 January 2003 through to 1 January 2004 what was the average per day (Monday through Sunday) of persons treated at the Royal North Shore Hospital from injuries resulting from alleged assaults?

Answer—

I am advised by Northern Sydney Area Health Service that between 1 January 2003 and 1 January 2004 the average number of people admitted with an external cause diagnosis of ‘Assault’ at Royal North Shore Hospital, per week day, is as follows: Day Daily average Sundays 0.33 Mondays 0.35 Tuesdays 0.17 Wednesdays 0.23 Thursdays 0.13 Fridays 0.21 Saturdays 0.39 Average per day (all days) 0.26

*2130 POLLUTION STUDIES—Mrs Hopwood to Attorney General, and Minister for the Environment—

(1) Have there been any studies done on the run-off of pollutants into Berowra Valley Regional Park and Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park from (1) the green waste facility at 5 Beaumont Road, Mt Ku- ring-gai and (2) the hardfill recycling facility at Mt Ku-ring-gai? (2) What are the results of any studies undertaken?

Answer—

I am advised by the Department of Environment and Conservation that the facilities are not regulated by the Department as they are below the licensing threshold as set by the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997. These questions should be referred to Hornsby Shire Council.

2878 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

*2131 SEWERAGE CONNECTION—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) Will sewerage connection in Mooney Mooney and Cheero Point commence concurrently with sewerage connection in Brooklyn and Dangar Island? (2) If so, what timeframe will be used? (3) What are the funding components of the development of the sewerage connection for the northern side of the Hawkesbury? Answer—

(1) Provision of sewerage services in NSW is the responsibility of individual councils and Water Utilities. The Government, under the Country Town Water Supply and Sewerage Program, provides financial assistance to Local Water Utilities to assist in the provision of affordable and appropriate water supply and sewerages services in urban areas of rural and regional NSW. Gosford City Council is the Local Water Utility responsible for the provision of sewerage to Mooney Mooney and Cheero Point while Sydney Water is responsible for the provision of sewerage to Brooklyn and Dangar Island. Gosford Council and Sydney Water are working jointly on a strategy to provide shared infrastructure for the treatment and disposal of treated effluent in order to minimise both environmental impact and community cost for the areas both north and south of the Hawkesbury. Gosford Council and Sydney Water issued a Preferred Strategy for improved sewerage services for both areas in December 2003. Gosford City Council and Sydney Water will be responsible for the installation of individual collection systems in their respective areas. Connections will be allowed once the shared infrastructure is available. (2) Sydney Water has previously prepared an Environmental Impact Statement in relation to its area of responsibility and is currently completing a further environmental impact assessment which will include consideration of the proposed shared infrastructure. Sydney Water has previously advised that construction is expected to commence in 2005, subject to obtaining planning approvals and the availability of funding. (3) It is anticipated that Gosford City Council and Sydney Water will enter into formal arrangements for the cost sharing of the investigation, design, construction and operation of shared infrastructure adjacent to the Hawkesbury River. To date Gosford City Council has been provided with funding of $60,000 under the Country Towns Water Supply and Sewerage Program to assist in undertaking feasibility investigations into the provision of sewerage services for the towns of Mooney Mooney, Cheero Point and Little Wobby. Council is eligible for further funding under this Program towards the construction of these works. Further financial assistance is available to Gosford City Council under the Government’s Priority Sewerage Program (PSP). Funding up to $747,000 is available for Mooney Mooney and Cheero Point under this Program. Gosford City Council will be responsible for establishing rates and charges to fund the connection of properties outside the areas eligible for the Government’s financial assistance. Should Gosford City Council decide to proceed with sewerage for other villages on the northern side of the Hawkesbury River, these may also be eligible for funding under the Country Towns Water Supply and Sewerage Program. The extent of funding assistance can only be ascertained after Council has adopted a preferred solution.

*2132 PRIVATE BUS SERVICES—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

Will private bus services in the Hornsby electorate be affected by the proposed new power of the Director-General of the Ministry of Transport to cancel services?

2879 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Answer—

I am advised: The Unsworth Review of Bus Services in NSW recommended abolishing bus service contracts which are effectively granted in perpetuity, have few measurable performance requirements and entrench exclusive operating rights across Sydney. The matters raised by the Member were discussed when the Passenger Transport Amendment (Bus Reform) Bill 2004 passed on 1 June 2004. The Bill greatly improves the Passenger Transport Act 1990 providing taxpayers with a transparent, accountable framework for the $600million per annum spent on bus services.

*2133 INJURIES—SUTHERLAND HOSPITAL—Mr Kerr to Minister for Health—

How many persons were treated at Sutherland Hospital for injuries resulting from alleged assault during the period between 1 January 2003 and 10 May 2004?

Answer—

I am advised by South Eastern Area Health Service that between 1 January 2003 and 31 March 2004 Sutherland Hospital admitted and discharged 152 people for injuries resulting from alleged assaults. Data for April and May 2004 is still being compiled.

*2134 FIXED SPEED CAMERAS—Mr Merton to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development, and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

How many motorists were photographed by fixed speed cameras in the Local Government Areas of (a) Parramatta (b) Baulkham Hills (c) Blacktown and (d) Hawkesbury in 2002 and 2003? How much revenue was collected in respect of these matters?

Answer—

I have been advised that: (1) The Infringement Processing Bureau does not capture information based on Local Government Areas (LGA). (2) N/a.

*2135 F3 SPEED LIMIT—Mr Souris to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

(1) Why has the 110kph speed limit not been restored on recently upgraded sections of the F3? (2) What justification is there in increasing numbers of lanes and upgrading the alignment if the 90 kph speed limit remains for almost all of the new section? (3) Will the 110kph speed limit now be reinstated for all of the section of road which has been upgraded?

Answer—

While the F3 Freeway between Mount White and Jolls Bridge has been opened to three lanes in each direction, the work is not complete as the final surface and linemarking is yet to be installed. Funding provided by the Federal Government for the widening of the F3 Freeway to provide a uniform 3 lane dual carriageway between Kariong and the Hawkesbury River is not sufficient to allow for the total reconstruction and realignment of a 5 kilometre section in the vicinity of Jolls Bridge, which was designed in the 1950s and constructed in the early 1960s.

2880 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

On completion of the current improvement works the speed limit will be raised to 110km/ph, except for the 5 kilometre section in the vicinity of Jolls Bridge, which will be retained at 90km/h.

*2136 COUNTRYLINK SERVICES—Mr Aplin to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

(1) How many passengers travelled between Sydney and Albury and between Albury and Sydney on the CountryLink XPT service in (a) 2001 (b) 2002 (c) 2003? (2) How many of these passengers travelled as concession fare holders? (3) Is concession travel on CountryLink fully funded by the community service obligation fund or any similar fund?

Answer—

I am advised: The average daily number of tickets issued, including concessions between Albury and Sydney for the CountryLink XPT service are:

Sydney - Albury 2001 2002 2003 40-50% discount 20 21 20 Free or $2.20 Pensioner Excursion Ticket 24 23 20 Full Adult Fare 4 5 4 TOTAL 48 49 44

Albury - Sydney 2001 2002 2003 40-50% discount 21 21 20 Free or $2.20 Pensioner Excursion Ticket 23 22 20 Full Adult Fare 5 5 4 TOTAL 49 48 44

The Government subsidy for CountryLink includes the concession travel outlined above. This information is publicly available in the final report of the Ministerial Inquiry into Sustainable Transport in NSW by Professor Tom Parry.

*2137 SAFE TURNING—MULLENGANDRA PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mr Aplin to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

(1) What funding was allocated by the Roads and Traffic Authority to safety and urgent minor works in the Albury electorate in (a) 2002 (b) 2003 and (c) 2004 to date? (2) Is a list of priority projects available? (3) If so, what is the position of the safe turning lane from the Hume Highway to Mullengandra Public School?

Answer—

Federal expenditure on safety and urgent minor works on the Hume Highway (National Highway) in the Albury electorate is: (a) 2001/02 $1,751,000 (b) 2002/03 $720,000

2881 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(c) 2003/04 Nil. The project in question has high priority and the NSW Government will seek Federal funding in 2004/05 for improving the access for Mullengandra Public School.

*2138 PACIFIC HIGHWAY—KEMPSEY AND MACKSVILLE—Mr Stoner to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

In relation to the Pacific Highway between Kempsey and Macksville: (1) What is the average daily traffic volume, for each of the last 5 years? (2) How many road fatalities have occurred, for each of the last 5 years? (3) Where (at which local site) did these road fatalities occur ? (4) How much of this stretch of highway, in terms of kilometres, consists of dual carriageway for north and south-bound traffic? (5) What is planned for the upgrading of this stretch of highway?

Answer—

(1) The average daily traffic volume on the Pacific Highway between Kempsey and Macksville for each of the last 5 years is as follows:

1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 12,501 11,670 11,984 14,043 13,902

(2) and (3) From October 1998 to the end of September 2003, there have been 14 recorded fatal crashes, with 18 fatalities on this section of the Pacific Highway. (4) and (5) The NSW Government is committed to completing dual carriageways for the entire length of the Pacific Highway. Planning is currently underway for a bypass of Kempsey and connection to the existing dual carriageways at Eungai. Planning is also underway for dual carriageways north of Allgomera, including consideration of a bypass of Macksville. In the interim, as part of the Pacific Highway Road Safety Strategy, the Roads and Traffic Authority has a continued program of works to improve safety on the Highway.

*2139 PACIFIC HIGHWAY—PORT MACQUARIE —Mr Stoner to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

In relation to the Pacific Highway between Port Macquarie (Oxley Highway intersection) and Kempsey: (1) What is the average daily traffic volume, for each of the last 5 years? (2) How many road fatalities have occurred for each of the last 5 years? (3) Where, by site, did these road fatalities occur? (4) What is planned for the upgrading of this stretch of highway? (5) How much of this stretch of highway , in terms of kilometres, consists of dual carriageway for north and southbound traffic?

Answer—

(1) The average daily traffic volume on the Pacific Highway between the intersection of the Oxley Highway and Kempsey for each of the last 5 years is as follows:

1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 11,883 12,356 12,696 13,716 16,883

(2) and (3) From October 1998 to the end of September 2003, there have been 7 recorded fatal crashes, involving 11 fatalities on this section of the Pacific Highway. (4) and (5) The NSW Government is committed to completing dual carriageways for the entire length of the Pacific Highway. In the interim, as part of the Pacific Highway Road Safety Strategy, the

2882 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) has a program of works to target crashes on the Highway as well as crashes at intersections with the Highway. The RTA will continue with this program to improve safety along the Highway. To combat fatigue on this section of the Highway, two new rest areas at Bloodwood Road and Kundabung south of Kempsey have been provided.

*2140 SCOPING STUDY STEERING COMMITTEE REPORT—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

(1) Has the NSW Government received the Plantation Ownership Options Scoping Study Steering Committee report? (2) If so, when will the report be made public? (3) If not, when will the NSW Government receive the report? (4) Will you release the report in its entirety when it is received?

Answer—

I have been advised that: (1) The State Forests Plantations Scoping Study Steering Committee Report has not been completed so the Government has not received the final report. (2) Not Applicable (3) The report will be finalised and received by the Government once the stakeholder consultation process, which is currently being undertaken, has been completed. (4) That will be decided once the report has been received.

*2141 AMBULANCE RESPONSE TIMES—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Health—

(1) Was the accident that occurred on the Barton Highway about 4 kilometres south of Murrumbateman at around 8:00pm on 25 November 2003 attended by an ambulance from the NSW Ambulance or the ACT Ambulance? (2) At what time was the original ‘000’ from Mrs J Beveridge received by the centralised Telstra 000 Call Centre? (3) At what time was the electronic message from the Telstra 000 Call Centre directed to the Ambulance Service attending the accident? (4) At what time did the attending ambulance acknowledge receipt of this message? (5) At what time did the attending ambulance arrive at the scene of the accident?

Answer—

(1) I am advised that the ACT Ambulance Service received the 000 call, responded to the incident in question and managed the treatment and transport of the patient. The Ambulance Service of NSW dispatched an ambulance to the scene in response to a call from Wagga Wagga police, not from the Telstra 000 Call Centre. On arrival at the scene, the NSW Ambulance crew established that an ACT Ambulance crew was already in attendance and that additional support was not required. (2) to (5) The matters raised in these parts of the Honourable Member’s question should be directed to the ACT Minister for Police and Emergency Services.

*2142 ADVERTISING SOLICITATION—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—

(1) Has the Office of Fair Trading received any complaints about solicitation for advertising in the Regional Commerce Directory, Suite 12, 125 Oxford St Bondi Junction? (2) If so, has the Office of Fair Trading investigated these complaints?

2883 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(3) What was the result of these investigations? (4) Does the Regional Commerce Directory actually exist as a published advertising service?

Answer—

(1) Yes. (2) and (3) I am advised that all of the matters were examined, the trader was contacted, and a satisfactory resolution was recorded for each case. (4) Fair Trading investigations reveal that the Regional Commerce Directory exists as a published advertising service and is registered as a business name and is owned by a company with a registered office.

12 MAY 2004

(Paper No. 77)

*2143 RAIL ACCIDENTS—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

How many accidents involving personal injury or death have there been on the Newcastle to Hornsby rail line, or involving trains or stations on that line, since 1 January 2003?

Answer—

I am advised: Information regarding incidents on the CityRail network is regularly updated and publicly available on the CityRail website www.cityrail.info.

*2144 COMMUNITY GRANTS—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development, and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

(1) Do you have under your control a discretionary fund to assist community organisations? (2) What grants were made by the fund, to which organisations and in what amounts, from 1 April 2003 to 30 April 2004?

Answer—

I have been advised by Treasury that: (1) No. (2) Not applicable.

*2145 COURT LIAISON OFFICER—Mrs Hopwood to Attorney General, and Minister for the Environment—

(1) Is there a court liaison officer relating to mental health at Hornsby Court? (2) If not, will there be such a position in the future? (3) When would this position commence?

Answer—

2884 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

I am advised that Court Liaison Nursing Service Officers are employed by the NSW Department of Health.

*2146 RAIL SPEED LIMITS—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

What are the speed limits applicable on the Newcastle to Hornsby railway line and in what areas?

Answer—

I am advised: To accommodate varying geographical conditions between Hornsby and Newcastle speed limits range between 60 and 115km per hour. In addition temporary speed restrictions are applied for maintenance as required.

*2148 FORSTER/TUNCURRY BRIDGE—Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

With reference to the public statement by the Minister on 18 February 2004 on funding for widening the Forster/Tuncurry Bridge: (1) When and to whom has, or will, the amount of $1.6m be paid? (2) Has the amount of $1.6m been allocated? (3) If it has been allocated, to whom was it allocated and when was it allocated? (4) If it has not been allocated, why not? (5) When will the work commence and be completed on the widening of the footway on the bridge? (6) Who is responsible for the work to be carried out on the bridge?

Answer—

The bridge is managed by the Roads and Traffic Authority and the State Government is providing $1.6M to widen the footway and install a safety barrier. Detailed design is currently in hand and work is expected to commence in the near future and be completed in 2005.

*2149 SCHOOL TRAVEL PASSES—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

In the electorate of Hornsby: (1) How many primary school students travel by way of public transport (bus/rail) using school travel passes to school by bus, rail, or bus and rail? (2) How many secondary school students travel as above?

Answer—

I am advised: In the electorate of Hornsby, it is not possible to know precisely how children travel to school. (1) 2,485 primary school students have been issued school travel passes. (2) 7,015 secondary school students have been issued school travel passes. However, recent surveys suggest the actual usage rate of free travel passes across NSW is now only about 59%.

2885 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

*2150 TUGGERAH LAKES ROYAL VOLUNTEER COASTAL PATROL—Mr Humpherson to Minister for Police, representing the Minister for Rural Affairs, Minister for Local Government, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Lands)—

(1) Does the VMRC (Volunteer Marine Rescue Council) have concerns about an illegal or unaccredited flotilla of the AVCGA (Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association) operating on Tuggerah Lakes? (2) Has this unaccredited rescue club been operating illegally for over two years? (3) What is being done to ensure that there are no problems with public liability? (4) Why has the Minister and the State Rescue Board (SRB) allowed a volunteer marine rescue operation to establish and operate next to an existing accredited Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol (RVCP) unit? (5) Has the RVCP advised you that they no longer have confidence in the VMRC? (6) Are you satisfied that the VRMC and SRB have and will comply with the State Emergency and Rescue Management (SERM) Act? (7) What action will the Minister take to ensure that the VMRC and SRB have and will comply with the SERM Act? (8) Have there been instances where the AVCGA unit has interfered in rescues being undertaken by the RVCP? What action have you taken? (9) Has the VMRC received allegations from the AVCGA that the RVCP unit at Tuggerah was “not able to do the job”? If so, what was the substance and nature of these allegations? What substantiation was sought and what action was taken? (10) Has the VMRC established the need for a second site at Tuggerah Lakes? If they have what substantiation or evidence was provided? If they have not, why has this unit been allowed to operate illegally?

Answer—

I have recently been made aware of this issue by the Officer Commanding the Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol, Commodore Mark Wain ESM. I have referred the matter to the State Rescue Board for investigation.

*2151 SCHOOL BUS PASSES—Mr Roberts to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

(1) How many schoolchildren travel by way of public transport, using school bus passes to the following schools: (a) Woolwich Girls High? (b) Willoughby Girls High? (c) Hunters Hill High? (d) Riverside Girls High? (2) How many designated buses are provided for this service?

Answer—

I am advised: It is not possible to know precisely how children travel to school.

2886 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(1) (a) There is no school known as “Woolwich Girls High”, however passes issued for Marist Sisters College, Woolwich - 1099 (b) to (d) The numbers of travel passes issued for the abovementioned schools is: Willoughby Girls High – 525 Hunters Hill High – 322 Riverside Girls High – 943 However, recent surveys suggest the actual usage rate of free travel passes across NSW is now only about 59% (2) (b) to (d) In addition to route services past or near these schools, STA provides: Marists Sisters College, Woolwich – 11 services in the morning and 15 in the afternoon. Willoughby Girls High – 7 services in the morning and 12 in the afternoon. Hunters Hill High – 2 services in the morning and 6 in the afternoon. Riverside Girls High – 9 services in the morning and 13 in the afternoon.

*2152 RAIL VANDALISM—Mr Roberts to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

During the period from 1 January 2003 to 10 May 2004, how many acts of vandalism occurred in relation to the following railway stations: (a) St Leonards? (b) Artarmon? (c) Wollstonecraft?

Answer—

I am advised: Information regarding incidents of vandalism and infringements for anti-social behaviour on the CityRail network is publicly available on the CityRail website at www.cityrail.info.

*2153 CRONULLA PRIVATE BUS SERVICES—Mr Kerr to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

Will private bus services in the Cronulla electorate be affected by the proposed new power of the Director-General of the Ministry of Transport to cancel services?

Answer—

I am advised: The Unsworth Review of Bus Services in NSW recommended abolishing bus service contracts which are effectively granted in perpetuity, have few measurable performance requirements and entrench exclusive operating rights across Sydney. The matters raised by the Member were discussed when the Passenger Transport Amendment (Bus Reform) Bill 2004 passed on 1 June 2004. The Bill greatly improves the Passenger Transport Act 1990 providing taxpayers with a transparent, accountable framework for the $600million per annum spent on bus services.

*2154 RAIL VANDALISM—Mr Kerr to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

During the period from 1 January 2003 to 10 May 2004 how many acts of vandalism occurred in relation to the following railway stations:

2887 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(a) Caringbah? (b) Woolooware? (c) Cronulla?

Answer—

I am advised: Information regarding incidents of vandalism and infringements for anti-social behaviour on the CityRail network is publicly available on the CityRail website at www.cityrail.info.

*2155 BUILDING INDUSTRY DISRUPTION—Mr Aplin to Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—

(1) Was there a severe disruption caused to the building industry in the Albury area by departmental building inspectors in the week commencing 2 May 2004? (2) Were Victorians subjected to $500 fines for not possessing a NSW contractor’s licence? (3) Does Victoria not have a requirement for contractors’ licences? (4) How much revenue was raised by exploiting this border anomaly?

Answer—

(1) No. (2) Yes. During the Office of Fair Trading’s recent home building compliance program, those individuals throughout New South Wales, regardless of their residential location, who were detected as operating without a valid licence were issued with a $500 infringement notice. (3) Consumer protection is a principal reason for regulating the home building industry in New South Wales. While Victoria does licence some components of the residential building industry, it is not to the same extent as New South Wales. Mutual recognition legislation, which has been operating for over 12 years, allows a person who holds a licence in Victoria who wishes to operate in New South Wales to do so from the date of lodgement of an application for a licence in this State. (4) Infringement notices were issued to individuals on the basis of their licensing status, not their place of residence. There was no distinction made between those persons licensed in other States and those found not possessing any licence at all. Accordingly, the breakdown, in revenue terms, of those Victorian builders or tradespeople detected operating unlicensed is not available.

*2157 ROAD FUNDING FOR PRINCES HIGHWAY—Mrs Hancock to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

In light of recent Roads and Traffic statistics regarding fatalities on the Princes Highway, which show that the Highway has more fatalities than any other highway in New South Wales, will road funding priorities be reconsidered?

Answer—

The State Government has committed $380 million to upgrade the Princes Highway to 2010. Major projects completed so far under the program include: • $34 million for the Oak Flats interchange. • $1.55 million for north and southbound overtaking lanes between Yowaka River and Harts Creek, south of Pambula. • $4.4 million for the extension of north and southbound overtaking lanes south of Belinda Street, Gerringong.

2888 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

• $10 million for the realignment of the highway between Yellowpinch and Millingandi, south of Bega. • $2.3 million for the new southbound overtaking lane at Alsops Creek, north of Bega. • $3.4 million for the widening and realignment of the highway at Mogo and widening of the remaining narrow sections of the highway between Mogo and Moruya. The $141 million North Kiama Bypass is currently under construction and proposed dual carriageways from Oak Flats to Dunmore are part of a wider plan to provide a four-lane divided highway to Kiama and then to the Jervis Bay Road turnoff south of Nowra. Options are currently being investigated for the length of the Princes Highway between Gerringong and Bomaderry to meet future demands on the road. In addition, on 27 May 2004 I announced a major road safety review of the Princes Highway. The investigation will cover: • The circumstances of recent fatal crashes on the highway. • An audit of road conditions along the highway from Yallah to the Victorian border. • Facilities along the highway, including rest areas, overtaking lanes and signage. • The appropriateness of current speed limits. • Police enforcement activities along the highway. • Issues associated with heavy vehicles on the Princes Highway. • Future priorities for upgrading the Princes Highway. The Princes Highway Safety Study findings will be announced later this year.

*2158 BRIDGE SECURITY—Mr Humpherson to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

(1) What terrorism security assessment has been undertaken for Roseville Bridge and Spit Bridge? (2) How many cameras monitor the security of each bridge? (3) How many private or public security personnel monitor the Roseville and Spit Bridges?

Answer—

As part of State Government response to the current security environment, critical infrastructure across the State has been identified and the risks assessed. Where appropriate, security has been upgraded and contingency measures identified. In the interests of promoting enhanced security, it would not be appropriate to provide further information.

*2159 RURAL FIRE SERVICE—Mr Humpherson to Minister for Police, representing the Minister for Rural Affairs, Minister for Local Government, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Lands)—

(1) How many Rural Fire Service units have had their radio systems inoperative for more than 24 hours since 1 January 2003? (2) How many paid personnel are on stress leave? (3) How long has each person on stress leave been on leave?

Answer—

(1) There have been no recorded occurrences of radio transmission system failures for periods exceeding 24 hours since 1 January 2003. (2) Stress leave is not a recognised form of leave in the NSW Public Service. (3) N/A.

*2160 STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE—Mr Humpherson to Minister for Police, representing the Minister for Rural Affairs, Minister for Local Government, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Lands)—

2889 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(1) How many State Emergency Service units have had their radio systems inoperative for over 24 hours since 1 January 2003? Which units were affected? (2) How many personnel are currently on stress leave? (3) How long has each person on stress leave been on leave?

Answer—

(1) Gloucester, Deepwater, Ashford, Yetman, Nundle and Tamworth. However, in all instances SES volunteers were able to communicate radio to radio and in some cases UHF CB mode and/or mobile phones. (2) Stress leave is not a recognised form of leave in the NSW Public Service. (3) N/A.

*2161 FIRE BRIGADES CALL OUTS—Mr Humpherson to Minister for Police, representing the Minister for Rural Affairs, Minister for Local Government, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Lands)—

(1) How many call outs did the New South Wales Fire Brigades attend in 2002-03 and 2003-04? (2) How many were due to faulty alarms or other non-emergency situations? (3) What penalty if any is applied if an alarm or other fault was the cause? (4) Who receives any such revenue? (5) How much revenue if any was received from such penalties in 2002-03 and 2003-04? (6) Are warnings given, or extenuating circumstances taken into consideration, in considering whether penalties apply?

Answer—

The information provided relates to the 02-03 financial year only, as the 03-04 financial year is yet to expire. (1) In 2002-03 the NSW Fire Brigades attended 128,231 call outs. (2) The brigades attended 65,768 false calls. Of those 50,503 were generated by automatic fire alarms. (3) A false alarm charge of $250 may be raised for the second and every subsequent false alarm in any 60 day period. (4) Monies collected from false alarm charges are retained by the NSW Fire Brigades. (5) $2,546,000. (6) Yes.

*2162 WESTBUS COMPLAINTS—Mr Richardson to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

How many complaints has your department received about Westbus services in the following years: (a) 2000? (b) 2001? (c) 2002? (d) 2003?

Answer—

I am advised: The following numbers of complaints were recorded regarding Westbus services: In 2000- 91 In 2001- 136 In 2002- 124

2890 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

In 2003- 121 The Review of Bus Services in NSW explored ways to ensure the Government has adequate controls and safeguards against poor service. The Passenger Transport Amendment (Bus Reform) Bill 2004, which will implement reforms identified by the Review, means new bus contracts will be fixed term and performance based to make operators more accountable. Senior officers of the Ministry of Transport continue to meet with Westbus management as part of an ongoing effort to resolve any issues which may be affecting Westbus passengers.

*2163 THIRROUL TO WATERFALL TUNNEL—Ms Seaton to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

(1) Does the Government intend to proceed to build the Thirroul to Waterfall tunnel? (2) When will it be started? (3) When will it be finished?

Answer—

The timing for construction of a Thirroul Tunnel or alternative needs to be re-evaluated within the framework of a Metropolitan Strategy and balanced against the need to improve reliability and safety.

*2164 PORT KEMBLA PORT AUTHORITY—Ms Seaton to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

(1) When will an explanation or reasons be given for the sacking of the Chief Executive Officer of the Port Kembla Port Authority? (2) What severance or other costs were paid to the departing CEO? (3) What discussions did the Minister or his staff have with: (a) the Chairman of the Board; (b) other Board members; (c) the Premier; (d) the Premier’s staff; (e) the Minister for the Illawarra; (f) the staff of the Minister for the Illawarra; prior to the announcement of the CEO’s dismissal?

Answer—

I am advised, following a Board resolution on 21 April, the contract of the Port Kembla Port Corporation’s former Chief Executive Officer was terminated by the Governor under clause 6 of schedule 9 of the State Owned Corporations Act 1989 on 23 April 2004. The Chairman of the Port Kembla Port Corporation formally notified me of the Board’s intention to undertake this course of action on 22 April 2004. As is required under the State Owned Corporations Act 1989, I then advised the Governor of the Board’s advice to terminate the contract of the former CEO of PKPC. I am further advised the Port Kembla Port Corporation Board announced the termination of the contract on 23 April 2004. I am advised no severance costs were paid to the former CEO.

*2165 OPERATING THEATRE CLOSURES—Ms Seaton to Minister for Health—

2891 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(1) On what days since 1 January 2003 to date have operating theatres at the following hospitals been closed to elective surgery: (a) Bowral? (b) Camden? (c) Campbelltown? (d) Bulli? (e) Wollongong? (f) Shoalhaven? (g) Goulburn? (2) What were the dates of closure in each instance at each hospital, and what was the reason for the closure in each case?

Answer—

(1) and (2) While operating theatres are always available for emergency procedures, they may be unavailable for elective procedures in planned instances. Apart from weekends and public holidays when elective surgery is not normally scheduled, these planned occasions may involve periods such as Christmas, Easter and some other school holidays when both staff and patients seek the opportunity to be with their families. In the case of some smaller hospitals, elective surgery may also be unavailable for short periods of time due to one-off events such as surgical conferences that further enhance staff knowledge and skills. Operating theatres may also experience closures on occasion due to planned renovations, maintenance or redevelopment works. All such occasions are carefully managed and contingency plans for service provision are implemented.

*2166 ADVERTISING SOLICITATION—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—

(1) Has the Office of Fair Trading received any complaints about solicitation for advertising in the Regional Commerce Directory, Suite 12, 125 Oxford Street, Bondi Junction? (2) If so, has the Office of Fair Trading investigated these complaints? (3) What was the result of these investigations? (4) Does the Regional Commerce Directory actually exist as a published advertising service?

Answer—

(1) to (4) I refer the Honourable Member to the answer for Question 2142.

*2167 TRANSFER OF PRIVATE LINE—Mr Pringle to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

Would the Minister investigate transferring the private line from 79-83 Crosslands Road, Galston, as requested by Mr Martin Fritsch, to Energy Australia to improve service reliability?

Answer—

I am advised the consumer mains supplying 79 – 83 Crosslands Road, Galston are privately owned and are the responsibility of the customer. I have asked EnergyAustralia to consider the transfer of ownership of these mains. They have subsequently advised me that a transfer of ownership to EnergyAustralia is contrary to their current policy.

2892 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

*2168 WATERMAINS FOR SACKVILLE—Mr Pringle to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

Does the Minister have any medium or long-term plans to extend watermains to supply the town of Sackville?

Answer—

Sydney Water currently has no plans to extend reticulated water to Sackville.

*2169 AUSTRALIAN RAIL TRACK CORPORATION—Mr Pringle to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

Would the Minister advise precisely which railway lines in New South Wales are to be controlled and maintained by: (a) Australian Rail Track Corporation? (b) RailCorp?

Answer—

I am advised: The rail lines controlled and maintained by RailCorp are identified in the Transport Administration Amendment (Rail Agencies) Act 2003 which was passed by the NSW Parliament in December 2003. The remaining lines will be leased to the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) or managed by the ARTC under an alliance arrangement on behalf of NSW.

*2170 STAMPING OF CHEQUES—Mr Stoner to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

Why are cheques paid by passengers at certain country rail stations stamped on receipt with a stamp which states “Santa Fe Railways USA”?

Answer—

I’m advised by RailCorp: CountryLink is not aware of a “Santa Fe Railways USA” stamp being used to stamp cheques in any location on the network. If Mr Stoner is able to provide additional information, CountryLink will investigate the matter further.

*2172 DEPARTMENT AGRICULTURE—STAFF RESTRUCTURE—Mr Stoner to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Primary Industries—

Regarding the NSW Agriculture Departmental Offices in Bathurst, Tumut, Yass, Coffs Harbour, Dubbo, Wellington, Grafton, Casino, Forbes, Cooma, Broken Hill, Cobar, Deniliquin, Taree, Armidale, Glen Innes, Inverell, Orange, Kempsey, Tamworth, Gunnedah and Wagga, and the NSW Agriculture Beef Industry Centre in Armidale, the NSW Agriculture Head Office in Orange, the NSW Agricultural

2893 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Institute in Orange, the NSW Agricultural Centre for Excellence for Pastures and Weeds, Deciduous Fruits, Wool and Sheep Meat Products & Vertebrate Pests in Orange, and the NSW Agricultural Centre of Excellence for Northern Farming Systems in Tamworth: (1) How many staff were employed in each of these offices on March 31, 2004? (2) Following the completion of the restructure, how many staff will be employed in each of these offices? (3) Will there be cuts to the number of staff from each of these offices following the restructure? (4) If so, how many jobs will be cut from each of these offices? (5) If so, which positions will be cut from each of these offices? (6) Will technical positions be cut from any of these offices? (7) If so, how many technical positions will be cut from each of the offices? (8) Will advisory positions be cut from any of these offices? (9) If so, how many advisory positions will be cut from each of the offices? (10) Will research positions be cut from any of these offices? (11) If so, how many research positions will be cut from each of the offices? (12) How many casual employees are currently employed in each of the offices? (13) How many casual employees from each of the offices will not have their contracts renewed following the restructure? (14) Under the new structure will any of these offices have media relations and/or public relations officers? (15) If so, how many? (16) If so, what will be the salary of each of these officers?

Answer—

The Minister for Primary Industry has provided the following response: An interim board of NSW Agriculture, NSW Fisheries, the Department of Mineral Resources and State Forests of NSW is working in the administrative establishment of the Department of Primary Industries. Details of the new structure will not be finalised until the re-structure has been completed.

*2173 STATE FORESTS—STAFF RESTRUCTURE—Mr Stoner to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources—

Regarding the State Forests of NSW, Planted Forests Divisions in Albury, Bathurst and Tumut; the State Forests of NSW Native Forest Divisions in Batemans Bay, Coffs Harbour, Dubbo, Eden and Deniliquin; the State Forests of NSW Nurseries at Grafton, Forbes, Dubbo, Narrandera, Inverell, Gunnedah, and Wagga Wagga; the State Forests of NSW Forest Centres at Casino, Forbes, Narrandera, Taree, Glen Innes, Inverell and Kempsey; the State Forests of NSW Northern Research Office at Coffs Harbour; the State Forests of NSW Southern Research Centre at Eden; and the State Forests of NSW Future Forests Group at Grafton: (1) How many staff were employed in each of these offices on March 31, 2004? (2) Following the completion of the restructure, how many staff will be employed in each of these offices? (3) Will any staff be transferred from each of these offices office to Catchment Management Authorities (CMA) in coming months? (4) If so, how many staff will be transferred from each of these offices to CMAs? (5) If so, which positions will be transferred from each of these offices to CMAs? (6) Will there be further cuts to the number of staff, excluding those that will be transferred to the CMA, from each of these offices following the restructure? (7) If so, how many jobs will be cut from each of these offices? (8) If so, which positions will be cut from each of these offices? (9) Will technical positions be cut from any of these offices? (10) If so, how many technical positions will be cut from each of the offices? (11) Will advisory positions be cut from any of these offices?

2894 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(12) If so, how many advisory positions will be cut from each of the offices? (13) Will research positions be cut from any of these offices? (14) If so, how many research positions will be cut from each of the offices? (15) How many casual employees are currently employed in each of the offices? (16) How many casual employees from each of the offices will not have their contracts renewed following the restructure? (17) Under the new structure will any of these offices have media relations and/or public relations officers? (18) If so, how many? (19) If so, what will be the salary of these officers? (20) Under the new structure will any of these CMAs have media relations and/or public relations officers? (21) If so, how many? (22) If so, what will be the salary of each of these officers?

Answer—

An interim board comprised of NSW Agriculture, NSW Fisheries, the Department of Mineral Resources and State Forests of NSW is working on the administrative establishment of the Department of Primary Industries. Details of the new structure will not be finalised until the re-structure has been completed.

*2174 VEHICLE ACCIDENTS—Mr Richardson to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

(1) How many vehicle accidents were recorded on New Line Road between Round Corner, Dural, and Castle Hill Road over the five years 1999-2003? (2) How many fatalities were recorded on New Line Road between Round Corner, Dural, and Castle Hill Road in each of the five years 1999-2003 and where did each take place?

Answer—

There were 235 accidents and 3 fatalities on New Line Road between Round Corner, Dural, and Castle Hill Road over the five year period. These include accidents that occurred at intersections on and within 10 metres of New Line Road.

*2175 SCHOOL CHILDREN TRAVEL—Mr Merton to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

How many school children travel by way of public transport using school bus passes to the following schools: (a) Model Farms High School? (b) Baulkham Hills High School? (c) Muirfield High School? (d) Crestwood High School? (e) Carlingford High School?

Answer—

I am advised: It is not possible to know precisely how children travel to school. The number of school bus passes issued to children attending the abovementioned schools is: (a) Model Farms High School- 534 (b) Baulkham Hills High School- 1148 (c) Muirfield High School- 399

2895 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(d) Crestwood High School- 479 (e) Carlingford High School- 623 However, recent surveys suggest the actual rate of pass usage across NSW is now only about 59%.

*2177 METHADONE PROGRAM—Mr Amery to Minister for Health—

With reference to advice provided about methadone programs (question 1947) in addition to any money paid to a pharmacy by a patient, how much money is paid by the Department of Health or any other agency to such pharmacy to dispense methadone on a per dose basis?

Answer—

The Department of Health does not pay pharmacists to dispense methadone on a per dose basis. Under the Pharmacy Incentive Scheme, and subject to specific conditions, participating pharmacies are paid per patient dosed over a specific period. The maximum payment to a pharmacy participating in the Pharmacy Incentive Scheme is $4,000 (i.e. $200 per patient per year, up to a maximum of 20 patients).

*2178 HOME CARE PACKAGES—Mr Hazzard to Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, representing the Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Youth—

In the past 12 months how many people in the Manly, Warringah and Pittwater area have been given home care packages but have been given less than the number of hours they were assessed as needing? In each case how many hours are not being provided?

Answer—

355 residents have been assessed and recommended for Home Care services in the past 12 months. Of these 303 remain clients of Home Care to date. 52 clients have discontinued their Home Care service for various reasons such as a nursing home placement, hospitalisation or the client is coping on their own etc. In the past 12 months the level of support offered to clients has been within the Home and Community Care guidelines, which requires that services allocate resources in a way that provides the most benefit to the greatest number of people and that these decisions are based on the assessment of each individual’s situation.

*2179 BUS MAINTENANCE—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

(1) How many buses at the Brookvale and Mona Vale depots have required mechanical work that has taken them off the road for longer than is required for normal maintenance, over the last 6 months? (a) Which depots by name? (b) How many buses at each depot? (2) How long was each bus off the road? Which bus routes were affected?

Answer—

I am advised: Over the last six months, four buses from Mona Vale Depot and four buses from Brookvale Depot have had mechanical failures taking them off the road beyond normal maintenance. One articulated bus from Mona Vale Depot has been off the road for 120 days. This has resulted in minor capacity reductions on services L88, E65, L90 and E88 due to a standard bus being used in lieu of an

2896 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

articulated bus. The other three standard buses from Mona Vale Depot were off the road for two days each. No bus routes were affected. One standard bus from Brookvale Depot has been off the road for 82 days. The other three standard buses were off the road for two days each. No bus routes were affected.

*2180 HOME CARE PACKAGES—Mr Hazzard to Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, representing the Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Youth—

(1) How many residents in the Manly, Warringah and Pittwater area have been assessed and recommended to receive home care packages in the last 12 months? (2) Of these residents how many have not received home care packages to date? (3) Why have these residents not received home care packages?

Answer—

(1) In the past twelve months 355 people have been assessed and recommended to receive Home Care services in the Manly, Warringah and Pittwater area. (2) Not withstanding external factors all residents recommended for service have received Home Care services. To date 303 residents remain clients of Home Care. (3) 52 residents have not received home care packages due to external reasons such as hospitalisation, nursing home placement, respite and family commitments.

*2181 MANAGING DIRECTOR APPOINTMENT—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) What exact actions has the Sydney Water Board taken to appoint a new Managing Director? (a) Has the board called for applications and have applications closed? (b) Has the board conducted interviews? (c) Has the board recommended to the Minister an appointment of a Managing Director? (2) When does Sydney Water expect to have a permanent Managing Director appointed? (3) What actions/procedures are being put in place to ensure the appointment of a Managing Director with the skills, integrity and talents necessary to lead Sydney Water?

Answer—

(1) to (3) Under the State Owned Corporations Act 1989, the Governor appoints the Managing Director of Sydney Water on the recommendation of the portfolio Minister. Such an appointment cannot be effected unless it is recommended by the Board. An announcement of the permanent Managing Director will be made in due course.

*2182 CANCELLED SCHOOL BUS SERVICES—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

(1) How many school bus services have been cancelled in the last 6 months in the Manly, Warringah and Pittwater areas and what was the route of each service cancelled? (2) What was the reason for each cancelled service?

Answer—

I am advised: Information on Sydney Buses’ services is available on the STA website.

2897 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

State Transit provided 21,658 dedicated school bus services in the Manly, Warringah and Pittwater areas over the last 6 months of which 18 were cancelled. This is equivalent to a reliability rate of 99.92 per cent. This compares favourably with the performance benchmark in the most recent STA service contract, which is 98%. (1) 18 (2) 0.04 cancellations were due to traffic accidents 0.07 were due to traffic congestion 0.17 were due to breakdown. 0.11 were due to driver availability

*2183 CANCELLED BUS SERVICES—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

(1) How many bus services have been cancelled in the last 6 months in the Manly, Warringah and Pittwater areas? What was the date and route of each service cancelled? (2) What was the reason for each cancelled service?

Answer—

I am advised: Information on Sydney Buses’ services is available on the STA website. State Transit provided 259,093 services in the Manly, Warringah and Pittwater areas over the last 6 months of which 1,142 were cancelled. This is equivalent to a reliability rate of 99.56 per cent. This compares favourably with the performance benchmark in the most recent STA service contract which is 98%. A summary of the reasons for the cancellations is as follows: • 0.07 per cent were due to late running caused by severe traffic congestion. • 0.04 per cent were due to traffic accidents. • 0.17 per cent were due to breakdowns. • 0.11 per cent were due to staff unavailability. • 0.04 per cent were for other reasons such as the need to relocate services for emergency response.

*2184 HOME CARE—GOULBURN—Ms Hodgkinson to Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, representing the Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Youth—

(1) How many clients in the Goulburn Region receive assistance through Home Care visits? (2) How many clients in the Goulburn Region are on the waiting list to receive assistance through Home Care visits? (3) How long has the longest waiting client been on the waiting list?

Answer—

(1) There were 452 clients receiving Home Care services in the Goulburn area as at 31 May 2004. (2) and (3) The Home Care Service does not maintain waiting lists. All referrals to Home Care are prioritised at the time of intake to ensure that those with the greatest need receive the services they require. Maintaining a waiting list would result in a redirection of resources away from service delivery.

*2185 LICENSING OF BUILDERS—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—

2898 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

With reference to your advice regarding the Home Building Register (question number 1960), why is it possible for a builder who has been fined for inadequate work not to have that information displayed on the Home Building Service’s Public Register of Builder’s Licences in NSW, when he is noted as the nominated supervisor for another licence that was issued at about the same time as his fine?

Answer—

Information concerning any offences under the Home Building Act 1989 and the results of associated disciplinary action are recorded on the Public Register of the Home Building Service against the licence holder. This occurs in respect of specific work carried out by that licence holder or in relation to work conducted for another building company or contractor. Information about work conducted by an individual licence holder associated with a company entity is available by searching the Public Register.

*2186 OPERATIONAL SAFETY TRAINING UNIT—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

In relation to the Operational Safety Training Unit: (1) How many personnel form part of the Operational Safety Unit? (2) How many are employed in that capacity at each of fulltime, part-time and casual levels? (3) When was the School of Operational Safety and Tactics replaced with the Operational Safety Unit? (4) How many personnel were employed as part of the former School of Operational Safety and Tactics before it was disbanded? (5) What was the maximum staffing level of the former School of Operational Safety and Tactics, and when was that?

Answer—

(1) to (5) NSW Police has advised me there is no unit called the Operational Safety Training Unit.

*2187 CRIMINAL INFRINGEMENT NOTICES—Mr Debnam to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development, and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

In relation to Criminal Infringement Notices (CIN): (1) As at 12 May, how many persons have been issued with a CIN since the trial commenced on 1 September 2002 and for what offences? (2) What is the total figure for fines issued through CINs and what amount of that figure remains unpaid by offenders?

Answer—

I have been advised of the following: (1) As at 12 May 2004, a total of 2,984 Criminal Infringement Notices (CINS) have been issued since the trial commenced on 1 September 2002, for the following offences: • Common assault • Larceny (under $300) • Shoplifting (under $300) • Obtain money etc by false representation • Goods in personal custody suspected being stolen (not motor vehicle) • Goods in personal custody suspected being stolen (motor vehicle) • Goods suspected stolen in custody of other (not motor vehicle) • Goods suspected stolen in/on premises (not motor vehicle) • Goods suspected stolen in/on premises (motor vehicle) • Goods suspected stolen given other not entitled (motor vehicle)

2899 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

• Offensive behaviour • Offensive language • Obstruct person / vehicle / vessel • Unlawfully enter vehicle / boat (2) Information about fine revenue is available in the Budget papers and in agency annual reports.

*2188 STATE DOMESTIC VIOLENCE COORDINATION TEAM—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

In relation to the State Domestic Violence Coordination Team (SDVCT): (1) Given your advice on 5 May 2004, “NSW Police has advised me that there is no unit called the State Domestic Violence Coordination Team” (Question on Notice 1689), why does the NSW Police website refer to the SDVCT at http://www.police.nsw.gov.au/prevention/detail.cfm?ObjectID=91&SectionID=family (accessed again on 5 May 2004)? (2) If there is no unit called the SDVCT, and the website wrongly carries information that there is, how many other inaccurate details are carried on the NSW Police Website? (3) How regularly is the information on the website updated and when will you update the SDVCT information? (4) What are the principal duties of the SDVCT? (5) What statistics does the SDVCT collate, and what are the data results? (6) Are SDVCT statistics publicly available and if not why not? (7) What local initiatives have the SDVCT registered? (8) How many members does the SDVCT have and who are they by name, title and position and when were they each appointed? (9) How often does the SDVCT meet and where? (10) What were the dates of the last four meetings of the SDVCT?

Answer—

NSW Police has advised me: (1) to (3) There is no information pertaining to the SDVCT on the NSW Police website. (4) to (10) I refer the Honourable Member to the answer to Question on Notice 1689.

*2189 FUNDING ALLOCATION FOR RESCUE TOOLS—Mr O'Farrell to Minister for Health—

(1) What amount of funding has been allocated for the replacement of outdated rescue tools in regional and rural ambulance stations, as reported in the Maitland Mercury on 22 April 2004? (2) Are there criteria for the (a) allocation and/or (b) replacement of equipment and vehicles in NSW ambulance stations? If so, what are the criteria for (a) allocation and/or (b) replacement? (3) Is there a prioritised scheduled for the (a) allocation and/or (b) replacement of equipment and vehicles in NSW ambulance stations across the State? (4) What are the ‘kilometre travelled’ levels or ages for the replacement of the various classes of ambulance vehicles?

Answer—

(1) Repair and replacement of rescue equipment is conducted in accordance with a replacement plan, and on a needs basis, from the Ambulance Service’s equipment budget. Funding for the next rotation replacement plan for the upgrade of rural rescue equipment will be finalized following the announcement of the Budget for the 2004 - 2005 financial year. (2) The Ambulance Service allocates vehicles and equipment in accordance with the number of staff at a station. The Ambulance Service has an ongoing fleet replacement program based on a number of

2900 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

factors such as fleet age, condition, duty cycle and economical concerns. There are no blanket criteria for replacement of different items of equipment. (3) Vehicles are replaced in accordance with a scheduled fleet program. Priorities for equipment replacement are reviewed annually. (4) Leased vehicles: Mercedes: 3 years, 100,000 kms VW: 3 years, 60,000 kms Landcruiser: 3 years, 60,000 kms Owned vehicles: General Motors Corporation: 8 years, 250,000 kms The Ambulance Service is progressively moving from an owned to a largely leased fleet of very specialised vehicles.

*2190 BREAK AND ENTER CLEAR UP—Mr Kerr to Minister for Police—

What is the clear up rate for burglary and/or break and enters in the Miranda and Sutherland Local Area Commands?

Answer—

I note the Honourable Member has not specified a timeframe for the request. The Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) analyses NSW recorded crime statistics. I suggest the Honourable Member’s questions are more appropriately addressed to the Attorney General, who is responsible for BOCSAR.

13 MAY 2004

(Paper No. 78)

*2191 POWER INTERRUPTIONS—WAKEHURST ELECTORATE—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) What power interruptions have occurred in the Wakehurst electorate in 2002, 2003 and 2004, and what are the particulars of each outage date, location and duration? (2) What was the cause of each outage? (3) What action is being taken to ensure interruptions do not occur?

Answer—

(1) Interruptions are recorded on a feeder basis and do not correlate with electorate boundaries. Following is a summary of EnergyAustralia’s performance reliability for the Northern Sydney region, which includes the electorate of Wakehurst.

Northern Sydney Region 2001/2002 * 2002/2003 ** 2003/2004 ** SAIDI 101 96.1 (average number of minutes lost per Completed figures customer pa) will be available at SAIFI 1.36 1.32 end of 2003/04 FY (average number of interruptions / customer pa)

* Modified standard data: excludes transmission and generation interruptions, directed load shedding, interruptions less than 1 minute, interruptions due to major natural events, and planned interruptions for which the customer has been notified.

2901 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

** Normalised data: excludes momentary interruptions, transmission interruptions, directed load shedding and the effects of major natural and 3rd party events (e.g. a storm or bushfire) which are classified when at least 4.5 million customer minutes are lost, ie. 3 minutes of lost supply per customer averaged across all EnergyAustralia network customers.

In 2002/03, the reporting standards changed, with all distributors reporting reliability using normalised data, which is the industry standard for reporting reliability.

(2) Interruptions are recorded on a feeder basis and do not correlate with electorate boundaries. Following is a summary for the Northern Sydney region, which includes the electorate of Wakehurst.

Cause % Contribution to SAIDI Operational Control Forces of Nature Vegetation Management (wind, rain, lightning, trees, 70% (tree trimming) fires, animals) Equipment Failure 13% Maintenance Damage Education (eg. car hits pole, excavator 12% (eg. ‘Dial before you dig’) hits cable, vandalism) Planned 5% Live working and outage coordination

(3) Between 2004 and 2009, EnergyAustralia is investing about $402 million on capital works for the Northern region, which includes the electorate of Wakehurst. Given about 70 per cent of interruptions are created by environmental factors, EnergyAustralia will continue its program of tree trimming to promote reliability and public safety.

*2192 WATER USAGE—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) What was the total amount of water drawn from dams by Sydney Water for each month between July 2003 and May 2004? (2) What was the total amount of water drawn from dams by Sydney Water for each month between July 2002 and June 2003? (3) How do these consumption rates conform to Sydney Water’s operating licence that says the amount of water drawn from dams should not exceed the safe yield? (4) What measures is Sydney Water planning to implement over the next 12 months to reduce water usage? What are the individual programs and target savings expected to be achieved?

Answer—

(1) and (2) July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar April May June 2003/04 45,276 47,324 50,701 44,222 45,556 46,620 49,571 47,049 46,136 44,032 2002/03 51,327 50,842 55,421 62,598 60,834 54,408 59,885 51,055 50,284 45,571 45,393 43,777 * All figures are in megalitres. (3) Sydney Water’s Operating Licence does not include a requirement not to exceed the safe yield. Rather, it includes water conservation targets that seek to reduce the demand for water below the current yield of 600 gigalitres per annum. (4) Sydney Water’s program to reduce water usage over the next 12 months is developed as part of the annual review of the effectiveness of its water conservation and recycling program. The program will be finalised as part of Sydney Water’s Water Conservation and Recycling Implementation Report to be delivered to the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART). This report is scheduled to be with IPART by 1 September 2004.

2902 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

*2193 POWER INTERRUPTIONS—MANLY ELECTORATE—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) What power interruptions have occurred in the Manly electorate in 2002, 2003 and 2004 and what are the particulars of each outage date, location and duration? (2) What was the cause of each outage? (3) What action is being taken to ensure interruptions do not occur?

Answer—

(1) Interruptions are recorded on a feeder basis and do not correlate with electorate boundaries. Following is a summary of EnergyAustralia’s performance reliability for the Northern Sydney region, which includes the electorate of Manly.

Northern Sydney Region 2001/2002 * 2002/2003 ** 2003/2004 ** SAIDI 101 96.1 (average number of minutes lost per Completed figures customer pa) will be available at SAIFI 1.36 1.32 end of 2003/04 FY (average number of interruptions / customer pa)

* Modified standard data: excludes transmission and generation interruptions, directed load shedding, interruptions less than 1 minute, interruptions due to major natural events, and planned interruptions for which the customer has been notified.

** Normalised data: excludes momentary interruptions, transmission interruptions, directed load shedding and the effects of major natural and 3rd party events (e.g. a storm or bushfire) which are classified when at least 4.5 million customer minutes are lost, ie. 3 minutes of lost supply per customer averaged across all EnergyAustralia network customers.

In 2002/03, the reporting standards changed, with all distributors reporting reliability using normalised data, which is the industry standard for reporting reliability.

(2) Interruptions are recorded on a feeder basis and do not correlate with electorate boundaries. Following is a summary for the Northern Sydney region, which includes the electorate of Manly.

Cause % Contribution to SAIDI Operational Control Forces of Nature Vegetation Management (wind, rain, lightning, trees, 70% (tree trimming) fires, animals) Equipment Failure 13% Maintenance Damage Education (eg. car hits pole, excavator 12% (eg. ‘Dial before you dig’) hits cable, vandalism) Planned 5% Live working and outage coordination

(3) Between 2004 and 2009, EnergyAustralia is investing about $402 million on capital works for the Northern region, which includes the electorate of Manly. Given about 70 per cent of interruptions are created by environmental factors, EnergyAustralia will continue its program of tree trimming to promote reliability and public safety.

2903 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

*2194 FIREARMS REGISTRY DELAY—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Police—

(1) What is the reason for the delay in processing the licence renewal application of Mr Charles Edward Bradbury of Towrang Road Towrang, licence number 406596730, which was submitted in December 2003? (2) Are you aware that Mr Bradbury is attempting to sell most of his firearms through local dealers, Shooters Supplies and Goulburn Fish n’ Shoot, and although purchasers have been found, they are unable to complete the sale because the purchasers are unable to obtain firearms licences? (3) What action will you take to ensure that local small business operators do not lose trade and sales because the Firearms Registry is not able to process licence applications in a timely manner?

Answer—

NSW Police has advised me: (1) The Firearms Registry has requested Mr Bradbury provide appropriate documentary evidence to support his genuine reason to hold a firearms licence. I am advised that as at 19 May 2004 he had not responded to this request. (2) I am advised of the disposal of three of Mr Bradbury’s firearms to a local firearms dealer. Two firearms are still registered in Mr Bradbury’s name. (3) The Firearms Registry is currently new staff members.

*2195 HAWKESBURY HOSPITAL STAFFING—Mr Pringle to Minister for Health—

What measures is the Minister taking to fill vacant positions at Hawkesbury Hospital?

Answer—

Hawkesbury Hospital is a 127 bed private hospital operated by Hawkesbury District Health Service Limited. Under a service agreement with the Wentworth Area Health Service, Hawkesbury Hospital provides a range of public services including Emergency Department, inpatient and community and allied health services. As Hawkesbury Hospital is a private hospital licensed under the Private Hospital and Day Procedure Centres Act, it is not my responsibility to manage its staffing.

*2196 NATIONAL PARKS BROCHURES AND MAPS—Mr Pringle to Attorney General, and Minister for the Environment—

When will all national parks in the 2003 Guide to National Parks have detailed brochures and/or maps available to enable easy public access and improved visitation levels?

Answer—

The 2004 Guide to NSW National Parks provides information on over 200 national parks, nature reserves, state conservation areas, regional parks and historic sites managed by the Department of Environment and Conservation. This information includes the best access routes to each park. Over 150,000 copies of this free Guide are produced each year, and distributed through national parks and regional visitor centres.

2904 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Printed brochures are also available for more than 80 per cent of the parks in the Guide, and brochures for additional parks are produced to meet high levels of visitor demand. In addition, the National Parks website provides information on all 650 protected areas managed by the department and this information is being progressively expanded. The Department of Environment and Conservation provides data to the Land and Property Information Division of the Department of Lands for the production of detailed topographic, touring and park maps across the state. These maps are available to the public through many outlets and cover all the parks and reserves in the Guide to NSW National Parks.

*2197 ASBESTOS ON RICHMOND RAILWAY LINE STATIONS—Mr Pringle to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

(1) Which railway stations on the Richmond railway line contain asbestos? (2) What removal or stabilization work is proposed?

Answer—

I am advised: RailCorp has an on going asbestos removal program as part of its scheduled major periodic maintenance program. On the Richmond branch line East Richmond and Schofields stations and the former signal box at Mulgrave have been identified as containing asbestos. Asbestos removal work is scheduled for Schofields station during 2004/2005. East Richmond station is currently being assessed. Asbestos removal work will be carried out as part of heritage restoration of the former signal box at Mulgrave. This work is scheduled to be undertaken in 2004/05. Appropriate control measures such as sealing and painting are put in place at existing known locations of asbestos, or not accessible to the public, to prevent any risk to staff or commuters.

*2198 WORKCOVER FRAUD—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce, representing the Special Minister of State, Minister for Commerce, Minister for Industrial Relations, Assistant Treasurer, and Minister for the Central Coast—

(1) What is the annual budget of the WorkCover fraud investigation unit? (2) Did the cost of running the fraud investigation unit exceed the unit’s allocated budget for the year 2002-03?

Answer—

(1) The budget for the WorkCover Fraud Investigation Unit for the 2003/04 financial year is $1,878,924. (2) Actual expenditure incurred by the WorkCover Fraud Investigation Unit in the 2002/03 financial year amounted to $1,296,980 against a budget of $1,293,761.

*2199 MAILING LIST COST—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce, representing the Special Minister of State, Minister for Commerce, Minister for Industrial Relations, Assistant Treasurer, and Minister for the Central Coast—

What is the proposed cost to WorkCover of the e-mailing list of NSW businesses to be bought from the Australian Taxation Office for the Government’s planned e-mail update program?

Answer—

2905 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Nil. WorkCover is not purchasing an emailing list of New South Wales businesses from the Australian Taxation Office.

*2200 GOSFORD/WYONG JOINT WATER SUPPLY—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts— Does the Government support the continuance of the Gosford/Wyong Joint Water Supply Authority?

Answer—

Yes. The Gosford/Wyong Joint Water Authority currently owns and operates joint headworks to provide water supply to residents of the Central Coast, however each Council continues to run its own water and sewerage businesses. The Government has asked the Councils to examine combining all three into one body. The benefits for the Central Coast community could include: • reduced operating costs and overheads through economies of scale; • more transparent, commercially efficient operations; • a consolidation of expertise across the Central Coast region; and • greater capacity for capital works enhancements. Examination of the proposal has been welcomed by both Mayors, and a joint working party has been established involving Gosford City Council, Wyong Shire Council, the Department of Energy Utilities and Sustainability and the Department of Local Government.

*2201 LAND TAX—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development, and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

How many people in (a) Gosford Local Government Area and (b) Wyong Local Government Area will be required to pay land tax for the first time upon proclamation of the State Revenue Legislation Amendment Act 2004?

Answer—

I have been advised that: This information is not available. The Chief Commissioner of State Revenue has advised that land tax is assessed on a calendar year basis. The changes to land tax under the State Revenue Legislation Amendment Act 2004 will therefore apply to all liable land owned at midnight on 31 December 2004. Annual valuations of land will be made by the Valuer-General as at 1 July 2004 and land tax liabilities for the 2005 land tax year will be based on these valuations.

*2202 NSW FISHERIES OFFICES—Mr Stoner to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Primary Industries—

Regarding the NSW Fisheries Offices at Albury, Batemans Bay, Bathurst, Yass, Coffs Harbour, Wellington, Grafton, Cooma, Eden, Broken Hill, Deniliquin, Narrandera, Taree, Inverell, Tamworth: (1) How many staff were employed in each of the above offices on March 31, 2003? (2) Following the completion of the restructure, how many staff will be employed in each of these offices? (3) Will there be cuts to the number of staff from each of these offices following the restructure? (4) If so, how many jobs will be cut from each of these offices? (5) If so, which positions will be cut from each of these offices? (6) Will technical positions be cut from any of these offices?

2906 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(7) If so, how many technical positions will be cut from each of the offices? (8) Will advisory positions be cut from any of these offices? (9) If so, how many advisory positions will be cut from each of the offices? (10) Will research positions be cut from any of these offices? (11) If so, how many research positions will be cut from each of the offices? (12) How many casual employees are currently employed in each of the offices? (13) How many casual employees from each of the offices will not have their contracts renewed following the restructure? (14) Under the new structure will any of these offices have media relations and/or public relations officers? (15) If so, how many? (16) If so, what will be the salary of each of these officers?

Answer—

(1) NSW Fisheries employs around 77 staff at these sites. This number, and the number at any given site can vary from year to year depending on the level of grant and trust funding received by NSW Fisheries. (2) to (11) Discussions regarding the operation and structure of the Department of Primary Industries are currently being held by the interim board. (12) NSW Fisheries employs around 8 casual staff at these sites. This number, and the number at any given site can vary from year to year depending on the level of grant and trust funding received by NSW Fisheries. (13) to (16) See answer to questions (2) to (11).

*2203 DISABILITY SERVICES—Mr Debnam to Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, representing the Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Youth—

In relation to the Department of Disability Services: (1) Can you confirm an assistant supervisor of the Department of Disability Services told an Advocate for one of my constituents on a Disability Support Plan, that “we have Members of Parliament making representations all the time and we don’t take much notice of them”? (2) What steps do you intend to take to remedy this situation so as to ensure it does not occur again?

Answer—

(1) From the information available, it is not possible to confirm this statement. (2) In 2003 the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care implemented a new structure with a focus on regionalisation. Under the new regional structure, Assistant Manager positions no longer exist. Regional Managers are responsible for ensuring appropriate responses are made to issues and concerns as they are raised, with the guidance and approval of the Regional Director. I am assured that representations made by Members of Parliament are treated with respect and due consideration.

*2204 POLICE LIAISON OFFICERS—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

In relation to police liaison officers: (1) Of the 143 Domestic Violence Liaison Officers as at 30 June 2003, how many are fulltime, how many are part time, how many are sworn Police Officers and to which police stations are they attached ? (2) Of the 56 Aboriginal Community Liaison Officers as at 30 June 2003, how many are fulltime, how many are part time, how many are sworn Police Officers and to which police stations are they attached ?

2907 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(3) Of the 99 Youth Liaison Officers as at 30 June 2003, how many are fulltime, how many are part time, how many are sworn Police Officers and to which police stations are they attached ? (4) Of the 33 Ethnic Community Liaison Officers as at 30 June 2003, how many are fulltime, how many are part time, how many are sworn Police Officers and to which police stations are they attached ? (5) Of the 120 Gay and Lesbian Liaison Officers as at 30 June 2003, how many are fulltime, how many are part time, how many are sworn Police Officers and to which police stations are they attached ? (6) Given your advice on 5 May 2004 “there is no position called ‘Community Safety Officer’ in NSW Police” (Question on Notice 1690), and given the police publication ‘Policing for a Multicultural Community’ refers to ‘Community Safety Officers’, is the publication wrong, and if not, how many Community Safety Officers are there, how many are fulltime, how many are part time, how many are sworn Police Officers and to which police stations are they attached ?

Answer—

NSW Police has advised me: (1) Domestic Violence Liaison Officers are allocated to Local Area Commands. All are sworn officers. (2) Aboriginal Community Liaison Officers are allocated to Local Area Commands. They are all unsworn officers. (3) Youth Liaison Officers are allocated to Local Area Commands. All are sworn officers. (4) Ethnic Liaison Officers are allocated to Local Area Commands. They are all unsworn officers. (5) Gay and Lesbian Liaison Officers are allocated to Local Area Commands. All but one are sworn officers. (6) There is no position called ‘Community Safety Officer’ in NSW Police. The publication in question is out of date.

*2205 POLICE SECONDARY EMPLOYMENT—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

In relation to Police secondary employment, how many police are currently authorised to undertake secondary employment?

Answer—

NSW Police has advised me: As at 25 May 2004, approximately 1,404 NSW police officers have approval to undertake secondary employment.

*2206 HOSPITAL THEATRE CLOSURES—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Health—

(1) On what days since 1 January 2003 to date have operating theatres at Hornsby Hospital been closed to elective surgery? (2) What are the reasons for each of these closed days?

Answer—

(1) and (2) inclusive: While operating theatres are always available for emergency procedures, they may be unavailable for elective procedures in planned instances. Apart from weekends and public holidays when elective surgery is not normally scheduled, these planned occasions may involve periods such as Christmas, Easter, some school holidays, weekends and public holidays, when both staff and patients seek the opportunity to be with their families. Operating theatres may also experience closures on occasion due to planned renovations, maintenance or redevelopment works. All such occasions are carefully managed and contingency plans for service provision are implemented.

2908 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

*2207 RAIL CAR PARKS—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

(1) How many acts of vandalism (to rail property and private vehicles) have occurred at the rail car parks at (a) Berowra (b) Hornsby (c) Thornleigh? (2) What measures have been taken to improve this?

Answer—

I am advised: Information regarding incidents of vandalism and infringements for anti-social behaviour on the CityRail network is publicly available on the CityRail website at www.cityrail.info. Commuter car parks located near rail stations across the CityRail network are provided for the convenience of rail commuters free of charge. CityRail’s security program comprises Transit Officers, contract security guards and support staff. An intelligence-based deployment system is utilised which targets criminal activity and anti-social behaviour on trains and stations. In December 2003 new security measures were announced including: • The fast tracking of RailCorp’s Transit Officer program, delivering 500 officers by July 2004. • An additional 100 Transit Officers to be recruited and trained by December 2004, taking total numbers to 600. • The creation of 20 Transit Officer Patrol (TOP) squads each comprising 17 officers to conduct intelligence-driven patrols of the rail network and target identified hotspots. • Improved coordination and deployment between RailCorp’s Security Operations division and the NSW Police’s 300-strong Transit Police division.

*2208 RAILWAY VANDALISM—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

During the period 1 January 2002 through to present how many acts of vandalism have occurred at the following railway stations: (1) Hornsby (2) Waitara (3) Berowra (4) Mt Ku-ring-gai (5) Mt Colah (6) Normanhurst?

Answer—

I am advised: Information regarding incidents of vandalism and infringements for anti-social behaviour on the CityRail network is publicly available on the CityRail website at www.cityrail.info.

*2209 CRONULLA COUNTRYLINK OFFICE—Mr Kerr to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

Has any consideration been given to closing the CountryLink office at the Cronulla Railway Station?

2909 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Answer—

I am advised: The final report of the Inquiry into Sustainable Transport by Professor Tom Parry was released on 9 December 2003. The report highlighted the need for restructuring sales and booking of CountryLink tickets which currently cost $30 million but only generate $43 million in fares. As part of the Inquiry the Government consulted with communities on ways to improve the funding and delivery of public transport through a series of CountryLink Solutions Groups. In response to the final Parry report, the Government announced CountryLink would address its cost structures through reforms including: • Restructuring country station and travel centres; • Relocating restructured CountryLink staff positions to country/regional centres; • Ensuring CountryLink tickets can be sold on the Internet; • Reviewing discount rules, concessions and fares applying to CountryLink; and • Reviewing CountryLink timetables The review is expected to be completed this year.

*2211 HOME CARE ASSISTANCE—Mr Kerr to Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, representing the Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Youth—

(1) How many residents in the Caringbah, Woolooware and Cronulla area have been assessed and recommended to receive home care packages in the last 12 months? (2) Of these residents, how many have not received home care packages to date?

Answer—

(1) In the past twelve months 81 people have been assessed and recommended to receive Home Care services in Caringbah, Woolooware and Cronulla. (2) 33 residents of those assessed have not proceeded to service due to external reasons such as hospitalization, nursing home placement, respite and family commitments.

*2214 LICENSING OF BUILDERS—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—

(1) On what date was Mr Raymond Goody of Eric Street Bundeena, the holder of Qualified Supervisor Certificate Q11172, first informed that a complaint had been made against him, which subsequently led to him being fined with an effective date of 24 June 2003? (2) On what date was Mr Goody informed that the complaint against him had been proven? (3) On what date was the application for Contractor Licence Number 14891C received by the Office of Fair Trading?

Answer—

(1) 21 November 2001. (2) This matter was also subject to Consumer, Trader and Tenancy Tribunal proceedings. At the conclusion of the hearings Mr Goody was served a Notice to Show Cause, which resulted in disciplinary action on 24 June 2003. (3) 13 May 2003.

2910 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

*2215 FERAL ANIMAL CONTROL—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Primary Industries—

(1) Does the Department of Primary Industries maintain information about the number of feral animal attacks on stock on grazing properties in areas adjoining the Kosciuszko, Namadgi and Brindabella National Parks? (2) If so how many attacks occurred during: (a) 1999? (b) 2000? (c) 2001? (d) 2002? (e) 2003? (f) To date during 2004? (3) Has the Department of Primary Industries or the former Department of Agriculture raised the level of attacks with the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service? (4) If so, what was the result of these discussions?

Answer—

The Minister for Primary Industry has provided the following response: (1) NSW Agriculture maintains information on wild dog predation. The information is provided by farmers to Rural Lands Protection Boards who report it to NSW Agriculture. The Boards adjoining Kosciuszko, Namadgi and Brindabella National Parks report wild dog predation to NSW Agriculture. (2) NSW Agriculture’s wild dog predation information indicates that, in the Braidwood, Cooma, Gundagai and Yass Rural Lands Protection Boards which adjoin the Kosciuszko, Namadgi and Brindabella National Parks, the numbers of reported attacks were: (a) In 1999 - 1569 attacks (b) In 2000 - 1297 attacks (c) In 2001 - 1403 attacks (d) In 2002 - 1149 attacks (e) In 2003 - 791 attacks (f) To date in 2004 - 507 attacks. The numbers of attacks are reducing as a result of coordinated control measures. Namadgi National Park is in the Australian Capital Territory and is under the administration and care of the ACT Parks and Conservation Service. So far in 2004, ACT Parks and Conservation Service has had 71 reports of stock attacked. These reports may overlap with reports to Rural Lands Protection Boards surrounding this park. (3) NSW Agriculture has been working with the Department of Environment and Conservation (formally the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service), Rural Lands Protection Boards, ACT Parks and Conservation Service and other stakeholders to address wild dog predation. (4) Wild dog control needs to reduce livestock predation while supporting conservation of dingoes and other native species like quolls. These dual objectives are best met through management plans. Wild dog management plans are being developed in consultation with all stakeholders for areas where wild dog predation is a problem. The Brindabella/Wee Jasper Wild Dog and Fox Management Plan outlines an innovative approach to wild dog and fox management across all land tenures at the northern extent of the Australian Alps and has seen a 90% reduction in wild dog attacks in the area. Similar plans are being developed for other areas. In addition to their significant involvement in the development of wild dog management plans, the Department of Environment and Conservation is assessing the environmental impacts of aerial baiting, including the impact on quoll populations. The Steering Committee for this trial has wide stakeholder representation, including NSW Agriculture and NSW Farmers’ Association.

2911 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

NSW Agriculture and the Department of Environment and Conservation have worked closely and consulted widely over many years to develop and implement these new approaches.

*2216 RELOCATION OF ST VINCENT’S MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS TEAM—Ms Moore to Minister for Health—

What is planned for relocation of the St Vincent’s Mental Health Service Crisis Team, and how will this affect mental health service provision?

Answer—

I am advised by South Eastern Area Health Service that planning has commenced for the replacement of the current mental health in-patient and ambulatory care facilities at St Vincent’s Hospital. Planning includes the co-location of the Mental Health Service and other Community Health Services adjacent to the recently redeveloped St Vincent’s Public Hospital. This planning process is in line with NSW Health’s policy and framework “Caring for Mental Health” in the delivery of mental health programs and services in NSW, a requirement of which is that “Area Health Services will establish links between Emergency Departments and specialised mental health services. These links will be supported through crisis or extended hours services or other psychiatric emergency services which provide effective response 4 hours a day, 7 days a week.” The main strategy of the service planning, and the corresponding capital works proposal, is to improve the mental health and well being of people within the St Vincent’s catchment area.

*2217 PACIFIC HIGHWAY SPEED LIMIT—Mr Stoner to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

In relation to the Roads and Traffic Authority’s proposal to extend the 80km per hour limit on the Pacific Highway south of the Hungry Head intersection, can this speed limit be implemented for trucks and buses only (as is the case for parts of other highways in NSW) so as not to disadvantage car drivers, who can safety negotiate this section of road at the current 100 km per hour speed limit?

Answer—

The Roads and Traffic Authority’s road safety assessment of the Pacific Highway, from Urunga to south of the Hungry Head turnoff, which took into account a number of factors including the accident rate and the road environment, showed that 70% of accidents involved cars. In the interest of road safety, the speed limit of 80km/h for the section of the Highway from 300 metres north of Dalhousie Creek to the current 80km/h speed zone at Urunga should apply to all motorists.

*2218 NAMBUCCA SHIRE POLICE—Mr Stoner to Minister for Police—

Given community concerns in the rapidly growing Nambucca Shire regarding insufficient police staffing levels, delays in responses to outlying areas, and the ineffective operation of the after hours telephone transfer system, what are your plans for a 24 hour police station in the Nambucca Valley?

Answer—

Operating hours and staffing allocations within a Local Area Command are matters for the Local Area Commander.

*2219 DARLINGHURST COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH—Ms Moore to Minister for Health—

(1) How many staffing positions remain vacant at the Darlinghurst Community Mental Health service? (2) What staffing positions have not been filled? (3) Are there sufficient funds to enable a full staffing complement to be employed?

2912 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(4) How many clients are waiting to be allocated a case manager at Darlinghurst Community Mental Health service? (5) Why are the Mobile Outreach Team staff required to cover day staff intake shifts at Darlinghurst Community Mental Health service? (6) When can the community expect to see the mental health service enhancements that were announced in the Government’s recent mini-budget?

Answer—

(1) As at 26 May there were 1.3 full time equivalent (FTE) registered nurse vacancies in the Crisis Intake Team. One fulltime position has been offered to a recruited locum and the remaining 0.3 FTE is filled by casuals or covered by overtime shifts. The Community Mental Health Service’s Case Management Team has recently increased its staffing by a 0.5 FTE social worker and a full time nurse has recently commenced duty. St Vincent’s is recruiting to the last vacant 0.5 FTE locum position. The Team currently has a vacant Aboriginal Mental Health Worker position and plans are being made for appropriate coverage to ensure service provision in that category. (2) The vacant positions are for registered nurses and one full time Aboriginal Health Worker. A locum general practitioner has been employed in lieu of a vacant community Psychiatric Registrar until the next Registrar training rotation in July 2004. (3) Yes. Active recruiting to fill vacant positions is ongoing. (4) The waiting list for allocation to case managers was 14 as at 17 June 2004. This is the lowest level for approximately 12 months and is expected to decrease even further as newly recruited staff take up full case loads. The case management load for the past 12 months was 140 clients. (5) The two teams providing community case management services have been amalgamated so that a single team provides a range of case management services. The Crisis and Intake Team’s current duties include being rostered to Intake at the Darlinghurst Community Health centre Monday to Friday. In addition, the Team provides a 24 hour Intake cover that includes home visits and mental health services in the community and Intake during business hours at the Centre. (6) The mini-budget announcement boosts mental health funding by an extra $241 million over the next four years commencing 2004/05.

*2220 ST VINCENT’S MENTAL HEALTH SERVICE—Ms Moore to Minister for Health—

(1) Why has St Vincent’s Mental Health Service reduced its outreach clinics to homeless people, formerly weekly at Edward Eager Lodge and Foster House, and fortnightly at Campbell House? (2) Why does St Vincent’s Mental Health Service only retain an outreach service at the Matthew Talbot Hostel due to the volunteer efforts of doctors?

Answer—

(1) and (2) I am advised that some doctors donate their services to the outreach clinics in some of the inner city Non-Government Organisations (NGO’s), including Edward Eager Lodge, Foster House, Campbell House and Matthew Talbot Hostel, as part of their commitment to the Mission of the Sisters of Charity and public service. St Vincent’s Mental Health Service recognises the importance of these outreach clinics and is undertaking a consultation/negotiation process with medical staff to provide more formal mental health outreach services.

2913 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

14 MAY 2004

(Paper No. 79)

*2221 TICK CONTROL—Mr George to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Primary Industries—

(1) How many properties were placed under quarantine under the New South Wales tick regulations each year from 1982 to the end of May 2004? (2) Is the same method of recording tick outbreaks in NSW as used in 1982 being used today? If not, what are the changes? (3) How many people have been charged/fined for any outbreaks or offences related to tick control in New South Wales since 1982? Answer—

(1) NSW Agriculture advises that from 1982 to November 1996, there was a tick quarantine area gazetted on the Far North Coast. All properties in this area were under quarantine under the NSW tick regulations. It is estimated that there would have been in the order of 6000 properties under quarantine during this period. As this was a period of subdivision and property ownership changes on a daily basis, it is not possible to give a precise figure. This quarantine area was revoked in November 1996 when the Southern part of the area was released from restrictions and the remainder defined by a quarantine line and declared a Cattle Tick Protected area. After the revocation of the tick quarantine area, affected properties were quarantined. For the period 1997 to May 2004 the number of properties placed under quarantine in the year were: 1997 713 1998 456 1999 690 2000 519 2001 294 2002 253 2003 – 2004 (May) 126 (2) NSW Agriculture advises that in accordance with the Standard Definitions and Rules for Cattle Tick in Australia, which were formally adopted in 2000, where parcels of land are managed as one unit, they are classified as one infested property. Prior to that NSW practice was that each parcel was counted as an infested property. (3) NSW Agriculture advises that since 1982 there have been 102 prosecutions and 30 Self Enforcing Infringement Notices (SEINS) related to tick control.

*2222 SPEED LIMITS IN WINDSOR ROAD—Mr Pringle to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

Now that the dual carriageway section of Windsor Road between South Creek and Groves Avenue has been completed, will the 80km per hour speed limit be restored?

Answer—

While the dual carriageways have been completed, work on certain sections of the footpaths and median is yet to be finished. On completion of the work the speed limit will be returned to 80 km/h.

*2224 POLICE VEHICLES—Mr Pringle to Minister for Police—

What vehicles have been allocated to The Hills Local Area Command for the following years: (1) 2004

2914 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(2) 2003 (3) 2002 (4) 2001 (5) 2000?

Answer—

NSW Police has advised me: (1) 13. (2) 13. (3) 13. (4) 13. (5) 13.

*2225 DIRECTOR OF STRATEGIC OPERATIONS—Mr Debnam to Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for Citizenship—

In relation to ICAC’s new Director of Strategic Operations: (1) Given you employed Mr Clive Small in the Premier’s Department after the Police Minister and Police Commissioner declined to further employ him, did ICAC Commissioner Irene Moss seek your endorsement, or that of your staff, prior to appointing Mr Small as ICAC’s new Director of Strategic Operations? (2) Are you considering the appointment of Mr Clive Small as Police Commissioner after Mr Moroney’s retirement in 2006? (3) How can the community have any confidence in the independence of ICAC’s new Director of Strategic Operations given he worked as your personal crime advisor until early March, 2004? (4) How can the Police Minister and Police Commissioner have any confidence in the independence of ICAC’s new Director of Strategic Operations given his police service employment was terminated by Police Commissioner Ken Moroney 8 months ago?

Answer—

(1) to (4) I am advised that: • Mr Clive Small has been appointed to the position of Executive Director of the Strategic Operations Division, Independent Commission Against Corruption, for a period of 12 months; • The Commissioner made this short-term appointment pursuant to section 104 (1) of the Independent Commission Against Corruption Act 1988 to allow flexibility to a new Commissioner who is due to commence at the end of 2004; • Mr Small was chosen for the position in view of his investigative abilities and extensive law enforcement experience. The Commissioner did not discuss this appointment with me or any of my staff. The Government does not direct the Independent Commission Against Corruption in respect of policy, operational or staffing matters.

*2227 NSW POLICE CORPORATE PLAN—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

In relation to the NSW Police Corporate Plan and given your advice that “the Strategic Management Framework, a whole of government initiative supported by the Premier’s Department, covers requirements for a government agency’s corporate plan” (answer to Question on Notice 1621): (1) What is the date of the current NSW Police Corporate Plan? (2) When and how was it released?

2915 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

Answer—

NSW Police has advised me: (1) and (2) The NSW Police Corporate Plan covers the period 2004-2007. It is currently available.

*2228 BLAYNEY SHIRE COUNCIL—Mr R.W. Turner to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Rural Affairs, Minister for Local Government, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Lands)—

(1) Has Blayney Shire Council implemented a change in the rating category of the Blayney property “Daphne Grove” from 1 July 2004 by virtue of its use being changed from Farmland to Business Power – Generation? (2) Is he aware that the property’s owners are farmers that derive only a small proportion of their income from the lease agreement they have with Eraring Energy, formerly Pacific Power? (3) Do you consider there to be an inequitable situation whereby Blayney Shire Council may take the opportunity to increase the rates of the Mendham and McCarrow families, who also have turbines on their property next door, who have no choice but to accept a wind farm being placed on a small area of their properties?

Answer—

The Minister for Local Government has provided the following response: I am unaware of the circumstances regarding the rating of individual properties such as the one raised in this question. Councils are autonomous bodies with rights, powers and privileges conferred by statute, ultimately accountable to their electors for the decisions they make. The Local Government Act does not confer upon my Department nor I, as Minister, wide ranging powers to intervene in the affairs of individual councils. In particular the rating concerns raised in your question relate to local management issues which are the direct responsibility of Blayney Shire Council. If property owners are dissatisfied with the categorisation of their properties the Act enables an application to be made to the Council for a change of category. The Council must re-evaluate their original decision and state the reasons if it believes the property is categorised appropriately. As neither the Minister nor the Department of Local Government are authorised to make determinations upon categorisation, section 526 of the Act provides landowners with review and appeal rights available through the Land and Environment Court, should an application to the council be unsuccessful. The appeal must be made within 30 days after the Council makes the declaration of category. In the circumstances your concerns about the equity of the rating structure chosen by Blayney Shire Council will need to be pursued at the local level with the Council directly.

1 JUNE 2004

(Paper No. 80)

2229 USE OF GREY WATER—Mr Pringle to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

2230 RICHMOND TO KURRAJONG CYCLEWAY—Mr Pringle to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

2916 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

2231 FUTURE OF ADI SITE—Mr Pringle to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources—

2232 DEPARTMENTAL AMALGAMATION—Mr Torbay to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Primary Industries—

2233 MAJOR CLEWES TRACK—Mr Maguire to Attorney General, and Minister for the Environment—

2234 PRESIDENT AVENUE INTERSECTION—Mr Kerr to Minister for Police—

2235 NAMBUCCA HEADS FIRE STATION SITE—Mr Stoner to Minister for Police, representing the Minister for Rural Affairs, Minister for Local Government, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Lands)—

2236 CENTRAL COAST AREA HEALTH SERVICE—Mr O'Farrell to Minister for Health—

2237 NURSING EXPO 2004—Mr O'Farrell to Minister for Health—

2238 POLICE COUNSELLING—Mr Armstrong to Minister for Police—

2239 EXCEPTIONAL CIRCUMSTANCES INTEREST SUBSIDY ASSISTANCE SCHEME—Mr Armstrong to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Primary Industries—

2240 KOALA DISEASE—Mr Stoner to Attorney General, and Minister for the Environment—

2241 TUNNEL POLLUTANTS—Ms Moore to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

*2242 ART IN THE PUBLIC DOMAIN—Ms Moore to Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for Citizenship—

What action has the Government taken to develop a “Public Arts Policy” to provide art in the public domain?

Answer—

The introduction of a policy to provide art in the public domain is best achieved by local governments. In regional New South Wales, and in Western Sydney there are a number of councils who are very active in this area. The NSW Ministry for the Arts supports these efforts through professional advice and through the Public Art grants, offered through the Visual Arts and Craft Program. Subject to funding, the Ministry for the Arts offers eligible organisations the opportunity to apply for grants of up to $6,000 towards concept

2917 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

proposals and maquettes, and for matching grants of up to $20,000 towards professional fees for the artist(s), or towards a qualified public art consultant.

2243 HAVENLEE SPECIAL SCHOOL—Mrs Hancock to Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs—

2244 ULLADULLA HIGH SCHOOL—Mrs Hancock to Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs—

2245 ULLADULLA HIGH SCHOOL SEWERAGE PROBLEMS—Mrs Hancock to Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs—

2246 MOBILE BREAST CANCER SCREENING—Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Health—

2247 SERVICE CENTRE STRATEGY—Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

2248 FORSTER-TUNCURRY RVCP—Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources—

2249 SURF LIFESAVING CLUBS—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Tourism and Sport and Recreation, and Minister for Women—

2250 CENTRAL COAST AHS—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Health—

2251 POKER MACHINE TAX—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development, and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

2252 POLICE STATION STAFFING—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Police—

2253 WATER TANKS—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

2254 TRANSPORT CONSULTATION—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

2255 MATERNITY SERVICE AT BATEMANS BAY—Mr Constance to Minister for Health—

2918 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

2256 GOULBURN WOOL SCOUR—Ms Hodgkinson to Attorney General, and Minister for the Environment—

2257 TRANSFER OF VEHICLE REGISTRATION—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

2258 LIVE AT HOME GOULBURN AND DISTRICT INC—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—

2259 ROAD SIGN COST—Mr Kerr to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

2260 DEPARTMENTS OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES—Mr Piccoli to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Primary Industries—

2261 RAILWAY CLOSURES—Mr Piccoli to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

2262 CHATSWOOD TRANSPORT INTERCHANGE—Ms Berejiklian to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

2263 PUBLIC DENTAL UNIT—Mr Aplin to Minister for Health—

2264 BILLABONG HIGH SCHOOL—Mr Aplin to Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs—

2265 LOTE STUDIES—Mr Aplin to Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs—

2266 WATER RESTRICTIONS—Mr Merton to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

2267 NORTH WEST RAIL LINK—Mr Merton to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

2268 WINDSOR ROAD UPGRADE—Mr Merton to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

2919 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

*2269 CRIME STATISTICS—Mr Debnam to Attorney General, and Minister for the Environment—

In relation to the Crime Statistics Quarterly Update March 2004: (1) Does the Crime Statistics Quarterly Update include only 16 crime categories of the 62 categories in the Annual Report? (2) Given the quarterly report states "The offences reported are those for which the number of recorded incidents is a reliable indicator of the actual incidence of the offence. Offences where the number of recorded incidents reflects the level of policing are not included in this report" will the other 46 categories of crime be dropped from the annual report? (3) If not, will you instruct the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) to include all categories of crime in the next and subsequent quarterly reports? (4) Why does the Quarterly Update not report the rate of cleared criminal incidents as detailed in the NSW Recorded Crime Statistics 2003 Cleared Criminal Incidents? (5) Why does the Quarterly Update not report monthly statistics as detailed in the NSW Recorded Crime Statistics 2003 Monthly Trends in Recorded Criminal Incidents?

Answer—

(1) Yes. (2) No. (3) to (5) I will continue to be advised by the Director of the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research on the most meaningful content and frequency for releasing crime statistics.

2270 TASK FORCE GAIN—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

2271 GERRINGONG POLICE ACCOMMODATION—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

2 JUNE 2004

(Paper No. 81)

2272 ROAD FATALITIES, PACIFIC HIGHWAY—Mr Stoner to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

2273 FIXED SPEED CAMERAS—Mr Stoner to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development, and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

2274 HIGHWAY PATROL FINES—Mr Stoner to Minister for Police—

2275 FIREARMS REGULATION—Mr Page to Minister for Police—

2276 VEHICLE DISTANCE —Mr Armstrong to Minister for Police—

2277 ENGINE OILS—Mr Armstrong to Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—

2920 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

2278 KURRAJONG PUBLIC SCHOOL SEWERAGE SYSTEM—Mr Pringle to Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs—

2279 PROGRAM OF APPLIANCES FOR DISABLED PEOPLE—Mr Pringle to Minister for Health—

2280 MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES—Mr Pringle to Minister for Health—

2281 GRAFFITI—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Rural Affairs, Minister for Local Government, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Lands)—

2282 TERRORISM EXERCISE EXPLORER—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

2283 POLICE PRESENCE IN THE TILLIGERRY PENINSULA—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

2284 POLICE ON-LINE—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

2285 TRAIN ARRIVALS AND DEPARTURES—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

2286 KU-RING-GAI LAC—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Police—

2287 HELICOPTER AND AIR TRAVEL—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

2288 VISITS TO POWER STATIONS—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

2289 MINISTERIAL STAFF—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

2290 NURSES LEAVE—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Health—

2291 MANLY HOSPITAL CODE RED—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Health—

2292 POLICE STRESS LEAVE—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Police—

2921 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

2293 PAMBULA SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB—Mr Constance to Minister for Tourism and Sport and Recreation, and Minister for Women—

2294 SOUTHERN DAM—Mr Constance to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

2295 NURSE VOLUNTARY REDUNDANCIES—Mr Constance to Minister for Health—

2296 MINISTERIAL OFFICE—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce, representing the Special Minister of State, Minister for Commerce, Minister for Industrial Relations, Assistant Treasurer, and Minister for the Central Coast—

2297 WORKCOVER EXECUTIVE STAFF—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce, representing the Special Minister of State, Minister for Commerce, Minister for Industrial Relations, Assistant Treasurer, and Minister for the Central Coast—

2298 DENTAL SERVICES—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Health—

2299 BREAST CARE NURSE SERVICES—Mr Aplin to Minister for Health—

2300 NORTHWEST BUS TRANSITWAY—Mr Merton to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

2301 BAULKHAM HILLS SCHOOLS—Mr Merton to Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs—

2302 ELECTIVE SURGERY—Mr Merton to Minister for Health—

2303 DEATHS IN HOSPITALS—Mr Roberts to Minister for Health—

2304 SPORT AND RECREATION GRANTS—Mr Roberts to Minister for Tourism and Sport and Recreation, and Minister for Women—

2305 CAPITAL WORKS FUNDING IN SCHOOLS—Mr Roberts to Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs—

2306 SURF CLUBS—Mr Kerr to Minister for Tourism and Sport and Recreation, and Minister for Women—

2922 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

2307 EDUCATION AND EMPLOYMENT PROGRAMS—Mr Humpherson to Attorney General, and Minister for the Environment, representing the Minister for Justice, and Minister Assisting the Premier on Citizenship—

2308 INMATE RECORDS—Mr Humpherson to Attorney General, and Minister for the Environment, representing the Minister for Justice, and Minister Assisting the Premier on Citizenship—

2309 DRUG TREATMENT—Mr Humpherson to Minister for Health—

2310 CAR SPACE LEVY—Ms Berejiklian to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

2311 CHATSWOOD TRANSPORT INTERCHANGE PROJECT—Ms Berejiklian to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

2312 MOUNT DRUITT HOSPITAL—Mr Amery to Minister for Health—

2313 ROAD WIDENING—Mr O'Farrell to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

2314 SELF FUNDED RETIREES—Mr O'Farrell to Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for Citizenship—

2315 BATLOW MPS—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Health—

2316 LETTER SCAMS—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—

2317 HEMP DRINK—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—

2318 PROGRAM FOR APPLIANCES FOR DISABLED PEOPLE BUDGET—Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Health—

2319 ONGOING MAINTENANCE —MONKERAL BRIDGE—Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

2320 POSITIONS VACANT—MANNING HEALTH CAMPUS—Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Health—

2923 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

2321 TUNNEL FILTRATION—Ms Moore to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

2322 SUB-TESTS OF EQUIPMENT—Ms Moore to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

3 JUNE 2004

(Paper No. 82)

2323 TICKET SALES—Mr O'Farrell to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

2324 TEACHERS STRESS LEAVE—Mr Hazzard to Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs—

2325 MINISTERIAL EXPENSES—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

2326 MENTAL HEALTH TRIAGE—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Health—

*2327 CROOKWELL HOSPITAL—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Health—

(1) Does the Southern Area Health Service have any plans to close the Accident and Emergency Department at Crookwell Hospital? (2) If so what is the rationale for this decision? (3) What is the travelling time for an ambulance transporting a patient suffering a cardiac arrest between Crookwell and Goulburn?

Answer—

(1) – (2) I am advised that the Southern Area Health Service has no plans to close the Accident and Emergency Department at Crookwell Hospital. (3) I am advised that it takes approximately 30 minutes for an ambulance to travel from Crookwell to Goulburn.

2328 RESPONSE TO CORRESPONDENCE—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—

2329 ABORIGINAL EDUCATION ASSISTANT FOR YASS—Ms Hodgkinson to Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs—

2330 PATIENT DEATHS—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Health—

2924 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

2331 CODE RED—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Health—

2332 MENTAL HEALTH PATIENTS—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Health—

2333 BEROWRA TRUCK STOP—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

2334 PROACTIVE POLICING—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Police—

2335 MANNING BASE HOSPITAL INQUIRY—Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Health—

2336 TOWNSEND CORRESPONDENCE—Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

2337 CHAPMAN CORRESPONDENCE—Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources—

2338 SPEED CAMERAS—Mr Kerr to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development, and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

2339 TRAIN TIMETABLES—Mr Kerr to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

2340 CARDIAC/HEART DISEASE—Mr Amery to Minister for Health—

2341 DAY SURGERY—Mr Amery to Minister for Health—

2342 KING BROS BUS GROUP—Mr Stoner to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

2343 POLICE VEHICLES HAWKESBURY LAC—Mr Pringle to Minister for Police—

2344 NEPEAN MIGRANT ACCESS INC—Mr Pringle to Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, representing the Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Youth—

2925 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

2345 STATE WIDE IMPLEMENTATION OF WATER RESTRICTIONS—Mr Pringle to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

2346 ADI SITE—Ms Moore to Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for Citizenship—

2347 LEND LEASE DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT—Ms Moore to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources—

2348 PUBLIC ARTS POLICY—Ms Moore to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

2349 PUBLIC ARTS POLICY—Ms Moore to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

2350 POLICE VEHICLE MARKINGS—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

2351 CRASH INVESTIGATION RESOURCES—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

2352 POLICE RADIO DIGITAL ENCRYPTION—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

2353 BREACH OF REGULATIONS—Mr O'Farrell to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

2354 REGIMENTAL OVAL RESERVOIR—Mr O'Farrell to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

2355 PUBLIC HOUSING—Mr O'Farrell to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

4 JUNE 2004

(Paper No. 83)

2356 ROAD SPENDING—Mr Hartcher to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

2357 SUBSTATION CAPACITY—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

2926 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

2358 PSYCHIATRIC DISORDERS—Ms Moore to Minister for Health—

2359 TRAFFIC ON PACIFIC HIGHWAY—Mr O'Farrell to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

2360 RAINWATER TANK REBATES—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

2361 WATER CONSUMPTION—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

2362 WATER DEMAND—Mr Hazzard to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

2363 DRAFT LEP—Mr Pringle to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources—

2364 CARRIAGE HEATING—Mr Pringle to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

2365 DETECTIVES COURSES—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

2366 ENTERPRISE DATA WAREHOUSE—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

2367 ACCIDENT/INCIDENT NOTIFICATION —Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

2368 WILD DOGS—Mr Maguire to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources—

2369 WILD DOGS—Mr Maguire to Attorney General, and Minister for the Environment—

2370 WATER TANKS—Mr Pringle to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

2371 POLICE STATION MAINTENANCE—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Police—

2927 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

2372 HARDFILL RECYCLING FACILITY AT MT KU-RING-GAI—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

22 JUNE 2004

(Paper No. 84)

2373 WATER TANK APPLICATIONS—Mr Merton to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) How many rebate applications for water tanks were received for residents of the Baulkham Hills LGA ? (2) What was the total amount paid to residents pursuant to such applications ? (3) Were any applications refused ? (4) If so, what were the reasons for the refusals?

2374 WATER SUPPLIED—Mr Merton to Minister for Energy and Utilities, Minister for Science and Medical Research, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

What is the break-up of water supplied by Sydney Water to the following consumers during the specified periods: (1) Residential consumers for each of the months January 2003 to May 2004 inclusive ? (2) Industrial consumers for the same months ? (3) Commercial consumers for the same months ?

2375 BEROWRA TRUCK STOP—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

(1) What is the cost breakdown of the $1.2m allocated to the construction by the Roads and Traffic Authority of the new toilet complex and truck stop north of Berowra? (2) Why was this construction undertaken with minimal Council discussion, without a Development Application being required and without community consultation?

2376 TRAIN MOVEMENTS—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

(1) How many freight train movements are there through Hornsby railway station between (a) 8am and 8pm (day) and (b) 8pm and 8am (night)? (2) How many passenger trains pass through or stop at Hornsby station during the aforementioned time frames?

2928 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

2377 IPART REPORT—Mrs Hopwood to Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Illawarra, and Minister for Small Business, representing the Minister for Rural Affairs, Minister for Local Government, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Lands—

What was the rationale for including water access only properties with properties that possess road as well as water access, in the recent IPART report into use of Crown lands?

2378 NATIONAL PARKS RESTRUCTURE—Mr Stoner to Attorney General, and Minister for the Environment—

In relation to the proposed restructure of the National Parks and Wildlife Service: (1) How many full-time equivalent positions are proposed to be withdrawn across New South Wales? (2) How many of these positions will come from the Head Office? (3) How many of these positions will come from rural/regional areas? (4) In relation to rural/regional locations, what are the specific locations and numbers of positions affected? (5) What is the process for affected staff members? (6) What is the timeframe for the restructure?

2379 CAPITAL WORKS—Mr Stoner to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources—

In relation to capital works projects in your portfolio, as listed in the 2004-2005 Budget documents: (1) What capital works are required, including location/s, in relation to the “Implementation of Sinclair Report” project? (2) Why is $2.1m being spent in 2004/05 on “Newcastle Lease Refurbishment”? (3) For what purpose is $1.1m to be spent on “Bridge Street Building”? (4) Why is $714,000 to be spent on “Building Professionals Board”? (5) What coastal land has been acquired between 2009 and 2004, at what cost, and for what purpose? (6) What coastal land is proposed to be acquired in 2004-2005, at what cost, and for what purpose?

2380 WOMEN'S REFUGE SERVICE—Mr Stoner to Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, representing the Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Youth—

In relation to the Women’s Refuge Service funded by your Department at Kempsey: (1) Is it planned to fund the refuge as an “on call” service, rather than a 24 hour service as is currently the case? (2) Are you aware of any impropriety involving a previous staff member at the refuge and public monies?

2381 MULGRAVE STATION STAFFING—Mr Pringle to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

(1) How many times has the position of Station Master at Mulgrave Station been advertised since January 2003 and how many applications have been received each time? (2) Has Cityrail now resolved the staffing issues at Mulgrave Station?

2929 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

2382 LEGAL ASSISTANCE—Mr Pringle to Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—

In view of the serious circumstances of Mr and Mrs Angelo Maugeri of 708 Old Northern Road, Dural will the Minister review previous decisions of the Department of Fair Trading with a view to providing legal assistance to resolve long standing issues associated with defective building workmanship and the associated Local Court proceedings?

2383 SUTHERLAND LEP—Mr Kerr to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources—

When will the new draft Sutherland Shire Council Local Environment Plan currently with the Department of Infrastructure and Natural Resources be gazetted?

2384 CRONULLA POLICE STATION—Mr Kerr to Minister for Police—

In relation to the recent announcement for funding to fix maintenance issues in Police stations across New South Wales, what work has been done at Cronulla Police Station?

2385 LEGISLATION REVIEW COMMITTEE—Mr Kerr to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

When will you reply to the letter sent to you on 28 May 2004 by the Chairman of the Legislation Review Committee in relation to the Passenger Transport Amendment (Bus Reform) Bill 2004?

2386 AHS PROVISION OF HEALTH SERVICES—Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Health—

(1) Does the Mid North Coast Area Health Service provide any services to or for “Amber House” and “Solstice Cottage” and “Nimoola House”? (2) If so, what services are provided? (3) If no services are provided, is it planned to provide any services? (4) If so, how? (5) If so, when? (6) If so, why? (7) If services are provided at the establishment mentioned in one above, what was the budget for each establishment for each of the following financial years: (1) 2000/2001 (b) 2001/2002 (c) 2002/2003 and (d) 2003/2004? (8) If so, what was the staffing level at each establishment mentioned in one above for each of the following financial years: (1) 2000/2001 (b) 2001/2002 (c) 2002/2003 and (d) 2003/2004?

2387 CHAIRMAN CORRESPONDENCE—Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

(1) Has the Minister received correspondence from Mr Michael Chapman, President of Boat Owners’ Association of NSW Inc dated 16 April 2004 in relation to the closure of the Farquhar Inlet (Old Bar) of the Manning River? (2) Has the Minister responded to the correspondence?

2930 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(3) If so, when did the Minister respond to the correspondence? (4) If not, when will the Minister provide a response to the correspondence?

2388 FLASHING LIGHTS PROGRAM—Mr J.H. Turner to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

(1) Has the Minister announced that the Great Lakes College Tuncurry Campus will be included in the RTA School Zone Flashing Lights Program? (2) If so, when will the flashing lights be installed? (3) Has there been Police activity in recording speeding drivers in the school zone area? (4) If so, how many drivers have been recorded speeding in the school zone since the resumption of school in 2004?

2389 SMOKING ON CITYRAIL PROPERTY—Mr O'Farrell to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

(1) How many infringement notices for smoking on CityRail properties have been issued for the year to date? (2) How many of these – on actual or estimated basis – have been issued to CityRail or other rail agency staff? (3) Is it CityRail practice to apply regulations and issue infringement notices to staff caught smoking in areas where it is banned?

2390 HEALTH POLICY RE CORRESPONDENCE—Mr O'Farrell to Minister for Health—

(1) Is it NSW Health policy that letters sent to you by people working within the health system are also forwarded to relevant Area Health Services even if the issues raised are general in nature and are not specifically related to health services in the Area Health Service? (2) If so (a) what is the rationale for such a policy and (b) do you agree that this restricts the ability of such individuals to raise health concerns like any other citizen?

2391 DR ROBERT BREIT—Mr O'Farrell to Minister for Health—

When can Dr Robert Breit expect a reply to his letter of 3 February 2004 to the Acting Minister for Health, Hon Frank Sartor, concerning his earlier correspondence (MO3/6724)?

2392 BELLS LINE OF ROAD—Mr Armstrong to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

(1) What is the frequency of operation of the Heavy Vehicle Checking Station at Bell on the Bells Line of Road? (2) How many days has it operated between 1 January 2004 and 31 May 2004? (3) What are the designated days of operation? (4) What are the designated hours of operation? (5) How many heavy vehicles have been checked at that station between 1 January 2004 and 31 May 2004? (6) How many heavy vehicles have traversed the Bells Line of Road at Bell in the period 1 January 2004 and 31 May 2004?

2931 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

2393 ABORIGINAL CONSULTATIVE LIAISON OFFICERS—Mr Armstrong to Minister for Police—

(1) Does NSW Police have any Aboriginal Consultative Liaison Officers in the Lachlan electorate? (2) If yes, how many? How many of these officers are full-time or part-time? Where are they located? (3) How many Domestic Violence Liaison Officers are there in Lachlan electorate? How many of these officers are full-time, how many part-time and where are they located? (4) How many Youth Liaison Officers are there in Lachlan electorate? How many of these officers are full-time, how many part-time and where are they located? (5) How many Ethnic Community Liaison Officers are there in Lachlan electorate? How many of these officers are full-time, how many part-time and where are they located? (6) How many Gay and Lesbian Liaison Officers are there in Lachlan electorate? How many of these officers are full-time, how many part-time and where are they located?

2394 RESPONSIBLE SERVICE OF ALCOHOL—Mr Armstrong to Minister for Gaming and Racing—

(1) How many people in the Lachlan Electorate have completed the Responsible Serving of Alcohol course in (a) 2002 and (b) 2003? (2) How many people in the Lachlan Electorate have completed the Responsible Conduct of Gaming Course in (a) 2002 and (b) 2003?

2395 ACCIDENT AND EMERGENCY SPECIALISTS—Mr Amery to Minister for Health—

(1) How many Accident and Emergency Specialists work at the Westmead Accident and Emergency Unit? (2) How many Accident and Emergency Specialists work at the (a) Blacktown Accident and Emergency? (b) Mount Druitt Accident and Emergency? (3) In relation to the activity of the three abovementioned Accident and Emergency Units, on a per year basis, how many persons have presented for treatment over the past three years at the (a) Westmead Accident and Emergency Unit (b) Blacktown Accident and Emergency Unit (c) Mount Druitt Accident and Emergency Unit?

2396 SCHOOL CAPITAL WORKS—Mr Roberts to Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs—

How much has the Government spent by way of capital expenditure on each of the State owned schools in the electorate of Lane Cove in each of the years 1995 to 2003 inclusive?

2397 PRE-PAID TRANSIT TICKETS—Mr Roberts to Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Natural Resources, representing the Minister for Transport Services, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Natural Resources (Forests)—

What is the number of individuals that use pre-paid transit tickets to catch buses from the Lane Cove electorate to the city of Sydney for each day of the week, commencing Monday and finishing Friday, for each week commencing with the first week of January in 2001 through to end of December 2003 inclusive?

2932 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

2398 BORONIA PARK SCHOOL AIR CONDITIONING—Mr Roberts to Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs—

In the light of continuing Parents and Citizens and teachers’ concerns with the lack of air conditioning at Boronia Park Public School and occupational health and safety issues, when will adequate electricity infrastructure be supplied to Boronia Park Public School to support the air conditioning?

2399 SEXUAL ASSAULT INVESTIGATIONS—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

In relation to the review of sexual assault investigations: (1) What is the status of the internal investigation by Assistant Commissioner Peter Parsons of Police handling of the sexual assault allegations arising from the 22 February 2004 incident at the Pacific Bay Resort Hotel? (2) When will this investigation be completed? (3) Will the results of this investigation be released publicly?

2400 POLICE COMMENT—Mr Debnam to Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for Citizenship—

In relation to Police comment on sexual assault investigations: (1) Given you told Parliament on 6 May 2004 ‘I am happy to have the Cabinet Office give me advice on a better protocol governing these circumstances’ concerning Police comment on the sexual assault allegations arising from the 22 February 2004 incident at the Pacific Bay Resort Hotel, what is the status of the Cabinet Office review? (2) When will this review be completed? (3) Will the results of this review be released publicly?

2401 CESSNOCK AND KURRI KURRI POLICE STATIONS—Mr Debnam to Minister for Police—

In relation to Cessnock and Kurri Kurri Police Stations: (1) Are you aware of widespread community concern about the lack of an ongoing policing presence in Cessnock and Kurri Kurri? (2) Have you received representations from the local Member expressing community concern about the lack of a policing presence in the area? If so, when? (3) What current arrangements are in place for policing in the Cessnock and Kurri Kurri area? (4) On which days are Police stationed at the Kurri Kurri Police Station and for what hours on those days? (5) Are you aware of community concern about the large geographic area covered by the Lower Hunter LAC? (6) Will you consider dividing the current LAC into two LACs? (7) Are you aware that on 17 June 2004 the local branch of the Police Association voted to begin industrial action over staff shortages and start a work-ban at Cessnock and Kurri Kurri Police Stations?

2402 SOUTHERN AHS DONATIONS—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Health—

(1) How much money was donated to the Southern Area Health Service from fundraising bodies such as Apex, Lions, Rotary, Hospital Auxiliaries and Convoy for Kids during: (a) 2000? (b) 2001? (c) 2002?

2933 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 23 June 2004

(d) 2003? (e) To date in 2004? (2) How much of each donation was spent by Southern Area Health Service on the purpose for which the funds were raised? (3) Have any of these funds been spent for purposes not related to the fundraising effort?

2403 JUNCTION CREEK BRIDGE REPAIRS—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Housing—

(1) Will the repair work scheduled for the Junction Creek Bridge be sufficient to allow the structure to support any legal load, including semi-trailer or B-Double traffic? (2) Is the NSW Heritage Office opposing planned RTA repair work and requiring exact restoration of the bridge, which will only allow it to carry a maximum load of 20 tonnes?

2404 NATIONAL ENQUIRIES AUSTRALIA—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—

(1) Has the Office of Fair Trading received any complaints about National Enquiries Australia, purporting to be an internet version of directory assistance, or its owner Consumer First Pty Ltd (Level 1, 28 Bowden Street, Alexandria)? (2) As National Enquiries Australia purports to be an internet business directory but does not appear to generate any ‘hits’ using most common internet search engines, will you require the Office of Fair Trading to investigate the company’s bona fides? (3) Is the practice of seeking payment by requiring a faxed reply to a 1902 number legal?

______Authorised by the Parliament of New South Wales